It had been far too long since she’d come out to the West coast. There were too many opportunities still awaiting her and many friends that had missed her presence (she’d missed them as all). It had been so easy to stay on the East coast and try to not take any chances. Yet, she’d been told time and again that she was smart, talented, and really could make a career for herself. Having some of her jewelry, that she’d made all by herself, shown off at New York Fashion Week as models strutted down the runway accessorizing their outfits with it, really had given her a little more confidence and propelled her to finally get back out to Los Angeles.

Her sister bought her the plane ticket and her friend Tyler had told her she was more than welcome to stay at his older brother’s house. She was thankful for the generosity and she couldn’t wait to see palm trees swaying in the wind, the ocean, beautiful people, and even…JC.

The taxi rode up all the way to the top of the hill and pulled up to a huge, hill-top, architecturally special house. She smiled as the taxi completely stopped and she unbuckled her seatbelt. Her eyes took in the house and she was very excited to get in. She hoped that JC would be happy to see her and that she’d be greeted by one of his warm smiles. After paying the taxi driver and grabbing her luggage, she shut the car door and ascended up to the front door of the house.

Once she made it to the door, she rang the door bell and even knocked three times. There was no answer, so she pulled out a small piece of paper that had the code to the garage. Tyler had given it to her, knowing she’d be able to get into the house with it if JC wasn’t home when she arrived. She sighed and walked over to the garage and found the keypad to press the code into. She was allowed entry as the garage door went up and lucky for her the door that led into the house was unlocked. She twisted the knob, opened the door all the way and then stepped inside the house.

“This could be the beginning of something special. Don’t mess it, Harper.” She told herself.

She stepped into the kitchen, that had a marble counter and funky, colored lights descending from the ceiling. The fridge was huge and she noted dirty dishes sitting in the sink. She laughed to herself, knowing JC wasn’t the most domestic guy.

Setting her stuff down on the floor by his kitchen table, she called out his name, just in case he was in the house and hadn’t heard her.

“JC!?”

There was no response and she sighed. She would just have to wait for him to return. He had to know she was arriving today and would be here. Hopefully he wouldn’t keep her waiting, alone in his house, all alone for too long.

She then realized just how hot his house felt to her. It was as if no air conditioning was circulating and that she’d stepped into a sauna or something. The air conditioning must’ve gone out. So she decided to open some windows and get comfy by taking off some layers of clothing.

Then she walked into his living room and turned on the big-screen TV. After settling on a channel she could live with, she got up and grabbed her huge box of beads and different metals. While she waited for JC to get home, she’d work on making a new piece of jewelry, even if she was scantily clad and feeling very warm.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

JC didn’t know why he tortured himself. Why he would allow friends to set him up with chicks that had more beauty than brains or just wanted his money. He didn’t know why he was once again at a club, sitting next to a brunette (that resembled an ex-girlfriend who’d broken his heart), as she rambled on and on about herself, which proved to him that she didn’t really care to know anything about him. Unless, she had googled him before their date and learned everything already. The thought alone just made him cringe and he wanted this date to end.

“I’m sorry, but I kind of have to be at the studio tomorrow morning. Nice meeting you, Trixie. Enjoy the rest of your night.” He said, interrupting her and getting up from his chair.

“You gonna call me?” He stopped mid-step and tried to not laugh in her face, but he did anyways.

“No, I’m sorry. You just didn’t seem interested in me.”

She scoffed. “Whatever…..you’re cute and all…but it’s not like I couldn’t do better. I think Timberlake might be calling me tomorrow.”

And with those words, he exited the club as fast as he could. He was sick of feeling like #2. He was sick of not finding the right girl. He was sick of this whole dating game. He was sick of being a 30-something and feeling like maybe he really did have a phobia of commitment.

Maybe everyone was right. Maybe he really would just end up a bachelor his whole life or maybe he’s get his own VH1 show down the road, JC Chasez : 45 & Single. The possibilities scared him, yet so did having a relationship. He just couldn’t get his shit together and figure it out. Yet, he wanted nothing more than to find happiness and feel content with his life. While music was his first love, music couldn’t give him everything. It certainly couldn’t give him a mind-blowing orgasm.

He hopped into his Mercedes that the valet guy had driven around for him, and he buckled up. He turned on the radio, blasting it loudly. He also let the windows down and could feel a breeze that helped calm him down a little after such a horrible date.

It wasn’t until he got closer to his house that he started to feeling bad again, knowing he’d be coming home to no one. Tyler had moved out a couple months ago and there definitely was no wife or girlfriend. There wasn’t even a fuck buddy waiting in his bed.

“When did I even last get laid?” He asked himself out loud and groaned when he realized just how long ago it had to have been.

He sighed pulling up to his house and then pressed the button for the garage door to go up. Once he parked his car and got out, he stepped inside his house. He shut the door behind him and sighed, dropping his keys on the counter and kicking his shoes off.

“Shit!” He cursed, feeling the warm air smother him. He knew right away that the air conditioning wasn’t working. He hoped it would be a quick fix, that he could just tinker with it himself. The idea of waiting for someone to come out and fix it, didn’t appeal to him at all.

He grabbed a bottle of water from his fridge and uncapped it, before guzzling it down. Once he set the bottle down on his kitchen counter, he saw two bags of luggage and was immediately alarmed.

He didn’t know how or when they got there and who they belonged to. He sometimes had friends stay with him for a visit, but they never dropped in unexpectedly. He always knew when someone would show. His ears perked up, hearing his television on and he tried to remain calm. He took slow steps over to the living room and what he saw definitely surprised him and left him speechless for moment.

JC’s jaw dropped as he saw a tall, beautiful, brown-haired, chocolate-eyed, young woman laying upon his couch. To make things even more interesting, she was wearing just a light blue bra with lace and matching boy shorts.

She must not have heard him come in, as it seemed that she was entranced in a Lifetime movie. So it wasn’t until it dawned on him who she was and he spoke her name that she turned and smiled up at him.

“Harper?” He choked out.

“JC!” Her smiled huge, as she sat up and looked at him.

“What….what..are you doing here? And…dressed like that?” She laughed at his reaction.

“Well as if you couldn’t tell, it’s a freaking sauna in here. I was trying to stay as cool as I could, waiting for you.” His lips pursed into a smile and his expression softened.

