Krissie Andersen and Brian Littrell have been best friends since the tender age of two. They have enjoyed peaceful times throughout their childhood, as well as shared the tragic times. Brian has been there for her ever since her mother and father both died in an airplane crash. She would always try and find someone to confide in, to ease her pain, but had no such luck. The only person she could trust...the only person in her life that truly cares for her is Brian.

When Brian got married, he thought that he was solely complete, with a beautiful woman to whom he thought loved him so much. His heart broke in two when she became unfaithful towards him. After that cold and bitter divorce, he thought his life was at an end. But it was far from that. Krissie is Brian’s best friend, like a kid sister in his life. They went to high school together, in fact that was where they reunited, on account that her family moved away. It was like nothing could tear these two apart from their friendship.

Or so they thought...

One day, Brian and Krissie were in his backyard, playing basketball. "Come on! Show me what you got!" shouted Brian, as he handled the ball, ready to dunk it. As he attempted to shoot the ball, she blocked the shot. "Ha! I blocked your shot." "Not bad, not bad at all. Let’s see your steal." Brian skillfully dribbled the ball, as Krissie tried to steal it. "Oh, come on, get fast with it, K. Oh, man that is so wimp–" She punched him in the stomach and stole the ball, and it made the hoop. "Cheater!" "You have your way, and I have mine, Rok." "Ow. I’m gonna get you for that!!" Brian then chased her through the backyard as she ran for her life, screaming and laughing. Brian tackled her, and they rolled around in the patch of soft, springy grass. She put him in a half nelson, but he broke away from her grip. He taught her this technique, for her safety. He rolled on top of her, and pinned her to the ground. She started to tickle him, and he started to giggle like a little Chinese school girl. Brian always made her laugh. He had a great sense of humor, which she liked in guys. He then tickled her in his defense. She was laughing hysterically. They were both tickling each other and laughed together. They then looked at each other. His piercing light blue eyes made contact with her solid turquoise-brown ones.

He changed the position and had her pinned against the ground again. Their gazes serious. Suddenly, Brian began to move closer to Krissie for a kiss. As a counter, she pushed him off of her with a free hand. He landed on his back, looking at the sky. "Hey Bri! B-Rok...?" She balanced her weight on her elbow, as she stared at him. He was still looking at the sky, his mind was on the one person that has been with him through thick and thin: Krissie Andersen.

"Saturn to Brian! Hey!" His thoughts disappeared when her voice interfered. "Huh? Oh, yeah, Krissie?" "I’m gonna go to Marisen’s house for a while. I will be back in an hour....if you don’t have company, I can spend the night if she lets me..." "Nah... don’t have to do that. I don’t have company today. Go on ahead." "Thanks, Brian." She then gave him a peck on the cheek, grabbed her purse, and she started to make her way to Marisen’s house. As she was walking away, he placed his hand on the cheek she kissed. Of the 24 years that they have known each other, he had started to develop new feelings for her. Feelings that he thought would never occur in his heart towards his best friend, Krissie. "Stop thinking like this," he argued with himself. "She’s like a sister to you, man..." One part of Brian’s soul wants to tell her that he had fallen madly in love with her, and the other half...well..wants to keep his feelings towards her bottled up. Where did those feelings come from? Brian’s mind was focused on Krissie, as he picked up the basketball, and went into the house.

"KRISSIE!!!!" "MARISEN!!!!" They both gave each other hugs. You see, Marisen, or Mari as she likes to be called, was out of town on business. She owns a club in LA called "Silhouette." Her and her business partner Drake runs the place. Drake is also Marisen’s husband. "So, Kris, how’s your boyfriend?" "Mari! God! He is NOT my boyfriend. He’s practically my brother."

"Yeah, right."

"I’m serious, Mari. We are best friends. We have never once...you know..."

"Screw?"

"MARI!"

"What? You didn’t right? Kris...let me ask you something."

"Anything."

"Do you have feelings for him?"

"Of course I do."

"No, I mean...*feelings* for him?"

"Well..."

"You can tell ol’ Mari."

"Well, once...and that was it."

"When did this...*feeling* overwhelm you?"

"Before I got here."

"You’re joking!"

"We were playing basketball, and I tried to steal the ball from him. So I punched him in the stomach. He started to chase me around, and he tackled me. And he–"

Marisen poured herself and Krissie some orange juice.

"Go on..."

"And he pinned me down on the ground."

"Ooh! I love where this is going!"

"Mari, stop. Anyway, he pinned me down, and he gazed at me with those beautiful eyes of his. And then...and then..."

"WHAT?!"

"He was about to kiss me."

"Oh, really?"

"Yeah."

"You stopped him, didn’t you?

"I pushed him off."

Krissie took a sip of the orange juice, as her mind trailed back to an hour ago, when they played basketball. She had noticed that he tried to kiss her. She was not sure whether for him to do it, but alas, she stopped him. Why?

Back at Brian’s place, Brian was watching Krissie’s favorite movie, "Flowers In The Attic." He had a bag of cheese curls and a soda in case he got a bit thirsty. "This is a real good movie," he said to himself. Now it seemed that every time he closed his eyes, he sees Krissie. He tried to fight back his strong, adult feelings towards her, but they are to no use. Instead of holding the bag of Fredersen’s Cheese Curls, he wanted to hold his dearest friend. His thoughts were once again interrupted by the doorbell ringing. He got up and looked through the view hole of the door. It was Howie. "Password," he acknowledged. "Uh...Leighanne’s a Witch?" "Bingo." He had let Howie in. He stole the cheese curls from him, and sat down and started to watch the movie. "Your welcome," said Brian, as he saw Howie munching on the cheese curls. "Hey Brian...You don’t look too good. You ok?" "I’m fine...just thinking..." Brian walked up to the window, and looked up at the sky. "Brian, where’s Krissie? Should she be here?" "She went to her friend’s house...Marisen." He sighed. "Brian, if you have feelings for her, tell them to her. Call her on her cell, get her back over here, and spill." "Easier said than done. That’s the thing, Howie. What if she doesn’t love me back?" He sat down beside Howie, looking at his face, searching for an answer. "Well...if or when you profess your love to her, give her time." "Thanks buddy!" He gave Howie a hug, and went upstairs.

