Eternal Flame (Mature 18+)

Chapter 8

Kristen's eyes widened as she looked over at him. "Chick? What chick?"

Nick shook his head and turned away from her, watching Roman again. He was watching them like a hawk but still singing. "I've said too much already. I really can't say anything else. Just be patient with him. I can't believe I'm saying it, knowing how I feel about you, but-"

"And how do you feel about me Nick?" she teased, giving him a pretty smile.

He humorously cut his eyes at her and chuckled. "You already know boo. You already know." He was quiet for a minute. "Umm... I know you're with him today..." He gestured towards Roman. "And Diego says you and he are hanging out tonight... Do you think you can squeeze in some time for me maybe tomorrow or Sunday?

"We're leaving Sunday."

Disappoint dulled his blue eyes. "Oh."

Kristen glanced over at the still sleeping Alex. She was thankful he was still asleep. Juggling three men was hard; four would be damn near impossible. "But not until late night. Before coming up here, Joy and I talked about staying an extra day if we can talk her mom into it. Away from her hopefully."

Nick laughed joyfully. "Yeah she's a trip." He paused again. "I really want to spend some time with you. If you wouldn't mind. If it's okay."

"I don't mind. And it's okay. Maybe tomorrow evening sometime?"

He pleasantly nodded. "Awesome."

"Not that I'm complaining that I've only met four of you guys so far, but where's Will? Is he around?"

Nick stretched his eyes dramatically. "Damn! Do I have to compete with Will too?" Kristen laughed loud and he chuckled, shaking his head. "He was actually here before you guys came but he had to leave. You'll probably see him later at the party."

"Okay cool."

The session with Roman was over. He all but slammed the headphones back in place and walked out of the recording booth. He stopped to talk to Diego. They whispered conspiratorially with one another before Diego got up and left the room. He was headed to Kristen. Roman became distracted by his cell-phone ringing and looked at it, frowning deeply. He chewed on his lip; then answered it and turned away, speaking softly.

Diego's eyes locked with Kristen as he walked up to her and Nick. Nick rubbed Kristen's shoulder. "See you later tonight?"

Kristen nodded, her eyes still on Diego. Nick loudly sighed and walked away, going back into the engineering room. He glanced back at them then looked over at Roman, who was still on the phone. Deciding to give him privacy, he went into the recording booth and shut the door, taking out his own phone and dialing.

"So, how are things?" Diego asked Kristen.

She shrugged slightly. "Awkward."

"Has he told you anything?"

She slowly shook her head. "Nope."

"Don't let it get to you. Least, try not to. I know it's not easy but don't take it personal. It's not about you."

"I don't know how you guys are doing it. There's a difference between wanting to be left alone and bringing other people into your shit."

"He can't help it. Trust me, it's bad. It's really bad Kristen."

Kristen worriedly looked over at Roman. He was no longer on the phone. He was watching her and Diego. His hands were in his front pockets with his thumbs sticking out the tops. He was rocked back on one leg, his back erect; his head slightly lowered, intensely watching them.