“Okay……but that still doesn’t answer my question of why you’re here.” She then contorted her face in confusion.

“I thought you knew, Jace. I spoke to Tyler last week and he said you’d agreed to let me stay with you while I tried to launch my jewelry line out here in LA.” He shook his head and sighed.

“Not a clue. I’m going to kill, Tyler.” He clenched his fists as if he was ready to knockout his brother. Harper immediately felt awkward and bad.

“I…I can..leave. I swear I didn’t know, you didn’t know. I mean, Tyler even gave me the code to the garage. He told me all was swell.” She waited for JC to speak up again and noticed his eyes were on his coffee table now, looking at the latest necklace she’d created.

“You made this?” He finally asked, holding up the blue and purple beaded necklace that was strung together with silver wire.

She nodded her head, shyly.

“It’s beautiful. If I was a chick, I’d wear it.” A soft chuckle escaped Harper’s lips then.

“Thank…I do recall you wearing girly things though before. It might not be that far of a stretch.” He then stuck his tongue out at her playfully.

“Way to make a man feel like a man, Harp.”

She then grinned as he called her by her nickname. He had told her before that her voice and her laughter were just as angelic as the sound of a harp. It was cheesy to say the least, but sweet.

“Welcome. So…should I get dressed and get out of here or what?” He shook his head. His blue eyes serious then, as they looked into her chocolate ones as he spoke.

“I didn’t know you were coming and I’m still going to have a good chat with my brother, but it’s not your fault. You assumed I knew and well……it really has been awhile since we’ve seen each other. Plus, you know I’m all about supporting people in their endeavors and all. I want to help you out even if it is just giving you a place to stay while you become a huge jewelry designer.”

Harper grinned and then laughed. She stood up then and a couple steps to JC, pulling him into a hug. She squeezed him tight. “Thank you. You’re the best. I missed you, JC.”

He hugged her in return and nodded his head. “No problem. It’s good to have a friendly face around. I could use the company, Harper.”

Then she peeled away from his arms and she looked down at herself, still in just her bra and boy shorts.

“You must’ve been really shocked seeing me laying on your couch like this.”

He laughed. “Ummm….yeah. It was…outrageous.”

She blushed slightly and quickly grabbed her t-shirt and shorts she discarded. She slid them back onto her body and then looked back at JC.

“So…..now what?”

“I’m going to see if I can fix the air-conditioner myself. If not I’m going to have to call someone in the morning.”

“Sounds like a good idea.” He then stepped over to her two bag and lifted them up in his hands.

“I’ll take this up for you and make sure one of the guest rooms is clean for you.” She nodded and smiled with appreciation.

“Do you mind…if I ask where you were tonight?” JC was half way up the staircase as he heard her question. He had no reason to not tell her the truth. Harper was a good friend and the kind that could be confided in.

“Just another bad date at a club.”

“Aww…that sucks.”

“I suppose….” He said before making it all the way upstairs and settling her stuff in the guest room at the end of the hall. He was satisfied it was in good enough condition for Harper and then came back downstairs to find her back on his couch.

She looked up at him and patted the cushion beside her. “Come on..sit down. We should talk. I feel like we haven’t talked in forever, Jace.”

He laughed. “That’s because we haven’t. I’ve been such a horrible friend.”

“Oh please…don’t go there with me.” He took a seat beside her and smiled.

“Fine…I won’t. So…let’s talk.”

Harper turned his television off and then eyed him carefully. She took note of the bags under his eyes, the lack-lusterness of his usually sparkly blue eyes, and the wrinkles upon his face. She even caught his yawn and he just looked like a hot mess.

She reached out and ran a hand through his dark hair and smoothed it down. “Maybe we should talk in the morning. You look like you could use the sleep.”

“What’s that suppose to mean?” He scoffed.

“Just that I can spy a tired man and you’re definitely tired. I think that bad date wore you out.”

She then placed a soft kiss to his cheek and stood up from the couch. “Where are you going?”

“Upstairs to get some sleep. Which you should too. We can most definitely talk tomorrow, JC.” He sighed and then nodded his head.

“Alright…sweet dreams, Harp.”

He then watched as Harper left the room and he heard he walk upstairs. Then he collapsed against his couch, laying his body out upon the cushions. He let out a huge sigh.

He certainly hadn’t expected to come home to a friend he hadn’t seen in awhile and he certainly hadn’t expected for her to stay with him as she chased her own dream. Yet…something inside told him, that maybe…just maybe..this would be a good thing. Maybe Harper would have all the answers he was looking for.

Harper stretched her arms and her entire body for that matter as he woke up the next morning. She had slept wonderfully in the comfortable queen bed that was in JC’s guestroom. She let out a soft moan and opened her eyes to the sunlight that was peeking through the shades. After taking a look at the time on the alarm clock next to the bed, she knew she really did need to get up and was more than ready. She was excited in a way to see LA again and to reconnect with JC.

She slid out of bed and decided to quick take a shower. There was a bathroom right across the hall, which she had memorized the layout of the house, having stayed there before. Harper stepped to the bathroom and started the water after shutting the door. She waited for it to get hot enough before jumping into the stall. She grinned seeing that a bottle of shower gel, as well as shampoo she’d left on her last visit, was still in the shower caddy and ready for her to use. Lord knew she would feel better smelling like lilacs instead of some woodsy masculine scent.

After rubbing her skin down and shampooing her hair, Harper turned the water off and grabbed a towel that was folded on a shelf. She opened it up and then ran it through her hair, before drying off and wrapping it around her body.

She exited the bathroom and she still hadn’t heard a noise. Maybe JC was still sleeping or maybe he was down in his studio playing around. She’d figure it out as soon as she got dressed and fixed her appearance. Harper realized though as she was opening one of her suitcases that the air in the house was cool once again and that the warm air she’d felt last night was gone. Good thing she wouldn’t have to be scantily clad again.

Harper grabbed a bra and another pair of boy shorts. She put them on her body and then found what she wanted to wear today. Today’s outfit would be a simple, royal blue sundress with some cute ruffles on the bottom. Harper wasn’t the most feminine girl, nor was she the most tomboyish. She had her own in-between style and her fashion varied from day to day. For whatever reason she wanted to be girly today.