"Hey Marisen, I gotta go. Talk to you later?" "Of course, girlfriend! Bye!"

As Krissie left Mari’s apartment, making her way to the sidewalk, she had bumped into someone. It was Nick Carter, one of Brian's best friends. He was very tall, around 6'2, his hair was short and spiked. His eyes were a deep blue, so deep that you can find yourself swimming in it’s abyss.  "Hey." She had to look up at him, for she was a little over 5'6, out lengthening her totally. "Hey," was all she said back to him. She had stopped walking, because when she bumped into him, she had dropped her purse. "You look great today, Kris. How about a date?" As she got her purse, she looked up at him. "A date? Nick, I don’t know... my last dates have been...blah. Seriously?" "Yeah... I wanna go out with you. I won’t take no for an answer." "Well, Kaos..." "Yeah?" "Uh...so sorry. No." "Why not?" "I am not dating anytime soon, so...I’m sorry, Nick..."

Krissie started to walk away after saying good bye. Nick walked up to her and grabbed her arm, holding it tight. "Nick... let me go! You’re hurting my arm." "I said I was not gonna take no for an answer. Why did you say "no"? "Didn’t you hear me? I am not dating anytime soon. Now let me go." He still had his hand around her arm, squeezing it harder. "Krissie...I want to be your first. Let me be your first time, baby..." "Nick, I’m warning you, Let me the Hell go so I– " Still with his grip on her arm, he had took her to a nearby alley and put her on top of a closed dumpster. She tried to run, but he held onto her tightly, his grip very painful. She started to scream, but his other hand covered her mouth. "Shut up. I know you want this... I can feel it." He ripped her pant front off, revealing her pink satin panties. He also ripped off her white and pink blouse, nearly revealing her white bra. She was restrained by his weight. He started to remove her panties, and insert two long fingers inside. He was kissing on her neck, nibbling a bit. "Mmmm.... Goddamn, I am gonna enjoy this...yeah..." "NO!"

Suddenly, somehow, she broke free from his grasp, and kicked him hard in the groin. He groaned as he went down. "Stay the Hell away from me! What the Hell is wrong with you?" She got her purse, and ran to Brian’s house, holding herself.

"Hey, Brian! I am getting ready to go, ok? See you tomorrow!" "Ok, bye!" As Howie was heading for the door, he heard it being banged very hard. Then he heard screaming. "Brian! Brian!!! Let me in!!!!" Howie quickly opened the door, and saw Krissie with her clothes torn, crying. "Oh, my God! What happened?" "Where’s Brian??!!" "Brian!!! Get down here...Now!" Brian heard Howie’s response and ran down the stairs as fast as he could. He was shocked at what he saw next. "Krissie....Oh Lord!! What happened to–" Krissie ran into Brian’s arms and cried on his chest. He nestled his head on her shoulder. "Shhhh...it’s ok, K... "It’s ok. What the Hell happened?" Brian, nor Howie, was not prepared for what she was about to say. "Nick tried to.... she was on the verge of crying again. "Tried to what, K...?" "He tried to rape me in the alley."

Brian felt his heartstrings come undone, as his heart shattered once again to what his own buddy tried to do to his beloved best friend. He continued to console Krissie, allowing her head to nestle on his chest. "Damn him," was all he could say.

Suddenly, the door opened. Everybody turned around and saw Nick standing there, looking concerned, playing it off like nothing happened.

"Oh, no... what happened here?" Suddenly, Brian abandoned Krissie, and ran up to Nick, punching him with all of his might. At this very moment, Brian hated this man with a passion.

"You bastard! How could you do this to Krissie?! WHY??!!" Nick held his face. "What are you talking about?" "What the Hell you mean, ‘What am I talking about?’ You tried to rape her! Have you gone insane?!" "No. Brian, you gotta realize that Krissie needs some action and excitement in her life. And all of her life, she's Little Miss Nice Girl. When I first saw her in high school, all I wanted to do was fu– " Brian had enough of it. He had punched him in the face, even harder than the first time. This time, he punched him so hard, Nick went down. It was like David taking down Goliath.

Howie was sitting on the couch, holding Krissie. Her tears started to seep through Howie's blazer, feeling his own heart break for her. "My, God man, you’re sick. You’re just..." Howie couldn’t face him anymore, for he was full of disgust toward Nick at that moment. "Nick...I want you...to get your ass up, and leave this house. Don’t you ever...EVER come near me, or Krissie! You have more sense than that! You... you..." Brian couldn’t say a word, for his eyes welled up with tears of anger and sadness. Nick wasted no time getting up, and walking out the house. Brian slammed the door so hard that it echoed throughout the entire house. His back was against the wall, then he slid down, holding his face in his hands.

