Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, and back, Two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, to the side, Two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight and hold, Two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, rock your hips to the side, five, six, seven, eight” yelled out Mandy, as the lads behind her followed her instructions. Mandy stopped and huffed loudly, turning the music off and putting her hands on her hips. She glared at Nicky and sighed. 

“Nicky, we have been through this over and over again, rock your hips, to the count of 8. You are moving way too fast. Calm down!” she huffed.
Nicky looked at her, “Whatever!” he mumbled.
Mandy rolled her eyes and went to the stereo to put the music on again. 

“OK!” she clapped once, “Let’s try this one more time!”
She pressed the button and waited for the introduction. During the intro of the song, the lads bowed their head down, and one by one lifted it up in beat to the music. Mandy repeated her former instructions and watched them all in action. She spotted Nicky making another mistake. She rubbed her hands over her face impatiently and stopped the music.
“Nicky!!! AGAIN!!!” she shrieked.
“Fuck this! What’s wrong with what I am doing?!” he yelled back.
“You are going too fast. You are way ahead of the others!” she said exasperatedly. “Maybe the others are too slow!” he smirked.
“Don’t start getting clever on me Nicky Byrne.” She warned him.
Nicky sighed and looked at her, “I cannot do it!”
“You cannot or you don’t want to?” she retorted.
Nicky looked at her quickly, “I CANNOT!” he said through gritted teeth.
“Why don’t we just take five…” Shane spoke, trying to diffuse the situation that was obviously arising.
“Look, Nicky. The tour is in two days time. We have got three other songs to practice and one more song to learn. We ain’t got any time for mucking about!” she sighed, ignoring Shane and trying to control her temper.
“Who says I am mucking about?” he answered angrily.
“You are not doing it right. The show is gonna be a mess! A disaster!” she shrieked.
“Now let’s not get carried away,” laughed Kian.
“Who fecking cares?” he mumbled, glaring at Mandy and ignoring Kian.
The rest of the lads sighed and just looked at each other.
“I do. I bloody care! All this falls down on me and I will be damned if I am gonna let you make me feel like a failure and embarrass me!” she shouted, taking a swig from her bottle of water.
“Well, I am sorry for making you seem such a failure, but some people have got other things to worry about other than whether they should go left or right. And if you ask me, this dance routine is shite!” he hissed.
“Nicky, come on, man…” sighed Mark.
Mandy glared at him, with daggers in her eyes, “If you are not gonna take this seriously, then just get out.”
Nicky looked at her, “FINE! I WILL! I am sick and tired of all this shite! All you women want to do is fucking control me!” he yelled. He picked his towel and stormed out of the room, making sure he slammed the door shut on his way out. All the lads gave each other uncomfortable stares.
“I’ll go after him!” sighed Kian.
“No you won’t! We are gonna practice, with or without Nicky. If he wants to be a selfish immature little prat, just let him be. You lot are gonna get this right if it is the last thing I do!” huffed Mandy, taking another swig of water, and slamming it back down on the table, next to the stereo.
“He is going through some problems, Mandy. Just let me go and talk to him and I’ll bring him back up ok? We cannot really do this without him, can we?” smiled Kian apologetically.
“Fine!” she mumbled, “not that it makes a difference with him around. Ok then, let’s take a break guys!”
Kian smiled and rushed out the doors. He dashed out and started running down the stairs. When he got out of the building, he noticed Nicky walking away. He caught his breath and ran after him again. He finally caught up to him and stopped him.
“Nicky, wait!” he panted, resting his hands on his knees.
Nicky looked at him, “don’t bother trying to convince me to go back, Kian, coz I ain’t!” he scowled.
“Nix, come on man. We need you there!” pleaded Kian.
“Look, I have just had enough with being told what to do by everyone ok?” he snapped, “I need to get away! Why is everyone on my fucking case?”
Kian finally caught his breath back and looked at him, “What’s going on, Nicky?”
Nicky looked at him for a few seconds, sighed and stopped walking. He sat down on the nearest wall. Kian looked at him and sat next to him. Nicky sighed again and bowed his head down, staring at the ground while he popped  chewing gum into his mouth.
“Had another argument with Krisanne this morning!” he sighed.
“Oh god!” mumbled Kian, “What now?”
“Same as always!” he shrugged, “She wants a kid and I don’t!”
“She’s still obsessing about that huh?” smiled Kian.
Nicky nodded, “Yep. She cannot let it go. She does not seem to understand that I am not ready to have a kid yet. I am not responsible enough. I have explained this to her. If we have a kid, we are guaranteed to get divorced!”
“But then again, you don’t and you are bound to go through some consequences too!” sympathised Kian.
