“Do you have everything packed?” she asked. 

“It’s just a quick trip to NYC for some interviews,” he responded. “Not like I need a lot.”

“This is YOU we’re talking about Justin,” she laughed. “On a weeklong vacation you brought 3 outfits for every day!”

“You did too, Jenn!” 

“I’m a woman, it’s our JOB to overpack. You never know what it’s going to be like, exactly where you’re going to go.”

“It was a vacation in the Bahamas! All you needed was a bathing suit…”

“Yeah, I can see the headlines now- ‘Justin Timberlake seen in fancy restaurant with beach bimbo’.”

“But you’re my ‘bimbo’.” He went in for a kiss. She slapped at his shoulder. “You know what I meant.”

“I wish you could come with me, see NYC,” he said, disappointment in his voice. 

“I can see it when you go on tour. You normally do a couple shows there.”

“There’s not much time to sightsee when I’m on tour. You’ve never been, we gotta do it up right. Take you to a Broadway show, dinner at a fancy restaurant.  On tour I’m catching up on sleep and prepping for the next show. You’d be by yourself. I’d worry about you.”

“You’re leaving here for the airport in an hour. I doubt there’s time to get me a seat on the same flight as you, let alone next to you.”

He leaned close and whispered in her ear, “What if I told you I had my assistant book a second ticket just in case I talked you into going?” He had that smile she loved, like a kid that can’t keep a secret. 

“Are you serious? Like I could pack a bag and go with you?” her voice jumped in excitement. He nodded. 

“You could have said so last night. I need to PACK!! I hate you but I love you!” she said as she gave him a big kiss. 

Chapter 2

They put their bags in the car once his assistant Angela drove up. 

“Looks like you smooth talked your way again,” she said. “Good to see you again, Jenn. Glad you’re able to make it.” She pulled out of the driveway and headed towards the airport. 

“Justin, you fly in and we have time to check into the hotel and change clothes if needed before going to the tv studios. Jenn, I can have you with me if you want while he’s doing interviews. It’s gonna be a whirlwind couple of days,” Angela said. 

“You have our room for 2 extra days, yes? No need for you to stay with us at that point Angie, just wanting to confirm.” 

Angela nodded. “Enjoy your time Jenn, I’ve heard you’ve never been?”

“Nope. California I’ve done most of, but farthest beyond there I’ve ever been was DC for a school trip.”

“Too bad it’s August so you won’t have the spectacle of Christmas in NYC, but there’s so much to do no matter when you go.” Angela said. 

“I admit I’m a little nervous to be in such a big city. I’d go into San Francisco a bunch out in California, but NYC seems like a different beast,” Jenn admitted. 

“We’re here so you’ll have company and guides through all of this,” Justin said, putting his hand on her thigh. She grabbed his hand. 

“Now remember, when you’re out in public your ring is off Jenn. They know you’re the girlfriend but not the fiancée,” Angie reminded her. 

“I know. It was difficult when we first started being in public more at the start of our relationship, we knew no one would take our relationship seriously getting engaged so quick and no one knowing who I was. Going with you to the Edison premiere was a good test run of girlfriend, wearing my other jewelry on my right hand,” Jenn reminisced. 

“Well, it’s coming up on 2 years now. They’ll expect a proposal at this point. Just gotta come up with a great moment, maybe even better than the first,” Justin added. 

“That’ll be a tall order. Playing songs you wrote just for me was pretty damn romantic,” Jenn mused. 

“Time for that later, let’s get through security and to our gate.” Angela said as they parked at the airport. 

Chapter 3

Angela had all their paperwork, they got through security quickly and got to the gate with time to spare. 

“We’ve got some time to kill, do you want any food?” Justin offered. 

“Pizza was my first thought, but save that for an NYC experience. Maybe a sandwich and water? If you can find them, maybe strawberry gummy candy for on the plane?” Jenn replied. 

“I’ll grab that for you, Jenn. You two can stay here. Anything for you, Justin?” Angela asked. 

“I’ll take whatever you get for Jenn,” he answered. 

“You gonna suck those gummies?” Justin asked suggestively. 

“I’m never gonna live that down, am I?” Jenn laughed. Justin shook his head and smiled. 

“Never. You know what I’m gonna say next though…” 

“I better save some of that sucking action for the bedroom.  Yeah, we’ve had this conversation a lot over the years.”  

“You know another reason I’m looking forward to you being here with me?” Justin asked, leaning in close, whispering it in her ear.

“Hotel sex?” she responded quickly, whispering back. 

“Damn, you know me so well,” he laughed. 

Angela came back with sandwiches and waters. “No gummies, but I found these,” Angela handed her some berry flavored candies.

“This’ll be great. It’s more the flavor I want over the type of candy. Thanks Angela,” Jenn said. 

They announced their flight over the PA system. Since they were first class they got seated in the first bit of seating. They got comfortable, Jenn with her iPod and headphones, Justin with a magazine, Angela with more notes to go over on the flight before his interviews. They had a couple hours in the air to review things and relax a bit. 

Justin had his phone out before they took off. He was typing something as he was talking to Angela. He showed his phone to Jenn. 

You listening to your mix? He raised his eyebrows questioningly.  She nodded. 

Time for a quickie at the hotel? He showed her his phone again. She smiled as she shrugged her shoulders. She took his phone and started typing. We’ll see. If not, definitely tonight. Take our time. 

I love how you think, he responded, before putting his phone away. 

She had her Justin mix he’d found two years ago now on her iPod, along with digital copies of her favorite songs from his new album. Once they took off, Jenn popped a candy in her mouth and started her mix. 

Chapter 4

They landed, rushed off the plane with their bags, and grabbed a cab.  They got to the hotel and checked in. Justin changed his shirt and looked at Jenn.

“This look ok?” She nodded in approval. 

“Sexy but comfortable. That’s the Justin I know.”  She held him close and kissed him. She grabbed his ass and gave him a look. 

A knock on the door broke their moment. “Later,” she said. 

“Definitely,” he answered. 

They went downstairs with Angela and got into a car for the studio. They were whisked into hair and makeup for Justin before getting on set. Soon Angela and Jenn sat off to the side of the studio while Justin and the reporter chatted. 

“What was your inspiration for this album?” 

“Well, a lot of it was really personal, based on moments in my life.”

“Anyone special in particular?” the reporter pressed. 

“I’ll let the songs speak for themselves on that. Draw your own conclusions on who they might be.”

He’s good, Jenn thought. Great deflection.

She knew there was one song that could be about Britney, but she knew most of it was for her. 

“What about SexyBack? What was the inspiration there?”

“I heard the beat, and a conversation my girlfriend had with her friends popped into my head.”  

“I thought I was off limits,” Jenn whispered to Angela. 

“They couldn’t really ask, no, but if he offers anything up it’s on him. He knows what he’s doing, Jenn. It’s not like you guys are a complete secret at this point where it would be shocking,” Angela rationalized. 

...

The interviews ended, Justin was smooth and confident, Angela seemed pleased by how they’d gone. Justin had a smile on his face, he clearly thought they’d gone well too.

They got back outside and got in their private car for the hotel. 

“I wish you hadn’t mentioned me,” Jenn breached the subject. 

“Why? It’s not a secret,” Justin defended. 

“I want them to like your songs on their own, not because your girlfriend inspired them.” Jenn continued. 

“What’s done is done, no point in worrying about it. They could decide to cut that part,” Angela suggested. Jenn laughed in disbelief. 

“It’ll probably be the most watched part of the interview and increase album sales. I know we WANT that, but at what cost to our relationship?” Jenn asked. 

“It only affects our relationship if we let it. Thick skin, remember?” Justin said. 

She knew he was right. She had been worried about this when he was filming and the press around his first big movie role. She did well in spite of her nerves, being so public about their relationship for the first time. Now was no different. He’d be going on tour soon, which opened her up to a lot of criticism from fans one way or the other. 

She nodded. He grabbed her hand and squeezed it tight. “We’ve got this. We went through hell and back together. We made it through that, we can make it through anything. 

She looked at him, tears welling up. Thankfully dad was in remission, but it was a rough road to get there. She had Justin by her side when she needed it most. Now he needed her.

Chapter 5

He’d been in his head so much during the movie and making this album. It was special to him, but what would the fans think? He was thankful to have Jenn and her girls as a sounding board. Jenn heard every song, the girls just a couple he really needed an outside perspective on. 

Angela broke the silence, “we have radio shows in the morning, lots of back and forth between studios. Jenn, up to you if you want to come, these usually don’t go long but there are a few.”

“I think I’ll stay close to the hotel, walk around a bit. Nothing big.” Jenn replied. “Stay out of my head on this whole thing.”

“We should be done in time for lunch, so I’ll take you to your first tourist stop,” Justin said. “For now, let’s get some dinner and call it a night.” He squeezed her hand again. 

They went to a trendy fusion restaurant. It was packed, so Jenn thought it had either just opened or it was THAT good. Either way she felt like they fit in based on what they were wearing. She was afraid she’d be underdressed, but he knew his way around the city. 

She liked that it was packed. She hoped that meant they could get in and out without much attention. Being left handed, Jenn couldn’t help but notice her ring finger empty. It felt strange after so long, she’d have to get used to it for the next few days. It was in her wallet, so it wasn’t very far from her. 

They ate and reviewed details for the next day before heading back to the hotel. Angela went into her room, Jenn and Justin went into theirs. 

“I hadn’t looked around much earlier,” Jenn said. “I used to be so impressed by hotels, but after moving in with you, hotels seem less fancy.  I like that I don’t have to clean up though.”

Justin laughed. “Jenn, this is the Plaza.  It’s fucking amazing even for basic rooms. Honestly, I normally have time to use the bed and the bathroom that I don’t even notice the other amenities, at least on tour.  But yeah, I wanted somewhere amazing for your first time in NYC. I get what you mean though for a lot of places. 

She stood in the bathroom. “Like yeah, it’s a nice tub, but it’s not OUR jetted tub or our sinks and storage. Am I gonna soak in that tub tomorrow? Absolutely.”

“It’s not our bedroom but I am SO wanting to just lay you down…”

She put a finger to his lips. “I was thinking about that. Tonight can be quick so we take our time once your responsibilities are done.”

“You think of everything. I mean, can’t say no to that.”

She laughed. “Someone has to be up early tomorrow, so let’s get started…”

Chapter 6

The alarm went off way too early, Justin was not a morning person. Jenn had been awake long enough to make him coffee and get breakfast brought in for him. 

“My beautiful angel,” he yawned. 

“You say that when you’re drunk or tired…” she teased. 

“Well, I think it in my head 24-7, so it’s bound to come out,” he laughed. He sipped his coffee while eating breakfast. Even in a hotel, times like this made them both happy. For him it was feeling normal, grounded in reality, and her being what kept him grounded. For her it was seeing that smile, the tone in his voice of true appreciation for what she did. 

He finished getting ready and waited for Angela to be ready. 

“What’re you gonna do while I’m gone, babe?” he asked. 

“I think I’ll use the gym, get in a workout without leaving the hotel, take a long bath, maybe go outside and window shop, stay close to the hotel til you call.”

“Sounds relaxing, I’m jealous. This is the last of my business so we’ll have the next couple days to ourselves. For now, I’ll kiss my beautiful fiancée until my assistant gets here…”

He leaned in to kiss her, and there was a knock on the door. “She can wait at least 30 seconds, can’t leave without kissing my woman.”  He quickly grabbed her ass before breaking the kiss. “Or that.  Love you babe. Text if you need anything.”

“Love you too. Text me if you want between things, hope everything goes well.” She closed the door behind him and got into her workout clothes, got her iPod and headphones, grabbed a towel from the bathroom, and headed down to the gym. 

She started with a quick run on the treadmill before doing a circuit of the machines they had available. She finished by getting back on the treadmill and walking. One of the TVs suddenly flashed Justin’s face on the screen. She stopped to watch and it was one of his interviews from yesterday. Just seeing him on TV made her fill with butterflies and overflow with happiness. She left the gym feeling refreshed and in a terrific mood, ready to soak in the tub to relax more. 

She turned the stereo in the room on and searched for a station he might be on. Z100 was bound to be on his list for the day, and she knew the station to dial it in. 

She got in the tub and listened to the morning show. Sure enough, they were awaiting his arrival and were looking for callers to ask him questions. Her phone within reach, she dialed the number for the radio station. It rang. 

“Z100, can I help you?”

“I can’t believe I got through. Yes, I want to ask Justin a question.”

“I’ll switch you through to that line, please hold.”

She had a new set of butterflies, hoping to surprise him. 

“Hello caller, what’s your name?”

“I’m Jenn-ifer. Sorry, I’m a little nervous,” she stumbled. Shit, couldn’t even think up a fake name to use… she thought. 

“Hi Jennifer, I get that response a lot,” Justin responded. “What’s your question?”

Damn it, I’m so not prepared!!! She internally screamed. “Ummm… what was your favorite part of making your album?”

“Well, I got to be home for a while, some of the songs are from people or situations I had at home while I was writing.”

Good answer, she thought. “One more quick question?” Who inspires you the most right now?”

“Hmm, musically it’s the people I had around me for the record.  In general, I’m gonna be THAT guy and say my girl. She’s been through a lot since we’ve been together and to see her come out of all that, shaped both of us.”

Damn, he’s either being really sincere or he knows it’s me.

“Great questions Jennifer, thanks for calling,” the DJ said as he hung up. 

No matter which way he answered, hearing him talk about me...

“So let’s actually piggyback what our caller just asked. What experiences helped you write?” the DJ asked. 

“Well, I wrote SexyBack based on a conversation my girlfriend was having with her friends on the phone.  A couple others just by having her around, being herself.”

“Now, how did you meet your lady?”

“I literally fell for the girl next door. We’d been friends growing up, lost touch once I started my stuff, but after this last tour I came home just to see her. Her dad had cancer and I wanted to be there for her, they’d been like family growing up.  She knows me inside and out, calls me on my bull.  I love her.”

“I love you too, babe” she said to the empty bathroom. 

Chapter 7

Jenn got dressed, a light and airy dress with a light sweater and sandals. She knew it would likely be hot and muggy outside, so wanted to be prepared. 

She went down to the lobby of the hotel, walked outside, and looked around. People were everywhere, rushing to and fro. She decided we’d walk along the block, however long that took. She saw lots of different shops, small cafes, so many things that made her forget she was in NYC, and felt more like San Francisco. Lots of shops selling tourist trinkets, sweatshirts, and the like.  She was halfway through, by her best guess, when her phone rang. 

“I’m on my way back from dropping Angie off at the airport. Meet me in the lobby?”  Justin said. 

“Sure, just walking around the block of the hotel, be back soon.  Love you.”

“Love you beautiful,” he said as he hung up. 

She walked a little quicker trying to get back to the hotel before Justin did. She felt like she lived there now, rushing to her destination and not taking her time. 

She walked into the lobby and sat down in a chair near the lounge. Her phone rang. 

“I’m pulling up now if you want to get in the car and go to lunch. It’s a bit of a drive to where I want to take you.”

“I’ll be right out.” She hung up. 

Stepping back outside she saw a black car pull up. It could have been anyone, but once he rolled down his window to wave her over, she was sure. 

He opened the door for her and gave her a kiss. “Hello beautiful,” he said, helping her get in. “Have I told you I love that dress on you?”

“Maybe, but I’ll remember that. How’d everything go today?” she asked. 

“Good. Biggest interview was with Z100. We talked a bunch and they had callers ask questions.”

“What kind of questions did the callers ask?”  She was curious if he knew it had been her on the phone. 

“The usual. Then I got this one girl, she seemed a little nervous, but it was cute. Like she forgot her own name for a second. She asked some good questions.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah. She sounded so cute asking about the album, as if she had no clue she’s my inspiration.”

“Damn it. What gave me away?” She wasn’t sure whether to be impressed or disappointed that he knew. 

“First off, your name. The biggest tip off, your voice. I’d know your voice anywhere. You didn’t even try to hide it. Thankfully no one else there knew it was you to have us both stay on.”

“I was in the tub when I called, so I couldn’t really think on my feet.  I heard what you said after when the DJ kept asking about us. I do love to hear you gush about me. Like you’re not ashamed of being with me.”

“Why should I be? Never mind, I’m sure there’s a story of some jerk in your past. I meant every word of it. You telling me you were in the tub gets me all kinds of turned on…” He whispered the last sentence slowly in her ear. It made her body tingle when he’d talk sweet and slow and sexy in her ear. 

Soon they pulled out to their stop. “Oh my gosh! It’s the place from ‘When Harry met Sally’!”

“Yup, hopefully you won’t be faking it later…” he laughed. 

“Never. With you? Never.”

They went in and ordered sandwiches. She got a turkey sandwich, he got the brisket. “A little bit of Memphis BBQ here in NYC with this sandwich.” 

…

They finished eating and headed back towards the hotel. “What next?” she asked. 

“I was thinking maybe the Central Park Zoo, maybe the carousel. You look like you’re dressed for the occasion for sure. All cute in your summer best.”

“That sounds great. Maybe we could do a carriage ride tonight or tomorrow night? It’d be romantic as hell.”

“We’ll see what I can arrange.”

They got out of the car, and started walking across to Central Park. She’d seen different parts in movies, but up close and in person was something else. It was actually a pretty great day weather wise. A little warm and cloudy, she’d heard a storm was rolling in. Storms didn’t bother her as much as they used to, she had Justin to thank for that. 

“What a great day, I had so much fun doing all of this!” Jen said as they crossed the street and went into the hotel. “It’s like a movie.”

“I’m glad you’re having such a good time. Here and LA are the bigger places I record and stuff, so getting you used to being here just helps me bring you along on trips here,” he admitted. 

“What were you thinking of for tonight?” she asked. 

“Well, what’s the best dress you brought with you? That’ll help me narrow things down.”

“I brought the black dress…”

Justin smirked. “You. Well then, we’ll eat at a restaurant here at the hotel. They’re all great choices and have one added bonus.”

“Being?” she asked curiously. 

“We can race back to our room after dinner for hotel AND black dress sex.”

“Even 2 years later you’re all over me like we’re teenagers.”

“Have you SEEN you in that black dress? I don’t think I’ll never not want to just lay you down and fuck you 6 ways to Sunday in that dress.” He had a hunger in his voice already. 

“Easy tiger. Plenty of time for that. Let’s get through dinner first.”

“I guess. Wanting to give you the best trip possible, an experience unlike any other,” Justin said. 

“So as much as you may want me, I want you too, hold off until later tonight. We’ll have all night.”

“I’m holding you to that,” he smirked. “ALL night…”

She got dressed, did her hair and a little makeup, and was soon ready to go. He’d brought one of his suits. She loved him in a suit. “You love my black dress, I love you in a suit. We’re getting the foreplay started early… Let’s go have dinner, handsome.”

She wore her jacket over her dress until they were seated at the table. “No need in giving everyone a show,” she said as they sat down. “I know it’s still here in the hotel, but this place is like nowhere I’ve been before. The ambience and decor? Being here, with you, makes me feel very special.”

“Then I chose the right place. We deserve tonight, a little anniversary trip. Cheers, to us,” Justin raised his glass. She raised hers to his, then leaned in for a quick kiss. 

They ordered, and Jenn was so impressed by the presentation and service. She found each plate more delicious than the one before it. 

They were now waiting for the dessert, so she opened her purse to check her lipstick. Her heart began to race. Justin saw her face turn almost white. 

“What’s wrong, Jenn?”

“The ring. MY ring, it’s not here. I always have it with me. I thought I had it earlier, did it go missing while I was on my walk, or our walk around earlier? It meant so much to me, and now it’s gone…”

Justin put his hand on hers. “Jenn, I’m so sorry. I know where your ring is, I have it. I didn’t realize you’d check on it tonight.”

“What a relief. But why do you have my ring?” She sounded much less nervous but still curious. 

“So I could do this…” He got up from the table, and dropped down to one knee. “Jennifer, I’ve loved you for the last two years, and who knows how long before that. Will you be mine, forever?”

All eyes suddenly seemed on them. This was it. A proposal for the rest of the world to see. “Yes, I’ll marry you Justin!” She said it as enthusiastically as she had on New Year’s Eve in his studio. The tables closest to them clapped and cheered. Bottles of champagne were sent from various tables in congratulations.

“What made you pick tonight, here, to propose?” she asked. 

“Because tomorrow, I want to start looking for a place here for us. Our own place in NYC.” 

She gave him a look that told him everything he needed to know. He paid for dinner, wrapped her in her jacket, and they walked to the elevator. 

The second they got into the room, they were all but ripping each other’s clothes off. Their kisses were short and urgent and deep, as if this was their only chance to be together. Her hands ran down his chest, his hands freeing her from the dress he loved so much on her. They fell onto the bed. Jenn removed his tie and wrapped it around his eyes. She kissed him slowly, edging from his ear down his jaw to his neck and collarbone. Her hands ran along his muscles arms, across his chest and down his abs. 

She pulled his boxers free and began to trace his inner thighs. His breath hitched and became more ragged. She lightly scratched his legs, tracing where his legs joined at his hips, before taking him in her hand. She lightly traced under the head of his shaft, causing him to shudder. She traced the veins ever so carefully. He was starting to moan at her touch, wanting more.

She positioned herself and slowly took him into her mouth. Her tongue swirling around the head, then licking the underside of his shaft. He grabbed her hair to keep her there, but also to give him something to interact with. She licked and sucked him slowly and she could hear the need in his breathing. She slowly worked her way back up his body and removed the tie from his eyes. 

He returned the favor, but tied her hands behind her head along with covering her eyes. He traced down her collarbone to her breasts, pulling at her nipples with the pads of his fingers. He gently but firmly sucked on her nipples, then blew across their rigid peaks. He traced her hips, grabbed her ass, and spread her legs wide. He started with one ankle, running a finger up her leg to the top of her thigh. He did this with her other leg. 

“Justin…” she moaned, her own voice full of need and desire. He wasted no more time and began to lick and suck at her juicy core, flicking her sensitive button so she bucked her hips and her own breath hitched. She couldn’t see and couldn’t even grab the sheets in her ecstasy. She grabbed her own hair for something to control. He changed his positioning so he could suck on her clit, and had two fingers stroking inside of her core. She moaned even louder, he knew she was close to an orgasm. She stopped breathing, gasping for breaths as she could, her whole being focusing on the white hot electricity coursing through her. He gave one more tickle of her clit with his tongue and she exploded into a scream and went limp. 

He removed the tie from around her, letting her ride out the waves before starting again. He kissed her urgently, his shaft ready against her. He looked into her eyes and in one thrust was inside her. They moaned together at the sensation, his pace within her slow, with purpose, before increasingly picking up speed. 

He flipped her over so she was on her hands and knees, within reach of a pillow. He entered her again from behind, filling her core once again. His speed picked up and soon he was like an animal, going as hard and fast as he could, feeling his own orgasm approaching. She tightened herself around his shaft, building a tension that sent both of them over the edge. She grabbed the pillow and screamed into it as she lost control. She felt him pulsing inside of her as his thrusts stopped, then slowed to release all he had in him. 

He withdrew himself from her, she rolled onto her back and felt her whole body had turned to mush. He kissed her softly and deeply. 

“Not that I’m complaining, but how are you SO good at that? You aren’t human, you can’t be,” she said. 

“You’re not so bad yourself. Still trying to get you out of your head on things when it comes to sex. Relationships will change, and I’m sure there will be someday when it’s not what either of us expected. But that’s ok. We don’t owe each other anything sexually. I think it’s great that we’re this far in and it’s still amazing, for both of us.”

“I agree, but I worry I’m the one that’s going to change and…”

“Jenn, I’ve proposed, twice now.  Are you still afraid of losing me to what I do or how you are in bed?  Maybe I haven’t done enough to show you I’m not going anywhere but forward in our relationship.  I’m sure there will come a time when things change. We both want kids. It may not happen right away and be stressful for one or both of us. Even if it does happen right away, you might not always be in the mood, and that’s ok. Just enjoy every moment, all we have is right now.”

“I know. I keep meaning things as compliments and it turns into one or both of us in our heads. I love you. Does this mean I can wear my ring all the time again? I’ve been miserable not wearing it, it just didn’t feel right. Do we need to check with Angela, Johnny?”

“It’s OUR relationship, Jenn. I don’t have to ask anyone’s permission for my personal life decisions. Wear the ring today. We’ll be out and about today that I’m sure someone will get a picture. Why hide the truth any longer?”

“Justin…”

“Yes Jenn…”

“I love you.”

“Well good, cuz the night’s not over yet…” he said slyly as he started kissing her. 

Chapter 10

Jenn woke up early, as usual. She made coffee for Justin and tea for herself. She looked out their window onto Central Park. She knew it was big, but it felt like that’s all she could see out the window. She felt homesick for California and San Francisco, Golden Gate Park and Chrissy Field, wide open spaces so close to the ocean. 

It had been 2 years since she’d been there, when she left after getting the call about Dad’s cancer. She knew she needed to go back, get a little closure. 

She was jarred back to reality when she felt a hand on her shoulder. 

“Wow, deep in thought, huh?” Justin said. 

“Yeah. Looking at Central Park made me miss San Francisco. Walking around yesterday gave me a similar vibe. New York is bigger of course, but seeing the tourist shops mesh with the ones serving the people that live here every day. Made me a little homesick after all this time.”

“We’ll plan a trip out. I haven’t been to San Francisco since we did a music video there.”

“It was all over the radio. All the major stations had someone trying to follow you guys. I think one may have gotten to hear from Lance, but I remember living by my radio. If you’d wanted to see me, you’d have called me THEN.  Less than an hour drive. Once the video came out I found the places you shot in the city. That cafe at the end was right on the Embarcadero, right next to the bay and the Bay Bridge. I walked by it, but smiled every time I’d go past it when I was in the city.”

“Well, it looks like we have one place to visit already. You’ll have to show me your favorite spots. NYC is my city, San Francisco is yours.”

“Deal. Shall we get some breakfast? I’m hungry,” she asked. 

“Yes. We can have breakfast downstairs, they have some incredible food.”

“I’m easy to please. Eggs Benedict is my guilty pleasure when I’m out somewhere for breakfast.”

“A place with Eggs Benedict it is then,” he said. 

“You spoil me,” she sighed. 

“Isn’t that my job? A beautiful woman that puts up with my craziness deserves spoiling.” He smiled and kissed her. 

“Then I’m not being spoiled ENOUGH,” she teased, sticking out her tongue. 

They went downstairs and went into one of the restaurants at the hotel. It was still early that it wasn’t too packed. Jenn had on another summer dress, paired with a jean jacket and sneakers. Comfy but stylish. Perfect for whatever they had today. 

Jenn had her Eggs Benedict, Justin had an omelette and pancakes. 

“I’ve never had this with capers, I love the mix of the salty flavors,” she said. 

“You’re practically drooling.” Justin laughed. 

“Isn’t that the sign of a good meal? Whatever, I’m happy. Good food, great man, what more could I need?”

“I hope you have fun today. I have one thing planned before lunch and then meeting with a realtor. Then I have other ideas once we’re finished there.”

“I can’t wait,” she said. 

They finished their breakfast, walked outside, and the driver Justin had yesterday pulled up in front of the hotel. Without a word, the driver headed to their destination. 

“Where are we going?” Jenn asked. 

“I don’t want to ruin the surprise, it’s not far from here so we’ll be there soon, just wanted to not get mobbed walking,” he explained. 

They pulled up to their destination. Jenn saw the flickering lights on the marquees. “Broadway!!”

“I got us tickets to The Wedding Singer, is that ok? Something fun for your first show.”

“I love it. I love that song he writes for her at the end of the movie. This is perfect.”

Chapter 11

They exited the theater and Justin held her hand, leading her down the street. Her eyes grew wide as she recognized where they were headed. “Times Square!” 

“We were technically here when I had the interviews, but walking and being here is different than just driving by.” Justin explained. 

She took a few pictures before Justin led her down the street again. “Time for lunch,” he said. She saw a sign for a restaurant- Tony’s di Napoli.  

“Great Italian food. I think you’ll love it.”

They walked in and sat at a table. She wasn’t sure what to order, it all sounded good. She decided on tri color tortellini, Justin had the chicken parmigiana. “I know better than to have chicken piccata made by anyone but you,” he laughed. 

Justin was right, the food was amazing. They ate lunch, and their car picked them up. They drove to a realtor specializing in suites and penthouses for celebrity clients. They talked briefly on things they wanted in a home. 

“A big kitchen is a must, lots of closets, and a big tub for Jenn to relax in.” Justin stated. 

The realtor showed them pictures of some locations, and they could check some out if they wanted. They decided on a few and drove to check them out. 

“This lets you use our home to showcase your interior design talents, take pictures for a website for clients. Broaden where you work, on your schedule.”

“Not everyone is like you, needing to work all the time. I’m worried I’ll be spread thin if I’m in Memphis, LA, and NYC. We’ll see how it goes,” she sighed. She was glad he was thinking of her career, but felt like she was being pushed. “Running my own company is a lot of work, I hadn’t been working there that long to be anyone big.”

They looked around the first place. Definitely big, a gorgeous kitchen with a farm sink, lots of room to cook and put food out for parties, counter space for kitchen gadgets, and a giant pantry for groceries. It was an open floor plan, with the kitchen leading into the dining/living area. She could imagine where a big screen tv would go, lots of space for seating. 