Brian was crying, for he could only imagine just how scared Krissie was. "Brian? Brian?" spoke Krissie, as she got up and walked towards him. Howie sat there, watching them. "Krissie, My God, Krissie..." His voice started to break. "I’m sorry I wasn’t there. I knew I should came with you to go see your friend. I can only imagine how..." He couldn’t hold it in any longer. He started to cry freely. Krissie hugged him tight. "My God, I don’t want anything bad to happen to you, Kristine." He looked up at her with those saddened baby blue eyes. He has never...and I mean never, called her Kristine, unless he was absolutely serious. "Brian..." "Just hear me out, K. I am nothing without you. Do you hear me?" Howie decided to leave through the backdoor. He didn’t want to interfere in what was going on. "I want to protect you, K. I don’t wanna lose you..." "Brian," She placed her hand on her shoulder. "You’re all that I have now, Kristine. I can’t bear to see you get hurt. I will make sure that he doesn’t come near you again." "Thank you, Brian. Thank you for being there for me." They looked at each other, and they got up from the floor. Brian wiped his tears away, then her tears. "I never want to see you cry again, Krissie." "Same for you, B-Rok." They started to laugh a bit. The sun was beginning to set, and Krissie wanted to go to bed. "I’m gonna go to bed, ok Rok?" "Sure, K. Good night." And with that, she gave him a hug, and another peck on the cheek.

Brian held on to her, his warm embrace gave her the needed proof that she was safe. "Kristine...There is something that I have to tell you." He pulled her close. Now they were face to face. She started to tremble. "Yeah, Brian? What is it?" "I...uh...I...love...this new couch cover you bought. Is it Chiffon?" Krissie had a near frown on her face. "No...satin." She broke from his embrace, and slowly walked up the stairs. "You idiot!" he argued to himself. "Why can’t you be a man, and tell her?!"

Upstairs, Krissie was looking in the mirror, fixing her hair. She put her hair in a sloppy bob. Her hair was shoulder length, and dark brown. She had taken off her tattered clothes, and changed into a long black T-shirt and a pair of Brian’s black silk boxers. Brian came up the stairs, entering her room. "Hey, K. You alright?" "Oh, yeah. I’m good." "Came to say goodnight." He walked towards her and gave her a soft kiss on the cheek. He then walked out the room. She let out a sigh, and fell backwards on the bed.

Brian couldn’t sleep. He kept tossing and turning all through the night, the same went for Krissie. Krissie woke up, and got out of bed. She was walking in the dim hallway, searching for Brian’s room. She found it, and was about to knock. She stopped herself from knocking, though she never touched the door. To her surprise, the door opened, and Brian was there, with no shirt on. "Brian." "Kristine." "Can I come in? I couldn’t sleep." "Neither could I." They stood there, looking at each other, as he caressed her face with the back of his hand. "Brian...kiss me..." Brian took her face in his soft gentle hands, and kissed her softly on the lips. Suddenly, the kiss began to deepen. She wrapped her arms around his neck. He pulled her closer to his chiseled body. She broke the kiss. "Brian... is this gonna ruin our friendship?" "Listen. I don’t want our friendship to die. Krissie, you’re everything to me. I wanna be with you. Forever. We have faced so many tough times together. This friendship is going no damn where."

"I love you."

Brian was in shock. Did she say what he thought she said?

"Krissie..." "Just hold me, Brian. I need you to console me."

And with that, Brian kissed her again, and lead her to the room, closing and locking the door.

They both walked away from the door, and Brian had his arm around her shoulder. He then turned her to him, holding her with his strong arms. She was a vision of true beauty. She had said those three letter words that he himself could not say...to her at least. He truly loved her as a friend, but his feelings grew. He never knew that she would feel the same way. "Krissie, I love you too. I never want to let you go...never."  "Brian...you are the only person that can console me. To love me, and to care for me. No one else could fulfill that job. I wanted to say "I love you" long before, but I wanted to know how you felt about me." When her parents died 15 years ago, Brian's family took her in. She was like the sister he never had.

"Do you wanna lay down with me, K?"  "Yeah."  Brian took her hand, and lead her to the bed. They kissed again, this time, she slipped him some tongue.

"Brian, make love to me...please." 

"Are you sure, Kristine?"

"Yes, Brian...I need you...Now more than ever."

Brian was not sure if he wanted to do this to Kristine. She had been scared stiff today, and plus, she's a virgin.

"Krissie, tell me...are you positive about this? Because if not, we can just-"  She had cut him off, by giving him a passionate kiss. She grabbed the hair from the back of his head, and pulled him closer. He left trails of feathery kisses upon her neck. He took the rubber band out of her hair, and ruffled it.

"Oh God Brian...I need you."

"Same here."

Brian then got the black shirt she had been wearing up over her head, and snatched it off. He revealed her full ample breasts. He had lain her down on the bed and got on top.

"Kristine..."  "Brian..."

After they had both said I Love You once again, Brian had made love to Krissie.

Daybreak. The bright sunlight peaked through the shaded window. Brian and Krissie are snuggled, as if one, bathing in the sunlight. A delightful songbird sang its regular song. The song was beautiful to their ears, but they were never woke.

Brian opens his eyes, hoping that what happened between him and Krissie was not a dream, and that he wants to be like this forever. He looks down and sees Krissie's head on his bare chest. He said a silent prayer to God, thanking him for the gift that was bestowed upon him: Krissie.

Krissie slowly awoke as well.

"Mmm...Mornin' Tiger."  "Mornin', Krissie. How are you feeling?"

"Remarkable."

Brian chuckled to himself. What happened to them last night was not remarkable...but incredible. He wanted Krissie's first time to be special, and last night was very special.

"Let me know if we're movin' too fast, K. I don't wanna rush you."  "Thanks for being concerned towards me, Brian. Thank you for everything."

Later that day, Brian and Krissie went to the park. They were running around like little children. They were wild and free, they felt that nothing could tear them apart. He had tackled her on the ground, and deeply kissed her lips.

"Your lips taste very sweet, Darlin'."  "Thank you, Hun." They both laughed. They stared at each other for quite sometime.