She even found a long, copper beaded necklace she’d created and had considered one of her classic pieces. It went down to just above her navel and gave a youthful, free-spirited vibe to her look. She was glad she’d also gotten a manicure and a pedicure before she came. It was always summery weather in Los Angeles for the most part and people liked showing off their skin, tan, and nails. Flip-flops were popular and so were perfectly cut and polished nails. She had a French manicure done on her hands and her feet had a light pink polish on them.

Harper wasn’t the type to go out of her way and get a tan though. So her complexion wasn’t the darkest, but she still looked beautiful and knew how to apply her make-up to bring out her features. She stepped back into the bathroom and quickly blow-dried her hair before getting to her make-up. She applied a light blue eye-shadow and used some mascara as well. Then she put some cherry colored lipstick upon her soft, full lips. She smacked them together and grinned at herself in the mirror.

Her long, dark hair cascaded upon her shoulders and down her back and her appearance looked more than okay for a day to just chill and spend time with a friend.

She smiled at herself one last time before heading downstairs and calling out for JC. She called out his name a few times and it wasn’t until she spotted the note in the kitchen on his kitchen counter, that she figured out why she’d gotten no response.

The note read :

She laughed after reading his scribbly handwritten note and finding the humor in it. She was glad that he wanted to take her out to lunch. It certainly would provide her with a real meal at a nice, trendy restaurant as oppose to some pastries anyone could pop in their toaster. Plus, she’d get to really sit down and talk to JC and that was something she wanted.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was about half past noon, when Harper heard JC’s garage door go up and she knew he had arrived. She turned off his television and shut her binder that she had out. The binder contained all kinds of business information and what not. She had been studying it to get a better knowledge of just what she’d have to do to get people to want to buy and sell her creations of jewelry.

She could use the break and the company. She stood up just as JC stepped into the house and she smiled at him, his eyes meeting hers. His eyes crinkled at the size of his smile, as he took in Harper.

“Hey, JC. Good afternoon.” She spoke, sweetly. “Bet you’re glad I’ve got a dress on this time.”

He chuckled and shrugged his shoulders. “Sure…whatever.”

“You look refreshed.” He looked down at himself. He was wearing a black polo shirt and some skinny jeans that hugged him in all the right places.

“Thanks..I think.” She chuckled.

“I mean it..you look better and your outfit isn’t bad either.”

“Well..your sundress is nice. I approve of it.” He then pointed at her necklace. “You made that?”

She nodded her head. “You’ll learn that I pretty much wear my own creations. Have to pimp myself out, you know?”

He laughed. “Why does the word “pimp” sound weird coming from your lips?”

“Maybe because I’m just as white as you, JC.” He rolled his eyes.

“Maybe because you’re sweet and innocent and you just have clean vocabulary.” She chuckled.

“Okay..whatever you say.”

He set his messenger bag down on his kitchen table and then he excused himself for a moment. Harper waited for him to return, already having an inkling that lunch would be interesting.

JC returned a couple minutes later, chipper and ready to stuff his stomach. “All I had was one strawberry Poptart when the air-conditioning guy came over and then I had to get to the studio. I’m starving.”

She shook her head at him. “I found some Capt’n Crunch in one of the cabinets. There was just enough for a bowl.”

“Oh gosh…Tyler must’ve left that behind. You know that’s his favorite.”

“Oh yeah…that’s right. Well it didn’t taste stale or anything.” JC laughed.

“Good..good. I need a healthy Harper around.” She smiled and then grabbed her purse from his coffee table. It was a khaki color and big enough to tote things around. She slung it around her shoulder.

“So..where are you taking me?”

“Just a cute little outside café.”

“Sounds nice.”

“It is and the food is delicious.”

“I bet…so let’s get this show on the road.” JC grinned.

“Okay, Harper.” She then followed him to his car and got into the passenger seat to enjoy the ride.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The scenery was to die for and Harper definitely saw the ocean and the palm trees she had craved. Being able to just sit back and enjoy it from JC’s car and feel a breeze, was pretty much amazing.

She eyed him as he finally pulled his car up to the café he’d chosen. His aviator sunglasses were perched upon his nose and his eyes were more than covered by the huge lenses. His lips were pursed, as if he was concentrating hard on parking. His hair was looking better today, without the messed up part he had last night. She didn’t really mean to stare, but something just made her want to admire him for a moment and memorize everything about her friend.

“What?” He finally asked, as the car stopped completely and he killed the engine.

She jumped slightly and laughed. “Nothing.”

“You were staring.”

“No…I was observing.” He chuckled.

“Whatever, Harp. Just because I have sunglasses on doesn’t mean I can’t see where your eyes were focused.”

“Don’t flatter yourself, Chasez. I was just making sure you truly weren’t still looking like a hot mess from last night.”

He pointed his finger out at her. “Now you just quit it. I am a big boy I can care for myself.”

She laughed and then hopped out of the car. JC got out and just shook his head in amusement. Something about Harper was refreshing and fun and already he was enjoying her presence back in his life.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

JC still had on his aviators, the sun still shining bright, and plus he liked feeling a little more hidden behind them. It made him feel like the paparazzi couldn’t get him, even though everyone knew that wasn’t true; including himself. Harper looked across the small, rectangular table they were sitting at, as they waited for dessert to come. She was almost a little unnerved by the fact that she couldn’t see his eyes and that he had swallowed down his side salad and entrée like a ravenous beast. He hadn’t really uttered many words and the talking they had agreed to do was non-existent. Harper didn’t want a conversation with herself, so she had refrained from speaking as well and ate her lunch. It had been tasty to say the least.

Not being able to stare at him and take the silence anymore, Harper reached for the sunglasses on his face, as she leaned over the table. She took them off and revealed his blue eyes. Then she sat back down and let out a soft sigh.

“I’d like to talk. I’d like to have some eye contact too. So, we are now going to talk and look at one another. Okay, JC?” His eyes widened, slightly taken aback, and then nodded his head.

“Okay..okay. I’m sorry. I guess I was just hungry and caught up in myself.”

“Or…maybe you’re avoiding something?” He shook his head.

“Nope.” She looked him over closely and narrowed her eyes.

“I think you are. Come on…let’s just talk. You’re JC, I’m Harper. We’re friends and friends talk.” He couldn’t help, but break into a smile that turned into a laugh.