They saw the master bedroom and bathroom. The bathroom was what won her over. A huge jetted tub, Jack and Jill sinks, a big vanity area for her makeup, jewelry, and toiletries. A beautiful stonework backsplash and walls for the shower area. She loved the jetted tub the most. She’d always felt she was somewhere fancy if it had a jetted tub, especially one she could fit in. She took off her shoes, climbed inside, and saw there was enough room for her to fully sit and have water cover her. She didn’t fit in most bathtubs, so this one was a dream. 

Justin saw the contented smile on her face. “I’d say this is a contender.”

Chapter 12

They looked at a couple other places, but none were as ready to move in as the first one. They went back to the realtor’s office and waited for their car. It was starting to rain. 

“So we’ll have to cancel my plans. Hopefully it lets up soon so we can go to dinner. If not I guess we can have it delivered, but it’s better in person.”

They headed back to the hotel and went up to their room. Jenn stood by the window looking out at Central Park again. “If this is it for tonight, are you ok with that? I have some more plans for tomorrow before we fly home, so it’s not like it’s a total wash until then.”

“Yeah, lunch and the show were great, standing in Times Square. It was exciting looking at a place out here for us. I just wonder how much I’m going to be out here beyond furnishing it.”

“I guess I’ll be here more professionally, but we can vacation here, come for Christmas or at least a weekend in the winter, see it in the snow.  If you ever need to get away you can come up here by yourself. Go see a play, whatever you want.”

“I hadn’t thought about the other purposes for it. Just feeling pushed into the interior design thing. I thought you were wanting to have me on tour with you as a set designer? I’d love to be with you as much as I could.”

“I just don’t want you to be burned out, feeling like you don’t have something that’s your dream to go for,” he sighed. 

“I’m just scared. Being on tour with you is safe, not taking a risk and failing. I don’t really know where to start on getting things started.  Is my job really just scouring the internet and antique shops for rich people to fill their homes with stuff to make them look important?”

“Well, look at what you’d done with the place you were renting before I came home. It had furniture, but the things you added to it made it your little home away from home. Sure sometimes it’s finding antiques, other times it’s working to create a feeling for someone’s home, to help inspire them on what they want to make it feel like home.”

“That’s a good way to describe it. I’d been entry level, just starting to handle any client type stuff when I left. So while I loved the designing aspect and everything, I didn’t have much experience.”

“Once you make our place here look and feel like home, I’m sure they’ll be beating down the door to work with you.”

“You have so much faith in me. I love it, but it can be overwhelming.”

“If I don’t have faith in you, what friend would I be, let alone a fiancé?” He wrapped his arms around her and kissed her cheek. 

Chapter 13

They stood there watching the rain for a while. Justin turned on the Weather Channel to see how long the rain could last. 

“It looks like it should be letting up soon. Maybe lose the dress for something with jeans in case it rains some more? We can get an umbrella to keep us dry.”

I’ll be right back,” she said, looking in her suitcase for a suitable outfit. She switched to an off the shoulder shirt, jeans, with her sneakers and jean jacket. 

“Still beautiful, that’s my girl,” he smiled. 

They headed downstairs. It had stopped raining for the moment. 

“You feel like walking to dinner? It’s not that far,” he asked. She held the umbrella up and nodded. They held hands as they walked, taking their time, enjoying the break in the rain and the time together. 

As they neared their destination, a photographer began to approach them. “You just ignore him, I’ll do all the talking.”

“Hey Justin, enjoying the rain?” the photog asked. 

“Yup. Just a nice walk to have dinner, thanks.” He led Jenn into the restaurant. 

“We should be ok as long as we’re in here. He’ll likely be waiting for us when we’re done, if not have friends with him. Just hold my hand, follow my lead when this happens. They want a story. Best to keep cool and keep walking. 

“Anyway, this is Angelo’s pizza, best around. They have pasta too, but I promised you New York pizza.”

They ordered a pizza and some caprese, and sodas to drink. They talked about the property they were looking at, ideas for decor and furniture. 

“See, this is the type of thing you’d do with your clients, only in your office or a fancy restaurant. Not so hard, huh?” Justin asked. 

“I’m talking to you, that’s never been difficult to do.”  She kissed him between bites. 

With it still being summer, the sun was still out for a while after dinner. They left Angelo’s and sure enough, there were more press waiting across the street. Justin’s face became much more serious, protective than it had been even 30 seconds ago inside the restaurant. 

“Hey Justin, you on a business trip, or pleasure?”

He huffed. He grabbed Jenn’s hand a little tighter and picked up their pace. 

“Justin, is she your assistant or your girlfriend?” They kept walking without saying a word, hoping they would get the hint and stop following them as they walked. They normally didn’t like having to walk too far from their cars. 

Soon they had lost interest in Justin and Jenn and stopped walking with them. Soon they were back near the hotel. 

“Carriage ride through Central Park?” He asked. She smiled wide. “I’ll take that as a yes. Let’s go.”  Next she knew, Justin was helping her into a carriage and feeling like they had some added privacy. He had his arm around her, her left hand reaching up to grab his. 

Suddenly a photographer spotted them and was trying for a picture. 

“Hey Justin, enjoying a carriage ride?” 

“Trying to. Just a night out, please leave us alone.”

“Is that an engagement ring? That’s a beautiful ring.”

The moment she’d been afraid of, having the whole world know he had proposed and they were engaged. The silence waiting for Justin’s response almost killed her. 

Chapter 14

Justin looked at Jenn, his eyes smiling, which led to an actual smile lighting up his face. “Yes, we’re engaged,” he confirmed before giving her a deep kiss. He stared in her eyes for a while. 

“Nothing else matters right now. They could take a million pictures of us, but I’ll never be ashamed that we belong to each other. I love you and you love me. Everything else is just a bonus.”

She couldn’t help but smile. She loved hearing him talk like that to her, and now nothing stopped him from saying it wherever and whenever he wanted. They ignored everything else the rest of the ride, just kissing, snuggling tight, and enjoying their precious time together. 

… 

They went back to their room, Jenn collapsed onto the bed, and sighed contentedly. 

“It’s really been a great day, Justin. Thank you for everything. I feel like your team needs to know we’ve confirmed the engagement so they don’t have to worry about any damage control.”

“In the morning. Right now I want to kiss my beautiful fiancée.”

He laid down next to her on the bed, pulling her close and giving her deep, passionate kisses. His hand rested on the small of her back, rubbing her back. A moan escaped her lips at his touch. 

He broke the kiss. “All that walking today, let’s get you into the tub for a relaxing bath. I’ll shower and we’ll be ready for bed.” He got up and drew her a bath before getting the shower ready for himself. He finished his shower first, put boxers on and sat beside the tub she was in. 

“Reminds me of that first night. Sitting talking to you while you took a bath. The things I was thinking, feeling this almost euphoric feeling because I was with a girl I’d waited a long time to be with. Now I’m still beside your tub feeling like such a lucky man to have you in my life. I love you Jennifer.”

“Jennifer. You mean business…” she laughed. 

“I do. I’ve never felt like this before Jenn. I know it sounds cliche but you complete me. I had my career, the money, fame, stuff. It meant nothing without you in my life. That night I showed up at your door, it’s like a switch kicked on inside me. Maybe that’s why the sex, everything, is still so amazing. You’re the love of my life.”

“You are such a romantic, I feel not enough of that gets to come out to the public. I feel the same way. It’s like you’re my other half, life makes so much more sense now since you’ve been in my life. Maybe that’s why I’ve been dragging my feet on a job, it would take me away from you. That scares me.”

“Well, you won’t lose me even if you don’t go on tour with me. You’re right, I want you near me but I also want you to find your passion. Whatever you do, know I’ll support you.” Justin grabbed her hand and squeezed it. 

Jenn got out of the tub and ready for bed. Justin lay beside her, wrapping his arm over her and holding her close as they drifted off to sleep. 

Chapter 15

As usual, Jenn was up first. She made herself some tea and looked out at Central Park. She started Justin’s coffee when an alarm went off. 

Why would Justin set an alarm on vacation? she wondered. 

Justin woke up, and there was a knock at the door. He quickly grabbed a robe and said, “I’ll get it.”

“What’s going on? You set an alarm, now there’s  someone at the door. Another day of surprises?” she asked. 

“Sit down and close your eyes,” he said. She complied. She heard something be set down in front of her on the table. “Open your eyes.”

She opened her eyes and saw the same breakfast they had yesterday was sitting in their hotel room. “They can do this for room service? I mean I guess I should have realized, but why eat in here?” 

“We’re not leaving the hotel until we check out today. So I figured to bring breakfast to us, we can pack up our things, and then continue with my plans.”

Jenn nodded as she started to eat. “Delicious no matter where I eat it,” she laughed. 

They ate breakfast, got dressed and packed up their things. She made sure to look good in case more paparazzi followed them. Justin could look great in sweats, she’d face scrutiny at the slightest misstep. 

Justin led her downstairs. “Time for a little pampering.”  They walked into one of the hotel’s spas. 

“Mr. Timberlake, right this way,” they front desk welcomed them. 

“What’s up your sleeve now?” Jenn asked. 

“A couples massage, then a body wrap. Mostly wanting it for you but I could use some relaxation with the craziness of recording the album, and ahead of the release and tour.  Then we’ll head to the airport and go home.”

“That sounds amazing babe. Thank you.”

The next few hours were extremely relaxing for both of them. Jenn had never been to a spa before, let alone one so fancy. 

They left the hotel relaxed and ready to go home. Thankfully it seemed no paparazzi had waited outside the hotel, so they got to the airport without incident. That helped Jenn be even more relaxed heading home. 

Soon they were back at home, Jenn unpacking their things. “It feels good to be home,” she sighed. “New York was great, but it’s not home.”

“I’m home wherever you are babe,” he said, wrapping his arms around her. 

“Now that our engagement is out there, we should probably start planning for an actual wedding. I know we’d been waiting for Dad’s cancer and then your album,” she said. 

“I know. We can plan in stages. Get basic ideas and stuff down first, then work other things out as we go.  You KNOW the moms are going to have ideas and input. They’ll want to be with you when you try on dresses.”

“Yeah. I’ll have to fly the girls out for that too. I’ve been thinking of where to have the ceremony. I want to do it here, maybe even the church your dad was at. That’s where our families first met. But San Francisco or New York make sense for either of us, too.”

“We’ll figure it out. Where in California were you thinking? I know you went to Berkeley, but you didn’t stay there after graduation.”

“I moved down to San Jose, yeah. There’s the church I went to there. I figure somewhere less fancy is going to be something the paparazzi won’t expect. There’s a beautiful hall we can do the reception.”

“Sounds like San Jose it is. One thing checked off the list. Look at us!” Justin smiled. 

“One step closer to becoming Mrs. Timberlake.”

Chapter 16

It was album release week and Justin was everywhere. Phone call interviews, and another trip to NYC for more interviews. Jenn stayed home this time, the album released on Dad’s birthday. 

She turned on the tv hoping to catch an interview on MTV or E! She decided on MTV and found a clip. It was different from the one she was there for a few weeks before. 

They breached the subject of his relationship, asking if the tabloid rumors were true. 

“For once, yes. I proposed when we were here in NYC a few weeks ago. Still figuring out a lot of details, no date set with the tour and everything.”

Well, the cat’s really out of the bag now, she thought. I’m glad everyone we care about has already heard. I’m sad I wasn’t on the calls to the rest of *NSYNC, but he’s promised he called them. She was hopeful they’d be invited, if not be involved somehow. As a fan she’d love to have them there, but she was worried he’d want to distance himself from them. That would be a wedding topic all on its own. 

… 

Tuesday was album release day, and Jenn was a bundle of nerves. She hoped the album lived up to the hype behind it and all the pressure she knew Justin had felt to make it great. It would be special to her, but she wanted his hard work to be appreciated by the rest of the fans. 

The local music store had a line, she saw plenty of press on tv and online about it, but she was waiting for his response to everything. She knew he’d call tonight during Dad’s birthday dinner. 

Jenn headed over to her parents’ house to pick them up and go wherever Dad wanted to go. 

“Where to, birthday boy?” Jenn asked. 

“La Casita? Mexican food sounds good today.”

Jenn nodded. “Then that’s what we’ll have.”

They were eating dinner when Jenn’s phone rang. She smiled wide. “Hi babe. How’s it going?” she asked. 

“Good. Can I talk to your dad?”

“I guess… I see who’s important…”

She passed the phone to Dad. They talked for a few minutes before he passed the phone back to her. 

“So the album is a hit. I know you knew it would be, but I’ve only heard good stuff so far. All the major reviews have been positive. I’m so happy babe,” he said. 

“I’m happy for you. It’s been a lot of hard work being your muse…” she teased. “Seriously, that’s great news babe. You’re coming home tomorrow?”

“Yeah, I’ve got a morning meeting with Johnny on stuff for the tour and then I’ll fly home.  It’s been weird being here without you. Our place here is just about ready for us to start moving things in. Think you can have it ready for Christmas there?” he asked. 

“I’ll do my best. At least get the basics as far as furniture and Christmas decorations. Still trying to figure out getting a real tree in there.”

“Sorry, I’ll let you get back to dinner. See you tomorrow. Love you.”

“Love you too,” she said as she hung up.

She put her phone away and looked back at her parents. “No date yet, but we’ll have the wedding in San Jose. Not where paparazzi will suspect, but fancy enough to suit our tastes.”

“We’re glad to hear that some progress has been made. We were worried Justin would keep pushing things out,” Mom said. 

“It’ll be at least another year, with his tour coming up, but we’ve started discussions on things,” Jenn replied. 

“Well, we’re happy you’re happy. Seems like everything is going well for everyone right now.” Dad said. 

She smiled. Everything was perfect in her little world. 

Chapter 17

It was now mid October. The album was doing well, Justin’s team was prepping for the tour in setting up tour dates and locations. Jenn had been getting things ready for their NYC loft, and working part time as a substitute teacher. 

Jenn had come home from a day of subbing when she got a phone call from her dad. “Jenn, your mom is in the hospital.”

Her heart sank. “Is she OK? What happened?” Justin sensed her tone along with her questions. 

“She’s been fighting a cold for over a week. Her doctor had prescribed extra strength stuff, but her cough kept getting worse. We went to the ER and they found spots on her lungs. They don’t know if it’s TB or something else, so they’re doing a biopsy.”

Biopsy. After all they’d been through with Dad, that word triggered immense fear. 

“Is there anything we can do?” Jenn asked. 

“Pray.”

“We can visit if she’s up to it.”

“Not right now. Maybe tomorrow once we know more.  Love you sweetheart.”

“Love you too, Dad. Give Mom our best.” She hung up. 

Justin held her for a while before asking her what happened. They both cried as she told him. 

“I’m so scared babe. What if they find something?” she said between sobs. 

“We’ve been through this before, we’ll get through it again. The tour doesn’t start til January, gives us plenty of time here for now.”

Jenn didn’t eat much for dinner that night and went to bed early, even though she couldn’t fall/stay asleep. 

The next day, Dad called telling Jenn they could come see Mom, but his voice told her there was more going on. 

They get to the hospital, and Dad meets them outside her room. “The biopsy came back negative for TB and negative for cancer,” Dad said. “However, overnight there were complications. They’re not entirely sure what happened, but she almost died. She’s stable now, but she’s on a breathing and feeding tube. She can’t talk, so we have a pad of paper for her to write things to us.”

Jenn felt tears welling up as Dad spoke. Justin held her hand tight. They did their best to prepare themselves, but seeing Mom there, the tubes very visible, broke their hearts. 

Jenn did her best to be strong. She grabbed her Mom’s hand. “Hi Mom.”  Words failed her. “How are you feeling?”

Scared, she wrote in shaky handwriting. 

Stupid question, Jenn thought. She stayed silent, just sat there holding Mom’s hand, Justin’s hand on Jenn’s shoulder. 

“The doctors have no idea what’s wrong with her. They thought she had one type of disease, but didn’t show all the symptoms and it’s normally seen in migrant farm workers. There’s nothing in her lungs, yet the spots showed up on her chest x rays. We just have to wait and see what happens and try different treatments.” Dad explained. Jenn was still at a loss for words. They hugged Dad goodbye and went home. 

Chapter 18

A week later, Mom was still in the hospital. Jenn went daily to visit her. Justin would drive her over, in case it was too much for her emotionally. They still had no answers. 

Jenn walked in the room, and mom had a different set of tubes. 

“Her oxygen levels were high enough that they went to take the tubes out. In taking them out, they learned she was allergic to the tubes, and her throat immediately closed up. They had to shove the feeding tube back down her throat, and did an emergency tracheotomy to put in a breathing tube. They now have to wait for the scar tissue in her throat to heal before removing the tubes again.” Dad explained. 

“How are you doing with all this, Dad?” Jenn hugged him. 

“In all my cancer stuff, I knew there was a chance it could kill me. I’ve almost lost her twice. I’ve yelled at the doctors because they can’t figure out what’s wrong with her. I’ve yelled at your mom because I’m scared of losing her and don’t want her to give up. With my cancer I knew I needed to fight. Now I’m helpless watching her just lie in that bed every day. I’m here as often as I can be around my work schedule. I’m just so scared Jenn,” Dad broke down in tears, they cried together for a while. 

… 

Mom had been in the hospital for a month now, with no real answers to what was wrong and caused this. She seemed to be responding well to the steroid treatments for her throat. Each day they’d check to see if it was healed enough. 

One day, Jenn got a call. They’d been able to remove her breathing tube, but she still had the tracheotomy port and the feeding tube. She was able to speak now. 

They went to go see her, hoping this would be the beginning of an upswing for her. 

“Hi Mom, are you feeling better?”

“I’ve been better.” Her voice was weak and raspy. Her vocal cords hadn’t been used for a few weeks, so she found it difficult at first to speak. She would answer in short bursts, it was physically draining to try and teach herself to speak again. 

“They’re encouraging that we have her talk as much as possible to help her muscles and vocal chords to go back to normal,” Dad explained. 

“Mom, do they think you’ll come home soon? It’s almost Thanksgiving.”

“They don’t know,” she answered. 

Chapter 19

One morning, Justin woke up early and was packing a bag when Jenn woke up. 

“Where are you going?” Jenn asked. 

“I’ve got rehearsals coming up for the tour. I’m gonna be gone for a bit. I’ll try to be back in a few days, but it’s gonna be a lot of back and forth with meetings and various rehearsals for choreography and working with Kevin and the band.”

“You HAVE to go? Now?” She begged. 

“Jenn, I’ve put this off as much as I could. The tour starts in less than 6 weeks. We knew I’d have to go at some point.” She could sense the disappointment in his voice. 

“I need you here. Mom is still in the hospital, we don’t know when she’s going to get to come home.” Jenn’s voice was shaking. 

“I know, but you said I couldn’t stop from going on tour just for you,” he sighed. 

“That was with dad, and everything was so far away at that point. Now it’s Mom and I need you HERE!”

“Jenn, I can’t. I’m sorry. I love you, but I have to do this. It’s not just me anymore, it’s the crew, dancers, band. If I cancel everything, it affects them, too.”

“Forget them. I’m your fiancée. You said my family means the world to you. Stay.  Please, Justin, stay. I need you.”  

Justin couldn’t look at her. He felt so defeated. “I know, but I can’t. That’s why I tried to do this early in the morning, so I’d be gone before you woke up.”

“So I’d find you gone with only a note to explain things?!”

“So I wouldn’t have to see your face, hear your voice and STILL have to walk out. I have no choice Jenn, there’s too much riding on this. I’ll be back for Thanksgiving and Christmas. We’ll see about doing Christmas here if Mom can’t travel.  I’ll do my best to come back as much as I can, I promise to call every night.  But I have to go. I’m sorry.”  He finished packing his bag and he left. 

Jenn just sat on their bed, sobbing. She felt helpless on a good day, now her support system was gone. How was she going to get through this?

Chapter 20

Jenn couldn’t handle being home without Justin, so she stayed with Dad to keep him company at night. They’d go to the hospital together every day. 

Justin had kept his word and had called every night. The first couple nights, she ignored his calls. He left voicemails, but she didn’t listen to them. She could barely stomach reading his texts. She knew he loved her, he was trying so hard to be there for her, but it wasn’t enough. She needed him there to hold her. She wasn’t sure how long she and Dad could stay strong. 

…

It had been two weeks since Justin had left. Less than 10 days until Thanksgiving. Mom had a swallow test she had to pass before they could think of sending her home. She worked with a therapist, and the day of the test came. 

Mom sat in a room, Jenn and the doctors behind a glass wall. They had a video x ray type machine focused on Mom’s head. They gave her liquid to drink, and in real time she could see skeleton Mom taking small sips and swallowing. That was a good sign. The next step was the important one. They gave her a piece of soft food. Jenn could see Mom’s teeth and tongue working to chew the food, and slowly she swallowed it. They repeated this with a more normal food, making sure she could swallow it and not choke. 

“She’s doing great, this is a really good sign in her recovery,” the doctor said. 

They wheeled Mom out of the room, taking her back towards her room. Jenn held Mom’s hand and said, “You did great, Mom.”

Dad came into the room and the doctor spoke to all three of them. 

“She did very well today on the swallow test. We are now confident enough to remove the feeding tube. This means she can go home in a few more days. She will need support at home. She’ll still have the hole in her trachea for a bit. The area will need to be cleaned every day, the port washed thoroughly every day to avoid infection. We’ve been doing that here, but it will need to continue at home. Like she does now, she needs to cover the hole when swallowing, breathing, and talking. Her throat will hurt, but the more she goes back to normal function, the stronger everything will become and the sooner it will heal. It looks like she’ll be home in time for Thanksgiving.”

“Thank you,” Mom said. They were all so happy. Jenn wished Justin was there for the good news. 

Chapter 21

Justin was in the middle of rehearsals when his phone rang. “Hold up guys, it’s Jenn, I have to take this.”  He was preparing himself for the worst. 

“Hi…” he mumbled.

“Babe, Mom gets to come home in a few days! She’ll be home for Thanksgiving!!”

Justin’s mood instantly lifted. “That’s great Jenn! We wrap up here at the end of the week, I’ll be coming home on Sunday for the week.  I love you.”

“I love you too. I’ll let you get back to things, but I didn’t want to wait until you called tonight to tell you the good news.”

“Thanks babe. I’ll talk to you tonight. I love you,”

“Love you too. Bye.”  She hung up the phone. Everything was on the uptick. Mom was doing better, and Justin would be home in a few days. 

She looked at her phone. She still hadn’t listened to the voicemails he’d left those first few nights. She pressed a button to hear them. 

“Hey Jenn, it’s me. I’m sorry about how I handled things this morning, how I was planning on leaving without saying goodbye. I was afraid of disappointing you, I feel like I’ve been punched in the gut all day. I want to be home with you so bad, but everyone is counting on me. It’s been really hard to be strong for you these last few weeks, this gives me focus and a physical outlet for everything in my head. I’m feeling like I’m being pulled in a million directions at once, letting someone down no matter what I choose. I hope you can forgive me and that I can hear your voice. I miss you. I love you. I’ll call again tomorrow.”

Then she played the next day’s message,

“Hey Jenn, it’s me again. I hoped you’d pick up so I could talk to you, see how everything is going. Things are good here, the show is gonna be amazing. I’ll try calling again tomorrow. I love you and miss you. Bye.”

She could hear the disappointment in his voice that she hadn’t picked up. Thankfully she’d started answering his calls on day 3, she wasn’t sure she could handle hearing that sadness in his voice again. 

That was all in the past now, she had her mom and Justin coming home soon to look forward to. Mom would need a lot of help, but with Justin home for the week she would have her support system back and be able to sleep in their bed again. Everything was working out. 

…

Jenn got to their home midday Sunday.  Mom had already come home, but she was able to do quite a bit, just needed Jenn to do the daily cleaning and care. Jenn wanted to be home for whenever Justin got back. 

She made a plate of nachos and sat down to watch TV. She looked through the channels when she saw her guilty pleasure movie- Harry Potter. For some reason the first movie would always lift her mood, and the sequels had the same effect. She would literally watch no matter where it was. Even if there was less than half an hour left, she’d watch what was left. Thankfully it had just started, so she had lots of time to enjoy it. 

She fell asleep on the couch, the movie still on tv. She woke up hearing the front door open. 

“Justin!” She yelled as she hopped over the couch and ran to greet him. 

He closed the door and dropped his bags, which proved wise as she literally jumped into his arms and wrapped her legs around his waist. She began to kiss him, fast and forceful. She knocked him backwards against the door. He regained his footing and walked to the bedroom with her wrapped around him. 

“I’ve missed you so much,” they said to each other between kisses. His hands were in her hair, her hands digging into his shoulders. He laid her on the bed and quickly pulled off his clothes. 

“I’m taking my time, baby. I want you so bad, it’s been awful being away from you.”  

He carefully removed her clothes, kissing her cheek, her jaw, before nibbling and sucking on her earlobe. His fingers went to massaging her breasts, playing with her nipples. He did this for what felt like forever to Jenn. She was moaning at his touch, but not moving any farther. 

“I want you begging for it, getting you to that aching peak of desire before I take you.”

“I want you so bad Justin. I want you to fuck me. Please.”

“Not yet, this is gonna be a test on both our will powers.”  

His hand slowly traveled down her body, tickling at her inner thigh, so close to what they both wanted so much. 

“Please, touch me Justin, you know where I need it.” Jenn was definitely begging, desire and need and urgency in her voice. 

“Where do you want me to touch you? Tell me what you want baby.” 

“I want your fingers inside me. I want you to feel how wet I am.”

“Oh god Jenn, you are so fucking wet. I love how wet you get for me. I’m gonna keep doing this until you tell me to stop.”  

She kissed him as he fingered her, enjoying the sensation of her feeling full of him. “Now, I want you to rub my clit.”  He quickly obeyed, and she squealed at his touch. 

“Oh god this is amazing!  It’s been too long since I’ve felt your touch,” she moaned, squirming beneath him. 

“What else do you want me to do to you?” Justin asked slyly. 

“Nothing, I want you to play with my clit until I can’t take it anymore. Then I’ll scream for you to fuck me.”

He continued rubbing and flicking at her sensitive and swollen clit. Her juices made it easy to pleasure her. Her breathing was getting ragged. He could tell as wave after wave of orgasm passed through her body. She was gasping for breath, eyes tightly closed as she felt everything building up to the moment she needed. He kept going, eager to see her squirm and moan at his touch. She tried holding in the feeling as long as she could, her moans becoming high pitched, before she couldn’t contain the pleasure anymore. 

Yes!!” She screamed. “Now Justin, I need you inside me. Fuck me NOW!!!”  

“Oh thank you God, I couldn’t take it much longer.”  He licked his fingers to taste her, and plunged himself deep inside her. She moaned again at feeling him inside her, he moaned at how she felt around him. His thrusts were fast and furious, he was so close to climax from her reactions to him. She grabbed the sheets by the fistful, he continued to thrust hard and fast until he exploded in pleasure. He collapsed on top of her, both of them gasping for air. 

It felt like minutes later before Jenn could finally speak. “You need to go away more often, this welcome home sex is amazing!”

Chapter 22

Thanksgiving morning, Jenn was awake early making cranberry bread and getting everything prepped for the day. Justin joined her on the couch to watch the parade, coffee in one hand, a slice of cranberry bread in another. 

“Seriously, this stuff is so good…” he said. Jenn laughed and snuggled into him on the couch. 

“Mom is home, you’re home, what more could I ask for today?  I am so thankful to have the people I love around me.”

“I go back for rehearsals Monday morning. You gonna be ok?” he asked. 

“Now that I KNOW you’re leaving, yes. Angie is able to help sign for deliveries at the loft? A lot of stuff is showing up in the next few weeks. She just needs to sign for it and leave it inside. I’ll be out there the week before. The only things I’ll need put in the rooms are the beds. I think.”

“Yes, Angie has a key. I’m so excited, Christmas in New York with our families in our own place…”

“As long as we’re in somewhat planning mode, can we address the elephant in the room regarding the wedding?” she asked. 

Justin sighed. “I want the guys there. There’s just so much pressure on us if we’re all in one place, even if it’s at a wedding, especially my wedding.  I love them, they’re my brothers, but I want to enjoy MY day, not have it used as tabloid fodder hinting at a reunion. Can you imagine the level of disappointment that would create?”

“Can you imagine how HAPPY fans would be that after 5 years apart, you get together to celebrate life’s big moments together. Just inviting them tells the fans you guys still care, even if there’s no new music or anything. It shows them you ARE still brothers. Especially after Lance’s coming out, it shows you support him. You guys were all at Joey’s wedding. A couple weeks later was when we started dating, so it wasn’t THAT long ago. Was there pressure on you all at Joey’s wedding?”

“No, I suppose not. A lot of people blame me for what happened. I mean, I get it given me going solo, but we all had stuff we wanted to do.”

“All the more reason for you to invite them. Fans will know you don’t hate the guys. Next question- do you want them in the ceremony? I’m sure the photographer can get pictures with all of us together, but do we want it officially as groomsmen, just guests, ushers?”

“I’ve already asked Trace to be my best man, that was a no brainer. I guess besides my actual brothers I can’t really think of anyone else that would be important enough besides them to be up there with us. Do you have enough girls that could be bridesmaids?”

“I can arrange that, yes. I’m leaning towards Leah as maid of honor. With my big three it’s hard to pick. I’m sure they’ll be happy just being part of our big day whether they’re bridesmaids or my maid of honor.  So five on each side? Have Jonathan and Stephen be ushers or something? They’re both still pretty young.”