"We better get on home, K. It's almost six, and I bet Howie is still waiting for me."  "Ok, Bri. Let's go-" He interrupted her by picking her up, and putting her over his shoulders. She was laughing during that. As they got to a street, he put her down. They had begun to cross the street. In that split second, their lives changed... for the worse.

While they crossed the street. a car was going way over the speed limit. Krissie was walking in front of Brian. The walk across the street took a turn for the worse. She didn't see where she going.

"Krissie, look out!" She gasped and stood in shock. Brian came running to save her. He pushed her to the other side of the street, as the car made direct impact to Brian...knocking him unconscious.

"BRIAN! NO!!"

The car kept right on going.

Krissie ran to Brian's aide. He was out cold. She held him in her arms. His eyes were closed shut, and he was very limp.

"Oh, God...No, Brian, please! I need you! Hang on...please! Don't leave me!"

Out of nowhere, an ambulance came. A paramedic got out of the truck and went to Brian. She pushed Krissie aside, so he can check him. "We need a stretcher here!" shouted the medic. Another medic came out with a stretcher. Krissie was in complete and utter shock. She didn't know why this had to happen to them.

The paramedics picked Brian up, and placed him on the stretcher. They put him in the back of the truck, and was about to shut the doors.

"Wait! I'm coming with him."  They left the door open, and she quickly got in. The medics slammed the doors, and was on their way to the hospital.

Krissie held Brian's hand.  "Please, Brian. Don't leave me here alone. You're all that I have now. God please don't go...I need you here with me, always." Suddenly, she broke down and started crying on his chest. Her tears drenched his shirt.

"Hey...I paid $20 for this shirt..." Her head sprung up. Brian had woken up, at last.

"Oh my God, Brian! How do you feel?"  "Like a million bucks. Really, I feel like shit."  "Baby, they are gonna fix you up, and everything will be alright. I know it." "Thank you, Krissie...thank you."  She kissed him softly, and continued to hold his hand, knowing that everything will turn out alright.

They had finally made it to Saint Superior's Medical Center. The medics had rushed Brian to a vacant room, as they got to work on him. Krissie tried to go in, but she couldn't see him. "I'm very sorry, Ma'am. But you have to stay in the waiting room." All she could do was cry. Her lover and friend was in there, being treated for the accident, and she couldn't be there with him.

Krissie sat impatiently in the waiting room. Her face in her hands. She heard footsteps. She looked up and saw a woman dressed in a white coat approaching her. It was Doctor Nevarri, the doctor that saved Brian's life the first time, and hoped that she would again. 

"Excuse me, but could you be by any chance be Kristine Andersen?"  "Yes I am. Can I see Brian? Is he okay?"  "He's stable. We are still running more tests."

"Can I see him?"

"Mr. Littrell needs his rest. We have taken X-Rays, to target the injuries. They are internal-"

"Oh God, Brian..."

"But surely, he'll be ok."

"Thank you, Doctor Nevarri."

Three hours had passed, and Brian was still being worked on. During those three hours, Krissie had called everyone she thought of. Brian's family, Howie, AJ, Kevin, and the one person that nearly stole her virtue, Nick.

"Are you ok, Krissie?"  asked an anxious Howie, holding her hand. 

"My baby is in there and we can't see him?! I don't understand!" Brian's mother was completely distraught, as Harold, Brian's father, embraced her as she cried. Howie curled his finger around Krissie's chin and said, "Brian is gonna be alright. I know he will. Just be strong for him." "Howie...thank you." He embraced her, as she cried in his arms.  "Shhhh... he's gonna be fine, sweetheart. He's gonna be alright."

Another hour passed, and Doctor Nevarri showed up again. This time, with a smile on her face. "Everyone, Brian has a few broken ribs, and a fractured collarbone. He was unconscious as well. He is fine, but is to be wheelchair bound for a few months."  They all cheered, and shared tears of joy. "Can we see him now?" asked an awaiting Krissie.  "Yes, you can."  They all rushed to the room Brian was in. He was so happy to see his family and friends. Howie saw that she was pale, and complaining that she was nauseous.  "Kristine...are you ok?"  "I think so. Don't worry about me."  "Um...ok."

"Ah, Ms. Andersen, you look a bit flushed and pale. Come to my office."  "I guess the combination of fear and excitement made me feel this way."  "We'll see, Ms. Andersen."

Doctor Nevarri tested Krissie, to see why she had become pale to the face, and feeling a bit nauseous.

"Are you satisfied with the results, Krissie?"

"I...I think so."

~*Three Months Later*~

Brian was at home, his wounds have healed, everything was going fine, but Krissie was uneasy. She was sitting on the couch, watching TV, with a big pillow in front of her. She was clearly hiding something.

Brian sat next to her and gave her a kiss. "Hey baby. Have you put on a little weight these past few months?"  "Uh... yeah, a little..."  "Good. More of you to love!" he said in his Southern country accent of his. She giggled a bit.

"Uh...Brian...There's something I need to tell you... But when I tell you...please don't be mad at me."  "Ok, babe. What's up?"  "Well, you've noticed that I have put on a little weight. Well...It's not because of me eating... It's water weight gain."  "Krissie..."  "Brian... I'm pregnant."  Brian's concerned look instantaneously turned into a great big smile. "You mean...I'm gonna be a daddy?! Oh, My God!! Stop jokin'!!"  "I'm not joking, Rok. You're gonna be a Daddy!" Brian consumed Krissie with hugs and kisses. He was absolutely thrilled. He's the most happiest man on this Earth.

His lover, and his best friend, is carrying his...sorry...their first child.