Just then the waitress set down a plate of triple layer fudge cake with the most decadent frosting for them to share. There were two forks and they each grabbed one as soon as the waitress stepped away.

“This has got to be heaven on a plate.” Harper grinned and forked a piece of the cake. She allowed it to melt into her mouth and she savored it. Her tongue then slithered out to wipe away at the fudge frosting upon her lips. “Oh yes…heaven.”

JC took his own bite and then nodded his head in agreement. “Mmm..probably even sex on a plate.”

Harper then laughed and she took another forkful of the cake.

“Speaking of sex…is that all that’s still on your mind these days?” He almost choked on the piece of cake he was swallowing.

“Excuse me!” Harper laughed again.

“You heard me.”

“I’m a man, Harp. Of course it’s on my mind…but do I still dream about it all day long, every day? No, not really. I try to not focus on the fact I haven’t been getting laid.”

Her eyes widened at his admittance and his hand flew to his mouth.

“Seriously?”

“Shit!”

“I would’ve thought…”

“Nope…”

“Well then…”

“I can’t believe I told you.”

“Hey, better me than someone else.” He smiled just a little.

“True.”

“So..is that why you’ve been on bad dates?”

“Well not necessarily to get laid, but you know…if it would happen then so be it.”

Harper dropped her fork then and she clasped her hands together. Her chocolate eyes focused on him and her face had an expression of concern. She cleared her throat and then spoke to him.

“Now…I know what has happened in your past JC and I know you’ve been used and abused before. You’ve had your heart broken. I know you also aren’t Mr. Ready to Settle Down. I know you aren’t Mr. Commitment. Though what I do know is…that you deserve someone to like you for you, to love you for you, to want to sex you up because they really do want you. You can go on all the dates you want and you can live your life however you please, but just know that…you’re worth more than just a one nightstand.”

JC was silent as she spoke and he processed every word that had just come out of her mouth. He was touched actually and it felt good to hear someone say that to him. It felt good to hear it from Harper.

“Well…thank you.” He finally mustered.

“You’re welcome, Jace.”

She then picked up her fork and resumed eating her share of the slice of cake.

“You’re right though…I have been avoiding something. I guess it’s been easier being closed up and keeping stuff to myself. Yet…there’s just something about you, Harper, that is comforting.”

She grinned and then motioned for him to continue. She knew he had more to say.

“This whole going on dates thing is because you know…a man does get lonely. Just because I’m not ready to settle down doesn’t mean I don’t want a warm body in my bed. Plus in some weird way, I miss being in love. I think I was really in love in the past before you know who tore my heart from my chest and stomped on it.”

She nodded her head, understanding him completely.

“Plus, I look at myself and I realize I’m not getting any younger even though I still feel young. It’s like I’m suddenly not *NSYNC JC anymore and I’m just JC, this former boybander still trying to stay relevant. The amount of chicks I got back then compared to now has dwindled.” He sighed and then ran his hand over his face.

Harper let out her own sigh and then she reached across the table for his hand. She gave it a gentle squeeze.

“Listen…you’re a good guy, JC. It doesn’t matter what you’re doing now or how old you are. Heck…your past doesn’t even matter now. What matters now is that you look inside yourself and decide what you want and focus on what will make you happy. Plus……you only need one “chick”. That’s all it takes.”

He laughed at her last comment, but then nodded his head. “You’re right, Harp. You’re so damn right.”

A few days later, JC was out and about running some errands. He thought he might as well get some stuff done while Harper was catching up with another one of her friends who also lived in the LA area.

JC smiled to himself as he walked along the sidewalk, passing by stores on the busy street. He was still very content about having Harper around and he knew they still had some catching up to do. Yet, hopefully tonight when they were both at his house again, they could talk some more.

“JC! JC!” A man that was definitely paparazzi yelled out, causing JC to almost trip himself.

He was startled and his smile disappeared from his face. He turned his head a little and caught sight of the man with a video camera. It was likely he worked for TMZ. JC didn’t say a word and he continued walking as best as he could, trying to remain unaffected.

“JC! Come on..say hello. Don’t be shy. I mean it wasn’t like you were shy about your new lady when you took her out a few days ago.” The man tried again, feeding some bait.

“Hey.” JC said in an irritated, almost sarcastic tone with a half-ass wave.

“So you going to tell me about your new lady or what?” JC’s face contorted in confusion.

“Don’t know what you’re talking about. I don’t have anyone in my life right now. Stop acting like you know my business.” The man wouldn’t let up at JC’s response and kept filming him as he walked.

“Then who was the pretty brunette in the blue dress who shared chocolate cake with you?” JC let out a bitter laugh then.

“She is a FRIEND. That is all. Now, I need to go, man. I don’t have time for these games.”

JC then started jogging and he was out of sight of the man a moment later. He hated paparazzi, reporters, and just anyone that came up to him to just get dirt on any aspect of his life. He was a very private person and he liked to keep what he could to himself. It sickened him though that he couldn’t just be seen with someone and just be friends. Every time he was seen with a female, especially brunettes, rumors swirled that he was dating her or that he’d fucked her. It was getting really old, really fast.

He sighed as he walked into the Apple Store, just relieved to not have someone following or questioning him anymore. Now he could try to shop for a new monitor in peace and forget about his failed love life, if only for a little while.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Harper laughed as Leelee cracked another joke. It was good to be around another familiar face, someone who knew her like a sister. Someone who she could count on and be herself around. Harper had been friends with Leelee ever since they met in high school back on the East coast. Then when Leelee moved out to California a few years ago, the girls hadn’t seen much of each other, but this little reunion was making up for it.

“Still funny as ever.” Harper grinned, after her laughter subsided.

“I aim to amuse.” Leelee said, a proud look on her face. “It really is good to have you out here, girl. You’re a breath of fresh air in this smog-filled city. I really hope LA will treat you right though and you’ll get your line up and running.”

“I hope so too. I’m trying to make some connections and set up some meetings. I really need someone to back me up and believe in my vision.”

“I know someone will, Harper. You’re an awesome designer and your jewelry is quite fun, hip, and cute.” Harper grinned.

“Thanks, Lee.” Leelee then looked at Harper curiously, wanting to getting some information out of her.