“That makes sense. Yeah, let’s go with that. This is why I love you, you help me see things from all sides. I was seriously almost keeping some of the most important guys in my life away from our big day.”

“Glad I could help. We still need to figure a date. Do you have a more finalized tour schedule yet?”

“Yeah. My last three cities are in California. We can do the weekend after the tour ends. Saturday, September 29?”

“It’s a date. Wow, we have a date set, the guys are hopefully groomsmen, things are starting to come together. I can’t wait to marry you,” she said, giving him a kiss. “Enough wedding stuff for now, I need to get the food ready!”

Thanksgiving dinner was ready. They got a smaller turkey since Mom couldn’t have it. She was able to have most everything else as long as it was soft.  The atmosphere was positive with Mom home and on the mend. 

Chapter 23

The next few days Jenn enjoyed having Justin around before he left again. 

“It’s gonna be a long few weeks without you,” Jenn said. 

“But think of how good it’ll be when we’re back together.  I can join you at the loft, help get things placed, christen the different rooms…” he whispered in her ear. 

“Mmm, welcome home in a new home sex, I like how you think.” She turned to kiss him. 

“Goodbye sex can be good too…” he laughed. 

“True. You may not want to leave after,” she quipped. 

“I definitely don’t want to leave, but it’s too late for that now. Besides, I have plans, for us, that can’t happen without the tour.”

“Really…? You’re always full of surprises.”

“You want to know where my first stops are?” he teased. 

“You mentioned California for the end, so I don’t know.”

“Starting and ending the US parts with dates in San Jose. I figured that would be an easy way to get you to come with me, be on tour and see your friends.”

Jenn gave him a big hug. “I’m loving this tour already.”

“Now that we’re officially engaged, do you think you want to be up close to the stage, with the fans, or maybe in a box safe from jealous fans.”

“Well, I think if I do VIP when I have friends near me, it’ll be fine. There’s plenty of security that could keep me safe too. I can change my look a little to try and throw people off too. I did the whole back of the arena thing. If I’m there, I want to be up close, part of it.”

“Ok. Just put yourself near a security guard to be safe. We’ll get it all figured out as far as passes, however many people you want to bring, you name it. I’ll even make sure the bar has the ingredients for Midori Sour just for you.”

“You’re gonna turn me into an alcoholic, you know that? Drinking at every show,” she said. 

“You won’t have to be at every show. But I’ll make sure they keep you hydrated. Gotta take care of my wifey to be.”

“Mmmm, I LOVE hearing that.”

“Well, how about some of that ‘please don’t leave’ sex…wife to be.”

Chapter 24

It had been a week since Justin had left. Mom was doing well, they had even removed her trache piece and covered it so the healing process could start. This meant Jenn wasn’t needed to clean it and didn’t have to stay with them. 

She wondered how things were going with Angela and the loft. She picked up her phone and dialed Angela’s number. 

“Hi Jenn, how are things?”

“Good. I was just calling to see how things are going with deliveries to the loft.”

“Things are fine, though between you and me it’s boring with no tv or internet hooked up. Been doing a lot of reading.”

“Well, what if I were to fly out and we get things put into place, get cable and internet installed, have it pretty much ready to go when Justin is done with rehearsals for Christmas.”

“Sounds fine I guess. Don’t normally get to spend too much time with clients’ significant others.”

“Can I ask you a question?” Jenn asked. 

“Sure,” Angela replied. 

“Do you happen to like the *NSYNC Christmas album?”

“Please don’t let Justin know, but yes. He chose me because I’m highly qualified and experienced, but I applied because it was him. You two were already together so it’s not like I was wanting to date him or anything.  Ugh, now I’ve made this awkward…”

“No, I’m the same way sometimes. You’re fine. So you’d be ok with blasting the Christmas album while we decorate for Christmas after everything else is squared away?”

“Sounds like fun.”

“I’ll fly out as soon as I can.”

“Text me info and I’ll come pick you up at the airport.”

“Deal. See you hopefully today, just need to pack. Washer and dryer aren’t there yet are they?”

“Not yet, later this week.”

“Good, I’ll bring just the essentials and do laundry there once everything is hooked up. Thanks Angela.” Jenn hung up the phone. 

“This is either going to be fun, or go terribly wrong…” Angela said to herself. 

Jenn immediately went to packing. Boots, jeans, sweaters, a few dresses for the holiday and any potential housewarming parties, the black dress and lingerie for when Justin got there, and she was set. She could shop a little if she needed anything once she got there. She threw on her warmest coat and called a cab for a ride to the airport. She got a last minute flight, coach. No need to be fancy if it was just her, it was only a two hour flight. 

She texted Angela her flight info once she got through security. Jenn had her favorite playlist ready to listen to on the plane. He may not have been beside her on the plane, but his voice would be in her ears. 

Chapter 25

Angela picked up Jenn at the arrivals terminal. 

“Am I allowed to hug my fiancé’s assistant?”

“I’ll allow it,” Angela laughed. 

She put her suitcases in the car and they drove to the loft. 

“Any more deliveries for today?” Jenn asked. 

“Nope, we’re all good. In fact, I don’t think there’s anything for tomorrow scheduled. Gives us time to move things around. Sadly the beds won’t arrive for a couple more days.”

“It’ll be like a sleepover. Tomorrow I say we do a grocery run, get a bunch of crap, and pig out.  Maybe do a little shopping courtesy of Justin.”

“You sure that’s ok?” Angela hesitated. 

“Yeah. I get an allowance. Lynn doesn’t want me having full access to everything until we’re married. I love Justin, but she’s too protective. She’s known me as long as he has, I’d hope she could trust me. It’s ok, Justin gave me another card for all the stuff for the loft. It’s our little secret.”

Jenn called to get TV and internet installed. “Nothing until tomorrow morning but it’ll be fine.  Let’s get the living room sorted out so we’re ready for installation tomorrow.  Then go buy a DVD player and some cheesy movies.”

Jenn and Angela moved the couches, coffee table, and end tables into place. They put together the entertainment stand and put the TV on top. They headed downstairs and walked to Best Buy for a DVD player and movies to watch. 

Together they put everything together. 

“Who needs a man?” Jenn laughed. “Let’s celebrate with delivery. Pizza? I thought about Chinese but I guess we need plates and stuff first.”

“Maybe another time, grab it for lunch and have leftovers for dinner.”

“Good thinking. I can see why Justin picked you to be his assistant.”

“I could say the same for him choosing you. You do compliment each other well, two sides of the same coin. I think this could be the beginning of a great friendship. Can’t be too close socially with my boss, but there’s no rules of being friends with you,” Angela said. 

They ordered pizza and crashed on the couches watching DVDs, when Jenn’s phone rang. 

“Hi babe,” she said warmly. 

“Hey, how’s it going?”

“I’m good. Just eating pizza and watching movies. Mom got her trache thing removed, so just need that to heal up and you won’t even know she went through all of that.”

“That’s great.  I miss you,” his voice sounded sad. 

“I miss you too. I’ll see you in 2 weeks though.”  Angela is getting stuff taken care of, I checked on her earlier. I really like her.”

“That’s good…” his voice trailed off.

“Justin, are you ok? You sound upset.”

“Just a hard day at rehearsals. I’ll be better in the morning.”

“If you’re sure,” Jenn said hesitantly. 

“I’m miserable without you here, Jenn. I’m starting to freak out at the thought of being on tour without you.  I need you.”

“Babe…” she sighed. “You are so amazing. Once you step out that first night and feel the electricity of the crowd, that will be it for you.”

“I have been near you almost every day these last 2 years, it’s almost like I’ve forgotten how to do this side of me. I shut it off for the most part once the last tour ended.” His voice sounded panicked. 

“Justin, I’m gonna be with you those first few nights. Be strong for now, knowing you’ll see me soon for 2 weeks. If you’re still feeling like this, I think you need to call the guys. Call for moral support if nothing else. You’ve been doing this, touring and recording, for so long that it’ll feel like home in no time.  I miss you too, but you said it yourself- there’s too much riding on this for other people.”  Jenn’s heart broke hearing him like this. 

“I don’t know if I can, Jenn. I need to see you. Can you come out here?  Just for a few days.”

“Would Angela have that information?” Jenn asked. 

“Yeah, I can have her…”

“I’ll ask her for it.” She looked at Angela with an apologizing expression . 

“Thank you babe. I can’t wait to see you.” His voice was already sounding more upbeat. 

“Love you, see you soon. I’ll text you flight info and stuff.”  She hung up the phone. 

Chapter 26

“Well, at least the TV and DVD player got set up…” Angela said. 

“I’m worried, I’ve never known him to be like this. Even as a kid, he was so confident about performing.”

“People change. He’s been very lucky to have you in his life these last few years that he maybe got used to that stability. Touring is grueling, different cities all the time. The only consistent thing on tour is the performance. Even then, the crowds change from night to night. He’s gotten used to just making one person happy, now he has millions.”

“Very insightful. I think you’re closer to him than you give yourself credit for, to see all that about him,” Jenn said. 

“Let’s try and get as much of the rest of this stuff in place so we can figure out where beds will go when those get delivered,” Angela suggested. 

“Let’s get my flight figured out, then move stuff. It probably won’t be until morning. Where is he rehearsing?”

“LA.  That way he can stay at his house there.”  Can we stop somewhere to do a little shopping? I packed for NYC, not LA.” Jenn sighed. 

“I think that can be arranged. Where are you thinking?”

“Honestly, I’m more Target and Old Navy chic.” 

“We’ll stop by both in the morning, and get you an afternoon flight.”

“Sounds great.”

Angela got Jenn’s flight to LA booked, then they moved as much as they could into place. 

“It’s starting to look like a home,” Angela said. 

“Our home,” Jenn sighed happily. 

The next morning, Jenn was up early as usual. She emptied out her suitcases into the master closet, and set to packing one suitcase for LA. 

Socks, underwear, toiletries, shirts, and the black dress just in case. She was admittedly nervous about what she was going to do in LA. Was he wanting her with him at rehearsals, or just for him to come home to each night? Would it be like that on tour- do what you want during the day, but be at the show at night and see him after? Could she handle that loneliness? Now SHE was the one freaking out…

“Jenn, you ok?” Angela put her hand on Jenn’s shoulder. 

“I was stuck in my head. Now I’M freaking out about things,” and proceeded to word vomit all over Angela with her newfound worries. 

“Well, let’s unpack all those thoughts throughout the morning before you get on the plane. Starbucks before shopping?”

Jenn nodded. 

“So, honestly I think there may be a mix of Justin wanting you with him during the day as well as at night. You’d been best friends when you were younger,  always together. The last two years have been pretty consistently spent with you. This has been some of the longest stretches being away from you.  This is a big change after so long.  Give things a chance and see how it goes.”

“You’re right. I’ve had my mom to keep me busy. Once that was done, I came here, something else to do.”

“As for on tour, I’m sure there will be plenty of time to spend together before shows.  Based on the tour schedule, you could stay with him through Vegas. I think there’s a few days in between shows that he might want an extra night in Vegas with you. Then spend time at home getting things ready for the wedding.  The hardest part will probably be the European leg of the tour. Not sure if you’ll want to be gone for 3 months, but being apart that long could be difficult too. Again, see how things go.”

“Thanks Angela, this has been really helpful. We both are probably deep in our heads on this. I’ll just play it by ear and see how things go. You got a one way ticket out there?”

“Yes. That way you guys can decide when you want to come home.  Well, did you get enough clothes, just in case?”

“I think we did adequate damage, yes,” Jenn laughed. 

“Let’s get you all packed so you’re not late for your flight.”

Jenn finished packing, and they headed off to the airport. They listened to music for a while before Jenn turned the stereo off. 

“Angela, can I ask you a serious question?” 

“Sure.”

“Will you be one of my bridesmaids?”

Chapter 27

“Are you sure? That’s a big decision.” Angela was stunned. 

“I’m sure. We’ve had a great time so I think we could be friends. I was looking forward to hanging out with you, it was going to allow me to get things done, but have someone to hang out with. You said it was pretty boring just sitting waiting there. Now there’s TV and internet, so at least you won’t be bored. I’ll come back once we decide I don’t have to be there anymore and we’ll pick up where we left off on building a friendship.”

“Sounds good Jenn. I’m glad you’re wanting to be friends instead of treating me like another employee.”

“You help Justin with so many things. You talked me down, I’m sure you’ve done that for him. I know that means a lot to me.”

“All right friend, you have a flight to catch. Have a good time, I hope things turn out well for both of you,”

“Thanks Angie, me too.”

…

A driver picked Jenn up at the airport. She felt special to have someone with her name on a sign. He silently took her things, got her in the car, and drove off. 

The ride was awkwardly silent. She decided to check her email. Leah sent her an invite to join something, a website called Facebook. She sent Leah a text. 

What’s Facebook? Jenn asked. 

Oh my gosh it’s this great new site! You can make posts and share pictures, add your friends,  there’s games on there, I’m hooked! 

Sounds fun. I guess I’ll join. 

Soon the car stopped at a big warehouse looking place. Almost like a movie set, massive. The driver escorted her inside. Justin was in the middle of choreography when he noticed the door open. 

“Jenn!” Justin screamed as he ran off stage.  He was running almost full speed across the arena towards her.  Her eyes widened as he didn’t seem to slow down. 

This must be what it’s like when fans run screaming HIS name… she thought to herself. She was a little scared before remembering who it was running towards her. 

“I’m so glad you’re here!” He gave her a big hug and a deep kiss. 

“Justin, we’re 25 years old…”

“I can’t be excited to see my wife to be?”

Jenn sighed. “I’m sorry. I’ve just been worried since you called me. Then you come at me like a crazed fan… it’s not the usual you, that’s all.”

“I’m sorry I worried you. I haven’t been away from you a lot since we’ve been together. As far as the tour, I’m not sure if stuff is actually good, or if I’m surrounded by yes men. I need your no bullshit attitude. We’re still doing rough rehearsals but wanting to make sure it’s perfect. I wrote most of this album about you, I need your input.”

“Ok. What do you need from me? The stage looks great, it lets you interact with the whole arena.”

“I’ll take you to where we plan to have VIP. Guys, can we go from the top through as much as we’ve choreographed? No stops just to get the flow of the show. I know I’ve been a pain in the ass, but humor me, for her.”

Jenn gave a small embarrassed wave to the band and dancers. 

They ran through the show. Jenn was honestly impressed he picked up all this choreography and staging in a few weeks. He was in the zone. Was it because she was there? She couldn’t tell. 

Chapter 28

When they finished, Justin immediately looked to Jenn with an expectant expression. Her smile told him enough for the moment. 

“It’s great Justin. I’m gonna need to be used to you dancing with the girls that way, but I know there’s no way I could move like that.  It’s a great show Justin. I’m excited I get to see it for a while.”

“How long are you staying?” His voice sounded a little sad. 

“I’ll be here as long as you need. As far as the tour, Angela talked me into staying on through the Vegas show. She said there were a few days between that stop and the next, so maybe we could do an extra day in Vegas before I leave and you go to your next spot.”

His face lit up. “I’m so glad to hear that.  Now that you’ve seen the show, do you want the driver to take you to the house?”

“Sure I guess. If you’re sure you don’t need me here.”

“We’ve got more to learn, I’d honestly be distracted looking at your sexy face. I’ll see you at the house. Here’s your key. I love you, thank you for coming out like this.”

“I love you too. Needed to make sure you were ok.”

“I’m fine now that you’re here.” He smiled, gave her a hug and kiss before getting her in the car. 

Another long, silent car ride awaited her. She texted Angela about things in LA and going on with the loft. She helped Angela with where she wanted certain things in the various rooms. 

Soon they approached a gated driveway. She felt like the kids in Willy Wonka waiting to see what the factory was like. It was definitely more Hollywood than their home in Tennessee.

 She unlocked the door, giving herself a tour. She found what she assumed was the master bedroom, there was stuff on the bedside table and the blankets weren’t perfectly on. She set her suitcase down and unpacked a few things. 

She explored the different rooms now that she had unpacked. She found his studio and walked in. He had some memorabilia and awards on one side. She smiled when she saw a picture of him with JC. It looked fairly recent, since the “hiatus”.  

She sent Justin a text. Let me know if you’ll be here for dinner or if I should just cook for me.  Love you. 

She decided to take a nap and set an alarm. Before she knew it, her alarm went off. No word from Justin. She decided to just cook for her, she didn’t want to have it get cold waiting for him or putting it in the fridge. 

She ate dinner on the couch, watching tv. She checked that her ringer was on. She had full signal. She changed clothes and went back to the couch. 

She heard the front door open. 

“Justin?”

“Yeah babe, it’s me.”

A wave of relief washed over her. 

“Did you get my text?”

“Sorry, my phone was off. Once you got here I didn’t think I’d need it.”

“Did you guys eat there?”

“Kinda.”

“Come sit down while I get a couple things,” she said.  He could tell from her voice something was up. 

He sat on the couch, heard her getting some things from the fridge. He got curious when she walked past him down the hall. 

“Babe, what are you doing?”

“Turn off the tv and find out,” her voice teased.

Chapter 29

He smiled, walking down the hall towards the bedroom. 

“Wow…”

Jenn was on the bed, wearing a barely there bra and g string. Next to the bed was chocolate syrup and whipped cream. 

“I thought we could try something different. I’ve never actually done this before, but thought it was worth a try.”

Justin cocked one eyebrow up curiously and let out a little laugh. “I’m up for it.”

He quickly took his clothes off and joined her on the bed. 

Jenn reached for the table, but Justin pinned her arm. 

“I don’t think so. I’m going first, which really means YOU'RE going first.”

“Not that I’m complaining, but I always go first, I rarely get to do things to you first, or if I do you take over.”

“Well, it’s kinda my thing. I get off on making you want me. When you moan, squirm at my touch, scream my name as you orgasm, I eat that shit up and it turns me on. If we need a quickie, then sure do whatever to me, but if I have all...night...long, you bet I’m going to take my time and please my woman.”

“When you put it that way, I’ll never argue again.”

She lay down, surrendering to whatever he’d do next. 

He undid her bra, putting dots of chocolate syrup around her breasts, and bits of whipped cream on her nipples. He slowly licked and sucked on her breasts, being careful to get every last drop. She moaned at his hot, moist mouth on her skin. 

He took more chocolate syrup and poured a little in her belly button, putting whipped cream along the curves of her waist. 

He put chocolate syrup on the inside of her thighs, carefully licking his way towards her core. When all the chocolate was gone, he slowly licked her juices from her core. 

“Do you need more syrup?” she asked, sensing a pattern from earlier. 

“No, you’re delicious on your own.”  He then began to slowly lick and suck at her folds, his tongue entering her before landing on her clit. She sucked in a big breath of air, as if she wasn’t able to breathe. She moaned as pleasure took over her body. He varied his pace to keep her guessing, wanting more. She squirmed, needing more before she came. Suddenly he clamped down firmly over her button and sucked as hard as he could, his tongue rubbing slowly over it. This sent her spiraling, she yelled as she came. 

“Delicious,” Justin said. “I may want seconds…”

“Let me have firsts. I know you just did it, but I feel weird using it on you.”

“Whatever you want, princess. If this is something I only use on you, I’m more than happy to.”

He lay down on the bed. She put chocolate syrup on his chest, spreading it slowly with her fingers. She slowly sucked it off her lips as he looked up at her. She licked his chest, using the same attention that he had. She gently bit his nipples and sucked. He moaned under her mouth. 

She moved to his legs, licking very slowly up his thighs. 

“I’m not sure how much more I can take, you’re amazing babe.”

“I’m not even done.”

She took the chocolate syrup, poured some in her hand, and rubbed his cock with it, fully coating him with the sweet syrup. She started at the base, slowly licking her way up and around his shaft. She could hear him moan curse words under his breath. 

“Fuck Jenn I’m so close…”

She licked up the underside before finishing around the head. 

“Jenn, I need to have your tight, wet pussy around me before I lose it.”

She lay down on top of him, slowly inserting him into her. She slowly sat herself up, grabbing his hands to hold her breasts. She moved up and down on him, going as fast as she could. She could feel he was very close, and tightened herself around him. He moaned long and loud as he came, his body trembling. 

“Holy SHIT!” He yelled. 

“”You’re telling me!”

“Ok, I’m a big fan of this. I say we call this ‘making sundaes’. Anything actually ice cream related will just be ice cream. Sundaes will be our code word for this, by ourselves or in public.”

“Yes sir. Gives new meaning to ‘Sugar Daddy’.”

Chapter 30

“Are you feeling better now babe?” Jenn asked. 

“From last night? Yeah. I’m more than fine after what we just did,” he laughed. 

“How long do you need me here? I want to make sure I can get the loft ready for the holidays.”

“I can help with that, but I get that being around here will get boring. Can you stay a few more days at least?” He asked, his voice sincere. 

“I think I can do that, yes. At the risk of sounding cheesy, we could have our own digital getdown every few days.”

“Cheesy but you’re not wrong.”

“Was that what you really were missing that you needed me?”

“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t missing it, but that’s not the only thing I was missing.  This album is bits and pieces of our story. The phone call with the girls, our first time, our exes, I was reliving our life together. So I need the tour to show that too. I needed you to see it and that you liked it before I could really be in the right headspace.”

“Well, I think you did a great job. I definitely am gonna need a few drinks at different points. Cry Me A River is a must, but given who it’s about, I’ll need a drink. I mean, I can spin it to be about Wes, but I'm still gonna need a drink.”

Justin gave a short laugh. “Yeah, I’ve moved on from that place, but it’s become a fan favorite. At this point it’s just another song I sing that I know the audience can connect with, even if I’m in a better place with it.”

“Totally unrelated, but how recent is the picture of you and JC that’s in your studio?”

“I helped him with some songs for his album, pretty recently actually, within the last year. I was still putting stuff together for this record, but it felt good to be in the studio with him.”

“You recorded with JC and I’m finding out about it NOW?!”

“You were back home. It was literally just a couple days. You met him plenty of times while I was home between MMC and *NSYNC. I guess I didn’t think it was a big deal to bring you out for. Sorry.”

Jenn sighed. “It’s fine. I want to hear that song though if I can. Have you heard from any of them regarding the wedding?”

“As of right now, they’ll all be there. It’ll be a hell of a logistical nightmare trying to get them all together without attracting attention.”

“Well, I can double check later but I think there’s a parking lot attached to the building that we could block off. Our limo could park there, and rent other vehicles to bring everyone over from the church so we’re not creating a parking nightmare or having people walk a few blocks from their cars in public lots.”

“You’ve thought this through, haven’t you?” Justin laughed. 

“Honey, you have NO idea…”

Chapter 31

The next few days Jenn went out on little trips around town to keep busy. 

One such trip was to a bridal boutique. She wasn’t ready for dresses yet, but wanted to see what else they had. She looked at veils, handbags, shoes, and their binders of invitation samples. She found a bag she liked, but there was a pair of beautiful shoes she fell in love with. Just enough of a heel that her feet wouldn’t kill her, she planned to dance the night away. They had beautiful beadwork, she was sure they’d glitter like stars against the walls if given the chance. They fit perfectly which was another easy selling point. 

She had an idea of her dress, but these shoes were a must have. She bought the shoes and walked toward the door. 

As she got outside, a man with a camera was about 10 feet away. “You’re marrying Justin Timberlake, right? Have you guys set a date? Big Hollywood wedding?”

She sped up her pace. “Just a bride buying some shoes, not a crime or anyone else’s business,” she said. She got in the car and drove off. 

Well, she thought, that’ll be in every tabloid tomorrow… Justin would be proud of how I handled it though…

Jenn spent the rest of the day at home to avoid another run in with paparazzi. She sat on the couch and watched TV, read a book, anything to keep her mind off the confrontation. 

She’d tell Justin when he got home and get pointers on what to do, say, whatever to avoid them or get her to leave her alone. Driving herself was probably her first mistake but she couldn’t really call a driver for every little trip out.

It had been hours since she last heard from Justin during a lunch break. She asked about dinner, but no reply. Must be busy with rehearsals, I know he can get pretty intense and hyper focused, she thought. She made dinner for both of them, figuring he could eat when he got home. She watched more TV and fell asleep on the couch. 

She woke to the sound of the front door opening. She checked her phone- no texts or calls, and it was 2AM.

“Justin?”

No reply. 

“Justin?!”

She shot up off the couch and saw him just standing in the entryway.  He was running his fingers around his neck, looking nervous. 

“Justin, do you know what time it is?”

“Sorry… sorry… so sorry…” he mumbled. 

“Justin, what happened?”

“I’m sorry…”

“What happened?!” she yelled. 

“I should have called, texted. The crew brought drinks for after rehearsal…”

“You’re drunk…” she sighed. 

“They wanted ‘the old Justin’ back. So I drank, and drank. I may or may not have blacked out, things get a little fuzzy.”

“Justin…”

“I know, I know. They just wanted me to blow off some steam.”

“I get that, I do, but you’re right. You should have let me know.”

He walked into the kitchen. “You made me dinner. Fuck, you’re leaving tomorrow. Shit, I’m a piece of shit…”

“Justin, no. Not gonna lie, I was panicked when I saw what time it was, but I gotta get used to you out drinking with the crew. Just let me know so I don’t worry. Now, let’s get some food and water in your belly, then get you to bed…”

“You’re an angel, my beautiful angel. I don’t deserve you…” he slurred. 

“Right now, you just might be right. Come on big boy.”

Chapter 32

Jenn woke up the next morning and took advantage of Justin’s gym to blow off some steam. A long run on the treadmill helped clear her head. She texted Angela with her flight info, going back to New York in a few hours. She took a shower, got dressed, and packed her bag. 

Not trying to be quiet, Justin woke up to her closing drawers. 

“Jenn, you leaving already?” he asked groggily. 

“No, but I figure I’ll pack, eat breakfast, and go to the airport early. Don’t wanna miss my flight.”

“Jenn, about last night…”

“Like I said, I get it. You’ve been hyper focused and needed to relax. You got your Sundae with me and drinks with the crew.”

“You’re mad…”

“A little, yeah. Not about what happened, but that you didn’t let me know so I wasn’t worrying. Was I looking forward to a last night with you before I left? Yes. Would I have understood if you’d told me about drinks? Yes.”

He rubbed his head. “I’m sorry, Jenn. What can I do…”

“Just let me know if plans change. I know we’ve been inseparable for most of the last 2 years, but it’s ok to need some time apart. Before we know it, you’ll be in New York for the holidays and it’ll be magical.”

He looked up at her from the bed. “I love you,” he said, his voice almost pleading a response. 

“I love you too.”

“Can we snuggle, so I can hold you one more time before you go?”

“Well, how can I say no to that, with that puppy dog face?”  

She got under the covers and he held her close. He tried to apologize again, but she shushed him. 

“Just enjoy this moment. It’s in the past, all we can do is move forward,” she said. 

“I REALLY don’t deserve you…”

“We’re meant for each other, Justin. I can’t see myself happier with any other man.”

“It’s like you're my mirror, Jenn. My mirror looking back at me. I can’t ever change without you.”

“Is this the alcohol talking?”

“No, it’s me. I love you so much, I slipped into old habits and I’m just scared of losing you.”

“You really think there’s ANYTHING you could do that would make me leave you? It would have to be pretty damn big, Justin. You know what I was most upset about last night? I needed to talk to you and you weren’t here.”

“You could have called…”

“I didn’t want to interrupt. I already worry the crew hates me because you drop everything for me.”

“They won’t, I’ll give em hell. They can leave if it’s that big an issue for them. What did you need to talk to me about?”

She told him what happened the day before with the paparazzo outside the bridal store. 

“Jenn I’m sorry you had to go through that alone. For what it’s worth, you did a great job with how you handled it. Maybe we need to not be in LA for a lot of wedding related stuff. Either home or in San Jose, not exactly known for their paparazzi problems like LA and NYC.”

He squeezed her tight. “I’m sorry, for everything.”

“I know.”  She sighed as they lay there for a while. 

Jenn ate and Justin helped get her to the airport before heading to rehearsals. Jenn felt a lot more comfortable flying now that she’d done it alone a few times in the last week or so. She was always nervous on takeoff, but her Justin mix helped her during the flight. 

Angela picked her up at the airport and they did a quick junk food and grocery run on the way to the loft. 

Jenn went to put the groceries away when she saw a huge bouquet of flowers and bottles of Midori and sweet and sour mix. 

The card read “For my angel girl, I’m sorry. Love forever, Justin”

Below it she saw, in the same writing, “the flowers are from him, the alcohol is from me. Angela” 

Chapter 33

“He called me once he dropped you off at the airport. He sounded terrible.”

“Well, I kept saying I forgave him. Still sweet that he told you to buy me flowers.”

“He told me to order them, he thought maybe you were going home home. I didn’t wreck the surprise, I’m sure he’ll know you’re coming here before he’s done.”

“Yeah, I’ll tell him I’m flying in the day before he does, just to give me cover for beating him here,” Jenn said. 

“We’ll have to come clean at some point. I think he’ll be very confused when I show up to the wedding rehearsal.”

“I’ll tell him once he’s here. Like ‘Merry Christmas, your assistant is my new bestie’.”

“Maybe NOT that way, but ok,” Angela laughed. 

“Well, shall we get started on bestie fest?” Jenn joked. 

“Yup, you’re the perfect match for Justin…”

They put pizza rolls in the oven, heated up nacho cheese dip, and opened up a box of Oreos. 

“Junk food is ready, let’s find a cheesy movie to watch!” Jenn announced. 