It was late in the afternoon, and Krissie was lying on the couch, with her feet up. Brian went to the store to buy chocolate ice cream and hot dogs for her.  "Maybe having a baby won't be so bad after all," she thought. She was happy that she was having Brian's first child. She thought that if she told Brian that she was expecting, he wouldn't love her anymore. But she knew that he loves her more than life itself.

The doorbell rang. She really didn't want to get up, but no one else was around. So she got up, and answered the door. To her surprise, it was Howie, her other best buddy.  "Hey there, Kristine. In the mood for company?"  "Well, I don't like being alone, so yeah. Make yourself at home."  "Ok. Thanks."

Howie and Krissie were talking about the three months prior to the accident.  "See? I told you he was gonna be alright."  "I never lost faith."  "That's good. I wish my sister was in the same state as Brian."  "In a wheelchair?"  "Alive. In '98, my sister died while I was in Van Nuys on business. My family called me, and I got there as soon as I can. I made it to the hospital, and there she was."  "What else happened, Dorough?"  "Well, I held on to her. I even held her hand. She was so weak, that the grip she had was very limp. I told her, 'Hang in there, Caroline...Hang in there.'" Howie's eyes were welling up in tears. Losing Caroline was like his heart being shredded in half with a sharp blade. 

"Howie..."  "Then....she slipped away... she was gone. I just couldn't believe it. My sister...gone...and there was nothing I could do."  Howie took out a photo from his wallet, and gave it to Krissie.  "That's her. Caroline. I carry this picture everywhere I go."  "She's beautiful. How old was she when she died?"  "37. She had a daughter, Colespie." He held out another photo of his niece. "She's cute. She looks just like her mother."

"Thank you."  Howie moved closer to her, as he took her hand, and kissed it. Her heart fluttered a bit, as she looked deep into his deep chocolate brown eyes. 

"Kristine, there is something that I wanna give you."  "What is it?"  He moved even more closer to her, so close that their noses touched.  He gave her a soft, gentle kiss on the lips, which slightly made her tremble. "That was for being strong for Brian, Kristine. Thank you."  She looked down at her feet, and then looked back to Howie. He curled his finger around her chin, and was about to kiss her again. "Kristine..."  Suddenly, the door opens, and Brian steps in. Howie quickly moves away from Krissie. "Hey baby!" He had the most biggest smile on his face. "Hey Bri!"  Howie got up. "Hey, Brian. I gotta go. Talk to you tonight."  Howie opened the door and walked out. Howie did not look very happy when he left, and only she knew why.

From that day on, she had a feeling that Howard Dorough had developed feelings for her as well.

Howie arrived at AJ's house.  "Hey, D! What's up?"  "AJ, I have to talk to you."  "About what?"  Howie sought a chair and sat down. AJ sat across from him.  "So, what's up?"  "AJ, do you like Kristine Andersen?"  "The girl from high school? Yeah, but not like that. Why? What happened to her? Did Nick go near her again? Because if he did, I'm gonna--" Howie put his hand up to silence him.  "No. He didn't."  "Oh. Good. Little bitch." Howie looked down on the ground, and then looked back at AJ.  "Yo, D... what's wrong?"  "AJ... ok. You know that she's with Brian now, right?"  "Yup! Sure do, and I am happy for them. What about it?"  "AJ... I think.... I think I'm in love with her."  "D..."  "I can't help it. She's so beautiful, and kind, and sweet. She wouldn't hurt a fly."  Howie got up and looked out the window, continuing to profess his love for her.  AJ just looked at him. "D, man. You're about,"  AJ glanced at his watch, "Three and a half months late. Why couldn't you tell her...oh I don't know...BEFORE Brian did?"  "I don't know. I guess I was...I guess I was scared. Scared that she might not feel the same way as I feel for her."

"How come you didn't approach her in high school?"  "I never knew her then. And plus, I never went to the same school you guys went to. I was in a Catholic school."

"Oh. Well, hey, man. I can't help you on this. She's in love with Brian. And plus, there are so many other women out there."  "Thanks anyway, man."  Howie walked to the door, and walked out.

Howie was walking down the street, talking to himself. He all of a sudden fell in love with her, but he knows that he cannot come in between them.  He kept walking, until he saw Krissie by her favorite restaurant. His heart fluttered for her. He tried to fight his love for her, but he couldn't. Krissie spotted him, and waved. She also smiled.

He started to walk up to her. Her turquoise-blue eyes were so enchanting and dynamically beautiful.

"Hey, Kristine. Um... how are you?" "Bloated."   "Uh...cycling?"  She laughed a bit to what he said.  "You don't know, do you?"  "Know what?"  "Well, me and Brian were gonna wait until we invite our friends and family to the house to say it."  Howie never understood what she was talking about.  "Tell me. I won't say a word. I promise."  "Ok..." She took a deep breath.  "Well... I'm three and a half months pregnant."  "Oh my God! Congratulations!"  Howie got even closer and gave her a hug. Her warmth felt so right to him, but he can only feel these kind of hugs every once in a while...because she didn't belong to him.

He let her go, but he still had his hands on her waist.

"Kristine...I..."  "Yes...?"  "Would you like to have dinner with me? You know, to celebrate?"

Kristine had to think for a second. She looked down on the ground, and slowly looked up at him. He was sexy and very handsome. His chocolate brown eyes were very intoxicating: any woman can get lost in them. His mocha skin tone was very clean and defined. he also had a five o'clock shadow, which matches his other features. And last but not least, his long, soft downy hair. It's down to his back, and it flows as he either walks or the wind wifts through it.