“Exactly!” whispered Nicky, “But it’s so not what I need right now. I cannot even look after myself Kian. How the hell am I gonna look after a kid. Plus we are always away. When I have a kid, I want to be there for it, all the time. Not just every few months, and I cannot make her understand that! She just tells me to leave the band. As if I would!”
“Maybe you should talk to Mandy about this. I mean, just to explain the reason why you are not taking any interest!” suggested Kian.
“Why should she know? It’s none of her fucking business. Interfering cow!” he moaned.
“Nicky, come on, man. She’s not that bad, and you know it. She is just going out of her mind about these dances for the gigs, and she wants everything perfect! She is a good person. One of the best!” smiled Kian.
“Yeah, well, we cannot always get what we want, can we?” he smirked.
Kian looked at him, “Come on, man. We need you there. The gig is in two days Nicky. Two days, and we are no where near ready yet. Please!”
Nicky sighed and stood up before walking away rapidly, “Very well! Come on then!”
Kian smiled and run after him. When they got up to the studio, Mandy looked at him and folded her arms.
“Ready to join us again?” she asked.
Nicky looked at her and said nothing.
“Thanks Kian. Anyway guys, come on. Let’s get your arses in gear!” she smiled, clapping.
She put the music on, and tried again. She looked at each and everyone of them dancing to the song in a synchronised manner. She smiled when the song was finished and it was done perfectly.
“Well done. That was a lot better, Nicky!” she smiled.
Nicky looked at her and drank a gulpful of water from his bottle.
“OK, we are gonna go over world of our own now, very quickly and then we’ll call it a day. I have worked you hard enough today anyway!” she smiled.
She turned around to put the music on. Nicky looked at Kian.
“Pssssst, fancy coming to the pub after this?” he whispered, leaning forwards so he could see him!
Kian grinned and held his thumb up. Nicky got back to his place and assumed starting position.
“Ok lads, I am gonna sit here and watch you all. Make me proud!” she smiled.
She sat on the table, and watched as they started clicking their fingers in time to the music and moving on their feet appropriately. When it was finished, she jumped off the table and clapped.
“Well done.” She smiled, “And that’s a wrap, guys. I need you back here tomorrow, 9am sharp!”
The lads went to the bench to collect their stuff and started heading out the door. “Nicky, can I have a word please?” she asked.
Nicky looked at her and rolled her eyes, “But I have to go!”
Mandy shook her head, “This won’t take long!”
He sighed and nodded, walking over to her.
“Oooh what have you done, Nico?” teased Shane.
“Yeah, you’re in trouble now, boy!” grinned Brian
“Shut up!” mumbled Nicky, as he walked over to her. He and Mandy had not been seeing eye to eye lately. Mandy could not stand the fact that he never took his dances seriously, and Nicky could not stand the fact that she took it so seriously.
“See you later, Mandz!” shouted Shane, as he walked off with Mark and Nicky, “Good rehearsal!”
Mandy smiled and watched them leave. Kian hung around for a bit but soon left when he realised Mandy wanted to have a private word with him.
“See you at the pub eh, Nix?” he shouted.
Nicky turned around to look at him, “Sure thing, Kino. I won’t be long!”
Mandy glared at him, “So is this what your rush is all about? Going to the pub?”
Nicky looked at her and decided to ignore her question, “What do you want, Mandy?”
Mandy sighed and started packing up her things, “Look, Nicky. I know you are having problems and everything, but you really need to sort yourself out!”
“Problems? What do you know?” he said defensively.
“Nicky, I know you are going through a rough time with your wife…” she started.
“Woah hang on a sec. Who told you? And what the fuck does it have to do with you?” he shrieked.
Mandy sighed, “Kian mentioned something about you going through a rough patch! And I know it has nothing to do with me. I am just saying I understand that you are going through a bad time.”
“I coulda guessed!” he muttered, “Big mouthed little shit!”
“Look. That’s not the issue though. The issue is that you really ought to sort your problems out coz it is really starting to affect your performance!” she sighed, rolling her eyes.
Nicky sighed back, “You think I am doing nothing about it? My private life is none of your business!”
Mandy raised her eyebrows, “I never said it was!”
“Then please do not talk to me about it!” he hissed.
“Look, Nicky. I really am not gonna take any of your attitude. You wanna look like an arse in front of all your fans, then be my guest. But at least have some compassion for your fellow band mates, who are counting on you to give a good performance.” She angrily answered.
Nicky remained silent. Mandy sighed and stuffed the towel in her bag, “Look, I know you and I have not been seeing eye to eye, and that you cannot give two shits about this dancing thing, but I take my job very very seriously. And only the best will do for me! And you are a great dancer, Nicky. The best one out of the five of you, I would say. You’ve got the moves, hun. And it is very frustrating to see that you are not doing your best. At the end of the day, your fans will be the ones commenting on your moves.”