They had a blast watching dumb movies and eating as much junk food as they could. They both crashed on the couches. 

In the morning, Jenn made coffee for Angela and tea for herself. 

“What tea do you like, in case Justin ever makes me get something for you?”

“I love a good Earl Grey,” Jenn sighed, sipping her tea. “Though I do love a white hot chocolate with vanilla, too, if I’m splurging.”

“Mental note made.  What’s on the agenda today?” Angela asked. 

“Well, I can continue to eat junk food and make my super sweet French toast with whipped cream and powdered sugar.”

“Sounds amazing!”

“Then more cheesy movies and TV while we wait for deliveries?”

“What else do besties do?”

“I’d say talk about boys, but mine is your boss… not sure what’s fair game on that.”

“Trash talk exes?” Angela suggested. 

“Perfect! I’ve got some doozies!”

“Don’t we all? Ugh, men.”

Jenn went to making breakfast. As they ate they told relationship war stories. 

“So he tells me ‘I’m not going anywhere’, then when he dumps me he says ‘I meant I wasn’t moving or anything’. Like DUDE, you know what you said and how I’d take it. You just wanted to stay in my pants.” Jenn grumbled. 

“I dated a guy who wanted an ‘open’ relationship, but didn’t tell me about the three other girls he was sleeping with.” Angela complained. 

“God, men are so stupid.” Jenn huffed. 

“You’ve got a good one now. You know I’m not just saying that cause he’s my boss.”

“Yeah. Doesn’t mean he’s not stupid, last night was proof of that. But it was kinda cute seeing him so apologetic and everything; he knew he messed up and was truly and deeply sorry.”

“I know I get to experience things no one else can because of going with him to certain things, but what was your big ‘wow’ moment, where you had to pinch yourself?”

“Ok, I’d say going to the Edison premiere, being on his arm with all the cameras. This is definitely the alcohol talking, but the first time we, you know, wow. Like, I was thinking ‘how is this my life’?”

“I won’t ask about the second, but the first sounds fascinating.”

“I was given a designer dress to wear, jewelry to borrow. Hair and makeup, then a giant cocktail party with tons of famous people before watching a movie with them.  It was surreal for sure.”

“You guys were best friends when you were younger, right? What’s the same or different between then and now?” Angela asked. 

“Oooh, a great question. Honestly a lot is the same. Funny, cute as hell, driven, hard working. Guess the big difference is the money. I mean, he wasn’t broke growing up, but nowhere near what he has now. I remember when he bought his Mercedes. He was trying to live up to his celebrity status and image, but still just Justin to me…”

“Were you an *NSYNC fan?” Angela asked. 

“Wasn’t everyone? I didn’t let him see that side of me cause I wanted him to still be my best friend, and didn't want the fame to change anything between us. But yeah, I bought like five of every album, had all the merch, went to every concert I could afford. You?”

“Oh yeah. Posters all over my wall, spent all my money on merch, got teased by my friends.”

“Who was your favorite?” Jenn asked cautiously. 

“Chris. He’s such a goofball but the man behind the group.”

“Would you want to be paired with him at the wedding?”

“WHAT?!”

Chapter 34

“So, the rest of the guys are coming to the wedding, they’re going to be groomsmen.”

“Ok, I think I might die.” Angela was visibly freaking out a bit. 

“I haven’t told the rest of my girls yet. Saving that for when I see them next month.”

“They’re gonna flip.  Who is going to go with who?”

“My maid of honor Leah will be with Trace, Christina with JC, Michelle with Lance, and Kelly with Joey.”

“How are we going to handle all this? It’s bound to draw attention.” 

“I’ve got ideas. I just need to run things by the security detail to get exact logistics on things.”

They spent the rest of the day talking and watching TV. 

“Angela, if you want you can do whatever you need to do elsewhere. I’ll be here that I can take deliveries and stuff. I mean, if you wanna stay you can take one of the guest bedrooms so you’re not on the couch.”

“Thanks. I may go home, get laundry done. I’m based not too far so I’ll be close if you need anything or want to hang out. It’ll be nice to sleep in my own bed. Even the nicest beds just aren’t YOUR bed, ya know?”

“Definitely.  That’s what I said about hotels, even the Plaza. It’s nice, but not home,” Jenn said. 

“I think I’ll stay tonight with all the drinking, and it’s a two hour drive for me. I’ll leave in the morning.”

“Whatever you want to do is fine, glad I get more time with you.”

They had a Friends DVD binge before calling it a night. Angela slept in a guest room, Jenn in her and Justin’s California King bed. It felt lonely without him, but she also loved having a new bed to sleep in where she could sleep however she wanted. 

Jenn was awake when Angela left, hugged her new friend goodbye. “Let me know when you get home.  You’d be hard to replace as an assistant and best friend.”

Angela nodded before getting in her car and driving off. 

“Well, now what?” Jenn said aloud to herself. 

She went upstairs and started on breakfast. She watched a bit of the morning news and the Today Show, before getting on her laptop. 

“Let’s find Justin an early Christmas gift,” she said as she started searching the Web. 

After a bit of looking on a few sites, she found what she was looking for. “The perfect color and style, I can’t wait til he opens it,” she said aloud. 

Couldn’t have ordered THAT with Angela here, though…

Chapter 35 

The days flew by, Jenn getting the loft ready, Justin in LA for rehearsals. He called every day, sometimes during a lunch break, sometimes later (even with the time difference).  

Justin was flying in today and she couldn’t be more excited. She couldn’t wait to see his face when he saw what all she’d done with the place. 

Her phone rang. “Hey babe, you at the airport?” she asked. 

“Just landed. Are you meeting me here?”

“I can’t, waiting on one more big delivery. I sent Angie home once I got here.  I got a car for you though.”

“Ok. I’ll see you soon enough. Can’t wait to see you. Love you.”

“Love you too,” she said before hanging up. 

She had lied, there was no delivery, just waiting for him to get home. 

Justin opened the door to their loft. “Wow,” he said, looking around the entryway and family room. Stockings with their names over the fireplace, garlands and wreaths perfectly placed. He walked past the kitchen into the living room. 

“We need pictures of this for your company, Jenn. This is amazing.”  He saw the Christmas tree in the middle of the outer wall, beautifully lit and decorated with beautiful ornaments. 

“It feels like home, but also like we’re somewhere fancy like Rockefeller Center. You did a great job here Jenn,” he gushed. 

“You gonna come over here and kiss me already?” she asked. She was standing under mistletoe in a white silk robe. 

“How COULD I be so stupid? Skipping the most beautiful thing in this house.” He walked towards her, put his hand around her waist, pulled her close, and kissed her. 

“You want an early Christmas present?” she said in a deeper voice. He knew that voice. He nodded with a smile on his face. She led him to the bedroom. There was a box on the bed. His face sank a little bit. Then he opened the box. 

“Was NOT expecting this…” he said, pulling out handcuffs and a satin blindfold. 

“What about THIS…” she said as she took off her robe. His jaw dropping to see her in a sheer red nightie. 

“Ho, ho, ho…” he laughed. “Come sit on Santa’s lap and tell me what you want…”

She sat on his lap. “I want you naked, and to cuff my hands and feet to this bed and ravish me.”

“Oh, I can do that.”

He cuffed her to the bed, put a pillow behind her head, and slowly took off his clothes. He slowly climbed over her, rubbing her thighs before kissing up her thigh. He smelled her, and hummed a moan as he worked his way up her body. 

He pulled down the material covering her breasts to nibble and suck her nipples. She moaned at his touch over her body. He kissed her collarbone, up her neck, to her cheeks and lips.  She could feel him erect against her body. Her breathing was getting heavier.  He put the blindfold on her. 

He massaged her arms, her thighs, before going back to sucking on her nipples. She continued to moan, when she felt a finger brush against her clit. It sent a rush of excitement through her. She tried to buck her hips towards him, but the cuffs around her ankles meant she couldn’t. His rough finger rubbing at her, her body humming with sexual electricity. He moved his finger inside her, stroking to find that perfect spot. 

“God, you’re so wet babe, I love it. I wanna just fuck you right now…” he growled. 

She nodded her head, almost in desperation. “But first,” he said, “my baby needs to come for me.”  

He stroked inside of her, finding the right spot, he felt her tighten around his finger as one orgasm hit. He knew she had more in her. He put another finger inside her, stroking inside her. Her breathing became more ragged, her moans louder. 

His finger returned to her clit, and she grabbed the rails on the bed to help her focus. She could feel it coming, the white hot explosion was rising to the surface. Her moans became brief squeaks and squeals as she gasped for air. She screamed as she crashed from her orgasm. 

He laughed, satisfied with the job he had done. He was only getting started. She felt his tongue at her folds, licking at her juices, teasing her clit. He positioned himself against her, thrust himself inside, and began a fast pace to finish himself. 

Her energy all but spent, she tightened herself around him, making him moan as he kept up his pace. He grabbed her breasts, slowly massaging them as he continued to thrust, getting faster, until she felt him give one last thrust and shudder as he came inside her. 

“That’s all I need for Christmas, birthdays, whatever, that was amazing.” He said. 

She nodded, still bound to the bed and exhausted from his attentions. “Once that blindfold was on, it just took things to a whole new level.”

“Can you imagine Sundaes with this?” he laughed. 

“I think that might kill me. But what a way to go.”

Chapter 36

It was the evening of the 23rd and their parents were flying in. They went together to pick them up at the airport. They took them to the loft to drop off their bags, then went out to dinner. 

It was a good night, and the city was abuzz with excitement for Christmas. They decided to watch the skaters at Rockefeller Center. Jenn talked Justin into going onto the ice with her. People took pictures, but Jenn didn’t care. It was almost Christmas and she was with Justin. Things were back to “normal” for a bit. 

They went back to the loft and watched a Christmas movie before going to bed. It was a perfect first night with the family all together. 

The next morning, Jenn woke up and made French toast for breakfast for everyone, people ate as they woke up throughout the morning. 

Once everyone was awake, they played games and watched more Christmas movies. Jenn, her mom, and Lynn made cookies for Santa. Presents were wrapped in secret and slowly piled up by the tree. It was Jenn’s favorite holiday, and it was a fantastic day. Jenn insisted they watch “It’s A Wonderful Life” before going to bed. Their hearts were full, having family in their new home away from home. 

The next morning Jenn and her mom started breakfast. Scrambled eggs, sausage, and cinnamon rolls. The loft smelled amazing, the guys trying to steal a sausage before they all sat to eat. 

While the cinnamon rolls were in the oven, Jenn and Justin opened gifts from “Santa”.  Simple stuff like socks, candy, and other small items. “Gotta keep the tradition for once there’s babies in the house,” Lynn said. 

“We’re in no rush Mom, but ok,” Justin said, slightly annoyed. 

They sat down to eat and enjoyed the food around the table. For Jenn it was extra special given the last few years. Dad was in remission and Mom had made a full recovery, and she was planning her dream wedding. She didn’t think she needed much else. 

After breakfast they opened the gifts under the tree.  Jenn had bought Justin a watch, with “love, Jenn” engraved on the back. “That way I can always be with you, even when I’m not.” Jenn said. 

“I’ll wear it all the time,” he smiled. 

Jenn opened a small box. It had a ring with their names and birthstones on it, and a set of earrings with stones to match. It had a necklace with matching stones, on a white gold infinity symbol. “You and me, forever,” he whispered in her ear.

“I’ll wear it all the time,” she said. 

Jenn helped Lynn cook dinner- ham, au gratin potatoes, peas, rolls, and salad. They had apple and cherry pies for dessert, before settling in on the couches before bed. The parents would leave the next day, so Justin and Jenn could get ready for a New Years Eve party with their friends. 

…

It was the 30th and Jenn’s girls were flying in for the party. Jenn picked them up at the airport and brought them to the loft. 

“Wow, we thought your other house was great. Look at all this! Did you decorate?” Leah asked. 

Jenn nodded. “Justin thinks I should use it to start my own design company.”

“Well, I can’t say I blame him. If this was anyone else, I’d be afraid to touch any of it,” Kelly said. 

Jenn blushed. “I’m just afraid of starting and having trouble getting clients, or not having time being on tour with Justin or something.  He keeps suggesting I do my own thing, then being with him for stuff, so it’s confusing what he wants me to do.”

“I think he’s trying to give you options for YOU to choose what to do,” Michelle suggested. 

“Maybe. It’s just a lot of pressure no matter what, and wedding planning on top of it.”

“Do you have more wedding stuff figured out?” they asked. 

“September 29th next year, after the US and European parts of his tour are done. We’ll do a two week honeymoon before he does another leg of the tour in Australia. I don’t know if I want to go on the European part, being on the road for 2 solid months…”

“But you’d be in EUROPE with JUSTIN, that’s pretty epic.” Leah stated. 

“I’m still thinking about it.”

“What about groomsmen, anyone hot and single?”

Jenn sighed, “Yeah, about that. Promise not to freak out?”

Chapter 37

“Why?” they asked. 

“The rest of *NSYNC are gonna be groomsmen.”

“WHAT?! FOR REAL?!” the girls were practically screaming. 

Justin came in. “You tell them about the groomsmen?” he laughed. 

“Was it that obvious?” they asked. 

Jenn and Justin laughed a little. “Leah, you’ll be with Trace as maid of honor and best man, Kelly will be with Joey, Christina with JC, and Michelle with Lance. I know there’s not a lot of hookup possibilities but could do a LOT worse.”

“Who’s with Chris?” Justin asked. 

“I’ve been meaning to talk to you about this. Angela…”

“As in my ASSISTANT, Angela?” 

“Yeah. That night you called me and I came out to LA? I was here with Angela, and when I flew out I came back here. We got to hang out a ton and I really like her. Under other circumstances I’d have been friends with her, so I figured why not. She’s close to both of us, so I thought it was a good idea. If I’m going on tour and she’s joining us, it means we won’t be awkward and alone.”

“If that’s what you want, then it’s fine by me. Just no talking crap behind my back.”

“I’ll say it straight to your face,” Jenn laughed as she stuck out her tongue. 

“I know you would. That’s what I love about you,” he said before giving her a quick kiss. 

“Can I just say how glad we are that she found you again, Justin? You still talk to her like that. Wes stopped once he had her.” Michelle said. 

“Well, his loss is my gain. You’re stuck with me, baby.”

“I think YOU’RE the one stuck with ME…” Jenn said. 

Justin leaned in close and whispered in her ear. “Do I have to be rude to our guests and bang some confidence into you?” 

“I was kidding, but I’ll take you up on the offer.”

The girls looked a little confused. “Nothing, don’t worry about it,” she said. She winked at Justin before returning her attention to the girls.

“We’re gonna use the church I went to in San Jose, Michelle and Leah know it. It’s not the biggest in the area, but it can hold like 300 people. Then we’ll do the reception at Villa Ragusa in Campbell. It’s a beautiful space, it’s upstairs so we can manage security well, especially if we use the parking lot on the back side.”

“She’s thought this all through,” Justin said. 

“That surprises you? What girl doesn’t have a dream wedding in her head? Then comes a guy like you to make it all come true.”

“I do what I can…” he rubbed the back of his head shyly. 

“You’re Justin Timberlake, don’t try to be all shy and humble with us.”

“But he can be. That’s the real him, not who we see on TV. He’s confident as hell; but deep down he’s sensitive, sweet, caring, and humble.”

“THAT is why I’m marrying you. You KNOW me, inside and out. Not how I appear to the rest of the world, but who I am when no one else is around. I love you baby.” He kissed her cheek. 

“Alright.  Can we help get things ready for tomorrow? What do we need to do?” the girls asked. 

“I dunno. The lighting people and DJ are gonna be over here. We got blackout curtains for some extra privacy so no one can see anything through. From the outside it’ll look like no one's home. We have warned the neighbors it might get a little loud, not sure what it’s like between floors. This’ll be our first big party here.” Jenn said. 

“Ok, what about wardrobe?” the girls asked. 

“You know my pick,” Justin winked at Jenn. 

“Let’s go look through my closets. We may need to go shopping in the morning just in case.”

They went into the closet. “I didn’t bring much, but I did bring Justin’s favorite dress. It’s my lucky dress, we have sex every time I wear it.  We can go shopping just in case I need something sexier for our last New Year’s Eve before the wedding.”

Jenn changed into the dress. 

“Well, I see why he likes it, but we could find something with a more plunging neckline. One where there’s no way you could wear a bra, could just peel off of you. Man, not only do you have what I can only imagine is mind blowing sex with him, but in less than a year you’ll be married to him.” Leah said. 

“Any ideas where to go?” Jenn asked. “You know I’m more Target Chic than Versace.”

“We’ll find a couple places.”

“I’ll ask Angela, too. She may know some great places without giving away much to Justin.”

She sent a quick text to Angela and got a Swift but short reply- Fifth Avenue. 

“Looks like we have some shopping to do tomorrow…” Jenn said. 

Chapter 38

The girls got up in the morning, made a Starbucks run, and headed to Fifth Avenue. She saw all the major fashion houses. It was like a dream come true, a scene from a movie. They went in a few shops, tried on dresses, but nothing was to the girls’ taste for Jenn. 

They walked into a huge store, and a sales person asked what they were looking for. 

“A super sexy dress for our friend. She’s celebrating New Year’s Eve with her fiancé, so it has to be sexy and perfect.”

“I think I have just the thing. Right this way ladies.”

They were led to a changing area, given champagne, and Jenn put on the dress. She opened the door to show the girls. 

“Before we say anything, what do you think?” they asked. 

“I think Jenn 2 years ago would have felt afraid to wear this. Now, I feel confident. It covers enough that I’m not spilling out of it, but the deep plunge really lets you see the curves. It hugs my hips too, I think he’ll love it. I feel comfortable in it.”

“Oh good, cause you look amazing. He won’t be able to keep his hands off you. Paired with the right heels, this is gonna be his and your new lucky dress.”

She saw the price tag and almost choked. She sent Justin a text.

Found a great dress, but I definitely have sticker shock. 

He replied quickly. If you love it, get it. Anything for my girl.

She still felt a little guilty, but with his final ok she felt better. She still wasn’t used to spending that kind of money on things like a dress. It now made her wonder how much all those dresses he bought for her two years ago cost. 

She purchased the dress, then they went on to get hair, makeup, and perfume for the night. “This way you have your stash of stuff here and in Tennessee. You won’t need to pack it.” Leah suggested. 

They returned to the loft, the girls made sure Justin had his suit and such for the night, then barricaded themselves in the master bedroom. 

The party was set to start around 9. It was close to 8:00 and Justin hadn’t seen Jenn or the girls come out. Jenn was so low maintenance it felt like she would take no time at all, so he was curious what was taking them so long. He knocked on the door of the bedroom. “You almost ready? Are you hungry for something before the party starts?”

Kelly opened the door a crack. “We’re just wrapping up. I guess you can come in, we’re all decent.”

He saw the girls using his side of the bathroom and mirror to get ready, but couldn’t see Jenn.  “Jesus, I feel like it’s our wedding day. Do I get to see you before this all starts?” he laughed. 

“You sure you’re ready? Might want to sit down on the bed just in case,” Jenn warned. 

Justin sat on the edge of the bed. The girls moved out of the way. His eyes grew big as he saw her. Her hair and makeup done, along with the dress. 

“Wow. Just...wow.”

“I thought you’d like it. I owe it all to you, actually.” Jenn said. 

“How’s that?” Justin wondered. 

“A couple years ago I would have been too afraid to wear this dress. A tiny part of me still is. But I feel so confident in this dress, even in front of friends and strangers. You gave me that confidence.”

“I may have helped, but you had it all along. It just needed to be brought to the surface.”

“We’ll give you two some privacy, sounds like this is gonna get mushy. Just don’t ruin her hair and makeup,” Michelle joked as they closed the door behind them. 

“Your real thoughts now that the girls are gone?” Jenn wondered. 

“Honestly, I could care less about the hair and makeup, you’re beautiful without the extras. But you’re right, this dress exudes confidence. I’m glad you bought it. One more thing…” he said, standing up and walking towards her. 

“What’s that?”

“I’m ready to marry you and start on our honeymoon while you still got your dress on. I mean, damn, I just wanna throw down right now. It’s gonna be a long night. I say we kick it off with a quick bang.”

“Not exactly the most romantic words, but knowing it turns you on gets me going. Let’s be quick.”

The girls had had their ears to the door. “That is TOTALLY the new lucky dress…” they giggled in whispers as they walked down the hall. 

Jenn and Justin soon came out ready to start greeting guests. Catering was set up in the kitchen, the bartender at his station, the lighting was perfect and the DJ had started playing. Jenn felt like she was in a club in her own home.

Jenn and the girls danced while Justin chatted his way around with guests. He’d pull Jenn to meet certain people, but didn’t want to overwhelm her. 

Midnight approached, and the DJ announced “all right ladies and gentlemen, this is the last song of 2006, played with a special dedication to Jenn. She looked at Justin and smiled as “Kiss Me At Midnight” began to play. 

“This just might become an annual tradition, just for you.” Justin smiled. She kissed him and they danced their way into 2007. 

Chapter 39

Justin went back to LA to finish rehearsals for the tour. Less than a week until opening night. He was a little nervous, Jenn was excited to really see him in his element. She went with him to LA.  The tour started in San Diego so it wouldn’t be that far and made sense for them to travel together from the start. 

She went with him for the dress rehearsal, being part of a mock crowd along with stage crew and other personnel. Justin had designated a security person just for Jenn, within the VIP area. This gave him the most interaction around her, even indirectly. 

She could tell he was nervous, but she also knew that when he stepped out opening night, he’d be spot on. 

…

They were in San Diego, today was the big day. The stage was ready, they were at the arena waiting for sound check and things.  Jenn had talked Justin into having Angela at all the concerts she attended, at least at first. That way she had a friend as a buffer as well. 

Jenn was surprised how low key things were backstage. “It’s just me up there, not with 4 other guys doing crazy stuff waiting for things. Hopefully that helps you want to be at more shows, especially Europe. I really want you to come. It’s a built in vacation, we can sightsee during the day or on days off.”

“When you put it that way I’m definitely leaning towards going.”

“We have a show on your birthday, I’d at least want you on tour for that.  I refuse to be without you on your birthday.” Justin insisted. 

It got closer to the arena opening to the public. Jenn and Angela went out to look like the other fans there for the show, getting in line for their VIP badges and entry. Both of them had been there for the dress rehearsal, but it seemed different somehow as they walked back in. They got their spot, security was within line of sight as more fans filled in. 

Jenn was excited to see P!nk, she’d been a huge fan. She was afraid to tell Justin and feel like P!nk had an obligation to meet her. If they met backstage she’d stop and say hi. 

The lights went down and it was time for P!nk to come out. She’d never been so close for any concert, so she was enthralled with her performance. She sang and danced and had a great time. They got waters during the intermission, ready to get drinks during key parts of the night. Angela made a list for them for that first night. 

The lights dimmed again, and they put in their earplugs. Being on tour was going to damage their hearing if they didn’t. Fans screamed the second the red lights came up on the stage. He hadn’t even come out yet. 

Once she heard him start to sing, it was like a switch went off. Surrounded by other fans, she and Angela went full screaming fangirl mode. She had full line of sight on him, he could see her screaming and singing along. He smiled and all hesitation was gone. 

She loved that he sang “her” song, “Until The End of Time”, but Angela had drinks in hand for “What Goes Around… Comes Around”. 

“To bad boyfriends and where it’s led us!” Jenn screamed before sipping her drink. She felt like she HAD to drink during any song that was about Britney, she wanted to like Britney but hated what it had done to him. She was glad she was with him now, but felt awkward singing to a song about an ex.

He made eye contact with Jenn throughout the night, flashing her smiles when he could. Before they knew it, he left the stage and the lights came up. They waited until security cleared everyone out to be backstage again. 

They entered his dressing room. He had the biggest smile on his face. “I loved seeing you out there, your energy along with the crowd.” He said as he pulled her close. 

She gave him a kiss. “You did great babe, truly.  I love you, but you smell. Go shower and we’ll wait here.”

He showered and came out casual, dressed in jeans and a t shirt. He could do a full concert and just go back to regular Justin once it was done. 

He reviewed the video footage, picking apart any missteps. Jenn couldn’t tell the difference, but after all that rehearsing she knew he would catch mistakes. Thankfully they were few and far between. 

He had a drink before getting his stuff to head on the bus. He packed his bag and sent Angela on ahead to put it on the bus. 

“Now that we’re alone, you ever want to have sex with a pop star in his dressing room?”

“Honestly the thought hadn’t occurred to me. I’m not usually in this situation. We’ll have to be quick, I’m sure someone will wonder where we are,” Jenn replied. 

“I can do quick, but locking the door does wonders…”

Soon Jenn and Justin were on his bus. She was ready to crash after singing and dancing and drinking. Justin was far from tired but they were on the bus, so he found ways to stay busy as Jenn slept. 

The drive wasn’t long, they were playing Anaheim next. Jenn had the day planned out. She slept soundly that first night on tour. 

She woke up the next morning and they were in Anaheim. Once Angela woke up, Jenn announced, “We’re going to Disneyland!!”

Chapter 40

“What?” said Angela, still waking up. 

“Well, I wanna spend the morning at Downtown Disney. We can grab breakfast, do some Disney shopping before going to the arena. It’ll be fun!” Jenn chirped. 

“I’ve never been, so that actually sounds great.

Just getting close to Disneyland is a start. I’ve never actually been to California before this.”

“Well wait, what time do we need to be back here? Around 4? 5?  The hell with it, we’re going to Disneyland!! Can’t have you just get to the gates and not get inside. Let’s go!”

Justin had some cars reserved for Jenn in case she wanted to go out. The driver drove them to the park. They were like kids at Christmas with sugar. Jenn had been before, but it had been a while. Taking Angela for her first time was special.

They grabbed some beignets in Downtown Disney to eat in line to get inside the park. Angela got a pin saying it was her first time at the park. They went straight for Space Mountain, then Star Tours and the Matterhorn. They made their way towards Pirates of the Caribbean, getting churros to munch on. Then they did the Jungle Cruise and got Dole Whips. 

“So we’re eating our way through the park?” Angela joked. 

“Um, yeah. You know a better way?” Jenn laughed. 

They rode the Indiana Jones ride and Thunder Mountain Railroad. 

“I say we grab a corn dog, do some shopping, and head to the arena.” Jenn suggested. 

They headed back to Main Street USA, going into the different shops. They got matching sets of Mickey Ear handbands. Jenn bought some pins and a lanyard to keep them on, and a princess backpack to keep stuff in during the tour. 

They grabbed candy and snacks, putting them in Jenn’s backpack after paying. “We can stay for a parade or something, I just wanted to try and get as much in as possible so you didn’t miss the big stuff before it was time to go.”

“No, my feet are starting to hurt. It’s been a great day, thank you Jenn.”

They finished up their day at Disneyland and headed to the arena. Jenn took a nap before eating dinner and heading to the VIP check in area. 

...

The show was amazing. It felt like a whole new show. 

“It’s weird how it changes just enough based on the audience,” Justin said. 

“Well, we’re going to San Jose next, I’m excited to get some time with friends. The girls are even throwing me a little welcome home party tomorrow.” Jenn said enthusiastically. 

“Can I stop by, or would that be weird?” Justin asked. 

“I mean, the main girls are coming with me to the show, so up to you.”

“I’ll hold off then, give you time with your friends without it becoming all about me.”

“You’ll be ok without me for a night?” she asked. 

“I’ll manage,” he laughed. 

Chapter 41

Jenn and Justin were in San Jose by morning. It was too early to check in to the hotel, but she wanted to show him around before she left to see friends. She drove them to the church they would have the wedding at. She parked near the church office and they walked in. 

“Jenn! Great to see you!” said one of the pastors. 

“Justin, this is Pastor Larry. He’s our choir director. I joined once I moved down here.”

“She was one of our soloists for a bit, even on the worship team.  You know, it is Wednesday, choir night. It’d be great to see you back for a night. Justin, what do you do?”

Justin was a little taken aback. 

“Justin is a singer, songwriter. He’s pretty good.” Jenn joked. 

“You should join us too then, just for tonight. Unless we can talk you into staying.”  

“ We’ll think about it Larry. I wanted to show him the church cause we’re looking to get married here in September.”

“WHAT?! Congratulations!  That’s such great news!  Sure, have a look around.” Larry said excitedly. 

They walked into the main sanctuary.  “OK, it was weird to have someone NOT know who I am…” Justin said. 

“Larry’s great though. Super friendly. I do miss singing here. The party isn’t til 9, choir is done by 8:30, I’m tempted to go tonight.”

“Would you mind if I came too? Hear you in your element, shine a little.”

“I think it’d be cute watching you sight read the sheet music. If you’re sure, yeah, come along.”

“Ok. You’ll drop me off at the hotel on your way to the party?”

“Yeah. The party is actually walking distance from the hotel, so I’ll just walk there and back. Anyway, I was thinking of candles here on this part of the stage, the piano will be off to the side. Lots of room for flowers everywhere.”

He noticed her voice echoing in the church. “Man, this place has amazing acoustics!” He said. 

“Follow me to the lobby, you should hear in there.”

They walked into the lobby of the sanctuary. “Sing just a little of your part of “I Thought She Knew,” she instructed. 

He started with the opening oohs, got through the first line, and was blown away with the reverb there was just from how it was designed. His eyes got big as he sang. “Damn…”

They left the church to have brunch at a place nearby called The Cardinal. It was a 24 hour diner, booths and chairs of sparkly Ruby red dress plastic upholstery. At night their lounge was open as a piano bar. 