"What time?"  "Anytime you want. I mean, if you're up to it... I can forget about--"  She put a finger on his lips to silence him.  "I never went out with you before. Sure. I have to see if Brian would let me. He doesn't want me to leave the house, because I might get hurt, and I understand that."  "I just hope the answer's yes, Kristine." "I hope so too. Well, better head home. Brian must be worried sick. Even though I left 15 minutes ago." They both laughed. She was about to turn around and walk away, but... "Kristine!"  She turned to face him. "Yeah?"  He walked up to her, and looked deep into her eyes. He took his hands and cupped her face. "If only..."  She didn't understand.  "If only what?" "Nevermind."  He said goodnight to her, gave her a kiss on the cheek and walked away.

Now her certainties are real. Howard Dorough is in love with her. But he is a bit too late.

Krissie drove home safe and sound. She glanced at her watch and saw that it was 9:15. Brian was probably sleep, for he is an early sleeper.  As she made it to the driveway, she saw that the lights were still on. She got out the car, and opened the door. There, she saw Brian sleeping on the couch. A pizza box on his belly, and a can of cream soda in his hand. She laughed at the sight before her. Brian woke up from his nap, and saw Krissie standing there laughing.  "What?" exclaimed Brian.  "You remind me of Al Bundy!" She continued laughing. Brian sat up, and did the infamous Al Bundy gesture: The hand in the pants, with the thumb sticking out. "Oh, my God, Rok! You are so freaking funny."  "Well, Little Lady,"  Brian began, with the thick country accent again. "I aim's to please, and I's please to aim." He then smiled. She laughed again, and sat on his lap.

"You know? I love it when you sit on me.  It's so..."  Brian had the look of lust in his eyes. He was about to kiss her, but she placed her hand on his chest. "Sorry, Sexy. I'm not in the mood."  "That's cool. Hmm...it looks like from the expression on your face that...you have something to tell me. Do I have to tickle it outta you?"  "Oh God, No!"  She started to laugh again, as she was about to tell him what Howie requested.

"Brian...um...I bumped into Howie, before I got home, and..."  "What happened?"  "No, nothing happened. It's just that...well...he asked me out. This was after I told him that I was expecting. He wants to celebrate my pregnancy."  "Oh, really?"  "Yeah. I can tell him no, and we can have alone time--"  Brian cut her off.  "Go. I'm not mad at you. I just want you to be very careful. I trust Howie. He would never hurt anyone. Especially you."  And with that, she hugged Brian, and went upstairs for bed.

She made her way up the stairs and went into her room. She walked in, and sat on her bench. As she was putting her hair up in the same messy bob, she noticed a note on her dresser. It was a purple piece of paper, and it said, "Kristine" in cursive writing on the front.  She read the contents:

Kristine,

God, I hope the answer is "yes". If so, for our date, I want you to look your best. It doesn't have to be fancy. It's just dinner, and if you're up to it, a little dancing. I want you to have a good time. I will pick you up when or if you can come. Just name the time.

Hope to see you tomorrow night,

Howie.

P.S., Look in your dresser.

Krissie looked in her dreeser drawer, and saw a bouquet of roses sitting in a deep purple cloth. "Oh! These are beautiful!" She picked a flower up and took in the beautiful scent. Suddenly, her cell phone rang.  She picked it up, and it read: 555-3791. Howie's number.

"Hello?"

"Did you get my present?"

"Yes, they're beautiful. Thank you."

"Anything for you, Kristine."

"Oh. Brian said yes."

"Great! So, what time shall it be?"

"How about 7:00?"

"7 it is."

"Great, Dorough. See you then?"

"You betcha."

As she hangs up, she changes to a red silk nightie, and gets into bed.  She feels alone, also forgetting that her and Brian are lovers now. She got up, and knocked on his door.

"Come in, K."

It's like he knew who was there, though it was obvious that her and Brian were the only two people there in the house.

She opened the door, and she saw Brian sitting on his bed, wearing a black tank top, and black jeans. Brian definitely looked sexy in all black. The color alone sets off his icy blue eyes.

"I didn't want to go to bed alone tonight, Rok."  "Me neither."  She began to walk up to him. He got up, and grabbed her gently, for he didn't want to hurt their child. He picked her up, and placed her on the bed. He got in after her, wrapping his strong arms around her, securing her with his love.

She put her hand on his face and said, "I love you, Brian. I am never gonna let you go."  "K, I love you too. I need you by my side...always."

Brian then held Krissie tight, and they both drifted off to sleep.

The dawn has risen, and Brian wakes up. He wanted to surprise Krissie, by fixing her breakfast. He is doing the best that he can for her, since she is carrying their child. Krissie's eye's flew open, as she smelled the aroma of coffee. She sat up, as she also heard footsteps. She saw Brian come up from the kitchen, carrying a tray of food.

"Are you up for breakfast in bed?"  "Brian...you never cease to amaze me."  "Anything for my sweet darlin'."  He placed the tray in front of her, and kissed her on the forehead. "Rok, this is perfect. Thank you."  "No...Thank you..for loving me...and this."  He placed a hand on Krissie's belly.

Later in the day, Krissie was lying on the couch, watching television, eating vanilla ice cream with chocolate chips. "God, now THIS is the life." she sighed in happiness and in relaxation. Suddenly, the doorbell rang. She became disappointed that she had to get up from her comfort zone. She walked to the door, and looked through the view hole. Brian was at the other end of the door, waving at her, and winking. She giggled as he also made funny faces. She opened the door, and became welcomed by Brian's embrace. "Come here, babe." said Brian, grasping her and giving her a sweet kiss. "Hey Hun. You seem cheery than usual. What happened?"  "Nothing bad happened, K. Trust me. I am just so happy to see your face again."  "But, Brian... you've been gone for 20 minutes."  "It was way too long to me. I couldn't bear to stay away from you."  "Oh, Brian...you always know the right words to say."  Brian picked her up, and took her into their bedroom. He had lain her down on the bed, and started kissing her softly. She sat up, and got undressed, and so did he. As they both got into bed, Brian started to rub her belly. "Kristine..."  "Yeah Brian?"  "If I haven't thanked you for our child, thank you."  "You can thank me until the day I perish. I love you, Brian."  "My God, I love you too."  He wrapped his arms around her, and nestled his face in the side of her neck. "Baby, what are you thinking about?"  "You." Brian said in a whisper. He had drifted on to sleep, and so did she.