Nicky nodded.
“I also know that you don’t like me very much..” she started, raising her voice when she saw Nicky was gonna deny this, “BUT I am just a woman earning an honest living, and I cannot help but want the best for my guys. I am sorry if I seem bossy and I am sorry that I nag at you for perfection, but I, myself, am a perfectionist and it really affects me when a performance is not one hundred percent. I know that is my problem and it is not your problem, but it is very frustrating when you know that you can do a lot better than that. I don’t know what your problem with me is because I have done nothing to you. Now if you wanna talk to me about your problems, I am here to listen, but if you are not willing to talk about it, then you’re gonna have to try a lot harder to concentrate on your moves. The choice is yours!” With that, she flung her bag over her shoulders and started walking off. Nicky remained glued to the spot, thinking about what she had just said.
“Mandy!” he called out. Mandy turned around and looked at him, as he run towards her, “Look. I don’t have a problem with you, alright?” He sighed.
Mandy laughed, “Not much!”
“I don’t. Honestly. Listen, do you have time for a coffee or something and we can talk about it? Maybe make amends?”
“I thought you had to be at the pub.” She smiled.
“Kian can wait.” He smiled weakly.
Mandy smiled, “Of course. Come on, let’s go to that café on the other side of the road.”
Nicky smiled and walked with her. 

Chapter Text

When they got to the café, they sat at a table by the window. Mandy sat down and Nicky remained standing up.
“Tea or coffee?” he asked.
“White coffee please!” sighed Mandy, taking her cigarettes out of her bag and lighting one up.
Nicky soon returned with the coffees. He looked at Mandy strangely and sat down. “I didn’t know you smoked!” he gasped.
Mandy smiled, “Well, now you do!”
“How long have you been smoking for?” he gasped again.
“About a year now.” She shrugged, “Why is it so shocking to you?”
“I dunno. I just had you as a fitness freak! Disgusting habit, by the way,” he shrugged with a smile, as he opened his sugar sachet and emptied its contents into his cup. Mandy carried on puffing her cigarette.
“What can I say? It gets me through the days, especially bad days!” she shrugged, inhaling some smoke.
Nicky lowered his head, “Like today!”
Mandy nodded, “Yes, like today. Nicky…” she started.
Nicky shook his head, “Look, I am sorry ok?”
Mandy nodded, “Wanna talk about it?”
Nicky lowered his head, “That would be a good idea I think. Might be good hearing a woman’s perspective on it!”
Mandy smiled and sipped her warm coffee.
“It’s me and Krisanne. We are having loads of problems at the moment!” he sighed, rubbing his hands through his hair.
“Well yeah. I knew that. What kind of problems though?” asked Mandy, narrowing her eyes.
“She wants to try for a baby, and I don’t!” he shrugged, taking a sip of his coffee.
“Oooh that’s tricky!” grimaced Mandy.
Nicky nodded, “Yep. It’s been going on for a while now. She has now got to the point where she is totally obsessed!”
“Have you tried talking to her about it?” asked Mandy.
“That’s all I have ever done. Talk, but I cannot get it through to her. I am not ready to have children yet. My career is at its best and having kids would change everything!” he sighed.
“How long have you two been married, Nicky?” she asked.
“Seven months now. And for the past five months all I have ever heard from her is that she wants a baby. I don’t know what to do anymore. It’s getting to the point where I am totally avoiding her at all costs!” he sighed.
“Have you told her why you don’t want a baby yet?” she asked.
“I have tried everything!” he frowned, “And she just doesn’t wanna hear it. It turns into an argument every time.”
“Oh!” replied Mandy, “I don’t know what else to suggest!”
Nicky nodded, “See? It’s not something that can be sorted quickly, and so, it is on my mind all the time! I am sorry I am messing up my dance moves, Mandy, but I just cannot concentrate on anything. I don’t want my marriage to be over, but I cannot carry on like this. I am really starting to resent her.”
“Have you thought about seeing a marriage counsellor?” she asked.
Nicky sighed, “I have suggested that to her too. This morning actually, and it turned out into the biggest argument yet!”
“How come?” asked Mandy confused.
“Coz she now seems to think that we are having serious problems for me to even think about seeing some professional.”
“But it is a serious problem. It is a huge problem,” she argued.
“I know, and now she seems to have got it into her head that I don’t love her!” he whined.
“And do you love her?” she asked quietly.
Nicky looked at her in shock, “What sort of question is that? Course I do!”
“Sorry, it was just a question!” she shrugged.
“I got really annoyed at her this morning though, and even told her that making love to her was starting to feel like a chore, rather than an act of love!” he sighed.