“I’d come here almost once a week, the hot cocoa is amazing. I think I’ll get their Monte Cristo sandwich. If a restaurant has THAT in their menu, I pick that over eggs Benedict,” Jenn said. 

They ordered and ate their food and headed towards the hotel. They parked at the hotel, having the valet park it. Across the street was a long park. Mostly sidewalk, but there was a big section in the middle that intrigued Justin. 

“A couple weeks ago they were still having Christmas In The Park here. Santa over here, Christmas trees decorated by various organizations around the park, but here in the middle was their stage. Dance troops, bands, and choirs would perform here every night. Our choir usually gets a slot on a Saturday night, we have the kids choir come too, it’s a little cheesy but fun. I’m usually only here during that at night, hadn’t really noticed it during the daytime.”

They walked around the perimeter of the park. They got to the south end of the park. Justin was shocked by a statue he saw. 

“Your park has a giant statue of a turd?” He gasped. 

“It’s Quetzalcoatl, a coiled Aztec snake god. It’s supposed to represent the city’s Mexican heritage, but everyone just calls it the poop statue. So to answer your question, yes and no.”

They walked to the western part of the park, and crossed the street towards a giant orange building. 

“This is the Tech Museum.  Follow me, my favorite part doesn’t even require admission,” she said. 

She led him to a giant wall. Within the wall was a series of contraptions and things, using pool balls to go through the various parts. 

“It shows how physics works by setting off different parts. It all starts at the top, goes through the maze of reactions, before ending at the bottom. The belt carries the balls up to the top where they start again. I could watch this all day and not get tired of it. Best of all it’s free to look at.  Where science meets art.”

Justin watched the balls within their course, spinning around, falling and bouncing off of things to land just right and continue their course, looping on tracks. He smiled, watching it like a little kid. “That’s really cool.”

“Down that way is the theater where the city does its Broadway musical performances, there’s a smaller theater over here, and another theater a couple blocks east. There’s a small concert venue on the other side of the theater, and the city convention center across the street. Down this street is a historic theater that now is home to the city’s orchestra and opera company. There’s a lot that goes on in just a few blocks here,” Jenn said. 

“I’ve done shows here before, but never gotten a real tour around,” Justin said. 

“Next time you’re here we should go to the Winchester Mystery House. It’s across town but loads of people say it’s haunted. Her family was rich from making guns for the Civil War, but her husband and child died. She was said to be haunted by those who died from the family’s guns, and she built this huge house to please but also confuse the ghosts. It has twists, turns, doors that open to a brick wall or a 3 story drop. It has beautiful Tiffany windows. It’s really something, it’s world famous.”

“You really love it here, don’t you? You know so much about the city.” Justin was impressed. 

“I lived here for two years before moving back home. My friends took me to the tourist stuff while I was in college. There’s so much more around here, the city is huge, bigger than San Francisco.”

Chapter 42

It was soon time to check in to their hotel room. They got their keys and went up to their room. Their stuff was still with the tour bus at the arena, but they could have Angela bring it all over. They had a late lunch/early dinner at the grill attached to the hotel. Jenn had never been there, despite walking by it whenever she was downtown. 

“What’s the nightlife like?” he asked. 

“There’s some clubs a few blocks down, most are like Top 40 dance music. There’s a dive bar down that way, a comedy club a few blocks northeast of here. You go out in jeans and a hoodie and most people won’t even know it’s you,” Jenn replied. 

They got the car from the hotel and headed back to the church. She took him to a larger parking lot leading to the front of the church.

Jenn and Justin walked back over near the office. Choir had just started as they were doing warmups. Jenn started joining in as they walked down the hall to the choir room. They opened the door, Jenn grabbed music for Justin, and they joined the choir around the piano to finish warmups. Larry sat Justin with the tenors, and Jenn with the sopranos. Larry welcomed Jenn, and the choir welcomed Justin with a singular but loud applaud. “Now you’re in for life, Justin. You’re welcome any time.”

 Justin noticed she didn’t have any music for herself. Each piece they practiced, she knew by heart and sang from memory. She watched Justin listening to the recording Larry would play before the pianist would play it live. 

“Jenn, you had the solo on this last time, would you like to sing it again for tonight?” Larry asked. Jenn nodded and stood next to Larry. He signaled her cue and she sang. Justin had forgotten just how good she was. Karaoke was so different from what he was listening to. Her control, range, expression and tone, so pure and conveying the emotion of the song. He was so proud of her. 

Just as Justin would get the hang of each song, they would move on to the next. She loved picking out his voice when Larry would run sectionals on the songs, helping the tenors learn their notes. He watched her in amazement as she remembered songs after over two years of being away. 

The night ended in prayer. Jenn asked for safe travels for her and Justin and the crew as they toured. She hugged people goodbye before taking Justin back to the hotel. 

“I forgot how good of a singer you are, Jenn,” Justin gushed. “You surprised the hell out of me by singing all that without music, knowing the words and notes after not singing them for a couple years. Like you had sung them every day. Then your solo, oh my gosh. I’m so proud of you, babe.”

Jenn kissed Justin goodbye as they got to the hotel, and she walked the couple blocks to the girls’ apartment. When she walked in, the place was packed with people to see her, there was music, finger foods and a table of alcohol. Jenn poured herself a drink and grabbed some food. She talked with the girls a bit before moving around the room to other friends. She stopped when she saw one familiar face. 

“Hi, Wes,” she said awkwardly. 

She did her best to move on to talk to other friends, but Wes seemed to follow her from group to group, conversation to conversation. She grabbed another drink, then another. She finally gave in and talked with Wes, if nothing more than to get him to leave her alone.

“How are you Jenn?” he asked. 

“I’m great. Glad to be home, it’s been too long.”

“Yeah. I’ve missed seeing you around,” he sighed. 

“How are you? Work going well?”

“Yeah, I made junior partner at the firm.”

“Congrats. Seeing anyone?” she asked, trying to keep up the conversation. 

“Yeah. Nothing serious, but you know,” he shrugged. 

“Well, it was good talking to you,” she said, walking away towards the drink table. 

She met up with the girls getting drinks. She pounded one drink, then another, then another. She hadn’t drank like this since college. She knew she was drinking more than usual, to try and ignore Wes. 

“You HAD to invite him?” Jenn asked. 

“We didn’t invite him. I guess someone here did though. We didn’t tell them NOT to invite him, but figured it was implied,” said Leah. 

“Must have been one of the guys, oblivious to that kinda thing,” Michelle added. 

“Well, I’m gonna drink til he goes away,” Jenn sloshed. She poured herself another drink. 

“I think you’ve had enough,” Kelly said. 

The party died down as people needed to go home to sleep, being a weeknight. The girls were cleaning up when Jenn decided to go to the hotel. 

She walked out of the apartment building, and felt someone grab her hand. “Hey,” she said as she spun around. “Hi Wes,” she slurred. 

“Jenn, I think I need to walk you back. Where are you staying?”

“Fair… the Fair… Fairmont. That’s it, the Fairmont.”

He held her hand as he led her toward the hotel. “It was good seeing you tonight,” he admitted. He got her to the edge of the hotel entrance. “I lied earlier. I’m not seeing anyone. Haven’t, not really, since we broke up. Not gonna lie, it hurt seeing you off with Justin, but maybe tonight was a sign that you should be back in my life.”

“YOU followed ME around the party, not like I was seeking you out,” Jenn said. 

“Jenn, I’ve missed you. I forgot how beautiful you are. Can I do one thing before you go up to your room?”

“What?”

Before she knew it, he kissed her. He grabbed her waist and pulled her into a deep kiss. 

Chapter 43

Her body softened towards his, before pulling away. She ran a few steps away and threw up in the alley. “Wes, what the actual hell?” she yelled. 

“I needed closure. I never got a goodbye kiss.”

“Well, you got one, now GOODBYE! Justin and I are engaged. Did you really think kissing me was going to change that? I may be drunk, but I’m not stupid. Goodbye Wes. Forever. I never want to see you again.”

She walked into the hotel and up to the room. Justin was reviewing performances. “How was the party?”

“Fine. I drank, a LOT.  Like, a LOT.” Jenn admitted.

“Everything ok?” Justin asked. 

“I don’t wanna talk about it. I wanna chug some water and crawl into bed.”

“Jenn?”

“Yeah?”

“I was thinking we could go to that Winchester Mystery place tomorrow. You could show me around. We can go first thing in the morning.”

“Sounds great. Sorry, I threw up outside the hotel, I really just need to sleep,” Jenn sighed. 

“OK. I love you.”

“I love you too.”  He pulled her close for a kiss. She sunk into him, and he carried her to bed. She passed out as soon as her head hit the pillow. 

…

The next morning, Jenn wasn’t the first of them awake. Justin ordered some breakfast sent to the room. Jenn woke up to the knock on the door from room service. She was slow to sit up in bed, her head swirling from last night. 

“Good Morning, sunshine,” he whispered. She made a grumpy face at him. “Just how much did you have last night?”

“I think 6, no, 7 BIG cups,” she said

“Whoa. I’m surprised you’re awake right now.”

“Yeah. Thanks for breakfast. Hopefully this helps.”

“I’m telling Angela you get a two drink max tonight to pace yourself,” he said. “Why drink so much? Were you ever a big drinker?”

“No. Last night? Yes. Drama, lots of drama. Ugh…”

“Everything ok with the girls?”

“Yeah. Someone else.”

“What happened?”

“Followed me, I didn’t want to talk, still followed me, hard to remember everything. I don’t even remember getting here. I was relieved when I saw where I was, that you were here.”

“One of the girls must have walked you back, I’m sure.  Well, eat up and let’s go see this famous Winchester House.”

She had honestly forgotten what had happened last night. That was the most she’d ever had to drink, and it did what she’d wanted it to do. Black out her memory after she’d drank so much. She could remember just a couple drinks in, but not the end of the night. 

She ate her breakfast, slowly. She was still sobering up, drinking tea and lots of water. She had a quick shower and was soon ready to go. Justin drove while she gave directions. It was like she’d never left, giving directions perfectly. 

“So how does this work?” he asked. 

“We buy tickets for a certain tour time. We stay with our guide for the whole tour. You pay extra for access to all the tours. You can just do the garden tours, but it’s self guided and doesn’t go inside. It’s ok, but nothing compared to the tour of the house,” she explained.

Justin bought the mansion tour, the first one of the day. They were led into the gift shop before walking to where the tour started. Justin had on a hoodie and baseball cap to try and keep his identity hidden. When they got to the tour area, and saw it was a handful of people, he eased up. 

“Being here early on a weekday was probably the best choice you could have made, babe,” Jenn said. 

The tour started, he actually enjoyed the house, the detail she put into it just to please spirits. He appreciated the craftsmanship and overall design, even down to getting smaller stairs put in because she was old and short. He didn’t like the shorter doorways though, but he managed. 

The tour finished, and they went to the arena. 

Jenn’s phone buzzed. When can we come to the arena? Where do we go?

“It’s the girls, wondering when and how to get backstage.” Jenn said. 

“They can come any time, down this street here, I think it’s Autumn? There’s a driveway towards the back of the building.”

“Oh yeah. I’ve stood out here after Sharks games to get autographs,” Jenn recalled. “I’ll let them know.”

They got settled in the dressing room, Angela was already there making sure things were ready. The girls were brought in by security, confirming their approved clearance. 

“You girls hungry? I’m gonna hit craft services for some food,” Justin offered. 

“I’ll take some. You know the stuff I like,” Jenn said. 

“Are you ok after all your drinking last night?” Leah asked. 

“I mean, I got home alright, thanks to you.”

“None of us got you home,” they said hesitantly. 

“Well, I’m here safe and sound, so couldn’t have been too bad.”

“I just want to know who invited Wes,” Michelle fumed. “As if he deserved to be there like nothing had happened.”

“Wait, your EX was there last night?” Angela gasped. 

“Aren’t you Justin’s assistant? How do you know that?” Kelly asked. 

“We’re friends. She’s going to be a bridesmaid too,” Jenn stated firmly. 

“Oh god. It’s all coming together. Wes walked me to the hotel. He held my hand so I didn’t end up walking in the street. He said he wanted me back, he still missed me.”

“As if he has any right to be NEAR you.” Kelly sneered. 

“Then, he kissed me.”

“WHAT?!” Justin roared as he walked into the room. 

Chapter 44

“Justin…” Jenn said. 

“Justin, stay calm. Hear her out,” Angela stepped in. 

“Please give me a moment with my fiancée,” Justin asked curtly. The girls left the dressing room. Justin locked the door. 

“Why are you locking it?” Jenn asked. 

“So neither of us can leave til this is sorted out. Now, what the hell happened last night? Why am I hearing it on ACCIDENT as you’re telling the girls?”

“I honestly just remembered. Once they said his name, things fell back into memory. He was at the party. I drank and kept walking away from him to avoid him and help me forget him. He walked me to the hotel. He told me he wanted me back, that he missed me. I told him we were engaged. He gave me a goodbye kiss, I didn’t see it coming. I pulled away and told him I never wanted to see him again.  That should be the end of it. Well, one more thing.”

“What…” Justin demanded. 

“I ran off to throw up in the alley. Then I went up to the room.”  

“You should have told me he was there.” Justin said firmly. 

“I figured the girls had my back and would step in…”

“You had NO idea he wanted you back?”

“No. When I finally made small talk with him so he’d leave me alone, he said he was seeing someone. Only later did he tell me he’d lied.”

“Ok. Well, I want to get a restraining order. That way he can’t come near either of us. He’s not going to try and ruin the wedding and steal you away from me.”

“Woah. Do you not trust me to say no again if he sees me?” Jenn accused. 

“I trust you. I don’t trust HIM. Honestly, would you want me in close proximity to Britney?”

“Justin, that’s actually a possibility given your careers. But while not ideal, I don’t worry about your fidelity and commitment to me. It could just be two of you in a room and I know nothing would happen, because WE mean too much to you. WE mean too much to me. I’ve moved on from Wes, it’s been two years. Why would I throw away what I have with you?”

“Which is what, money, sex?” he accused. 

“LOVE!  God dammit Justin, sometimes it’s like you don’t trust me. I know she burned you deep, but we’ve been engaged for over 2 years. If I wanted a big wedding just for the money, I’d be doing it in LA or NYC, not giving a shit about how much I spend.  I want this about US.”

She started to cry.  “If you really can’t trust me maybe we shouldn’t be getting married.”

A switch flicked in Justin’s head. Well, you did it idiot. You finally pushed her away.  He went into panic mode. 

“Jenn, no, I’m sorry. Like I said, I don’t trust him. I love you so much, I don’t want him bringing drama into what’s supposed to be the happiest day of our life together. Jenn, please. I’m sorry. I was wrong. I love you so much…” Justin pleaded. 

“I know. I love you too. Are we ok now? You trust me?” Jenn said. 

“Always.”

“Ok. Since the door is already locked, how about some make up sex?”

Justin laughed a little. “Anything for my girl.”

Chapter 45

Everyone was back in the dressing room, waiting for the doors to open. Jenn was curious and asked security if she could see the Sharks locker room. They allowed it, under strict supervision. They were on a road trip, so most of their gear was missing. She saw all the names and felt star struck just being in there. After a couple minutes they ushered her out. 

As she walked back to the dressing room, she saw a familiar face. “Oh my god, it’s you. Pink. Sorry, Alecia.”

“You look familiar. You’ve been in the crowd the last couple shows. You here with Justin?” she asked. 

“His fiancée, but yeah. I’ve been a big fan of yours since I saw “There You Go” on TRL. Then you opened for *NSYNC, I love your music,” Jenn gushed. 

“Great to meet a fan. How long you staying on tour?”

“Through Vegas. Then again at different parts of the tour.” She hesitated. “My friends are here, can we get a picture with you? I feel dumb fangirling given who I’m engaged to, but I can’t help it.” 

“You never get used to it, lemme tell ya. Sure, let’s go meet your friends.”

The girls screamed when Jenn brought Pink into the room. They all talked, had a round of drinks, hung out like they’d known each other for years.  Security took a picture of all of them together, including Angela and Justin. 

“Jenn, don’t be a stranger. Justin, you take good care of her…”

“I will,” he laughed. 

“We just hung out with Pink!” the girls squeaked. 

“Jenn, if I’d have known you were a fan I’d have introduced you earlier.” Justin offered. 

“I didn’t want you to feel like you HAD to,” she replied. “I’ve met her, I’ll say hi any time I see her around.”

...

It was time for the girls to get to the VIP line. They got their badges and headed to their spot on the floor. Other fans filled in. People started talking while they waited for Pink to come on stage. 

“I heard Justin’s fiancée used to live here. I wonder if we know her somehow,” a voice said. 

“Have you seen pictures? He should’ve gone back to Britney. He can do SO much better…” another voice said. 

The words hit like daggers to her chest. They had no idea she was even here and were saying terrible things. They’re just jealous, she told herself. 

“Does she even do anything? I heard they were best friends. I mean, was it like, out of pity? Compared to the girls he COULD get, yuck.”

Jenn’s face sunk. She tried her best to keep it together. 

“Hey, instead of dumping on someone you haven’t even met, how about thinking how HAPPY Justin is!  He wrote songs about her, she must be doing something right… You probably hated Britney when he was with her, didn’t you?” Leah snapped. Jenn gave her a look. A mix of ‘thank you’ and ‘please just stop’. 

The strangers' faces snarled and they went to talking amongst themselves in quieter tones. 

Angela took out her phone and sent Justin a text. 

…

Pink came on the stage, rocked her set, ending with grabbing Jenn and the girls’ hands. “I heard some of you are real shit talkers, we got some badass women in here tonight, if you’re gonna hate just go the fuck home.  Good night my badass chicks! I love you San Jose!”

Jenn ordered a drink during intermission. “This doesn’t count towards my two drink limit,” Jenn said to Angela. Angela nodded in understanding. 

Soon Justin was on stage and Jenn and the girls lost their minds. Jenn was so captivated by him being up on the stage, she got lost in it for a while. 

He was getting ready to sing “her” song, when he stopped for a second. “I don’t normally do this, but it was in my dressing room so I thought ‘what the hell’. Bartender, pass me two shots and the item I gave you earlier. I have this rose and a shot for the most beautiful girl here on the floor. 

Jenn raised her eyebrows in surprise. Was he really going to do this with her here? Her face stone walled. He looked around the edge of the stage, pretending to choose a couple girls, before stopping in front of her. Her face suddenly lit up. 

“I’ve found her, the most beautiful woman here tonight. This is for you, and let’s have a drink.” He gave her a shot glass and they clinked them before taking the shot. She hated shots, but for Justin she felt like she could do anything. 

“The most beautiful girl deserves a beautiful song. This one goes out to you.” he said before starting the song. 

She was blushing so hard she could swear the spotlight was still on her. The girls hugged her as he sang. 

“You’re welcome,” said Angela. She showed Jenn her phone. 

Dumbass girls are calling Jenn terrible things like that she’s ugly and you could do so much better/go back to Britney. She’s trying so hard to keep from crying. She needs some cheering up tonight. 

His response said Thanks Ang, you’re a good friend to my girl. Thanks for having her back. I’ll take it from here. 

She put her head on Angela’s shoulder in thanks, watching him sing just for her. 

They drank to the songs about exes, and sang along to the ones about her. 

Justin was about ready to close out the night. “Before I do this last song, I gotta shout out to the girls who inspired parts of it, they’re here tonight. Ladies, I’m bringing sexy back!”  

Jenn and the girls screamed as loud as they could. He sang as much of the song in front of them as he could before making a final lap around the stage to say goodnight. 

Jenn and the girls waited to be privately escorted to the dressing room. When Justin saw Jenn he scooped her up in his arms. “There’s my beautiful girl,” he said. She kissed him, then whispered in his ear, “let’s get back to the hotel so I can properly thank you.”

Chapter 46

Justin packed his bag as fast as he could to get back to the hotel. He and Jenn practically ran to their car and went back to the hotel. 

As soon as they got in the room, Justin all but ripped his clothes off before helping her undress. He was kissing her deep and quick. 

“I mean it Jenn, you were the most beautiful girl there. You’re the most beautiful girl in ANY room.”

“Shut up and lay on the bed. Do as I say,” she commanded. 

“Absolutely.”

She kissed him all over, her hands running all over his body.  Down his arms, her fingers intertwining with his, running down his chest. She kissed him, their tongues dancing as her hand went for his firm cock. She slowly squeezed him at the base, pulling up until she reached the head. Running a finger along the underside, causing his breath to hitch. “Ohh god.”

“I’ll let that one slip. Any talk beyond love sounds and I’ll stop.”

What if I want you to stop so I can start? He thought. No, give her this moment. 

She stroked him firmly but gently, squeezing tight, fingers lightly touching his balls. More moans escaped his lips as her hands touched him. 

“Smack my ass if you want me to suck your cock. Pull my hair if you want my hand to keep going until you have to have me. Make it hurt just right.  When you’re ready to fuck me hard, gently tug my earlobes. 

He smacked her ass firmly, she felt the sting and moaned. 

She stood him up, grabbed his ass with both hands, and took him into her mouth; sucking slowly at first, then using her tongue to play with the underside. She twirled her tongue around the head, before taking as much as she could and sucking faster and faster. He grabbed her hair by the fistful, pulling ever so carefully. She was applying constant pressure and suction, his toes were starting to curl with pleasure. His moans and groans increased in frequency and volume. He removed his hands from her hair and tugged at her earlobes with great speed. 

She stood up quickly, he all but threw her onto the bed and thrust himself inside her. “Can I talk now?” he asked. She grunted in approval. 

“God, you’re so wet even when I don’t touch you. So fucking wet for me, I love it. Grab onto something, I’m so close,” he warned. 

His thrusts came fast and furious. She savored every movement inside her, squeezing him tight with excitement. This sent both of them over the edge in a simultaneous climax. She squealed as he groaned.  He kissed her gently before laying next to her. 

“I’m sorry fans were so petty right in front of you. Know that there will always be haters,” Justin sighed. 

“I admit I hated Britney for the longest time,” Jenn said. 

“Know that as long as we’re together, you are the love of my life and the most beautiful woman in the world. Even if we’re not together, you’re still beautiful and I’m the idiot that let you get away,” he said. 

“You may be an idiot sometimes, but I’m not going anywhere,” Jenn sighed. 

Let’s get some sleep, we’ve got a drive ahead of us in the morning.”

…

The next few shows whizzed by. Jenn tried to do some sightseeing in the different cities before heading to the arena for the show. Every night was perfection to her, even if Justin was being critical of himself. Her input helped bring him back down to reality. 

Soon they were in Vegas, her last stop until flying out to Montreal for his birthday. She had been to Vegas once as a teen, so she never had a real Vegas experience. 

She checked them into their room at the MGM Grand, while he was doing sound check at the arena. She unpacked her essentials and soaked in the tub for a while. She wasn’t used to the constant moving from one place to the next, one hotel room to another. She was better understanding when Justin said most places just became a bed and a bathroom. 

She was glad for the giant tub, able to soak the stress of the road away. Justin came in to check on her. “I figured you might be in the tub. I made sure any room I’m in has a tub big enough for you to soak in, should you need it. If you’re hungry, eat wherever you want, they’ll bill it to the room. Same if you want to get a drink at one of the bars. Enjoy the Vegas experience.”

She wanted to try the buffet, so she looked around and saw what all there was. She could hardly believe her eyes of what was there and how she could have as much as she wanted. She had different pastas and sauces, with chicken in different sauces. 

Then she found what looked like a smaller bar, less busy and flashy. She ordered a Shirley Temple first just because, then wanted a strawberry pineapple daiquiri. She knew she’d have her pick of more typical drinks at the show, so she wanted to have a blended drink for now.

Soon it was time for another show. She knew the set list by heart, as if she was performing with him. The crowd was always different, but he was always the same. She was in awe, always amazed at his talent and love for what he did.  She knew this was her last night on tour for a couple weeks, then for even longer before going to Europe.  She had decided to go and take advantage of the opportunity to travel. 

After the show, Jenn went back up to their room. Justin didn’t bother with cleaning up in his dressing room. He went back to the room to shower and clean up. When he walked out of the bedroom, Jenn was lying on the bed in her red sheer nightie. 

“The gift that keeps on giving,” he chuckled. You best believe I’m gonna take my time.”

Chapter 47

Jenn woke up early the next morning, got dressed, and headed to the buffet. She found what she was hoping for, unlimited eggs Benedict along with other breakfast staples. She piled her plate, had her fill, then went back up to the room. Justin was still asleep, but she made some coffee for him for when he woke up. 

Once Justin woke up and had his coffee, he handed Jenn a hotel robe. There was soon a knock at the door. He had ordered in room massages for them, knowing how much she enjoyed the one in NYC. She was able to relax in a whole new way, and was very relaxed before her flight back to Memphis. 

She was glad to be home, sleeping in her own bed, but the bed felt strange without him. Less than a week til you see him again. You can do this Jenn.

…

It was Justin’s birthday and Jenn was flying into Montreal for the occasion. She was excited to see him again. She coordinated with the band to come out on stage with a cake so the fans could sing Happy Birthday to him. The show was great, but to Justin, having her there was the best part. 

“I missed you so much,” he said. 

“I know, me too.  You were great tonight.”

“Hey, you did all the work…” he laughed. 

“Birthday sex joke aside, I am understanding more and more of this side of you. The performer side, there’s a switch that turns on when you hit that stage. You’ve always been confident, but the energy you have is insane.”

“I’m sure it’ll get tougher the older I get,” Justin mused. 

“Physically maybe, sure, but it just means you become more about the musical side of things than having crazy dance moves. But you’re always going to have that same energy and enthusiasm any time you’re on that stage. It’s really a beautiful thing.” Jenn gushed. 

He kissed her. “Thanks. It’s gonna be hard these next 2 months on the road without you. I’m glad you’re coming with me for Europe, it would’ve been way too hard to go that long without you.”

“Well, it gives me time to get some wedding stuff done. I haven’t even looked at dresses yet. That’ll help me pass some of the time we’re apart. I have my jewelry to keep you near me.”

“I have my watch. I can’t kiss my watch, hold it tight, and make love to it…”

“I mean, you could… but weird.  Oh you mean THAT…” she teased as he started kissing her. 

Chapter 48

Jenn was flying out to San Jose to get wedding stuff crossed off the list. She would be staying with the girls. They met her at the airport, and grabbed lunch to go over logistics. 

“I need a florist, invitations, sign paperwork with the reception site, and the most important part, dresses!” Jenn said. 

“Are you going to have a different dress for the reception? My cousin did that at her wedding last year.” Leah asked. 

“No. I plan on doing this once, I’m gonna get as much wear out of that dress as I can.”

“Before Justin tears it off of you. Not gonna lie, sex with Justin Timberlake for the rest of your all is the ultimate life goal. You’re living the dream, Jenn.”

“Come on. You’ve known him for 2 years, there’s more to him than that. Not saying you’re wrong, but that’s not what I’m marrying him for. Just a REALLY great added bonus,” Jenn laughed. 

“What are you thinking for colors? His favorite- baby blue?” Kelly asked. 

“No, that’s too juvenile. I honestly think he just made that up or because of UNC. He’s an adult now. I was thinking of white, silver, and a royal blue. Touches of it on the dress, thinking in the back along the train, or the edging of my veil. I’m trying to be classy, I’m sure there’s gonna be a bunch of celebrities there, it can’t be tacky.” Jenn stated. 

They drove around to different florists. She didn’t say who the groom was, just that the sky was the limit as far as budget. In Silicon Valley, she could have been part of a tech firm startup that had hit it big. There was no assumption of fame or celebrity, which helped ease her mind. 

They ended the day with an appointment at a bridal dress boutique. They sipped champagne as she figured out what she wanted. 

“It’s a shame you can’t wear a version of your lucky dress, Justin would be all over you,” Leah laughed. 

“Again, it needs to be classy, but comfortable. I’m thinking an A line, nothing frilly. Hides my curves. No mermaid, I feel like I couldn’t walk in it. The shape of the dress will be simple, but the details on it will be what draws your attention.”

She was lucky the shop was able to really help her design her dress more than just get one like thousands of others. She picked pieces from different dresses she tried on and put them into one dress. The sketches looked beautiful, she hoped it would look as good on. 

She tried on one dress. “It’ll look like this, as far as the shape of it, but a little longer train, ruching here, beading all along this area,” Jenn said, pointing to different parts of the dress. “I love the combo of the  ruching and the corset back, it’s gonna hug my curves and hide any imperfections.”

“You’re gonna look amazing, Jenn,” Michelle said. “What were you thinking for us?”

“I was thinking of this style,” Jenn said, holding up a halter style dress with a flowy chiffon overlay. “Simple, but classic. Doesn’t take focus away from me by being too revealing, but you’ll all still look good.”

“Anything for the bride,” the girls agreed. 

They looked through books of wedding invitations, Jenn was starting to get overwhelmed by choices. 

“You got a florist and designed your wedding dress today, that’s plenty for now. Invitations you can do back in Memphis, give yourself time. Maybe go with the moms to get their thoughts. You could talk to Justin about hiring a planner that can help with a lot of this stuff for you.” Michelle suggested. 

…

Jenn went back to Memphis feeling better about wedding plans. She took her time looking at things like invitations, ideas for floral arrangements for the florist, ideas for decorating the reception hall. The Internet made things great to give ideas and send emails to vendors. She showed things to the moms, but they always made sure she had the final say. 