**Throughout the whole afternoon, and most of the evening, Brian held Krissie tight. They both slept a soundless sleep, both bathed in their nakedness. Krissie peeked at her alarm clock, and saw that it was 7:30. "Damn." She exclaimed. Her exclaimation woke up Brian. "What...what happened?" asked Brian sleepily. "I just realized that I had a date with Howie. I have to call him. He is going to be so--" She was cut off by Brian kissing her softly. "Don't worry, K. Howie won't be mad. I just know he won't. He's not the type to get mad."  "Brian...thank you." She then got out of bed, dressed in her finest evening dress, and headed downstairs. As she headed downstairs, she noticed a note on the coffee table. The color on the note was the same as the last one: purple. She sat down, and read the contents of the letter.

Dearest Kristine.

How are you? Now, if you are not sure that you want to go, just call. I will understand. But if you are still willing to join me, I am at the Desideria Terrace on 27th W. Quinttenn St. I came by, for I have left a present for you. I hope you'll love it.

Howie.

Krissie put the note down, and then noticed a purple box with a white bow around it. She picked it up, and opened it. Her breath was stolen, when she saw the most beautiful piece of jewelry ever. It was a silver cross necklace with purple gemstones around it. "I love it..." she said breathlessly. She took it out of its confines, and put it on. She loved the necklace even more, for she was of the Catholic faith, and that she just loves cross necklaces. She picked up her cell, and called Howie's number.

"Hello, sweetheart."

Hey Howie. How are you?"

"I'm fine. Just sitting here, watching the view of the balcony. Watching the ocean sway."

"Oh, That sounds breathtaking, and inviting. And I also love the water."

Kristine's voice was like velvet to Howie's ears.

"Oh, it is. Did you get my present?"

"Oh, Howie. The necklace is simply wonderful. Thank you so much."

"Anything for you, Kristine. By the way, I have sent a limo to your house.

"A limo? Howie, isn't that a little--"

"Over the edge? Kristine, you deserve only the best."

"Thank you, Howard...That's very thoughtful of you."

Just then, the doorbell rings.

"That's the chauffeur. See you then."

"See you then, Dorough."

After she hung up, she got up, and opened the door. It was indeed a chauffeur, dressed very sharply.

"Ms. Andersen, I presume?"

"Yes?"

"Mr. Dorough awaits your arrival."

The man extended his hand to her, and she placed her hand upon it. She yelled upstairs to Brian, "Be back at 11!"  "Ok! Be careful!"

The driver escorted her to the limo, and she got in carefully. The driver drove directly to where Howie was. As the driver parked, he got out, and carefully escorted her out of the limo. "This way, Ms. Andersen."  Said the driver. She was lead to the most beautiful hotel building she had ever seen. It was immaculate. Both the driver and Krissie got on a see-through elevator that lead to the 20th floor. She didn't like elevatirs, nor the fact that she can see through it, but she was brave. "In here, ma'am." Said the driver. She walked into Room 331, and saw the most amazing view of her life.

The Desideria Terrace was the most beautiful place she has ever been to. She walked in, and closed the door. She began to intake what she saw before her. White candles, beautiful red carpeting. The furniture was beautiful as well, caressed with red velvet coverings. She even smelled white gardenias and vanilla. "This place is remarkable." She said while walking around. "Kristine..."  She then felt arms around her waist. She didn't turn around. She then felt soft feathery kisses rain on her neck. "You look absolutely ravishing tonight, my dear."  "Thank you, Howard." She gently broke from his deep embrace and turned around.  Howie was standing there with his hair down. He had on a black satin long sleeve shirt, with long black jeans to match. His beautiful honey brown eyes were lustering in the candle light. This man looked absolutely sexy.

He moved to be behind her, and continued to plant sweet gentle kisses upon her milky white skin. He moved her silky dark brown hair so he can do the same on the other side. "Howie...that feels so good..."  "It's only the beginning, Mi Querida. It's only the beginning."

Howie turned her around, curled his finger around her chin, and lead her lips to kiss his. He cupped her face in his hands and deepened the kiss. Her arms were around his waist, her nails began to glide through his skin. She ran her fingers through his hair. His mane was so soft and comforting to her hands. Howie broke the kiss, and got behind Krissie once again. "I want you...badly, my dear..." he whispered in her ear. He began to nibble her earlobe, and growling at the same time. She was about to go mad, if he wasn't inside her now. "Howie, please. Don't tease me. Make me yours...I want you inside me."  "Your wish...is now my command." Preached Howie, as he lead her to his bedroom.   As they walked in, they began to lustfully kiss. She pushed him on the comfortable king sized bed, caressed with red velvet and satin sheets.  "Wait, Kristine..."  Said Howie, as he began to take off his shirt very slowly.  This alone was driving her mad, but she calmed down, after she had saw Howie's chiseled body. He was truly a work of art.  "Please, Howie.."  "Please what?"  "Make love to me."  As he took off all of his clothes, leaving himself naked before her, he got on top of her, and gazed at her with his beautiful chocolate brown eyes. "Touch me..." she whispered. He ran his hand through her dress, and pulled off her panties. He then inserted a finger inside of her awaiting core.  "Oh...Howie...."  "No, no...not yet..."  She moved against the rhythm of his now two long fingers dancing inside of her.  "Mmmm....Howie..please... I want you to be inside of me..."  After he took his fingers out of her warm velvety center, he licked them, and smiled.  "You taste as good as I thought, Kristine. I will make love to you in due time. I just want to have fun a little, and see if you can last my torture."  She opened her eyes and flashed a devilish smile at him.  With one last smile, and a wink, his head went down, and extended his tongue towards her wet and heated flesh.  "Oh, My God..." she exclaimed, "Oh, yes...oh...."  She was enjoying every second of Howie's sweet torture inflicted upon her womanhood.  She grabbed a handful of his soft and downy locks. She literally drove his head further, and rocked to the pace of his tongue inside of her.  "Howie...I'm gonna...let me...."   Howie stopped, and placed his thumb on her hard pearl, confining her release.