“Oh dear. What did she say to that?” asked Mandy.
“She threw a glass at me, and told me to go to hell!” he confessed.
“Eeeeek! That’s bad. But I cannot blame you for feeling that way!” she sympathised.
“It’s just that…” he paused and tried to think of how to word the next bit. “I don’t know… Every time she wants to make love to me…” he paused and sighed, “I cannot believe I am talking about my sex life with you!” he blushed.
“No worries. Carry on!” she smiled.
“Well, every time I make love to her, it’s like she is not enjoying it. It’s like she is only doing it for one reason and one reason only and has no care about how I am feeling. As long as I make my contribution, she will be happy. She even starts huffing and puffing when I am taking ages to…you know…get there. At one point she even told me to hurry up!” he sighed, blushing heavily.
Mandy widened her eyes, “Wow! That’s…that’s terrible! She should count herself lucky that you take your time to…get there” she winked.
“And that is nothing. Lately I have been unable to…you know…” he blushed.
“What?” she asked.
“I have been unable to get…” he paused again and sighed, “Oh god this is embarrassing!”
“Nicky. It is only me. You can talk to me!” she smiled.
“Well, I haven’t been able to get an erection!” he mumbled, blushing heavily.
“Oh!” answered Mandy.
“I know!” he whispered, “So anyway. Now you know why I had trouble concentrating today. It’s just playing on my mind all the time! I cannot focus.”
“Yeh!” sighed Mandy, “I wish I could suggest something to you, but I don’t know what to suggest now! How about a break? Together take a nice holiday, even if it is only for the weekend!”
“But we have the tour coming up!” he gasped.
“But you have a weekend off, have you not? Next weekend?” she smiled.
Nicky smiled, “Yes. I shall suggest it to her, see what she says!”
Mandy smiled, “Ok then. I am finished with my coffee. I think I am gonna head off home now. Need to rest for tomorrow!”
“Yeah. I am off to the pub for a while now! You can join us if you want!” smiled Nicky, getting up.
“Nah it’s ok. Thanks Nicky. But I am knackered!” she smiled.
Nicky smiled and nodded. She looked beautiful when she smiled, he thought. She was beautiful anyway, but her smile lit up her whole face.
“Take it easy eh? We need you in tip top shape for tomorrow!” she warned him.
“Don’t worry. I won’t be drinking. I’ll be on the diet cokes.” He laughed.
“Good!” laughed Mandy, as they walked out, “Anyway, see you tomorrow!”
Nicky smiled, “Thanks for listening Mandy. I appreciate it!”
“No problem!” smiled Mandy, “Just try and work it out, eh?”
Nicky smiled gratefully and kissed her cheek. He then walked away in one direction, while Mandy walked in the other. 

Chapter Text

Early the next morning, Mandy got up and made her way to the studio, ready for the last bit of rehearsals prior to the concerts. When she got there, Kian, Brian and Shane were there. So were their girls, Angie, Tracee and Mary.
“Hey girls. What are you doing here?” she smiled when she saw them sitting down. The lads were all sitting on the floor, putting their shoes on.
“We thought we could come and take a sneak peek!” grinned Angie, “That’s ok, isn’t it?”
“Course it is!” smiled Mandy.
Mandy knew them pretty well. They usually came to rehearsals and she was always ok with it. Krisanne never bothered going to any. She was the only west wife who was not sociable with the others, so Mandy didn’t know her all that well. She looked at the time and frowned.
“Looks like Nicky and Mark are late!” she sighed.
“Yeah, well we all know what Mark is like getting up. And Nicky went to the pub last night. Need I say more?” laughed Shane.
Mandy smiled, “Just hope he is much better at concentrating today than he was yesterday, or else I shall be forced to whack him round the ear!”
Kian smiled, “Well, whatever you told him yesterday seemed to get him in a better mood, so unless there has been another row this morning, he should be ok!”
Mandy smiled, “Glad he took me seriously!”
The doors banged and in ran Mark with Anna and Nicky.
“Sorry we are so late!” panted Nicky, “Kinda had a crisis this morning!”
“Oh god, do I need to be worried? Nicky this is the last time we rehearse so you’d better give it a hundred percent!” sighed Mandy.
Nicky shook his head, “Don’t worry. It’s nothing like that. Krisanne was in bed when I got home and she was still there when I left home, so I am alright. Just my car got blocked in by another car and I couldn’t get out, so I had to call Mark to come and pick me up, and we all know how he sucks at getting up early!” he snorted.
Mark looked at him, “You can walk here next time Byrne!” he growled.
“See what I mean?” he chuckled.
Mandy couldn’t help but laugh, “Ok guys. Get in your positions. We’re running late now and we have loads of things to get on with!”