“I may be his mama, but you’re going to be his wife. Whatever makes you happy, makes him happy. Him being happy makes me happy,” Lynn said.  “I’m just excited I get to have you as my daughter in law.”  Lynn gave her a big hug. 

Chapter 49

The next few weeks went by, and Justin was home for a few weeks before Europe. Jenn showed him what she had been thinking for the invitations, reception decor, and flowers. 

“I like the lighting concepts for the reception, is it possible to do something similar at the church? Make it cohesive.” Justin asked. 

“I’ll look into it. If nothing else we have the lighting company do it instead of using what the church has.”

“Have you given any thought to who we could have officiate? That pastor Larry could work.” Justin suggested. 

“I was thinking of someone closer to us, or you at least. Your dad used to be a music pastor, he might be ordained or can do paperwork to be ordained for California.”

“Wow, I hadn’t even thought of that. I’ll think it over. Maybe he and Larry could tag team, if that’s a thing.” Justin responded. 

“How did things go with your dress? I know I can’t see it, but I can still ask..” he joked. 

“The whole appointment was great. They have no idea who I am, who you are, just know I want a one of a kind dress, and let me piece it together. I showed the girls a dress similar in overall style but with what I want.”

“Glad to hear it.  Things are starting to come together.”

“At the risk of sounding stupid, would we be together if I hadn’t moved in and we weren’t sleeping together?” Jenn asked with hesitation. 

“Where is this coming from?” he responded curiously. 

“A friend of mine had her fiancé breaking things off after 2 years together, saying he didn’t ever love her, that they wouldn’t have been together if she hadn’t been interested in a physical relationship. The girls from the San Jose show talked like I was a pity fuck cause of Dad, and that’s stuck with me more than it should.”

He pulled her close. “You know I told you anything you wanted was YOUR CHOICE.  You chose to move in, you chose for us to be sleeping together. Don’t get me wrong, I’m thankful for it cause well, it’s amazing, but it wouldn’t be a deal breaker because of our history. Would I be jerking off every night because of how you turn me on? Yes. I’m in this relationship for YOU, for US.  Anyone else can say whatever they want, but we know the truth. You are beautiful, and you are mine. I choose you every day. You’ve been to shows, you know how crazy some fans can get. I will choose you for the rest of our lives.”

She kissed him deeply. “I love this side of you, the romantic with such deep thoughts and insights. It’s like you could write love songs… oh wait, you do that…” she laughed. “Seriously though, I choose you too. You’re who I’m meant to be with. Does that mean it’s going to be easy? No, these last 6 weeks or so have been difficult being apart. I could easily walk away because it’s too much, be jealous of the dancers with the choreography you do. But when I’m there, watching you up on stage, it’s like you’re performing just for me.”

“The nights you’re there, I totally am. I try to make as much eye contact, direct or in your direction; a hell of a lot more than I do to that part of the crowd when you’re not there,” he admitted. 

“Now that’s just so sexy and makes me feel special,” Jenn blushed. 

“Wanna feel really special?” Justin asked. 

“Always…”

“Nashville is playing San Jose in round one of the Stanley Cup playoffs. I got us a box to watch game 1.”

“You got PLAYOFF tickets?! I love you SO MUCH!!!”  she squealed as she hugged him tight. 

“Mom and Dad can come too. I’ve been in contact with the arena after playing there a couple weeks ago. Told them I was interested in any games against San Jose. They called with playoff tickets so I jumped at the chance for you guys.”

“You’re so thoughtful. I’ll understand if you have to wear a Predators jersey,” she sighed. 

“The game’s tomorrow, so you better give Mom and Dad the good news,” he said. 

Chapter 50

The next afternoon Justin and Jenn picked up her mom and dad and they headed to Nashville for the hockey game. Jenn and her parents had Sharks jerseys she bought while in San Jose during the tour, Justin in a regular t shirt.

Jenn had been to hockey games, but never a playoff game, especially on ‘enemy’ ice. She was recording the game just to see if they got on tv, being Sharks fans and having Justin with them. 

They got to take a special elevator to their box, and food was already waiting for them. The suite was  above the first level, so they had a good view of the rink. They grabbed some food and waited for the game to start. 

Whenever the Sharks scored a goal, Jenn gave Justin a big kiss in celebration. She found out later it made TV. They were on camera a couple of times, along with other celebrities at the game. Playoffs seemed to be when the famous fans came out to watch. 

The game went into overtime at 4-4, then double overtime. They cheered as the Sharks scored the winning goal. It felt odd to be cheering when most of those in attendance were leaving upset, but she knew living anywhere beyond San Jose that would be her reality. 

The event coordinator stopped by their suite before they left, and thanked Justin for coming to the game. “Any time they play next season, let me know and I’ll get tickets.” Justin said. “I wish we lived closer to see the rest of the series, but we’ll watch on TV.”

It was a long drive home.  Dad rode shotgun while Mom and Jenn slept in the back. Justin being a night owl came in handy to get them home safely. 

…

A week and a half later, they were packing for Europe. Justin helped Jenn pack. 

“What am I going to need the black dress for?” she asked. 

“We’ll have some nights off, we can’t go to a nice restaurant in London or something? Go to a museum in Paris?”

“I’ll give you dinner, but I doubt a plunging neckline is acceptable at any museum unless it’s an after hours fundraiser gala.”

“So sue me for trying to find reasons for you to wear my favorite dress. We’ll be there over your birthday, that should be reason enough,” he argued. 

“Fine, I’ll bring it. I just don’t want to stand out at the shows wearing the wrong thing,” she sighed. 

“You’ll stand out at all the shows because you’re beautiful. To the point of distraction. I want to give a great show, but I also want to see you every second of it.”

“Romantic, but excessive. You give me some great performances I DEFINITELY don’t want anyone else to see, those are just for us. Save your focus on me for those performances,” she laughed. 

“Well, expect some quality performances then,” he chuckled. 

“I always do. You always get rave reviews.”

Chapter 51

Europe was a rush from city to city, lots of driving or flying to the next stop. Jenn took as many pictures as she could to remember the trip. The scenery, towns they drove through, hotels they stayed at. 

They were in Birmingham for her birthday. He brought her on stage for the crowd to sing to her, while she blushed the whole time. 

The following day was a rare day off with no traveling. She was treated to special breakfast in the morning at the hotel, some sightseeing and a little shopping. She wore her black dress to dinner at one of the best restaurants in the city. 

They got back to the hotel room, and there were roses and champagne from the hotel, with a note wishing her a happy birthday. 

“Well, how do we end a perfect day and free champagne?” Jenn asked rhetorically. 

“Oh, I think you know…” he laughed. 

Justin poured some champagne and he made a toast. 

“To the most beautiful woman in the world. Thank you for your support, agreeing to travel the world with me, and in a few months be my wife. I’m a very lucky man to have you in my life.”

They clinked glasses and drank. He kissed her deeply. “Now for a very special performance just for you…”

He laid her on the bed, and started a slow striptease for her. Slowly taking off his dress shirt, being careful with each button. She watched him slowly expose his muscular arms from his shirt, looking at his toned stomach and abs. He slowly unclamped his belt, pulling it from the belt loops. Jenn was trying not to laugh at certain points. He unzipped his pants, revealing his boxers. She could see him straining against the fabric. He crawled on the bed towards her. 

He kissed her and whispered in her ear, “you’re the birthday girl, how do you want it? Slow, fast and dirty, a little rough?”

“Yes. Any of that. You know what I like. Just take your boxers off so when I’m ready, so are you.”

“You got it.” he nodded. 

He took off his boxers, fully erect with excitement and anticipation. 

He kissed her, twisting his fingers with hers. He nibbled on her earlobes, sucking them and gently pulling at them with his teeth. He ran his tongue along the edge of her ear, sending a hot jolt through her body. She moaned low and quiet. He kissed her, his hands wandering across her body. 

“You are way over dressed for this,” he teased. He helped her up, slowly unzipping her dress from behind. He kissed her neck and shoulders. They were facing a mirror so he could see her. He slowly pulled down the dress, freeing her breasts from the confines of the dress. He continued to kiss, lick, and nibble at her neck and ears while his hands reached around her and played with her breasts. He cupped them in his hands, barely fitting them within his hands. He massaged them before pulling and rolling her nipples between his fingertips. 

Jenn had closed her eyes, so she wouldn’t have to look at herself, but also to not know what he was doing next. He lowered the dress off her hips, where it fell to the floor. He scooped her up and laid her back down on the bed. He left her silk panties on her, brushing his hand against the fabric. He could tell she was wet with anticipation. Her body bucked at his touch. 

He slowly pulled the panties off with his teeth. “You’ve been a dirty girl, haven’t you?” his voice growled low. She nodded. He flipped her on her side. He smacked her ass, then again. She moaned at the slight pain it caused. His finger touched her clit, firmly rubbing it just the way she liked it. He put two fingers inside her folds, feeling how wet she was for him. 

“God I want you so bad Jenn,” he growled. 

He removed his fingers and slowly sucked her juices from them. He massaged her calves, up her thighs before spreading her legs wide. He kissed her thighs, licking her folds before clamping down over her clit. She gasped in pleasure at the sensation of his tongue on her. He alternated licking and sucking on her swollen button, putting a finger in her to get her g spot. Being penetrated and licked brought her closer to her big orgasm. She felt it coming fast. Her breathing was fast and short, where she stopped breathing to focus on the pleasure she was feeling. She let it build, orgasm after orgasm, until she screamed in release. 

“Oh thank god,” he said, thrusting himself inside her. His pace was slow at first, quickly becoming fast and almost frenzied. He put her legs over his shoulders to get deeper within her. “Open your eyes. See how long we can stare into each other's eyes before pleasure overtakes you,” he instructed. 

She did as he asked, looking into his eyes, feeling him looking deep into her soul as he sped up his thrusts. She shifted just right that he was deep within her and at an angle that all but made her body go limp in pleasure. She moaned loudly at this sensation, sending Justin over the edge. He finished with one final thrust and smaller spurts. He collapsed on top of her, panting for breath. 

“Happy birthday,” he whispered. 

“A very happy birthday indeed,” she breathed. “You really were just a little bit of everything.”

“I tried my best,” he laughed. 

“I do love these private shows, extremely VIP.  I’d attend every night,” she laughed. 

“I’m not opposed. Honestly, this would be a great way to unwind after a concert. It’s just you and me in the dressing room, or rush back to our hotel, on the bus… I’m really on board with this.”

“We’ll see how long it lasts,” she sighed. 

“Well, I’d guess around, oh you mean, aha,” he realized. “Well, I will give my best effort to get an O from you every night.” 

Chapter 52

The rest of the European leg of the tour was amazing. Justin showed her places they’d toured at in the early days on *NSYNC, small compared to the arenas he was filling now. They did other sightseeing, especially in London, with 2 days off between shows to end that part of the tour. 

They had a month of downtime before the next leg. Jenn wanted to go back to San Jose to finalize wedding plans. Justin flew with her, so he could see the reception site and coordinate his security and any extra local security that might be needed. 

When he saw the giant ballroom they would be using, he had a huge smile on his face. “It’s a great space, Jenn. Food, drinks, lots of room for dancing. It already looks grand by itself, but with the concepts you sketched out, it’s going to look AMAZING.”

“Thanks. While you talk with security and the site here, I’m going to go spend a little time with the girls,” Jenn said. 

“Dress stuff?” he asked. She nodded, kissing his cheek before leaving. 

She met the girls at the bridal shop. Her dress was ready for her fitting. They ushered her to a dressing room, the dress in a thick bag. The girls waited with baited breath. “Take my phone, I want a video so I can show the moms,” Jenn said, opening the door for the boutique woman to give them her phone. 

“Ready,” they said. 

They slowly opened the door and she stepped out. The girls audibly gasped when they saw her. 

“That is STUNNING Jenn. Justin is totally gonna cry. He’s not usually emotional in front of us,  but for this, he’s gonna lose it,” they said. 

She turned for the camera to get the whole dress. They could see the details she had talked about along the back and train. 

“It is beautiful, only you would design a dress like this and be able to pull it off. And how your shoes peek through just a little. Now we just need the finishing touches with the veil and jewelry,” Leah asked. 

Jenn tried on different veils before finding one she liked. They would add more details to it to make it hers. She would even custom make her comb piece to hold the veil in place. 

“Justin and I can go shopping for the jewelry, so he can at least see one part of what I’ll be wearing,” Jenn said. 

She texted the video to the moms, then called Justin to let him know she was heading back over to the reception site. “I’m trusting this dress to you girls. I refuse to travel with it and have it get lost, or have Justin take a peek at it.” Jenn said. 

She hugged the girls goodbye as she left the dress with them. She met Justin inside the reception space. 

“Everything figured out for our privacy measures?” she asked. 

“Pretty much. We’ll have tents and barricades up to help along the street, they’ve guaranteed the parking lot will be just for us. I offered to pay extra for it. Our transportation has been arranged, a stretch limo for us and the wedding party to arrive, then add another private car for our exit. It’s all coming together,” Justin said. 

“Two months left, we definitely need to wrap things up and tie up loose ends. I think we’ve got most everything else done. We finalized the food, alcohol, cake, I have my dress and accessories. Just need to finalize my jewelry beyond the wedding band. You and the guys have your suits figured out?”

“Yeah,” Justin nodded. We’ll pick them up here the week of the wedding. We’ve got a few days between LA and here to get them. The guys are getting here 2 days before the wedding. We’ll do the bachelor party the night they fly in so we’re sober for the rehearsal and the wedding. You have your bachelorette party figured out?”

“Yeah. I told them what I want to do, we’ll see if they stick with that or go to the extreme,” she said. 

“Shall we go to the hotel, change for dinner?” Justin asked. Jenn nodded and held his hand as they left. 

“What were you thinking for tonight?” Jenn asked. 

“You leave that up to me. You brought the black dress, right?”

“Just in case, yeah. We getting fancy?”

“Is that a problem?” Justin asked. 

“I guess not, but a lot of our going out has been fancy. It’s been a while now we’ve had a low key night out together,” she replied. 

“It’s normally easier to have privacy in the fancier places. But a little hole in the wall could be just as nice.  I’ll save my night for closer to the wedding. Maybe even in LA since most places are better equipped for that kinda thing.  Let me know where you wanna go and we’ll do low key tonight.”

They got up to the hotel room to change. 

“Well, there’s a diner just across the street from the hotel, or there’s a small Italian place I know.  Burgers, fries, and shakes, or pasta and cannolis?”

“It’s been a while since I’ve had a greasy spoon burger. We were in Milan last month so we’ve done proper pasta recently.”  

Justin pulled on a hoodie and grabbed a hat, his classic ‘hiding in public’ look. Jenn just grabbed a jacket just in case it got cold. They went through the back entrance to the hotel and crossed the street to a 50’s themed diner. Justin got a burger, Jenn got a chicken sandwich, they shared an order of chili cheese fries and a vanilla shake. Jenn quietly sang along to the songs that played over the stereo, Justin just stared off in contentment. 

“Hey, you in there?” Jenn said, waving her hand in front of his face. 

He snapped back to reality. “Yeah, fine. Like you said, it’s been a while since we did much so low key. It’s nice. Thinking of taking a long break after this tour. Be home for most of our first year. Maybe start a family, or start trying at least. What are your thoughts on that last part? I know I keep pushing your design studio, but do you really want that?”

“Well, it takes almost a year to get regular periods back after coming off the shots, so if I get shots for the first 3-6 months, we’ll be a year in before we’ll be able to start trying. If you’re feeling the itch to do something you can always act, do a movie or two. Those usually don’t take that long compared to almost a full year on tour, and the same location every night. I could come with a lot easier. Yeah, the design studio could be great, but I don’t want it to push back having kids. I’d rather push back work than family. I can substitute teach like I have been, still make my own schedule in that respect. If the baby has a rough night I just don’t take a call the next morning, easy as that. I can do design clients individually on the side for fun until the kids are older. I like the idea of you being closer to home for a while,” she smiled, taking his hands in hers. 

“Well, what's next beautiful?” he asked. 

“I was thinking we could walk a few blocks to the improv. See who’s doing a show, even if they’re terrible we can drink til they’re funny.”

“Sounds good, lead the way.”  She took his arm as they left the diner and walked down the street. 

He kept his head down, looking at her to avoid any glances from passers by. The Improv was having some local comedians for the night.  They bought tickets and got a table in the back corner of the theater for privacy and opportunities to kiss without disturbing other guests. 

The comedians weren’t terrific, but they weren’t terrible either. They walked back to the hotel and got into their room. 

Justin kissed her.  “I have an idea for the rest of our night. Get the bathtub ready and I’ll be right in.”

Chapter 53

She started the bath, curious what was going to happen next. The water was warm, but she had no clue whether to get in before him. She opened the bathroom door. 

“Am I supposed to get in now, or wait for you?” she asked. 

“Get in, I’ll be there in a minute,” he answered. 

She got undressed and stepped into the tub. The water felt amazing. She waited nervously. He came in, wearing the same outfit from the night they kissed. Two and a half years later and she could still remember how he looked, soaking wet from the rain, at her door. 

Justin sat down next to the tub, held her hand, and they talked. Big things, small things, anything they could think of. Jenn squeezed his hand. “This is nice. Takes me back. That was such a crazy time in my life, but you came in and made me feel so safe, cared for.” She sighed contentedly. 

“There’s still more, when you’re done in the bath,” Justin said. 

He helped her out of the tub, into a robe, and out of the bathroom. The room was dark, but light from candles filled the room with soft light. There were roses on the bed. Soft music started to play. 

He sat down on the bed, pulling her into a close embrace. “I had very different plans for tonight, but yours were so much better. That’s what my life has been these last few years. Before that night I was seen with different girls, living it up. I didn’t want to settle down after what I’d been through. Then I got that call. You being back in my life has changed me for the better. Who knows, I might still be that skirt chasing guy looking for the next notch in my headboard if not for you. I don’t mean that in a bad way.”  

“I hope not. You’re starting to ramble and put your foot in your mouth, Justin,” she said. 

“Sorry. Long story short, you being in my life has made my life so much better than I thought it could be. You fill my life with love, honesty, respect, and trust. These are perfect for building a life together. As excited as I am for our wedding, I can’t wait for our marriage. If these past few years are any indication, our marriage will be strong enough to handle anything.”

“Justin?”

He nodded. 

“Just shut up and kiss me.”

He pulled her close and kissed her deeply and slowly. They were tender, almost careful. His hands cupped her face, before holding her shoulders and settling around her waist. He laid her down on the bed, slowly opening her robe. He pulled his shirt off, but in between long, slow kisses. He did the same with his pants and boxers, there seemed no rush and urgency. 

His hands went to her breasts, slowly kneading and massaging them, rolling the nipple between his fingers. A moan escaped from Jenn, a smile crept across Justin’s face. His hands slowly traced down her waist, around her hips and back to gently but firmly cupping her ass, giving one slow squeeze. 

It had been a long time since Jenn had been touched like this, there had always been an urgency and passion. This felt familiar, more romantic than straight up desire. Like the first night they kissed, and how she imagined making love would have been like if it had been that first night. 

His hands slowly moved to her thighs, massaging them on all sides, before slowly spreading her legs apart. His fingers slowly traced up the inside of her thighs before one hand was at her core. He slowly traced around her clit, her body almost aching for his touch. Her moans came louder now, her body arching into him to give him a better angle. He rubbed her slowly, carefully, jolting electricity throughout her body in building her first orgasm. His pressure against her increased, but not the slow tempo he had created for himself. 

Jenn felt almost as if it were torture, being touched so slow but yet sending waves of pleasure coursing through her. She moaned his name, need behind her voice. He put one finger inside her, slowly pressing her g spot, the waves increasing in intensity. He returned to her clit, all the while he was still slowly kissing her. Her moans were low, stretched out. He was firm, stroking in slow circles and flicking it with his finger.  Jenn felt the big wave slowly building, the white heat increasing as he touched her, before she was moaning for more. 

“Oh god, Justin, please, please, don’t stop. I need you, I want you, I love you,” she moaned. She shuddered as her orgasm hit, one long, low moan escaping her lips. 

He positioned himself over her, slowly entering her. To feel herself full with him was excruciating pleasure, his thrusts slow and measured. It was only once Jenn begged, “Justin, harder, faster, NOW” that he sped up his pace little by little. He was soon up to his thrusts being fast and deep within her, leaving her moaning for more. 

He could feel he was close, speeding up to give her more pleasure and bring release to his own building orgasm. He moaned low and he quickly thrust in and out of her. He felt it hit like a thunderbolt, over in a matter of seconds. He rolled off of her and onto his back, slowly panting for breath. 

“I honestly can’t remember the last time we made love like that, so slow and tender. It was like I was made of glass and you were afraid of breaking me.”

“I thought since we had a low key night, to go back to where we started, you in the bathtub and me sitting next to it just talking. It only made sense that we make love slow tonight.”

“It was great, very romantic. How I imagine our first time might have been if I let you that first night we kissed.”

“I’m glad the wedding is only about two months away. I can’t wait to be married to you. I have one stop we need to make tomorrow before our flight home. The next time we’re out here will be for the wedding…” Justin said excitedly. 

“I can’t believe you’re so excited about all this,” she said. “I guess most guys I knew getting married were excited about the honeymoon and finally getting to have sex. We’ve been at it for years and just came back from two months traveling Europe. How is the honeymoon going to be compared to that?”

“I have that all planned out for us, don’t worry about that,” he smiled. 

“Can you at least let me know where we’re going?” she asked. 

“I’ll only say to bring a bathing suit. The rest is up to you.”

“Come on! We could go to a ski lodge with an indoor swimming pool,” she said. 

“Fine, tropical and bathing suit.  Now let’s go to bed.”

Chapter 54

Justin ordered room service delivered for Jenn in the morning, eggs benedict as usual. She made coffee for him and soon they were checking out and getting into the car. 

They pulled up to a jewelry store. “I remember you said something about needing jewelry for the big day,” Justin said. 

“Very observant. I appreciate that,” Jenn smiled. 

They looked at bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. She decided on a simple diamond tennis bracelet, and teardrop earrings and necklace pendant. “The dress needs to be what stands out. You know, it’s crazy there’s been very little press about the wedding.”

“Most of the vendors had to sign NDAs I had Johnny send over to them. They don’t get paid if they leak any info. It’s either going to be really quiet, or very inexpensive. Those that didn’t already had something similar. What do you think of selling some of our photos to a reputable magazine so we’re in charge of what is released? We give them details to fill in an article but everything will be released at least 2-4 weeks after the wedding,” Justin said. 

“I guess that works. Hopefully saves us from paparazzi problems.”

They headed to the airport and waited for their flight back to Memphis. Jenn was getting much better about flying, enjoying the flights and her playlist instead of using the playlist to keep her calm. Justin being next to her helped a lot too. As much as she loved San Jose and had lived there, Tennessee was home now. San Jose was hotels or crashing on a friend’s couch now. 

They got home and Jenn flung herself on the couch. “I’ve missed this.  Months of hotel rooms, I finally get to sit in OUR house, OUR furniture. The wedding is basically all figured out, so I can really relax until then. School will start back up soon that I can sub before the wedding, life is slowly going back to normal. I know you have concerts in Australia and such, I’d like to go if that’s ok,” Jenn said. 

“Are you kidding? That’s great! If nothing else we go from the honeymoon, come here to pack new stuff, then go straight to Australia. The press will think that’s our honeymoon until the magazine publishes. I love you being on tour with me, I’m glad you feel comfortable.”

“Kicking myself for not doing  it all those times you invited me to shows. I was there anyway, might as well have spent time with you,” Jenn sighed. 

“That’s all in the past, we’re looking towards our future.”

“And the future looks bright, especially when we rip it in half…” Jenn said. 

Justin gave her a weird look. “WHAT?!”

Jenn shook her head. “JC says that at the beginning of Space Cowboy. Man, it HAS been a while, hasn’t it?”

Justin covered his face with his hands. “I had forgotten all about that line. We didn’t do it live, and it was JC’s line, so I should get a pass on that. I feel like I need to familiarize myself again if you’re going to make *NSYNC references the rest of our lives.”

“You say that like it’s a bad thing,” Jenn shrugged. 

Chapter 55

Justin started pacing in the living room. “It’s not a bad thing, but I’m so much more than just that part of my life. The guys are still important, otherwise I would’ve said no to them being even AT the wedding, let alone IN it.”

“While we’re on the subject of the wedding, can we make sure they don’t play “Bye Bye Bye” at the wedding?”

Justin looked surprised. “Why would they?”

“I’ve been to a bunch of wedding receptions where they played it so the groomsmen could show off their ‘dance moves’ to impress girls. I loved hearing it cause it was *NSYNC, but definitely not the right song for a wedding.”

“Yeah, that’s definitely weird. I’ll make a note of it,” Justin said. 

“Have you heard from any of them lately?” Jenn wondered. 

“Actually, yeah. Gonna have JC and Lance over for lunch or something during one of the LA shows. We can stay at the house, but they’ll come to the arena to hang out. You’re welcome to join so they can meet you again.”

“I know I’m your fiancée, but can I hug you right now? It’s been so long since seeing any of them it’s making teenage me freak out inside.”  Justin nodded and she gave him a big hug and kiss. 

“I’m suddenly worried about how the girls will be around them,” Justin said nervously. 

“I mean, they’ll try and hit on them, not gonna lie. Though they may be in too much shock. Expect the flirting the day of the wedding for sure. The shock will have worn off by then.”

“Remember, Joey’s married…”

“I feel like you’ll need to remind JOEY of that. They know, they won’t care. Do we know if Kelly is coming with him?” Jenn asked. 

“I believe so. Mom is handling the guest list and seating stuff. She’ll know for sure,” Justin said. 

“Any other wedding related stuff?” Jenn asked. 

“I can’t wait for it, I know that. I think we need to practice for the honeymoon…” Justin laughed. 

“I think we have that down well, but practice makes perfect, so… fine,” Jenn joked. 

Chapter 56

The break before the tour started up again went all too quickly. Justin had a show in Memphis, so Jenn and Trace were there backstage.

“Hi Jenn, glad to see you again,” said Trace. 

“It’s been a while,” Jenn said. 

“Ok, something is up. Why are you guys weird around each other? We were all best friends back in the day. What happened once I left?” Justin asked. “You flipped out a bit when I said I wanted to marry her. Did you guys hook up or something?”

“Not exactly. Yeah, we were still close friends. Jenn kept asking about you since you kept in touch with me more. There was a party, you know how high school parties go…” Trace trailed off. 

“No, I DON’T. I was in Europe or on tour here, the parties I went to I was the youngest one there. Movies are the best I have to go off of..” Justin interrupted. 

“Well, someone told me to kiss Jenn, as a joke. I refused but gave in when they started making fun of me. It was quick, but she realized pretty quick it was a joke when the guys started laughing. She didn’t talk to me for a long time. I felt terrible about the whole thing, apologized. I think there’s still some anger there, at least at the guys who made me do it.”

“I felt like I lost my best friend. It was senior year, right before we all graduated. I’d already lost one best friend, then the only one I felt I had pulls a cruel joke. I didn’t want to come back home much and see Trace or those guys and be reminded of it. It made me feel like I was this pity puppy Trace kept around for your sake,” Jenn added. 

“I never should have done it. I felt like you were only friends with me just to stay close to Justin, but that was no reason to go along with the joke,” Trace admitted. 

“You boys were always closer than I was with either of you, that’s why I felt like I needed to be a bit clingy. If I didn’t, I’d lose both of you.”

“Well, can we put it past us so we can be like we were? We’re all adults now, I can’t have my wife and best friend awkward around each other for the rest of our lives,” Justin said. 

They nodded in agreement. 

The dressing room door opened. “Justin, they need you for sound check. Jenn, good to see you again!” Angela said. 

“Angie will be on tour with us through til the wedding. Just makes things easier for us and for her.”  He turned to Angela.  “Jenn will be back for the LA dates through the wedding. I’ve got a couple days between Tacoma and LA that she can fly in before the shows.”

“I’ll confirm dates with you and get flights figured out.  Like I said, they need you for sound check…”

“I’ll be back. Can you guys talk and get back on better speaking terms while I’m out there?” Justin asked, closing the door behind him. 

They just sat there on opposite ends of the couch. 

Trace broke the silence. “Again, I’m sorry, Jenn…”

“I know…”

“I didn’t tell the whole story earlier. They meant it as a joke, that part was true. But I didn’t do it because they were making fun of me…”

“No?”

“Jenn, I loved the attention I was getting from you. I enjoyed having you to myself. At the time, I had feelings for you. THAT is why I kissed you. To know what it was like. Their laughing happened too soon for me to say anything. After you got mad at me, I knew I didn’t stand a chance.”

Jenn stayed silent trying to make sense of this. 

“We can’t tell Justin. I just needed you to know the truth so you’d hate me less.”

“I never hated you, Trace. It just hurt too much.”

“Think we can try again? For Justin?”

“Well, now that I know WHY you did it, I can’t be mad at you.  Friends again. For all of us,” Jenn said. 

They were talking when Justin came back from sound check. “Looks like things are going well.”

They gave each other a look. 

Jenn went to go get food and find Angela. 

“Hey Angela, are there any other dates you think I should come out for? I figure you’d have his calendar.”  