"Are you ready, Kristine?"  "Oh, God...yes..."  He needed not to be told twice, for he took of her dress, revealing herself to him. He pushed himself inside her. She gasped as his hardness was now embedded inside her. "Oh, Howie...faster...please..." He loved it when she begged for him to do this. This enhanced the desire and passion of what was happening. 

"Howie...please...Release me!"  "Oh, Kristine...I'm almost there, Baby...Cum with me...you can do it..."  She was gripping the sheets as he continued to thrust inside of her.

They both couldn't hold on much longer, for they both released at the same time.  He kept on going, but then he slowed down.  Their breathing ragged, but they didn't give a damn.

"Howie...this was the greatest date ever."  "There can be more dates than this, you know that?"  "God, I wanted this to happen...really, I did."  "Shhh, now...Rest, my love." Wooed Howie, as they both cuddled and drifted off to a deserving sleep.**

Kristine's eyes flew open. "What the Hell?"  She exclaimed.  She still found herself embraced around Brian's warm arms.  "What's wrong, Hun?"  "What? Oh, nothing Dear."  Kristine held her head, as her mind travelled back to her sexually intense dream.  She couldn't shake the fact that in her dream, the man wasn't Brian, but Howie.  Brian got up to use the bathroom.  She sat up, and tried to think straight. She saw the alarm clock, and saw that it was 6:00 on the dot. She grabbed a robe, put it on, and went downstairs. She looked around for a note on the coffee table, but saw nothing. She let out a sigh of relief.  "God. It's only a dream. And I want it to stay that way." she said to herself. She liked Howie, but she doesn't love him to that extent. She went in her purse, grabbed her cell, and called Howie's number.

"Hey, Kristine."

"Hey, Dorough. Um...

"What's the matter?"

"Uh...Howie...I don't feel like going anywhere tonight. Brian and I have plans."

"That's fine, Kristine. I'm not holding that against you. But I do want to talk to you." 

"Ok...sure. Want to talk over the phone, or.."

"In person. It's very important."

She felt a shock go through her heart.

"Um...ok. I'll see you later. When are you coming by?"

"Open your door."

She turned around, and got up from the couch.  She opened the door, and there he was. 

"Dorough."

"Hey, Kristine. I really have to talk to you."

"Well, I'm here. What's up."

"Let's sit down first."

Both Krissie and Howie headed for the couch, and sat down.

"So, what is it?" though Krissie knew what he was about to say.

"Um... Krissie, there is something that I have to say to you, and it's been eating me up inside, so I'll just say it."

"What?"

"Krissie...Kristine...I love you. When I first saw you, I knew that my life would be complete...if you were in it.

He moved closer to Krissie, and held her hand.

"K, I want to be with you...always."

Krissie just looked at him, as Howie was waiting for a response.

"Howard...I love you too."

"Oh, Kristine...you have made me so--"

She put her hand up to slience him.

"But not that way.  You know that I am in love with Brian. Have you forgotten about him? Howie, this is not going to happen between us. I am in a deep loving relationship with Brian. I love you as a friend. You have to accept that. I'm sorry."

Howie could have died right on the spot, but she was right. She doesn't love Howie like that. She finds him as a big brother, one that she never had. Howard has to understand and accept the fact that she loves Brian Littrell, not Howie Dorough.

"Focus on something that's more important than me. Please, you have to understand that."

It just hit him. He couldn't do this. He won't do this. He realized that he will never come in between them. He will be there for Kristine, but only as a friend.

"Well, K, I'm gonna have to go, ok? Talk to you later."

"Ok, Dorough. See you."

"Oh, one last thing. Call me D."

"Ok...D."

And with that, Howie walked to the door, and walked out. She leaned against the door, and let out a sigh of relief. She went upstairs, and saw Brian sitting on the bed. "Hey sexy." She said in a seductive voice.  "Oh, K...you know what that does to me, talking to me like that.'  "I know," She continued. "That's why I'm doing it."  Krissie un-knotted her robe, and let it fall to the ground. Brian was astonished of what he saw, Krissie naked before him. Brian got up, and walked to her. "My God, you're beautiful." He said. Brian grabbed her into a deep embrace, and kissed her passionately.  "God, Krissie, I need you..I want you."  "The feeling's mutual."  Brian picked her up and lain her back on the bed. He then took his robe off, and got on top of her. "Let's do something different."  Kristine said in a whisper. Brian got off of her, and waited for what she was about to do. She got on top of Brian. "How do you like this way, Rok."  "Oh sweet Lord...yes."  "Good."  Krissie can feel what she's doing to him. "I see you approve of my idea."  She looked down, and stroked his hardness.