The guys did as they were told, and then Mandy put the music on. She watched them dance, as did the other girls, and was smiling when the song had finished.
“That was perfect guys. Now the next one! Nicky, you’re doing well!” she smiled, looking at him.
“Thanks Miss!” he answered cheekily, “Do I get a treat?”
Mandy laughed, “You might get a sticker if you keep it up!”
“Awww is that all?” he whinged.
“Just get on with it, lad!” she giggled. She put the next tune, and again, watched them dance. This song proved to be more problematic. But this time for Mark. Mandy stopped the music and the guys all looked at her.
“Mark, you seem to be missing a step. Before you go forward on the second bit, you have to hold for one and then you go forward.” She smiled.
Mark smiled and nodded, “Sorry. I’ll try again!”
Mandy smiled and nodded, and put on the song again. She clapped her hands, “Come on lads. We can do this!”
She stood at the front of Mark, with her back turned to him so he could copy her moves. Mark looked at her and did as she was doing, making him get the correct steps all throughout the song. When the song was finished, she put it on again.
“OK, one more time for luck.” She smiled.
Much to the others protests, she put the song one more time and looked at all of them doing it perfectly.
When they went over all the songs, they finally got to the last one, which Mandy still had to teach. After several hours at it, they decided to take a break.
“Ok lads. You can have your well-deserved break. You have done well. Keep it up and we might be able to go home earlier than planned!” she smiled.
“Which is which time?” asked Nicky.
“Ten o’clock!” she winked.
Brian looked at her in disbelief, “You are kidding, right?”
Mandy grinned and shook her head, “’fraid not Macca. There’s a lot to be covered. Next we need to think of ways to finish the show, and how to get started. But I am sure you’ll do well. You’re all on a roll today!”
“Ok. So I am going to the café for something to eat. Who is with me?” asked Shane. Everyone agreed and Nicky looked at Mandy, “You can join us if you want!”
Mandy smiled appreciatively, “It’s ok Nico. I have got loads to do. But thanks!”
“Are you sure? You have to eat something, Mandz!” he smiled.
“I will do. I have my lunch here. But I need to sort out what I am doing with the kids tomorrow. They are starting their first dance lesson and I have to make sure that I don’t scare them away!” she laughed.
Nicky smiled, “Ok then. See ya later!” he winked.
Mandy smiled and waved goodbye, as she went to her list of songs, deciding what songs to use with the kids. Something easy and upbeat. 

When the lads finished their lunch, they all headed back to the dance studio. Nicky got there first, and when he opened the door, he saw Mandy dancing to a particular song. He quietly closed the door and watched her dancing. He smiled and then decided to sit down. He heard the door opening, and put his finger to his lips, signalling to the lads to not make a sound. They chuckled quietly to themselves and sat down next to Nicky.
“She’s good, isn’t she?” commented Brian in a whisper.
Nicky nodded and continued looking at her, “Really takes her job seriously, that one, doesn’t she?”
“Is this the dance she is doing with the kids tomorrow?” asked Kian.
Nicky shrugged, “Dunno!”
When Mandy did one of her turns, she stopped dead on her tracks when she noticed the lads watching her all with grins on their faces. She jumped slightly and stopped the music.
“How long have you lot been sitting there?” she asked, slightly panting.
“Long enough!” grinned Nicky, “You were doing great. Please. Don’t let us stop you!” Mandy laughed, “OK, give me ten minutes. I need a cigarette. I won’t be long!”
“I’ll join you!” smiled Nicky.
“You don’t smoke!!!” shrieked Kian.
Nicky looked at him, “Who said I was smoking?”
Mandy laughed, “Come on, we don’t wanna be long. We are doing well and are going home earlier than planned and that is not gonna happen if we stand here, arguing about whether we smoke or not!”
Nicky grinned and grabbed  his phone from his jacket pocket, checking for messages. He put it away when he saw he had none and they both made their way downstairs. Mandy leaned against the wall as she lit her cigarette. Nicky looked at her.
“You know, you shouldn’t be smoking when you are doing all these exercises!” he smiled.
Mandy looked at him and blew the smoke out as she laughed, “At least I can take it!”
Nicky laughed heartily, “yeah, I know!”
Mandy smiled, “It’s good to see you laugh again!”
“Yeah, well you can thank yourself for that. That was great advice last night!” he smiled.
“So did you talk to her?” she asked.
“Well, no. When I got home she was asleep, and when I got up she was still sleeping, so I got out of it!” he grinned.
“And that ain’t good either!” reminded Mandy, flicking her ash on the floor. “You’re just avoiding the unavoidable.”
“I know!” he sighed, “But I will talk to her once I get home!”