She pulled out a date book. “Let’s see, there’s the 2 New York City shows, you could stay at the loft. I know he’s planning on staying there. There’s two shows in Vegas, we could make that part of the bachelorette party. Go to a show, do a spa day, and the movies you wanted to watch, along with some things the girls thought up.  Want me to talk to the other girls about that?  Then of course there’s LA and San Jose.”

“New York City and Vegas are definitely doable. Check if the girls wanna do Vegas for the bachelorette party.  Then be back for LA on.  We’re getting down to the wire. I guess part of me is worried, but I’m just so excited. We’ve basically been married since I moved in, together a lot of the time, but soon it’ll be official. Do you know where our honeymoon is?”

“I do not, he has that taken care of. I help with business related travel. Like if you show up he may want to suddenly fly to the next stop instead of take the tour bus to get more time with you.” Angela said. 

“Is that a pain? I’m sorry,” Jenn apologized.

“It’s my job, sometimes it gives me something to do. It usually gives me a few hours to see what I can get in the way of tickets. I’ve dealt with worse.”

“Are you bringing anyone to the wedding?” Jenn asked. 

“No. Single right now, and sitting with you guys or at least the bridal party would be lonely for whoever I did bring.”

“Maybe you’ll meet someone there. Pretty sure we have over 300 people coming. The church can hold around 400 I think, our reception space around 600.”

Jenn felt a familiar hand on her waist. She looked and saw Justin by her side. 

“What are we ladies talking about?” he asked, kissing Jenn on the cheek. 

“Wedding stuff,” they answered. 

“Love it. I’m gonna go find Trace, groom/best man stuff.  See you in a bit?” Justin asked. 

“Does he seem way too happy about getting married? I feel like something’s up. He’s not always great with secrets. What if he’s freaking out and way overcompensating?” Jenn started freaking out. 

“Jenn, stop, stop.” Angela snapped his fingers. “He loves you, you know that. We both know when he freaks out, he does NOT hide it. Neither do you.  Everything is fine. There’s six weeks til the wedding. So far as I’ve seen in the tabloid type stuff, they don’t know much. They’re expecting a long engagement, at least until he’s done with the full tour. Everything I’ve seen said nuptials are expected in December or even next year to allow for the holidays. They also expect somewhere big. They figured LA after seeing you in that boutique. Maybe do a little wedding related shopping in LA to keep throwing them off. As  long as no one slips, we’re good.”

“Come on, let’s get back, it’s almost time to go out to the VIP area. Thanks, Angie.”

The show went well, it was a great start to the final leg of the US tour. Once it was over, Justin and Angela got on the bus and headed toward the next stop. 

Jenn’s phone buzzed. See you in NYC. Fly in the day before we get there and surprise Justin at the loft. I’ll give you more info soon. Angela

Jenn couldn’t wait for the next time she saw them. 

Chapter 57

Jenn boarded her flight for NYC. Justin had a show in New Jersey that night, they’d likely make the drive to NYC straight from there. Angela would text her to confirm. She hadn’t been there since the holidays, so it would be nice to freshen things up before he arrived, make it feel like home. 

She settled in, ordering take out and watching tv for a bit. She then used their little gym and went for a run on the treadmill. Need to fit in my dress, she thought. 

Jenn’s phone buzzed. It was Angela. They were boarding the bus and heading for the Garden. Justin would be home likely within the hour. She began to get ready. His favorite food and drinks were in the fridge, a bottle of tequila by his bedside, the cuffs on the bed. 

Her phone buzzed again. Just dropped me off at the hotel. ETA 10 minutes. 

She lit candles and started the bath. She turned on some music. 

Justin opened the door to the loft. It looked different somehow. He headed towards the bedroom when he heard the music. 

“Hello? Jenn, PLEASE tell me it’s you…”. 

He walked carefully into the bedroom. He smirked when he saw the tequila and cuffs. “Yup, it’s her.”  He felt calmer already. 

“Hello,” he said slowly, stepping into the bathroom. “Interrupting anything?”

“Not at all. Thought I’d surprise you,” Jenn said. 

“You worried me for a bit, but a very nice surprise. Am I joining you, or what?”

“I mean, if you want. You can see my plans were for the bed, but I’m flexible.”

He chuckled. “That you are… I’ll be right back. I’ll be on the bed when you’re done.”

She got out of the bath, dried herself off, and put on her robe. She walked over to Justin sitting on the bed, straddled over his lap, and started kissing him. He soon moved so she was lying on the bed, and moved to start cuffing her to the bed. Once she was secured, he walked to his bedside table, poured himself a shot, and drank it down.

He put the blindfold on her. He started kissing her, his hands running all over her body, giving her goosebumps at his touch. 

“It’s been too long,” she said. He chuckled in agreement. 

She heard something familiar but couldn’t place it. It wasn’t until she felt it that she knew what it was. 

Ok Jenn, keep it together, this is about to get INTENSE, she thought to herself. 

Justin slowly licked the chocolate syrup he’d put on her collarbone, kissing the area once he was done. He put more on her breasts, especially her nipples. He licked and sucked with aching precision. Jenn started to moan. He kissed down her stomach before putting chocolate syrup there too, licking up every drop.

He went back up and started licking and nibbling her earlobes. She heard him squeezing more chocolate, but didn’t feel it on her. She opened her mouth to moan, and quickly found Justin putting his hard cock in her mouth, covered in the syrup. She raised her eyebrows and did her best to lick and suck him clean, being blindfolded and handcuffed. He began to moan feeling her sucking on his shaft, tongue twirling around the head. He removed himself and kissed her, using his fingers to rub against her clit. She could barely move in the cuffs, her hips struggling to give him the access she wanted. 

Still touching her, he kissed up one thigh, then another. He then changed his fingering to rubbing her clit and being inside her. “Oh god,” she moaned loudly, sharply sucking in a gasp of air. He paid close attention to her breathing, listening for every hitch. He knew she was close. When her moaning became like quick squeals, he moved and began to suck on her clit. Within seconds, she screamed as she climaxed, seeing nothing but bright white within her blindfold. 

He readied himself and thrust into her, getting fast and deeper, listening to her breathing as his pace. He kissed her as he thrust, speeding up his pace. She sensed he was close, tightening herself around him. He continued his thrusts, soon hitting his climax and collapsing onto her with gasping, panting breaths. 

“I’m dead. You’ve murdered me,” Jenn said. Justin laughed as he caught his breath. 

“You can surprise me any time you want. I know it’s been like a week apart, but any chance to see you is worth it,” Justin said. 

“Yeah. Can you uncuff me now? It’s starting to hurt.” Justin quickly undid the cuffs and she pulled herself close to him. 

“Just over a month til the big day. You getting nervous?” Justin asked. 

“Not really, is that weird? I mean, I worry about little things, but not about us. The whole ‘one penis for the rest of your life’ line? I have no complaints on this being the only one forever. Though saying that out loud just sounded weird, even as a compliment. And suddenly made me worry about the other side of that comment, me being the only woman you sleep with for the rest of your life. Ok, now I’m starting to panic.”

“I fuck you six ways to Sunday and you’re really worried I’ll want ANYONE else?  I guess I’ll just have to prove it to you over and over.  I like a challenge,” he said. 

“Sorry, but it’s YOU. Almost every woman in the world wants you. You could do a music video with naked women…”

“And I’d only see you. Every night you’re in the crowd, everyone else is a blur. I’m marrying you because I want YOU for the rest of my life. I spent too much time away from you when we were younger, I don’t want to lose you now.”

“Even when I’m pregnant and as big as a house?” Jenn asked. 

“To quote one Chandler Bing, you could balloon up or shrink down and I would still love you.  I’m sorry for whatever has made you feel you don’t deserve that, because I’ll never stop loving you.” He held her close, rubbing her back and kissing her head. 

Chapter 58

They spent the next two days together at the loft and at the Garden for the shows. He did his best to make her feel like she was the only one in the crowd. The time passed too quickly for them, and before they knew it he was off to the next tour stop. She knew she’d likely see him in a couple weeks in Vegas, but made sure to keep it a surprise. 

She called Leah to talk about wedding stuff.  “Hey maid of honor! Any word on if we’re moving my bachelorette party to Vegas?”

“Well, about that. I was talking with the bridesmaids and we think Vegas should be just for us, then another bigger one with friends, old coworkers, etc. here in San Jose. We’re all totally ok with seeing Justin at both places as part of the festivities. As for the rest, you’ll have to wait. How’s everything, where are you?”

“I’m at the loft in NYC. I go back to Memphis tomorrow. I like it here, but it’s too busy for me by myself. Being home will help me relax as much as possible til Vegas and then LA and on with Justin. Then it’ll be the wedding, so it’ll go by quick. I can’t believe it’s been almost 3 years since he showed up at my door and this all started.”

“And soon you’ll be Mrs. Justin Timberlake. I mean, has it really sunk in yet? You are gonna take his last name, right?” 

“Shit…”

“What?” Leah asked worriedly. 

“The ONE thing we forgot is probably the biggest deal and could cause a huge info leak…. Shit, shit, shit…”

“WHAT?!”

“We haven’t gotten the marriage certificate application. That has to be done in the county you’re getting married in. Bride AND groom have to be there. It’s a public records office, how are we going to hide Justin?!”

“Jenn, calm down. Is there time to come up between the LA shows and the San Jose show?  Or maybe ask Angela if there’s a day they need for travel by bus that he can fly in, get this done, then fly out again the same day?”

“I’ll contact Angela and check, she has the tour itinerary and all that. Shit…. I gotta call her now so we can figure this out. Love you.”  Jenn hung up, frantic. 

She called Angela, but no answer. She called Justin hoping to just get a hold of someone. 

“Hey babe, you miss me?” he asked. 

“Yes, but that’s not the reason I called. Is Angela around?”

“Yeah, why?”

“I realized I forgot something BIG for the wedding…” she said. 

“You didn’t forget you were married like the last episode of Bones, did you?” Justin laughed. 

“No. This is serious. We don’t have the marriage license application. We have to go in person, both of us, to San Jose to apply or the marriage won’t be legal. I’m afraid we’re going to blow our cover. How do we hide you at a county office?!”

“Calm down, we’ll figure this out. I’ll look over the schedule with Angela and we’ll find a day. I know I have some time off that we’ll find a day. And I’ll just dress like when we had our low key date, hoodie on, hat low to hide my face.  I love you. It’s all gonna be ok.”

“Love you too. Thanks, hearing your voice and knowing you have a rough plan helped relax me,” Jenn sighed.

“Glad I could help. Talk to you soon.”

“Bye baby,” she said before hanging up. She felt better, but knew it wouldn’t be fully better until they were there. 

Chapter 59

Two weeks passed by since she’d last seen Justin. Her daily routine involved a veggie scramble for breakfast, an hour in the gym in the morning, salad for lunch, another hour in the gym in the afternoon, and a rotation of chicken dinners. She became obsessed with fitting in her dress and looking as good as possible for the wedding. 

She packed her bag for Vegas. A bathing suit in case they hit the pool, clothes for clubs and Justin’s shows, and a couple other outfits just in case. She headed to the airport and was soon on her way. 

Leah had coordinated with Angela to make sure they weren’t at the same hotel as Justin. The girls had two rooms that had a door between. They had dinner at a fancy restaurant on the strip, Jenn had chicken and a salad. 

“Come on Jenn, it’s your bachelorette party. Live a little!” the girls told her. 

“I gotta make sure I fit in my dress,” she replied. 

“You look like you’ve lost 5-10 pounds, I think you’re ok to splurge. You’re definitely drinking this whole trip.”

“Fine. What are we doing after this?” Jenn asked. 

“Figured we could hit the pool, work on some natural tan, drink, and hope guys hit on us. Those of us that are single anyway,” Leah said.

The girls went back to the rooms and changed for the pool. Jenn brought a book and her iPod to listen to. They sat on lounge chairs down by the pool. 

“When do we get to surprise Justin?” Jenn asked. 

“I know he’s your fiancée, and I can get us backstage with my credentials and yours, but let’s enjoy some girl time first,” Angela said. 

“How do you have today off?” Jenn asked. 

“Justin knows your bachelorette party is going on, but has no clue where. I’ve been radio silence since last night when we all got here.  He’ll be surprised for sure. Now let’s get some drinks!” Angela cheered. 

The girls put a little veil and silver beads on her so people knew they were a bachelorette party. Their drinks came, then a second and third round as gifts of strangers at the pool. Some guys came up and chatted with the girls. At that point Jenn put her headphones in. I’m so glad I’m done dating. Guys hitting on you just trying to get in your pants, she thought. The guys bought another round of drinks for them. Jenn remained disengaged from the girls. 

“Well, I guess we can get dressed and head to the show. Jenn won’t be happy til she sees Justin,” Kelly said. 

They got back to their rooms, changed into outfits for the show, got in a limo Angela had arranged, and headed to the venue. 

“After the show we’re going straight back to the hotel, we have more stuff to do,” Leah said. 

They got to the arena and stopped outside the entrance. Along with her veil they gave her a “bachelorette” sash to wear. They headed in and went with the other VIPs to the staging area. Thankfully the other people let them go first to walk into the arena and to their spot. The bar was open so a couple of the girls got drinks for the group. They toasted to Jenn and the wedding when Jenn interrupted. 

“Guys, I don’t feel so good…” she moaned. 

“Hit your liquor limit already?” Michelle asked. 

“I don’t know. I feel dizzy, I’m seeing spots and…” 

“Oh my god! Jenn!  JENN!”

Angela ran as security called for backup. 

She threw open the door. “Justin! Jenn passed out!”

Chapter 60

“WHAT?! When did you get here? Never mind, where is she?!” he asked hurriedly. They ran toward their spot on the floor. 

Jenn had been taken backstage by the medics to give her some air. The rest of the girls had been told to stay put while they attended to Jenn. 

Justin ran to Jenn. The medics tried to keep him back. “She’s my fiancée, I need to make sure she’s ok.”  They allowed him closer while they evaluated her. 

“Jenn, are you ok?” he asked frantically 

She was conscious and said, “I’m sure I’ll be fine.”

The medic asked what all she’d eaten today. “An omelet, chicken and salad, and a lot of drinks because, well, it’s my bachelorette party.”

“What do you normally eat?” the medic asked. She responded with her scramble, salad, and chicken, along with her two hours in the gym every day. 

The medic spoke to Jenn and Justin. “I think she’s dehydrated from today, but also needing more in her diet. Miss, you’re barely eating by the sound of it, then pushing yourself with the workouts.”

Jenn looked at Justin. “I just want to fit in my dress and look great for you…”

He held her close. “You don’t need to starve yourself though to do that, Jenn. I knew something was off when I saw you. Please eat more, I’m sorry you suddenly feel pressure about this. Our wedding will be perfect as long as you walk down that aisle to me. Please take care of yourself.”

He whispered in her ear, “We’ll go to San Jose next week for everything, please stop all this stress about fitting in your dress. I love you.”

They gave her some Gatorade and food from craft services to get her strength up. “Be careful to not overdo it on the drinking tonight,” the medic suggested. Jenn nodded. “Drink lots of water too after the Gatorade.  She can go back out once she feels well enough.”

“We have plenty of time before I go on for you to stay back here and relax a bit,” Justin said. “I’m glad you’re here though, it’s a nice surprise now that I know you’re ok.”

“Yeah, this blew our cover. We weren’t planning on you seeing us until you got out on stage,” Jenn sighed. 

“I just don’t understand where this pressure to lose weight before the wedding came from. Lose too much and they won’t have time to alter it again. You were perfect the way you were when I saw you two weeks ago. Please go back to how you were before, I don’t want to worry about your health. It’s bad enough I have pressure on me because of this business, I don’t want you feeling that too.”

“I guess knowing our pictures are going to be in a magazine made me feel I have to be perfect. I know people are going to find something they don’t like, but I don’t want it to be my weight or how I look in my dress.”

“Jenn, just because you’re marrying me doesn’t mean you have to do ANYTHING for my fans or anyone else. You want to look good for me? Be yourself, the beautiful, caring woman I’ve fallen so deeply in love with these last three years.”

“I think I’m ready to get back out there with the girls. I love you,” Jenn said. 

“I love you too. See you out there. Drink water, I can send food to you too if you need it. Just let Angela know and the bartenders can radio for it.” He kissed her before she headed back towards the crowd. 

…

The lights dimmed before Justin went on, Jenn put her earplugs in, and the crowd went wild. 

“Please tell me we’re doing this instead of a stripper,” Jenn said. “This is a much better show in my opinion.”

“No stripper, but wait til we get back to the room for the rest of your party,” said Leah. 

He made eye contact with them a lot before reaching a stopping point in his show. He grabbed a shot glass. 

“I see we have a bachelorette party in the VIP section tonight,” he said to the crowd. The girls screamed, the crowd cheered. 

“Congratulations, I’m sure he’s one very lucky man. I wish you a lifetime of love and happiness,” he said, crouching down and briefly holding her hand. He took the shot and continued on with the show. 

The girls had a great time, especially with his acknowledgment from the stage. They went back to the rooms to continue the bachelorette festivities. 

Chapter 61

“Now I know we didn’t throw you a shower because you have everything you need, so we’re doing this instead. All the girls, even ones not here tonight, were given something to buy you for you and Justin to enjoy. Hopefully most of them you will.”

Jenn opened a small box first. Inside she found an assortment of edible lubes. “It’s more the edible part,” Kelly said, raising her eyebrows suggestively. 

Another small box included massage oil, lotion, a blindfold, and silk scarves. 

Another box contained fur lined handcuffs. Well, these might hurt less, Jenn laughed to herself. 

Another box contained a bra with removable nipple covers and a few pairs of crotch less panties. 

“I’m sensing a theme here…” Jenn joked. 

The final box was a big one. There was a long, white semi sheer nightgown, a white bustier, sheer nighties in black, white, dark green, royal blue, and baby blue, and a white silk robe. 

“Call this your honeymoon survival kit. Though we really should have included chafing cream and Gatorade too. I bet you’ll hardly ever leave the room,” Leah said. 

“Thanks girls, I’m sure we’ll put these to good use,” Jenn laughed. 

“Justin’s my boss, so if you’re gonna talk about sexy details I really need to go to the bathroom or balcony so I can remain professional. Personally, I wanna know, but the need for a paycheck is pretty strong right now,” Angela said, leaving the room. 

“Ok, seriously, what’s he like in bed? We’ve heard the rumors, but tell us EVERYTHING…”

“Not everything, there should be some mystery. No specifics on him, but he’s the most amazing lover I’ve ever had,” Jenn gushed. 

“You’d only been with 2-3 guys before him…” Michelle said. 

“All of them COMBINED never did what he does to me. Even if it’s a quickie, he makes sure I go every single time. He is a GOD. I’m quite sure he’ll want to use all of this and more on the honeymoon.”

“Oooh, there’s more huh?” Leah asked. 

“Ok, I think that’s enough to whet your appetites.  One last thing, some of those dance moves he does on stage are things we’ve done in bed. That leaves you to guess which ones, and I’ll never tell,” Jenn said. 

Jenn grabbed Angela and brought her back in. 

There was a knock at the door. 

“I thought you said no strippers…” Jenn said worriedly.

“No strippers, just pizza,” Michelle said. “We end the night with two cinematic classics- Model Behavior and On the Line.  You get cheesy rom-coms, we all get eye candy that is Justin, Lance, and Joey.”

The girls all slowly fall asleep on the beds, until Jenn is the only one still awake. Curious, she gets out her phone. 

You awake? she texts Justin. 

Yeah, surprised you are. How’d the rest of the party go?

They got us stuff for the honeymoon, then we watched movies and ate pizza. 

I’m excited to see what they gave us and use it on you or take it off you…

I wish our hotels were closer, it’s making me want my own private strip show. 

In good time, babe. They fly back tomorrow and you’ll be all mine after the show. 

I’ll bring the kit, get in some practice. 

No, I want you to save that for our wedding night. I already have ideas forming. 

That’s my man. Always trying to pleasure me. 

Always. Night babe, I’ll see you tomorrow. Love you Jenn. 

Love you too Justin. 

She finally fell asleep and slept in the next morning. 

…

“Rise and shine, bride to be,” the girls teased.

“I mean, we could do brunch without her if she really wants to sleep…” Michelle suggested. 

“Ugh. Fine, I’ll get up. I was the last one awake so I didn’t exactly sleep well. I’m not getting a mimosa, I’m getting MY brunch cocktail. I can’t stand orange juice, the only reason I drink mimosas is for the champagne.”

They got dressed and headed to a restaurant. They ordered food and drinks. Bloody Marys, mimosas, but Jenn’s order caught them a little off guard. 

“I’ll have the eggs Benedict, and to drink can I get pineapple juice and rum?”

The server was surprised, that wasn’t usually a drink order they heard for brunch. 

“A friend of mine learned about it on her honeymoon and it is delicious. I almost want to make it my go to drink, but I love my Midori sours too much to leave them behind. I don’t even drink all that often except during the shows or special nights,” Jenn said.

The girls talked as they ate and drank. Jenn was feeling like herself again, but still conscious of fitting in her dress. Justin’s words stuck with her though to not stress about it so much. 

Soon the girls were heading to the airport, while Jenn and Angela headed to the concert venue. Justin kissed Jenn as she walked into the dressing room. “Thanks for helping take care of her, Angie. I appreciate you getting me last night. Anyone else in the crowd, and I’d expect you to tell me after a show if something happened. With Jenn, you knew I needed to know her safety more than keeping your being here a secret.”

“Just think, if I wasn’t a bridesmaid, I might not have known. Security might not have told me who it was, they called medics but that was it. So  it’s a good thing I’m friends with Jenn.”

The concert was another great show. Jenn never got tired of watching him perform. She wished she could be at every show, but touring isn’t for her. She liked to travel, but the constant being on the go was too much for her. 

Jenn went with Justin to his hotel room before they both left in the morning. 

“You still wanting a strip show tonight? It’s ok if the moment has passed,” he laughed. 

“From you? You bet,” Jenn chuckled. 

Chapter 62

She sat on the edge of the bed ready to watch. He started by slowly unbuttoning his shirt, slowly pulling it off each arm, running his hands over his muscles. He slowly pulled his t shirt off, showing his abs and pecs. He stepped closer to her. Close enough to kiss her, but resisting. He put her hands on his chest, sliding them down to his belt. He slowly unclasped his belt, removing it and swinging it around. 

“I’m not sure if I should laugh or be turned on,” Jenn said. 

“It’s ok to do both. As much as I dance on stage, I don’t do this very often. You strip for me, or we strip each other, but not like stripper style stuff. I’m making this up as I go,” he admitted.

She motioned for him to continue. He undid the fly on his pants, slowly revealing his boxers. He rubbed against her, his cock straining against the fabric. 

“Now for what would get a stripper fired,” he chuckled.

He slowly stripped Jenn to her bra and panties, grinding against her as he did. He picked her up, wrapped her legs around his waist, and began to grind against her, pushing her up against a wall to give him leverage. He buried his face in her cleavage, nipping at her exposed flesh. She moaned feeling him pressed against her. 

“You want it like this or on the bed?” he asked between breaths. 

“I’m up for anything,” she breathed. 

“I’ll hold you to that,” he chuckled. 

He unhooked her bra and sucked her breast, still grinding against the wall. She moaned as he pressed against her clit through the remaining clothing. He carried her to the bed, pulling her panties off with his teeth. She could see the hunger in his eyes. 

She quickly moved to be on her hands and knees. “Smack my ass Justin!” He swiftly complied. “Again.”  He complied. “Harder!” He complied. She got up on her knees, pulled him close, and whispered, “finger my clit while I suck your dick. We’re going to finish with you fucking me against the wall.”  He nodded. 

They got into position. She began sucking on his cock, up the underneath, around the head.  He struggled fighting his urge to lick her folds. He could smell her scent, using that as fuel to follow her command and not go his own way. They both moaned, hers humming around his cock, causing him to moan. He could hear every hitch in her breath. He knew she was ready. 

He quickly turned, picking her up, and getting her against the wall before entering her. Soon, his body filling her within, and brushing her clit, sent what felt like lightning through her. She was screaming, clawing at his back as she came, and he wasn’t far behind. They kissed deeply but quickly as they gasped for breath coming down from that high. 

“We need to do that more often,” she panted.

“Agreed. What I LOVED was you taking charge. You knew what you wanted and took control. I know there’s a lot of back and forth with that, but tonight it was just so damn sexy. I love when you tell me what you want, especially if it’s me doing things to you.”

“Totally off topic, but do you have a date for when we’ll go to San Jose for the marriage license?”  Jenn asked. 

“Yeah, we can do the 9th. I’ll have finished a show, then go to LA. I have some stuff in the studio for a collaboration, so using that time before the LA shows for that. We can fly to LA together, I’ll be home for dinner, and remember that afternoon with JC and Lance.  Now, can we get back to me doing dirty things to you?”  

Jenn laughed. “I mean, if we have to…”

“I feel like you’re so much more confident in the bedroom than most anywhere else. Even when it’s just us. There’s a lot of insecurity that I wish you could shake off compared to who you are when we’re making love. It’s like you know you turn me on, then go to wondering if that’s enough for the rest of my life. The closest I’ve ever seen you to being that confident outside the bedroom was when we did karaoke. It’s like a switch flipped inside you. We’re more similar than you know. Maybe it’s the performance aspect, being someone you don’t THINK you are, but it’s there all along under the surface.  That confident side of you is so sexy and I wish you felt that way all the time. 

“You’d never keep your hands off me...” 

Justin chuckled. “That’s a bad thing?”

Chapter 63

Jenn was at the airport ready to fly to San Jose. She’s coordinated with Jenn to get flights coming in around the same time. Her flight came first, which was easier to hide Justin. She waited at his gate so once he got off the plane they could go together. The airport was less than 10 minutes to the County Offices they needed. They checked in and waited for someone to be available. They were given paperwork to complete and return to a clerk. 

“Well, the big question, are you becoming Mrs. Jennifer Timberlake?” he whispered. 

“Uh, yeah. I could see if it was the other way you’d be hesitant, but I have nothing to lose by taking your name. I took a class at Berkeley taught by a hard core feminist. She said taking a husband’s name gives up your identity. I don’t think that’s true. It’s me being open to change and fully accepting the person I want to spend my life with.”

He nodded, pleased with her answer. 

The whole process took about an hour or so. They had time to kill before their flight to LA.  Jenn called the girls and they met for lunch.  Justin kept his hoodie on to hide his face, but wanted to still see Jenn and the girls. They discussed rough timelines for the rest of the month, since the wedding was in less than 3 weeks. 

They went back to the airport and caught their flight to LA. A car took them to the house, and Jenn started to unpack. 

“Can I at least SEE what is in the box from the girls?” Justin begged. 

“You really need the next 3 weeks to plan out how to use it all?” Jenn replied. 

“Plan, fantasize about, whatever…”

“I’ll let you see on the wedding night. While we’re on the subject, are we really going to want to consummate our marriage at the hotel after the wedding, or once we get to our honeymoon location?”

“Ooh, consummate. Make it sound all fancy. I guess we’ll play it by ear. The wedding is in the late afternoon, then the reception. We’ll be out of there around 11 and to the hotel before midnight,” Justin said. 

“What time is our flight the next morning?”

“8:00 at SFO”

“So we need to be there by at least 7, which means leave here by 6 or earlier. I’m sure we can sleep on the plane, but we’ll see how we feel once we get in the hotel after the wedding.”

“As always, I’m ok if you want to wait,” Justin assured her. 

“We’ll see. Not ruling it out just yet.  Are we staying together at a hotel before the wedding, or am I staying with the girls the whole time? Gotta admit I’m trying to figure out our last time before getting married more than our first after the wedding,” Jenn said. 

“You’re perfectly welcome to stay at the hotel with me. Maybe stay with the girls while I’m in Sacramento for the night, then again the night before the wedding. Bad luck to see the bride on her wedding day and all…”

“Well, we have the next 10 days together here before going up to San Jose,” she said. 

Justin’s phone rang. “It’s Mom.”

“Hi Mom,” he answered. 

“I need to talk to you about something before the wedding.”

“Sure, Mom, what is it?”

“I feel like there’s something you’ve been overlooking before the wedding…”

“What?”

“I think it’s best if you have Jenn sign a prenup.”

Chapter 64

“WHAT?! No, I’m not doing that,” he said, leaving the room. 

“Justin, it’s to protect yourself if…”

“If WHAT, Mom?  We both plan on this being a lifetime commitment, it’s MARRIAGE, not just a fling. She doesn’t care about my money. We’ve known her and the family since we were babies. What gives you ANY idea that she’s after my money? If that were the case, she’d be wanting a big wedding in LA or NYC or a destination wedding. She’s only cared about ME, not my money. I know you’re ’looking out for me’, but I’m a big boy now, and I am not going to have her sign a prenup.”

Lynn sighed, “ If you’re sure. I just don’t want you to regret it later.”

“I have no regrets, except not marrying her sooner. I love her, she loves me. That’s it. In three weeks she’s going to be my wife and I’m going to be her husband. If it helps you at all, we’ve already discussed when we want to start having kids. Does that sound like someone just after my money?” Justin accused. 

“Well…”

“If you feel so strongly against it, you don’t have to come. Miss your only son’s happiest day of his life. I’ve made up my mind, nothing you say will change that. I love you, and I hope you’ll still be here in three weeks. Bye Mom.” He hung up and felt this rage inside him. 

“Justin…” Jenn had heard everything. 

“Jenn, how much did you hear?” he asked, afraid of her answer. 