Harper groaned as she looked up at the dress she was eyeing on a rack. The girls were doing some shopping, having not been able to shop together since the last time Harper visited.

“What is it?”

“What’s what?” Harper then sighed.

“I see that look, Leelee. Something gives.”

Leelee chuckled then. “Oh….I was going to ask you how it’s been living staying with JC. All you told me is that he saw you in just a bra and boy shorts and you were embarrassed he didn’t know that you were suppose to be staying with him.”

“What’s there to tell…I mean..he’s still as nice as ever. He hasn’t been home much, so we haven’t talked a lot, but things are fine. It’s not that awkward. He’s really let me just make myself at home.” Lee nodded her head.

“That’s good. As long as you can deal with him and it isn’t too close for comfort.”

“Yeah, I think it’s just right. We’re friends and we’ve always respected one another.” Harper picked up a dress from the rack and held it up.

“What do you think?” Lee turned her nose.

“That is hideous. Put it back right now.” Harper chuckled and set the dress back on the rack.

“No guy wants to date some girl wearing something that looks like an ugly, brown smock.”

“Who said I wanted to date someone?” Harper asked, knowing that she was probably giving room for Leelee to pry.

“Me. You really do need to date someone, Harp.”

“Why thank you, oh wise one.” Leelee rolled her eyes.

“I’m serious. You don’t want to be the old lady with twenty cats and living in some old rundown warehouse because you never found your soul mate.” Harper laughed.

“ Leelee, now you know that would never be me! I just haven’t gotten my share of the good luck in the dating department yet. Though when I do, I promise you I’ll live with a man in a normal house.”

“I hope so. You deserve so much better than Landon. He was king of the douches.” Harper felt her entire body freeze at that statement. It was a very sore topic for her and she hadn’t thought about Landon in awhile, but when he was brought up, it really shook her.

“That was …two years ago already, Lee. Why must you even bring him up? I don’t like to remember that I was practically engaged before I found him having sex with some other girl on my birthday.”

“I know. I know..but you can’t just give up because you got burned. I know you really loved Landon and you saw your whole fairytale, but it’s been two freaking years and it’s not worth your time torturing yourself when he already did that to you. You’re so much better than almost all the girls out there and there’s a man out there that will be the luckiest bastard of them all if you’d just open your heart to love again.” Harper felt her eyes well up a little at her friends words. Deep down she knew that Leelee was right.

“Thanks. Sometimes you say the right ways.”

Leelee grinned and then she pulled Harper into her arms, giving her a warm hug. “I love you like a sister, Harp. I just want the best for you.”

Harper nodded her head as she hugged Leelee and then she pulled back, letting out a deep sigh. She didn’t really feel like shopping anymore, but she was a little thirsty.

“You want to get something drink?”

“Sure, there’s a Starbucks up the street.” Harper grinned, widely.

“Perfect. I could use some Starbucks.” Leelee grinned.

“Me too. A caramel frappuccino is like sex.”

“Leelee!” Harper cried out and then laughed.

“Hey it’s true. It’s an orgasm for your taste buds.” Harper continued to laugh.

“Whatever you say…..whatever you say.”

Leelee smiled and led Harper out of the store and the two of them began walking in the direction of Starbucks.

They noticed a convenience store next to the coffee shop and Leelee wanted to go inside before they got their drinks.

“What did you need from here?” Harper asked, as she followed Leelee into the store. It was your usual convenience store with heath products, beauty products, magazines, snacks, and such.

“Oh I don’t need anything, but I just have fun reading the headlines of the magazines sometimes. You think with me living out here as long as I have, I’d be use to Hollywood tabloids and rumors, but I still get a kick out of them.”

Harper shook her head in amusement. “Oh well then, why don’t you pick out a magazine and we can look it over together at Starbucks?”

“Sounds good to me.” Leelee led Harper into the magazine aisle and perused the covers of the magazines. There was one that jumped out at Leelee because Robert Pattinson’s face took up half of the cover.

“This one!” She cried out grabbing it. “He is one sexy vampire.”

Harper laughed and was about to grab the magazine from Leelee, but her friend stopped her. Then she noticed Leelee’s finger pointing at a small picture with a headline on the bottom corner of it.

The picture was of JC and the headline read, “JC Chasez Dining Out with His New Girl” See pg. 22.

“Hmmm..so then pretty boy has himself a new girl, huh? Did he tell you anything about her?” Leelee asked, looking up at Harper.

Harper shook her head slowly. “He hasn’t said a word. Though you know he wouldn’t just come out and tell me his personal life. He could’ve just met her or maybe it’s another lame rumor.”

“True….I guess we’ll see when we’re sitting down and sipping on Starbucks.”

The two girls went to the register to pay for the magazine and then they walked next door to Starbucks. Once they were in line and it was their turn to order, Leelee got her caramel frappuccino and Harper chose a white chocolate mocha.

When the drinks were ready, they grabbed their respective cups, and walked over to a booth in the corner of the coffee shop. Leelee dropped the magazine on the table and opened it as she sipped on her frappuccino. Harper drank her mocha as she eyed the pages of the magazine along with her friend. She knew most things in these kinds of magazine were made up, but she couldn’t help but be amused as well.

What neither girl was expecting was turning to page 22 and finding out just who was supposedly JC’s new girlfriend.

“Oh shit! It’s you, Harper.” Leelee held up the magazine right in front of Harper’s face. There in a color photo was Harper dressed in her blue dress with the plate of cake still at the table from dinner with JC a few days prior.

“What the hell? We were just two friends at dinner. I love how just because I was seen with him, I get falsely labeled.” Harper said with a sigh.

“You sure you’re just friends?” Leelee joked. “ ‘Cause according to the article you and the proof in the picture, you were holding his hand and looking at him lovingly.” Harper flipped off her friend and then smirked.

Leelee laughed. “ You know damn right if it were the truth, you wouldn’t be finding out from a magazine. And….maybe I did touch his hand, but I was being encouraging and a friend.”

“I believe you, Harp. You know how twisted they make things and I know how honest you are with me.”

“Good. Now I just hope I don’t have to deal with these rumors and that people will start harassing me.” Leelee laughed.

“All it takes is for Mr. Chasez to be seen with another brunette and you’ll be long forgotten.” Harper had to laugh at that.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Later that evening , JC had returned home and was just chilling on his couch, with his body taking up the entire thing. His television was on and it was merely just background noise, as he waited for Harper to return.