Mandy nodded, “That’s good!”
“Mandy!” he said.
Mandy looked at him and smiled, “What?”
Nicky shook his head, “Nah, nothing!”
Mandy rolled her eyes, “Just tell me!”
“Well,” he said, scratching his head, “You won’t tell any of the lads about my little problem, will you? I mean, the fact that I cannot…you know!” he said discretely nudging his head down to his bits.
Mandy laughed, “Don’t you worry. Your secret’s safe with me!”
Nicky sighed with relief, “Thanks! Only if they ever find out about it, I will never hear the end of it!”
Mandy laughed, “Don’t worry. It’s probably happening coz you are feeling pressurised, but I won’t tell a soul. Promise!”
Nicky smiled appreciatively, “Anyway, how’s it going with that guy you’re with?”
Mandy frowned, “Oh! We broke up last week!”
“No!” he said, “I am sorry. I had no idea!”
Mandy shrugged, “Yeh well. Probably for the best!”
“What happened? If you don’t mind me asking?” he asked curiously.
“He went back to his wife. Serves me right for getting involved with a married man, eh?” she laughed.
Nicky shrugged, “His loss!”
“Well, it’s the last time I ever get involved with a married man, I can tell you that much!” she laughed.
“As I said, his loss, love!” he smiled.
Mandy smiled and thanked him, then stubbed her cigarette out and told him that it was time they went back in and got practising again.

Chapter Text

After a lot of rehearsing, they finally decided to call it a day.
“Ok lads. Enough is enough. You’ve done well. Good luck tomorrow!” she smiled, grabbing her bottle of water.
“Finally!” moaned Mark, “My legs are killing me!”
“Awwwwww!” pouted Mandy, “You tell Anna to give you a good leg massage when you get home!”
Mark grinned, “I will!”
“Are you coming to see us tomorrow?” asked Shane.
“Course I am! You think I’m going to miss my best boys performance?” smiled Mandy, “Might be a bit late, though, as I have that dance class with the kids tomorrow. Should be finished by 8pm, but by the time I have a shower and get changed, I might be about half an hour late!”
Shane smiled, “We want you to be there. Wouldn’t be the same without you!”
“Awww thanks Shane!” smiled Mandy, giving him a hug.
Nicky looked at Mandy and smiled, “Anyone fancy coming for a drink!”
Mandy looked at Nicky disapprovingly. He sighed.
“No-one then?” he asked.
“Sorry mate. Gonna go home. I am knackered and want to spend some time with Anna!” smiled Mark. All the others agreed that they wanted to be with their girls. Nicky watched Mandy putting her stuff away and decided to go up to her.
“Hey!” he smiled, handing her the towel. Mandy turned around and grabbed it, thanking him.
“What’s up, Nico?” she asked.
“What was that look about?” he asked, sitting on the table.
“It was about you not wanting to go home just so that you can avoid your wife!” she tutted.
Nicky sighed, “It was so not about that. I just fancied a drink!”
“Or five!” she gave him knowing looks.
Nicky bowed his head down and sighed as he put his hands on his hips.
“You cannot avoid her forever Nicky. Sooner or later you’re gonna have to talk to her again!” she smiled.
“Yeah, but it always turns into an argument and I am so sick of arguing!” he moaned. “But you’re still gonna have to face her!” she insisted.
“Yeah. You’re right!” he sighed.
Kian watched them both talking, “Is it me, or is Nicky getting very close to Mandy suddenly?”
Brian laughed, “They have been talking a lot haven’t they?”
“But I thought he didn’t like her!” wondered Mark.
“Yeah well. That chat they had yesterday must have gotten them closer.” Smiled Brian.
Shane grabbed his holdall, “Nicky, we’re going, mate. Are you coming?” he yelled.
Nicky looked back, “Yeah.”
He looked at Mandy and smiled, “Thanks for all the advice, Mandz. I needed that kick up the backside!”
Mandy laughed, “It’s what I am here for. To teach you to dance and to counsel you. Now go to your wife and kiss and make up!”
“If only!” he sighed.
Mandy smiled and watched him leave. She shook her head and continued packing her things away. The lads had all left and as soon as Mandy was ready, she picked up her stereo and cds and loaded them up in her car. She finally got in, and when she went to start the car, it would not start. She cursed it a few times and banged the steering wheel.
“Come on you useless piece of shit. Start!” she yelled.
She turned the keys in the ignition one more time and the car just died.
“Oh great!” she said to herself, “Now what?”
She sighed and picked up her phone. She phoned for a taxi, only to find out that they wouldn’t have one till about an hour’s time. Mandy refused to book one and got out of the car.