“Enough of it. You started yelling so I cautiously stayed back, but I could still hear your side of things. She really wanted you to get a prenup?” she asked, knowing the answer. 

He nodded. “Ever since we got together, she’s been supportive, but also being overprotective. Like I don’t know how to control my money and that you’re just a gold digger. It’s like she has no idea who you are after all these years.”

“I heard you stand up to your mom, and choose me if it came down to it. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. It’s so… so…”

“... infuriating?” Justin asked. 

“Sexy. Hearing the passion in your voice behind what you said. I’m glad you know me, that I’ve never been impressed by your money. Has it helped us get closer by allowing me to go on tour with you instead of working? Yes. But it’s only helped us get closer, not split us apart. You spoke your mind and stood your ground. I love that, I love you,” she said as she kissed him. 

NOT how I thought that was gonna go, he thought as she kissed him. 

…

Jenn was at the house while Justin was at the studio. She texted Angela to see if they could hang out. 

I’m not in LA since there’s nothing business related until the tour dates, he gave me a little break, Angela replied. 

She decided she could go shopping alone, find her gifts for the bridesmaids and throw off the paparazzi. She went back to the bridal boutique she’d bought the shoes at, and found some cute items and remembered she didn’t have a garter belt yet for Justin to toss. She bought a couple more for good measure. Thankfully there didn’t seem to be paparazzi, at least not in her face, so she drove back to the house. 

…

Justin couldn’t believe what was happening. It had been a while, and had been so difficult to coordinate and keep secret. Before him stood 4 of his best friends. He was excited and nervous. 

“Ok guys, here’s what I’m thinking. We have a couple days to get it perfect before we do it live. Jenn has no idea, and she’s gonna love it.”

Chapter 65

The first of the LA shows had come, and Jenn knew what that meant- Angela would be back, and within days she’d be sitting with JC and Lance. She and Justin headed to the arena, where Angela was already waiting for them in the dressing room. 

Jenn went to use the bathroom, and Justin walked over to Angela and whispered, “Thanks for keeping my secret. I just hope it means as much to Jenn as I think it will.”

“She’ll be speechless, maybe even tears. And how the guests…”

“All I care about is HER reaction.”

“She feels the same way about when you see her in her dress.”

“I’ll be speechless, maybe even tears,” he replied. 

They quickly stopped the conversation as they heard her coming out. 

“Did I interrupt something?” Jenn asked. 

“Just business stuff with the tour winding down. I’m out of a job before the wedding,” Angela said. 

“For now. More like a temporary thing. I’ll highly recommend you if something else comes up for you before I need you again. You’ll stay in touch with Jenn though so it’s not goodbye forever,” he assured her. 

There was a knock at the door. Jenn’s heart started beating faster in hopeful anticipation. 

Security came in flanking two familiar faces. The two hugged Justin before turning to Jenn. 

“Jenn, you know these guys. Guys, this is Jenn.”

She wasn’t sure what to do. Lance reached out and gave her a hug. “Nice to see you again, I heard you came to see us at a show years ago.”

“Yeah, it was 1999, so it’s definitely been a while,” she said. 

JC went in for a hug. “So you’re the girl that got this guy to settle down? Didn’t think there was a girl that could put up with him.”

“She doesn’t. She calls me on my shit,” Justin laughed

They all sat down, Jenn was nervous to say anything. Then she remembered a few things to talk about. 

“Lance, I heard you’re gonna be on Broadway. Hairspray?” Jenn asked. 

“Yeah, I just started. Taking time off for the wedding, they knew before I started that I needed time off for a wedding. Just didn’t tell them whose. 

“JC, Justin said he worked with you in the studio recently…”

“Yeah,” he said, running his hand around his neck. “I dunno that it’s gonna happen though. Not really much of a solo artist, and the label is being shitty.” She noticed his whole attitude changed. Way to go, you fucking broke national treasure JC Chasez, she thought. 

They changed topics and continued talking. Jenn and Angela went to grab lunch. 

“Wow, she’s changed man,” JC said. “She filled OUT…”

“JC she was 14,15 the first time you met her. Of course she was gonna change.”

“Just saying, if you didn’t snag her I might have…”

“She’s beautiful, Justin,” Lance said. 

“She’s more than that, though. Not gonna lie, just looking at her does things to me, but I know her inside and out. She’s beautiful on the inside, caring, compassionate, respectful, sincere. I’m really lucky, I tell myself that every damn day I wake up.  She keeps me grounded, it’s been great having her on most of the tour. I get stuck in my head without her.”

The girls came back with food for everyone. “Did we miss anything?” they asked. 

“Just Justin gushing about you,” JC laughed. 

“Yeah, I get that a lot,” Jenn joked. 

“You gonna stay for the show?” Justin asked the guys.  “Jenn is normally on the floor but you’d be crushed by fans. I have a suite reserved at every show just in case. You guys could use it.”

JC and Lance nodded. “That sounds good. Jenn, you wanna be with us for tonight?”

“Yes,” she said, not missing a beat. “We can talk shit about Justin , I’ll get the real dirt…” 

“You know it all anyways, so whatever…” Justin laughed. “JC, no trying to steal my girl now.”

“Hey, she’s an adult, I’m not in control of what she does. If she wants me, who am I to say no?”

I can’t tell if they’re joking or not, she thought. 

JC picked her up, threw her over his shoulder, and laughed, “haha sucker, she’s all mine now!” and ran out of the dressing room. He put her down just outside and they all followed security to the suite.

“So you’ve known Justin since you were little, right?” Lance asked. 

“Yeah. Our families went to the church Justin’s dad was at, so we’ve been together since we were itty bitty. Wow, that sounded weird, sorry.”

“What all has he told you guys about me? When did you guys find out we were together?” Jenn asked. 

“I mean, I know we don’t talk as much as we used to, but after Joey’s wedding we all got in touch again. He called me up not too long after and told me he thought you were the one. The biggest thing that surprised him was you being a fan. I can’t imagine being THAT close to him for so long and NOT being a fan. But I think he called all of us up last year saying you guys were engaged and if we would be part of it,” JC answered. 

“So, he proposed to me on New Year’s Eve 2004 going to 2005… I guess he kept it from you guys in case anyone asked,” Jenn said. 

“Asshole,” JC laughed. 

“He told us how y’all got back in contact, the whole thing with your dad having cancer and bringing you two together,” Lance said. 

“Yeah, it was like a movie. I get a random text from him saying ‘can you talk’ and next thing I know he’s at my door in the pouring rain in Tennessee. 

“He likes to go big,” JC added. 

“Speaking of which, looks like they’re ready to start,” Lance said, looking out into the arena. They sat in the seats at the edge of the suite. Close enough that people could see them if they wanted, but far away enough that they were safe from other fans. 

The show began. Jenn kept watching JC and Lance for their reactions to Justin on stage. She danced alongside Lance, and JC kept bopping his head, feeling the music behind everything, and had such a proud look on his face. 

Justin got to a point in the show where he stopped to talk to the audience. “I consider myself blessed to do what I do, but this next song is to a woman that has been my rock these last few years. Her support and faith in me never ceases to amaze me. This song is dedicated to Jenn.”

He started singing “Until The End of Time”. Halfway through the song, JC put his hand on Jenn’s shoulder and whispered in her ear, “You've got a good one. Never let him go.”

Chapter 66

The LA shows were over, and they headed to San Jose. Excited butterflies were settling into her stomach. The wedding was about a week away. They got into town early to give Jenn a chance to do wedding related stuff without being in a rush. 

After they checked into the hotel room, Justin decided to take a long shower and relax a bit. 

His phone buzzed, the name “Chris” appearing on the screen.

“Hello?” She answered. 

“Hey, I’m looking for Justin, is he around?”

“He’s busy at the moment, can I leave a message?” Jenn asked. 

“Are you Angela? I’m calling about wedding stuff.”

“This is Jenn, so I might be able to help.”

“I’m talking to THE Jenn, huh? How’d you end up with a schmuck like Justin?” Chris joked. 

“I’ve known him since we were kids, he charmed his way into my life again.”

“Well, let him know I called. I wanted to talk to him about guy stuff for the wedding, so you can’t really help with that.  I can’t wait to meet you next week. I’ve heard so much about you from Justin in the times we’ve talked. Sounds like you’re pretty good to him, thanks for that.” Chris sounded so genuine compared to his goofball days in *NSYNC. 

“I look forward to it.”

“Oh, before you go, I’m paired up with Angela, Justin’s assistant?  Is she hot?”

THERE’S the Chris I remember on tv, she thought.

“I’m her friend, so expect me to say no?”

Chris laughed. “Good talking to you Jenn, see you soon.”

Jenn hung up the phone. All she needed was Joey to call and she’d have talked to all of them before the wedding. She smiled knowing that the guys all liked her based on what Justin had told them. She was smiling when Justin came out in a towel. 

“What’s got you so happy?” he asked. 

“You. Chris just called, some guy wedding stuff question, he wants you to call him back. Sounds like they all like me so far,” Jenn said. 

“What’s not to like? I mean, I love you, what more is there to know?”

“I wasn’t sure if you complained to them, or anyone, about me on days I’m sure I’m difficult.”

“Oh please. I’m WAY more difficult. We always work things out between us. Do you ever complain about me to the girls?” he asked. 

“I guess not, no,” she realized. 

“We communicate, give space when we need to, work out our problems together. Really, think about all the shit life has thrown at us. Your dad, stuff with your mom, we’ve supported each other through thick and thin. It’s like we’re already married, we’ve had our share of trials and faced them together head on. I honestly doubt that’s going to change after next week.”

“You always know what to say when I need it,” she sighed happily. 

“I also know how to put my foot in my mouth sometimes,” Justin laughed. 

“So do I. How many of these talks do we have after something good? I take Chris calling into thinking you complain about me, I took great sex and turned it into thinking you’ll get bored of me.”

“I still love you,” he laughed, “we just get in our heads sometimes. We help each other get perspective. Now, we have a new problem to deal with…”

“What?” Jenn asked, confused. 

“I’m wearing a towel and you are SEVERELY over dressed. We need to remedy this immediately,” Justin laughed. 

“Oh, I think we can tackle this problem together for sure…” she said, kissing him and taking her shirt off. He kissed down her neck, his hands undoing her pants and sliding them down her legs. He unhooked her bra, letting it fall to the floor. He pushed her panties off her hips to fall to the floor. He carried her to the bathroom, turned on the shower, and brought her in. 

“I was thinking about you while I was in here earlier, it’s only right I finish my thoughts here with action.”  He turned her to face the water, away from him. He fondled her breasts as the water cascaded over her. She could feel his erection against her ass. He kissed her neck, running a hand down her waist to her clit, rubbing it with absolute precision. She moaned, grinding against him at his touch. He continued through her first smaller orgasms, then turned her to face him, water now hitting her back. He skillfully grabbed her ass, pulled her up to straddle his waist, and thrust into her against the wall of the shower. Their wet bodies slid against each other, the heat of the water adding to the moment. He shuddered as he came, pressing her firm against the tile. 

She finished her shower and put on a robe. 

“How many times do you think we’re going to leave this room?” she asked suggestively. 

“If I can help it, none until the date of the show…”

Chapter 67

The next few days were spent on finalizing wedding details, doing final walk throughs at the church and reception site, and reviewing security and transportation. Jenn and the girls went to the San Jose show, which was bittersweet for her. She was glad to see her friends, but it being the last show she’d see for a while left her sad. She knew she’d have Australia and New Zealand, but this was it before the wedding. She wouldn’t have Angela with her then, she’d be all alone in the crowds there. 

The wedding was two days away, and it was the day for the bachelor and bachelorette parties. Justin’s was an all day event, Jenn’s being at night. 

Justin and the guys started the day with a round of golf at a posh golf course at the edge of South San Jose that Jenn had recommended to Justin over a year prior. Next was a little more relaxed, a round of go karts.  Dinner and drinks were at a Brazilian steakhouse with unlimited meat of all kinds of beef, chicken, lamb, and pork. The guys decided on calling it a night after dinner. Justin didn’t want a stripper because he worried about how Jenn would feel if she found out. Thankfully the guys respected his decision and went back to the hotel. 

Jenn’s night was at an Italian restaurant with former coworkers and friends from college and church for dinner and drinks. They went back to a house of one of the girls where they created their own “club”, but decorated in typical bachelorette style with phallic candy, straws, and decorations of all kinds. They brought in a DJ with a very specific set list. It was all dance music, heavily featuring songs by Justin and *NSYNC that the girls knew a regular club wouldn’t play just for them. They had a bartender service to make any drink they wanted, and danced the night away without having to get hit on by creepy strangers. Most of the girls spent the night there, Jenn included. 

The next day was the wedding rehearsal. They all came to the church, including their families. Justin and Jenn were relieved when Lynn and Paul arrived. 

Justin, his dad, and Pastor Larry would come to the steps from the front of the church. The moms would walk in together from the back, taking their seats at the front. Next would be the bridal party. Joey’s daughter Briahna was their flower girl, and Justin’s brothers served as ring bearers. Then Jenn would come down a curved staircase to walk down the center aisle. They rehearsed the entrance to live music being played, most of them noting bar measures, specific notes or key changes, and tempo for their cues. 

The rest of the rehearsal went quicker, going over the rough outline of the service. They got to the part with the vows. They normally didn’t go over the actual vows, just noting where it was in the ceremony. Justin, however, felt the need to say something. 

“Jennifer, I thought this was going to be the most difficult thing I ever had to do… But when I saw you walking down that aisle…”

“You’re not really using Chandler’s vows from Friends, are you?” Jenn asked, somewhat seriously. 

Justin busted up laughing. “I felt like I needed to throw that in somewhere tonight instead of tomorrow in front of people that might not get the joke. I’m glad you were one that got it.”

They continued on with the rehearsal and soon were finished for the night. Next came the rehearsal dinner at a seafood restaurant in downtown San Jose. They had a private room and toasted Justin and Jenn throughout the meal. Chris got up and started in on Joey’s wedding speech from Friends, to more laughs from Jenn and Justin. It was a perfect night that left Jenn feeling relaxed about the big day. After dinner, the bridesmaids had arranged for a limo to take the bridal party to one final activity before the wedding. They went to a karaoke bar with private rooms, where they could take turns singing and drinking. They were all careful not to drink too much so they were fine for the next day. 

“This was a great idea,” Justin said to the girls. “I’ve never seen Jenn so confident as when she’s singing. She becomes a more confident version of herself.”

“Honestly, I think a lot of it’s you, too,” said Michelle. “We’d do karaoke in college, but she was still shy to do it and her voice would almost tremble at the start of her first song. What we’re seeing tonight is definitely a new side of her. She was good before, but with you and your connection, she becomes great. After seeing you in concert this year, I’m sure you’re the same way. You do even better the nights she’s there than the nights she’s not.  That’s a good sign for your marriage, bringing out the best parts of each other.”

They all went back to homes and hotels for the night, Justin and Jenn sharing one long, lingering kiss before their next as husband and wife. 

Chapter 68

The next morning, Jenn and the girls were up early having breakfast together. They went to her favorite breakfast spot. She had eggs Benedict and blueberry pancakes. They grabbed all their things for the day and headed to the church to get ready. Hair and makeup arrived at the church and started working on the girls. Her hair was pulled back into a low bun, with shorter pieces left out and curled to frame her face. Her eye makeup took from their color scheme, using silver and white as an extension of her dress. 

Justin's morning was much more relaxed, he had breakfast with his whole family before Lynn went to the church to get ready with the girls. 

“Justin, about the phone call…” Lynn started. 

“Mom, don’t.” Justin said shortly. 

“Let me do this. I’m sorry. You’re right. It was terrible of me to even suggest it. She’s not what I assumed of her. She makes you happy, you love each other, that should have been enough for me.”

“Thank you, Mom. Not gonna lie, it would’ve killed me if you weren’t here today, but it wasn’t going to stop me from getting married. Let’s put this past us so we can both enjoy this day.  Love you mom.”

“I love you, son.”  They hugged and kissed each other on the cheek. 

…

The girls were almost ready when they heard a knock on the door. It was one of the photographers. They’d taken shots of the guys in their suits and such, and wanted one special shot. Jenn wasn’t in her dress yet, but she went to the door. She felt a familiar hand reach for hers. “Just like that, just your hands for this shot,” said the photographer. “Jenn, once you’re in your dress I want a shot like this again, but you in your dress, Justin in his suit on the other side.”

Justin handed her an envelope before letting her finish getting ready. 

She sat down and opened the envelope. It was on stationery from the hotel. 

Jenn, I don’t know if I can be any happier than I am with you, any happier than today making you my wife. I love you with all that I am. Happy wedding day. Justin

Jenn did her best not to cry. She knew she was going to be a mess just walking down that aisle to him. 

Soon it was time to get into her dress. The photographer was there to capture the moment, putting her veil and jewelry on to finish her look. They opened the door, Jenn stuck out her hand, and Justin was ready to grab it. She was on one side of the door, he was on the other, but still having a moment together before the ceremony. The photographer took pictures before Justin was ushered off so they could line up to start. 

Jenn walked out with the girls once Justin was out of sight. The guys surrounded her and took turns gently hugging her. 

“You look beautiful, Justin won’t be able to keep his eyes off you,” Trace said. 

They lined up in their order, waiting for the music to start. Everyone walked down, Jenn and her dad waiting at the top of the stairs for her grand entrance. Everyone stood, and all eyes were on her as she stepped out. Her train trailed behind her down the stairs. Jenn kept her eyes on her dad, she knew she’d cry if she made eye contact with Justin. As she walked down the aisle, she looked at him, tears of joy welling up in her eyes. He was fighting back tears, overwhelmed by how beautiful she looked. She was soon standing in front of Justin, the two holding hands. 

Pastor Larry gave a welcome greeting and a short speech about love, the importance of what they were there for today.  Justin’s dad shared memories of them as children, a timeline of their lives together and apart. “Their relationship solidified during a time of trial. It made them stronger, showing them they can work through anything together. They are here to make that commitment to each other in front of us here today.”

They exchanged rings, and it was time for their vows. 

“Jenn, some would say that we were destined to be together. Teasing us as kids and young teens that we’d end up together. Life worked out the way it needed to in order to bring us here. While we may have been destined to BE together, it’s our commitment to each other that has helped us STAY together. I promise to love and support you no matter what life throws our way. You are my rock, and I will seek your input above all others. You inspire me to be a better man, you show me how to fight for now, staying in the moment. I promise to protect you and care for your every need, I am nothing without you. I am blessed to become your husband and have you as my wife.”  She could tell he was nervous, his voice shook at various points, trying not to be overcome with emotion. 

“Justin, it’s always a dream to marry your best friend, the boy next door. I am blessed that this is my reality. If you had told me even a week before you showed up at my door that I would be marrying my childhood best friend, I wouldn’t have believed it. Life is full of surprises, and you are the best surprise of all. I promise to love you, respect you, cherish you for the man I see, not for who everyone else sees you to be. You’ll always be my best friend that could make me laugh on a rough day, the talented musician who is genuinely good at EVERYTHING, but is humble and modest in spite of his success. I promise to support you and work with you to communicate and take life head on together. I love you, cannot imagine life without you, and I’m glad I never have to again.”

Randy and Larry looked at each other. “I hereby pronounce you as husband and wife,” Larry said. 

“Justin, you may kiss your beautiful bride,” his dad said. 

Justin wasted no time in pulling Jenn close to him and giving her a deep, romantic kiss. The church rang out with cheers, applause, whistles, and shouts of joy from the guests. 

The buses that had picked guests up from the hotels shuttled them to the reception venue while the bridal party and families took pictures. They had never looked so happy in their lives, smiles big and bright, eyes only for each other. 

Once the pictures were done, Justin snagged Jenn to a corner of the church for a quiet moment together before getting into their limo and going to the reception. 

“You are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. It took everything I had not to cry when you walked towards me down that aisle. I love you so much,” he whispered to her. 

“I love you too. I’m so glad this day is finally here and we get our forever after. I couldn’t look at you without wanting to cry tears of joy at where we are right now. One more kiss before we go.” 

Justin gladly obliged, kissing her deeply. They joined the rest of the bridal party and got into the limousine for the reception. They popped champagne and toasted on their drive, ready to start the night off right. 

Chapter 69

They pulled into the small parking lot for the reception hall. Tarps and security were in place, the limo door opened into a makeshift hallway to the door leading inside. Security motioned to the DJ that they were ready. They announced the bridal party as they came in before announcing, “I have the pleasure of introducing the brand new Mr. and Mrs. Justin Timberlake!”  

Justin and Jenn sat at a sweetheart table near the table for the bridal party and the table for the parents and family. Food was served, champagne was poured, toasts were made, glasses were clinked for the bride and groom to kiss. 

The DJ announced it was time for their first dance. Jenn took Justin’s arm and they walked to the middle of the dance floor. She noticed something pinned to the lapel of his shirt. Did he forget to take off the mic after the ceremony? she wondered. 

A familiar song came through the speakers, she felt butterflies just from the beginning notes. Until she realized it wasn’t a recording. 

“When the visions around you, bring tears to your eyes, and all that surrounds you are secrets and lies. I’ll be your strength, I’ll give you hope, keeping your faith when it’s gone. The one you should call, was standing here all along…”

Jenn was speechless hearing him since an *NSYNC song to her. The guests cheered as he sang, and erupted in screams when the rest of the guys sang the chorus. 

Tears welled up in Jenn’s eyes, that he did this for her, had gotten them to sing for her, made the day that much more special. 

She cried when JC sang, “this is a battle we’ve won. And with this vow, forever has now begun…”

She could barely breathe, mouthing the words to sing back to Justin. He kissed her during the brief musical break before going back into the chorus. The guests cheered as the song ended. 

“We’re not done yet,” they heard Justin say. Jenn heard those familiar notes, a harmonica solo she knew was Stevie Wonder on the recording. 

“So many times, I thought I held it in my hands, but just like grains of sand, love slipped through my fingers. So many nights, I asked the Lord above please make me lucky enough, to find a love that lingers. Something keeps telling me that you could be my answered prayer. You must be Heaven sent, I swear, cause…” Justin sang. Jenn continued to cry, overwhelmed with emotion. She can tell he’s emotional singing to her, seeing it in his eyes as he stared deep into hers as he sang. 

She kissed him deeply once the song was over, before whispering into his ear, “thank you, Justin. This was the best surprise you could give me. Another reason today will be my favorite day of my life.”

They cut the cake, thanked their guests, and were ready for the bouquet toss and garter belt. Jenn tossed the bouquet behind her, and Angela caught it. She sat in a chair for the garter belt. They’d decided to put one in Justin’s pocket, but he could still go under her dress to get a quick kiss to her upper thighs. He flung the garter belt, which Chris caught. 

They opened up the dance floor for everyone and let the party portion begin. Jenn and Justin felt free to have a few drinks and dance with their friends and guests. 

Chris walked up to Jenn. “Thanks for pairing me with Angela. I’ve gotten to talk to her and she’s pretty great.” He looked at Justin.  “And she’s freaking hot,” he chuckled. 

Justin whispered in Jenn’s ear, “guessing someone’s hooking up tonight…”. Jenn laughed in agreement. “Hey, good for them.”

The night went on, and it was time for them to get in their limo and go to their hotel for the night. The guests lined the hallway out to the door, allowing them to walk down the makeshift hallway outside to the limo. 

It was just the two of them heading back to the hotel. Justin couldn’t stop kissing her, cupping her face. She gave little moans of enjoyment as they kissed. Since he’d checked in when he came back into town, they went right up to the honeymoon suite he had booked. The staff knew today was the wedding, and left a bottle of champagne and strawberries for them. 

“I know we weren’t sure about anything tonight, but seeing you in this dress, I’m already halfway done,” Justin said in a husky voice. 

“Well, let me get you all the way there. Quickie now, but we’re taking our time on our honeymoon...”

“Oh you best believe it Mrs. Timberlake, you better BELIEVE it. Happy wife, happy life,” he said as he carried her to the bed. 

Chapter 70

They were up early the next morning to catch their flight. “Ok, we’re in line for TSA, can I know where we’re going yet?” Jenn asked. 

“Not til we get to the gate. I really don’t want you to know til we land but I can’t keep the gate from announcing our flight number and destination.  Even once you know where we’re going, you don’t know WHERE we’re staying, so there’s still surprises left.”

They got through security, and Justin was going painstakingly slowly to delay getting to the gate. “Here we are,” he said. 

“Finally…” Jenn sighed. She perked up once the flight info popped up on the screen. 

“Hawaii? We’re going to Hawaii?! I’ve never been, oh this is so exciting!! I know you said tropical but this is a dream come true. And spending it with you, the ultimate honeymoon.”

“I forgot, we need to hide our wedding bands. Play this off like a vacation during downtime from the tour,” he whispered, stealthily sliding off his ring. 

“I hate that you have to take it off so soon, but it doesn’t change things,” Jenn whispered back. 

They soon boarded their flight. It was a long flight, so Jenn caught up on sleep. Justin got some sleep but was back in music mode, double checking plans for the final leg of the tour and other projects that were lining up. He broke himself out of it, looking at Jenn sleeping next to him. He held her hand, she snuggled up on his shoulder. He moved his arm to wrap around her. 

I really am lucky. She’s all mine, I still can’t believe it. Now she’s my wife. God, how did I get so lucky? he thought to himself looking down at her. 

He woke her before they landed so she could look out the window for her first view. The view took her breath away; the beaches, greenery everywhere. A car picked them up from the airport. It stopped at what she guessed was their hotel. 

Justin checked in for them, and led her to their suite. He scooped her into his arms. “Ready to go in, Mrs. Timberlake?”  She nodded as he opened the door and carried her in. He put her down so she could look around. 

“It’s all inclusive; all the food and drinks we want, lots of activities to do if you want to leave the bedroom,” he laughed, “a spa, lots of stuff for our two weeks here. Private beach access.”

“Oh my god! The hot tub looks out onto the beach. This is a perfect piece of paradise,” she said. 

“Well, what first my beautiful wife?” he asked. 

“Hmmm, let me think. There’s a certain box I could open up and we can get started on.”

Justin cocked one eyebrow. “You’re wasting no time,” he laughed. 

“Isn’t that what honeymoons are for? You saying you DON’T want to make love to your wife?”

“I didn’t say that at all. Let’s close these blinds for some privacy. I’ll be here, waiting for you.”

Chapter 71

She pulled the box out of her suitcase. She quickly changed into one of her outfits she was given, and grabbed the massage oil, flavored lubes, silk ties and blindfold. 

She walked out of the bathroom and she could hear him whisper “wow” under his breath. She was in her white bustier, showing off her breasts. She had white garter belts on her upper thighs. She wished she had heels to make her legs look even longer. 

She placed the other items on the bedside table. She took his shirt off, laying him down on the bed. She grabbed the massage oil and rubbed his arms and chest, feeling his muscles in a way she hadn’t before. Not only was it sensual, but also to help relax him after a busy tour and the days leading up to the wedding. 

She took his pants off, brushing her fingers against the fabric covering his hard shaft. A light moan of expectation escaped his lips. She massaged his legs, working up his thighs but stopping before getting to his shaft. 

“Now your turn for me,” she said, giving him the oil. He sat her on the edge of the bed. He massaged her shoulders, down her arms. He unhooked her bustier, massaging her back. He gently pushed her onto her back, taking the blindfold and tying her hands to the bed. 

He used the lube on her breasts, massaging it into her skin, then sucking on her breasts until he couldn’t taste the lube. He massaged her thighs, using the lube on her inner thigh so close to her folds. She could feel his tongue on her leg, spreading her legs wide to give him better access and hopefully coax him over. 

His mouth worked his way up her body, back to her breasts before kissing her collarbone and settling on sucking on her earlobes and running his tongue on the outer edge. His breathing ragged, sending goosebumps down her body as he breathed in her ear. 

His tongue stayed on her ears and neck, but his fingers plunged into her, slowly stroking to find her g spot. She moaned loudly as he stroked inside her. He withdrew his fingers, massaging her thighs. 

“How bad do you want me right now?” he asked. 

“I want you so bad. I want you to do so many things to me,” she replied. 

“What does my beautiful WIFE want me to do to her?” he breathed in her ear. 

“I want so many things…” she answered. 

“Mmmm. I want to tease you until you just need me inside you.”

“Yes, I need you to fuck me,”

“Not yet. There’s still too much I could do…”

“I love how you suck my earlobe, it just turns me on. While you do that, play with my nipples. I love how they feel in your hands.”  Justin complied, following her orders until she gave him the next. 

“Now suck my nipples while rubbing my clit. Get me good and wet for you.”  He changed to follow her commands. She arched her body at his touch against her clit, rough but slow. “Faster, touch me faster.”  

“How am I making you come, with my fingers or my tongue?” he asked. 

She had to think about this. “I love either one. Once I come, I want you to lick my juices up, then kiss me. I want to taste myself on you.”  

His fingers kept working frantically, together with sucking her nipples. He could hear that familiar hitch in her breathing. She was close. His finger slipped into her juices then back to her clit to get her closer to the edge. Her squeaks of “yes, yes, YES” told him she was close. She was holding on for dear life, letting her climax build and build, gasping for breath before she screamed out “fuck me now Justin, NOW” as she came. 

He quickly licked up her juices, and kissed her as he thrust into her. His tongue entered her mouth to let her taste herself as he fucked her. He untied her arms, telling her “I need you to grab me tight and don’t let go. Dig your fingers in if you have to. Hold me close and don’t let go. Look into my eyes as I drive myself deeper into you.”