He wasn’t sure if she would’ve found out about the rumor and if she did, he wanted to apologize and tell her to just ignore it. He hated how these things happened and that sometimes people he personally knew and cared for got caught up in his web of rumors.

“Jace?” A feminine voice called, making JC sit up.

“In here.” He replied and then smiled as he saw Harper step into the room.

“There you are. Hey, pretty boy.” He chuckled.

“Hey, honey.” She grinned.

“So..how come you’re sitting here on the couch when you could be wining and dining your girlfriend? I mean come on….we are dating.”

JC then busted out in laughter and once it subsided, he looked at her apologetically “Yeah…about that. I’m sorry. I had no clue there were cameras near by when we had dinner.”

“I didn’t either, JC. Don’t worry about it. Leelee and I found out by a magazine that had a picture of us two.”

“Oh good god!” He moved a hand to his forehead and shook his head. “Unbelievable.”

Harper chuckled. “ They claimed we were all lovey dovey and shit just because I have my hand on your hand in the photo.”

JC looked at her and rolled his eyes then. “Pretty much the usual.”

Harper finally sat down beside him and she dropped an arm around his. “Hey, at least we can laugh about this.”

He turned his head and tossed her a smile. “You’re right .You have to find the humor in it.”

Harper nodded her head. “And you have to find yourself an even newer “girlfriend” so I can be forgotten.”

“Oh yeah..I’ll be right on it, honey.” JC smirked.

Harper patted his back. “That’s my man.”

JC laughed then and his phone, that was laying on his coffee table, began playing his ring tone. Harper snatched it up before JC could and she eyed the caller ID.

“Justin.” She announced with a smile.

JC grabbed the phone from her and flipped it open “Hey, J. What’s up? Yeah….yeah…Harper is staying here till whenever. Yeah…maybe you can come have a sleepover with her.” He joked. “But yeah…you have someone to hook me up with, huh? I don’t know. I’m sort of sick of this whole thing blind date thing. Ughhh…fiiine. I’ll do it. Okay..I’ll pencil it in. Talk to you later, Justin. Night, man.”

Harper then looked at him expectantly after he ended his call. “Soooo…..did Justin Timberlake and JC Chasez just have a phone call that ended up with JC saying yes to going on a blind date that Justin set up for him?”

“Yes, dork.” He simply answered.

“Calling a girl names won’t get you in her bed.” She mused.

“Well if this girl he’s setting me up with is like the rest, I won’t want to be in her bed.” Harper laughed.

“Well..hey…if it’s any consolation, if it sucks bad, I’ll let you come to the guest room bed and get a cuddle.

JC feigned excitement. “Oh yay.”

She then poked him in his stomach. ‘So when is the date?”

“Tomorrow night.”

“That might not be enough time to get you into tip top dating shape.”

JC stuck his tongue out at her and she grinned.

“But yeah, I’ll help you out. Make sure you leave the house dressed normal.”

“Okay, thanks, mom.” Harper laughed.

She had to admit it had been rather great staying with JC so far. Their witty banter just fell right into place and brought her more smiles than she’d had in a long time.

“You’re very welcome.”

JC looked at her and he smiled, giving her a friendly nudge in the shoulder.

“It’s good to have you around.”

Harper strolled into the kitchen the next morning and she smiled as she took a seat at the counter. Behind the counter, JC had his back turned to her, grabbing a box of cereal from one of the cabinets. When he turned back around, she greeted him.

“Good morning, JC.” Her smile still on her face, her chocolate eyes making contact with his crystal blues.

“Mornin’, Harp.” He smiled in return and then pushed the cereal box he had in front of her. “You want some?”

She eyed the box and saw it was Honeycombs. “Yeah, sure. It’s one of my favorite cereals.”

He grabbed two bowls and two spoons, as well as milk, and then he walked around the counter, taking a seat beside Harper.

He allowed her to pour her milk and cereal first and then he made his own bowl. They munched on their cereal in silence for a moment then, allowing the sugar to wake up their systems even more before they spoke again.

JC swallowed a huge spoonful, before he cleared his throat and smiled once more at Harper. “So, do you have any plans today?”

She nodded her head. “I actually got a call late last night for a meeting, so I have that in the early afternoon. Plus I want to start a newer collection today. Leelee told me if I’m going to make it in LA, I should try to take a risk and show them something fashion forward. The kind of jewelry that no one else has put out yet.”

JC nodded. “Is that all?”

“Oh…and I’m helping a friend prepare for a blind date.” She smirked and then let out a soft chuckle.

JC rolled his eyes at her, but quickly smiled again. “I appreciate it though. Since you’re a woman, you should know what a woman wants in a man.”

“Well I know what I would want in a man, but you know not every woman is the same.” JC nodded his head.

“That’s true. I’ve met real friendly ones, fake ones, bitchy ones, and then there are the rare type of genuine, sweet, and caring ones. You’re the latter, Harp.”

A small blush crept up on her face. “Thank you. I’m just glad I’m not the bitchy type.”

He laughed. “Never.”

JC then finished off his bowl of cereal. He wasted no time chewing and swallowing. The faster he got it in his stomach, the better. He slurped up the milk on the bottom of his bowl and then licked his lips.

Harper smiled at him. “Good, boy. You finished all your cereal. Now you can go play.”

He laughed. “Nah, I still want to sit here with you and ask questions.”

“Such as?”

“How long do you think you’ll be staying here? How’s your love life? What’s Leelee been up to? Is she seeing anyone? ” He rambled off and Harper tried to catch all the questions.

“Well…for starters, I don’t know when I’ll be out of here. I was thinking I might like to get a loft or small apartment soon, but of course it would be nice to know I have a deal or contract with a distributor or store.” JC nodded, understanding and allowed her to move on to her next answer.

“And as for my love life, I’ll get back to it in a moment. Leelee is still doing great. She is working for a catering company that does huge events in the city. She likes it and she’s content. She’s also worried about my love life, just as you seem to be.” She shook her head. “But…as for her seeing someone one, she very much is. His name is Connor and they’ve been together a year. He’s done a lot of extra or bit parts in films and I think she’s hoping he gets a real role. Leelee isn’t a gold digger, but that doesn’t mean she wouldn’t want a leading man.” JC chuckled a little.