“Well, seems like there’s nothing left but to walk!” she said to herself. She grabbed her bag and locked the car door. She then grabbed the stereo and cd bag and started walking. Her house was about half an hours walk. She did not know how she was gonna make it there with all that stuff. She did not want to leave it in the car in case someone broke into it. Ten minutes into her walk, she heard a car pulling up next to her.
“Oh god, here goes!” she thought to herself. It was dark and she was on her own. She was scared, and was secretly getting ready for a struggle. She saw the windows rolling down and she sped up her pace. The car carried on driving slowly alongside her.
“Hey. Mandy!” said the voice.
Mandy recognised the voice immediately and stopped. She looked inside and sighed with relief.
“Oh thank god it’s only you!” she sighed.
“Who did you expect me to be? The bogeyman?” he laughed.
“What are you still doing in your car, Nicky? You should be at home now!” she tutted. “Yeah. I went home, but I just came out to get a few beers!” he smiled, “How come you are walking?”
“Car wouldn’t start!” she answered, rolling her eyes.
“You have walked all the way here? With all that?” he gasped.
Mandy looked at her stuff and nodded.
“Why did you not call a cab?” he shrieked.
“Oh gee, why didn’t I think of that?” she smiled sarcastically.
Nicky sighed.
“There wouldn’t have a cab available for an hour and I was not waiting that long!” she explained.
“Want a ride home?” he offered.
Mandy smiled, “That’d be great. Thanks Nico!”
Nicky leaned over and opened the door for her. Mandy got in, shivering with cold and rubbed her hands together.
“I cannot feel my fingers!” she said, blowing on them.
Nicky smiled, “My car will soon warm you up!”
Mandy smiled and already started to regain some feeling in her fingers.
“So. Talked to her yet?” asked Mandy, “Sorry don’t mean to be a pain, but I care about my lads!”
Nicky smiled, “Well, she was nice to me when we got in. It was when I said we needed to have a serious chat that she kinda flipped. I told her I was gonna get myself some beers and then when she calmed down, we could talk!”
Mandy sighed, “Good luck. Anyway, this is my home.”
Nicky stopped the car and admired her house, “Nice house!”
“Thanks!” giggled Mandy.
“Here. I will help you carry your stuff home!” he smiled, getting out of the car. He grabbed the stereo and the disks case and walked to the front door. Mandy opened it and Nicky put everything on the floor at the landing.
“Cheers Nicky! I owe you one!” she smiled, turning the light on.
“No problem!” he smiled.
Mandy smiled and hang her keys up on the hook behind the door.
Nicky nodded, “Anyway, goodnight. And see you tomorrow!” he winked.
Nicky stopped her, “Thanks, again, for everything. I am glad we talked!”
Mandy smiled, “Me too!”
Nicky leaned over to give her a kiss on the cheek. Mandy kissed him back and then looked at him. Nicky stopped smiling and then gave her a peck on the lips. Mandy was very taken aback by this and gave him a shocked look. Nicky sighed and rubbed his face.
“Sorry about that. Don’t know what came over me!” he sighed.
Mandy shook her head, “Don’t be sorry!” she whispered. Nicky looked at her and then pressed his lips against hers again, kissing her very passionately. Mandy grabbed a handful of his hair as they kissed. When they let go of each other they just stared at each other.
“What was that all about?” he whispered.
Mandy shrugged, “Dunno. What’s going on?”
Nicky sighed and looked around him, “I think I’d better go, before things get out of hand!”
Mandy nodded, “Yeah, I think that’s a good idea!”
Nicky smiled and nodded, before he turned around and walked back to the car. Mandy sighed and went inside her house. She walked into the living room and collapsed on the sofa. She looked to her side and got the photo frame. She looked at the picture inside and smiled.
“God Nicky. Why do I keep doing this to myself?” she asked herself. She looked at the picture of her and Nicky, when they first met, when they got along better. They were hugging during a photo shoot. She had that photo up for a while now. It was one of her favourites, and she had secretly fancied him since then. Trouble was he was happily engaged back then, and knew that she could never have him. And when she met her married man, she thought that she had gotten over him, but now that Josh had left her to go back to his wife, those old feelings were starting to come back. 

Chapter Text

The following day, the lads were at the arena getting ready for their concert. Mandy was still at the studio, giving the dance lessons to those kids. The kids were due to perform for their dance academy the following month, and the academy had asked Mandy to choreograph a dance for them. Mandy felt honoured that they had asked her, and since she loved working with kids, she decided to give it a go. She had never choreographed kids dances before. She was used to choreographing for major artists, prior to their concerts, and this felt like a challenge, to add excitement to her job. When she was finished, she quickly had a shower and sped off to the arena. She got there twenty minutes into the show, but being backstage watching the whole thing meant that she didn’t have to stand at the back of the arena and miss it all. She smiled as she proudly watched the boys performing, mastering every move that she had taught them. Her attention was mainly on Nicky because of the close bond they had developed recently and on Mark, who was always nervous before any show. But tonight they had excelled themselves, and she was proud of that. When it was time for their break, Shane spotted her first. 