“Well good for her. You should have her come by. It would be nice to see her again.” Harper nodded.

“Will do.”

“So..back to your love life….”

“You just really want to know, huh, Chasez?”

He nodded his head.

“Okay…well I’m still single. Leelee had to bring up Landon yesterday and I felt my heart just drop. It’s been hard moving past him. I’ve gone on a couple dates since, but no one has just blown me out of the water and made me forget about my past.”

JC frowned. “I know he did a number on you. I just didn’t realize you were still hurting this much after this much time.”

“Well you know…it’s hard to push aside the fact you wanted to marry someone and then you find them in bed with someone else on your birthday. It’s like part of you is still mourning the love you lost and the other part of you is kicking yourself for being so dumb and letting your heart get broken.”

JC reached his hand out, letting it take Harper’s, and he gently rubbed over the top of her hand.

“I’m sorry, honey. So sorry. He was a jerk.” Harper laughed bitterly.

“Damn right he was and I was the fool.” JC shook his head.

“Hey, you only saw what you saw and felt what you felt. You didn’t know anything was going on behind your back.”

“True…but still. I just…wish it never happened. ‘Cause now I feel scared about getting into another relationship. Yet, part of me would actually want one. I mean…say I happen to launch my line and everyone in Hollywood wants to wear my jewelry, then I don’t want to have no one to share my success with. I don’t want to only have a bracelet around my wrist, but a man around my arm.” JC nodded and rubbed her hand some more, before he pulled it back.

“Hey, I know someone has to be out there for you. You haven’t given up on your dream, so don’t give up on love.” Harper then laughed.

“Says the man who hasn’t had a serious girl in like three years.”

“Hey now!” He cried out.

“It’s true, Jace, and you know it. Here you are trying to be all Dr. Love and tell me I’ll find someone, when we all know your track record sucks too.”

He laughed. “Thanks for reminding me.”

“Your welcome.” She sassed back.

Then she noticed his demeanor change from a smile to a frown and she wasn’t sure if maybe she’d said the wrong thing now.

“You okay?” Harper asked, standing up and tossing her bowl into the sink.

“Yeah…I’m good.”

“You sure?”

“Well yeah…I mean…I know you told me that I deserve someone and that I need to be loved too, but I guess I’m just not you, Harper. You’re like most chicks who want that fairytale ending and need a prince. I’m like that typical guy that just wants his needs satisfied, doesn’t care too much for commitment.”

Harper sighed. “But I know you’ve been in love. You’ve had your share of heartbreak. You’ve imagined a life with someone before. I won’t name names.”

JC let out his own sigh. “ True..true..but I guess it’s just easier focusing on my career and being a bachelor. In some ways it has more appeal and freedom. I don’t have to be tied own and I can do what I want. I could have a whole taste of the brunette platter and not get bored. I could have sex and then go about my business.”

Harper tossed a look at him that showed her disapproval. “Are you serious?

He shrugged his shoulders.

“ If your mom heard you talking like that, she’d put you in the corner and smack you upside your head, JC.”

“ I wouldn’t be surprised….” He chuckled softly.

“But seriously….I know deep down you aren’t just another Hollywood man whore. You’re one of the best guys I’ve ever met. You know how to treat a lady and from what I know…you’re thoughtful and you have a good heart. I know I told you this already, but you do deserve love and it would be a crying shame for you to end up a bachelor your whole life.”

“Says the girl who hasn’t gotten over an ex and is afraid to love again.” JC smirked.

“Touché.” Harper then sighed and stepped over to JC. She wrapped her arms around him and squeezed him tight.

“At least I want love…you just need to realize you want it.”

She then pulled back from him. “Maybe this date tonight will do you good.”

JC bit down on his lip and spoke softly. “We’ll see….”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Her watch said 1 o’clock as she pulled up to an office building, that was in the business district of LA. Harper had a meeting shortly with a man that was interested in seeing what she had to offer the jewelry world.

She took a deep breath and got out of one of JC’s cars, he being nice enough to allow her to use it while she stayed with him. She walked up to the door and opened it, walking up to a main desk in a lobby. She eyed a receptionist and then put a smile on her face.

“Harper Jennings. I’m here to see Luke McDaniels.” The receptionist nodded.

“Go up the elevator to the second floor and his office will be the first one on the right.”

“Thanks.” Harper then walked over to the elevator and she rode it up. When she got off the elevator, she spotted Mr. McDaniel’s office, but noticed his door still shut. So she took a seat in a small waiting area.

After about five minutes passed, she was greeted by a young man, possibly late 20’s or early 30’s. He put his hand out to her and wore a smile on his face. “Miss Jennings? I’m Luke. Luke McDaniels.”

She nodded her head and then shook his head, as she stood up from the chair. “Yes, I’m Harper Jennings.”

“It’s nice to meet you. Come on into my office.”

She followed him into his office and took a seat across from him, as he took a seat behind is desk. The dirty blonde-haired, brown-eyed man, smiled at her again.

“So, I saw some of your stuff when I was out in New York. I thought your jewelry looked stunning. Then when someone pointed you out as the designer I was even more impressed. I’m glad we were able to get into contact and have this meeting.”

She tried to not blush and kept her lips tight as she nodded. “Thank you, sir.”

“You’re very welcome. So did you bring some for me to see today?”

Harper lifted up her tote bag and then pulled out a box. She lifted off the lid and took out the blue and purple beaded necklace JC had been impressed with.

Luke eyed the necklace as Harper handed it to him and he smiled. “Simple, yet pretty. What else have you got?”

Harper showed him the long, gold necklace she’d worn at dinner with JC, as well as a silver necklace with green beads, some dangly earrings with varied metals, and some bracelets she’d made with leather.

“You have quite the eclectic taste and I see you use every sort of material and technique. That’s quite a good thing. I’m truly impressed, Harper Jennings. I mean…I could see this selling in boutiques.”

“Really?!” She cried out, happily. She couldn’t believe that maybe…just maybe..her dream could be coming true.

“Yes, I wouldn’t say it if I didn’t believe it.” She smiled widely.

“Thank you so much.” Luke handed her back all her pieces after he eyed them all one last time.

“I really would love to see more. I know you’ve probably got way more jewelry just waiting to be seen. Next time I’d like you to meet with not only myself, but a potential buyer. I have someone in mind. So how about, we meet up again next week?”

Harper nodded her head. “Yes, of course. Sounds good to me. In fact, I’ll be working on a new collection. Maybe it’ll be done by then.”

“Well perfect…I can’t wait to see what else you have to offer, Miss Jennings.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Later that evening, JC was in his bedroom, getting ready for his date. He checked his watch, seeing he still had time before he had to leave.

He exited his closet, all dressed and thinking he was looking good, when Harper finally popped into his room.

“What the…?” She started to laugh and shook her head at him. “I should’ve come up here sooner. You’re a disaster, Jace.”

He looked down at himself and then back up at her. “What are you taking about?”

She pointed at his sweater. “No girl wants to feel like she’s on a date with Mr. Rodgers. The grandpa sweater has got to go.”

“Hey! I like it.”

“That’s your problem. You wearing that sweater and liking it, keeps you from winning over a lady, getting her number, and getting laid.” He laughed then.

“Okay….then what do you suggest I wear?” Harper then skipped into his closet like a kid in a candy store. She eyed all the racks of clothing he had and turned to him once he stepped behind her in the closet.

“Well…first, I think you need to wear color. How about some blue?” She asked, but it wasn’t so much a question.

“Ummm…sure.” JC said with his hands in his pockets, waiting for Harper to work whatever magic she thought she had.

Harper grabbed a light blue dress shirt off of a hanger and then she pulled a silky, darker blue vest off a hanger as well. She tossed them at him.

“Here..these will go well together and bring out your eyes. You’ll look clean cut and classy.” JC caught the clothing and just nodded his head.

“Now, you need different pants. The black jeans you have on aren’t doing much. I think some skinny denim jeans would work better.” Harper found a pair that was exactly what she was looking for and handed them to JC.

“Thank you, fashion consultant.” JC smirked.

“You’re welcome, fashion-challenged one.” She said with a chuckle.

Harper then left his room for a moment, giving JC some privacy to change into the new outfit she’d pulled together for him. When he was done dressing, she heard him call out for her to return.

“Harper, check me out!” He called out, looking at himself in his mirror.

She walked up next to him and grinned. “Oh..totally better than what you had on. Now you’re going to owe me if this girl falls for you.”

He laughed. “We’ll see…we’ll see..”

Harper then reached her arm up and ruffled her hand through his hair. “Make sure that nasty part isn’t showing like it always is on ABDC. Gel your hair back some more. Oh…and don’t forget some cologne.”

He tossed her look. “Golly! You’re like nit-picking every little thing about me.” He then quickly grinned though. “But you watch ABDC? I didn’t realize you cared enough to.”

“Yeah, I’ve caught some episodes.” Harper said casually.

“That’s sweet of you.” He ran his hand through his hair and grabbed his gel, fixing his hair. Then he grabbed his cologne off his dresser and spritzed some of it upon his neck.

“Now can I go on my date, mommy?” JC asked, like he was a little boy.”

Harper laughed. “Sure, baby, just come back at a decent hour. I don’t want to have to stay up and worry about you.”

“I’m a big boy. I’ll be fine.” JC grabbed his wallet and slid it into his pocket. “You have a good night, Harper.”

“I will. I’m just hang here and work on more jewelry. You have a great time. Call me if she really is a bitch and you need help.”

JC laughed and then nodded. “Later, Harp.”

With that, JC headed downstairs and left the house and Harper headed into the guest room to change into her pajamas.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`

It was getting pretty late and Harper was still in front of JC’s television, sitting on her pajamas, and working on her new collection, as she had a rerun of ABDC playing.

She eyed the clock again, it past midnight. She knew from prior knowledge that JC liked to party and could handle being out late, but that didn’t mean she couldn’t worry a little. Yet, it had to be a good sign. If the blind date had been awful, he would’ve come home already.

Her eyes went back to the TV and she laughed as JC gave another funny criticism on the screen. He really was a silly man, but she couldn’t help but love him. Being around him lately had reminded her just how amazing he was and how valuable of a friend he was. Even if he had some neurotic tendencies and twisted theories, he was a rare, one of a kind person. She knew she’d never find anyone quite like him. Which in a way was kind of a sad thing because the world needed more men like him.

Harper shook herself out of a reverie of thoughts and then she heard the door open. She stood up from the couch and then smiled, seeing JC walk into the room.

“Hey.” She said with a simple smile. She noted a smile on his face and his eyes looked a little glazed over.

“Have a good time?” She asked, before he could get a word in.

He stepped closer to her, moving slowly, and nodded his head. “Yeah…”

“How good of a time did you have?”

“A kick ass time.” He answered, his voice sounding a little gritty.

“So what’s her name?” JC furrowed his brow for a moment and then blurted it out.

“Alexis!”

“Well..atleast it’s not Bambi or Candy.” Harper joked.

“Yeah…she was real sweet. I think Justin finally knew what he was doing. She wants to see me again.” A smile plastered onto his face.

“You want to see her again?” JC nodded his head.

“I sure, do. In fact, we swapped numbers and we’re going out again soon.”

Harper grinned. “Sweet deal. You must’ve worked your charm tonight or the clothes did it.”

“It was not the clothes. I’m not giving you the satisfaction, Harp.” He smirked.

“Whatever, Chasez. I’m glad though that you had a good time and you’re seeing her again. It’s a step in the right direction.”

“Maybe..hopefully.” JC said and then let out a long yawn.

“I’m going to go to bed now. That girl wore me out on the dance floor. You coming up?” Harper nodded her head.

“Yeah, I’ll be up in a few minutes. I’ll turn everything off down here.” JC then quickly gave Harper a hug and pecked her forehead.

“Night, honey.”

“Night, Jace.”

Harper then watched him make his way upstairs and she turned his TV off. Then she started packing away her jewelry that she’d been working on. She couldn’t help, but still feel a tingle in her senses from JC’s cologne that she smelled as he’d hugged her. She couldn’t help, but almost be slightly jealous that he came back happy from a date.

“Just go to bed, Harper. Don’t think about silly stuff.” She told herself and then made sure she turned everything off and the house was locked up, before heading up to get some sleep for the night.