“Hey, you made it!” he smiled, kissing her cheek.
“Did you honestly think I would miss the chance of seeing my boys on stage on their first night?” she grinned, as she kissed each and every lad. When she got to Nicky she smiled.
“You did well, Nicky. Very proud of you!” she smiled.
Nicky smiled, “I need to talk to you later.” He winked.
Mandy nodded and let them get onto their costume changes.
“Are you coming to the after show party?” asked Kian, as he waited by the door. “Wouldn’t miss it for the world!” she grinned, taking a sip of her drink. Kian smiled and then ran to the bottom of the stage, along with the others. Nicky looked at her and smiled. Mandy wondered if that meant that his chat with Krisanne had gone well last night. She smiled back and wished him luck. Louis came and joined her side. Mandy looked at him and smiled.
“You should be proud of them, Louis. They have done well tonight!” she smiled.
“Aye, they have!” he grinned, “And it is all down to you. They have mastered those steps quicker than I could have ever imagined!”
Mandy shook her head modestly, “They are a good bunch of lads.”
Louis smiled and then turned his attention back to the lads.
“It’s amazing!” laughed Mandy.
“What is?” asked Louis, folding his arms.
“Just yesterday Nicky had so much trouble getting these steps to this particular song. And look at him now!” she smiled.
“Yeah, well. Nicky is going through a lot of problems lately. Hope he sorts himself out, that lad!” he sighed.
“Yes. I know all about it!” smiled Mandy, “And gave him some friendly advice. Hope it works!”
“Well, he is all smiles now, so you must have said something right!” he laughed.
“We’ll see!” shrugged Mandy.
When the show had finished, the lads all came backstage, cheering and shouting. They were hyper and could not be controlled.
“Party, here we come!” shouted Nicky, walking over to Mandy and picking her up, giving her a big hug.
“Put me down!” she laughed, banging on his shoulder. He gave her a big kiss on the cheek and ran to his dressing room to get showered and changed. The others lifted Mandy up and carried her around the room.
“Argh guys, calm down!” she screamed, not liking being held so high up. The girls, Anna, Tracee and Angie laughed hysterically. They finally put her down and each went to their dressing room. Mandy waited for them at the stage room. She sat on the chair and rubbed her eyes. It was then that she realised that she needed to put some make up on, so she walked to the mirror in the corner of the room and took her make up bag out of her handbag and soon got busy in putting her face on. When the lads walked out, Mandy was already done. Nicky was the first one out and they were alone.
“Finally!” she smiled, “Can we go now? I am bored stupid in here!”
“Take the word bored out and that about sums you up correctly!” winked Nicky cheekily.
Mandy thought about this for a while before she realised what he meant, “Oi. Cheeky!” she laughed, slapping his arm.
“Nah, love ya really!” he laughed and stared at her for a while, “You're looking nice.”
Mandy smiled and bowed her head down, “Thanks. Aren’t the others ready yet?”
Nicky shook his head, “Mandz. About that kiss!” he sighed.
Mandy blushed and looked down at the floor, “I know. It shouldn’t have happened!” Nicky looked at her, “No, it shouldn’t have happened, but that doesn’t mean that I didn’t enjoy it!”
Mandy blushed even more, “Me too! But hey, you’re married to Krisanne. We cannot do this!”
Nicky smiled and patted her leg, “You’re not mad at me, are you?”
Mandy shook her head, “No. It’s ok! I just wish it wouldn’t have happened, but hey! What can you do?” she shrugged.
Nicky nodded and was about to say something when all the lads came out singing obvious. Nicky and Mandy looked at them and laughed.
“Hey, are you two bonding or something?” asked Shane, straightening his jacket.
“Just chatting!” shrugged Nicky.
“Well, let’s go then. We are wasting valuable time on drinks here!” grinned Kian, clapping his hands.
Mandy smiled and walked out with them.
“So. Where’s Krisanne?” asked Mandy, as they got in their cars.
“She had a headache!” moaned Nicky, “But she promised me she would make it to the party!”
Mandy smiled, “Good!”

When they got to their venue, Krisanne was already there, waiting outside. Mandy smiled when she saw her, though deep inside, she frowned as she knew that she had to keep her distance from Nicky. Krisanne was a very jealous girl who hated the fact that Nicky talked to other girls. Nicky immediately went up to her and kissed her gently.
“How was the gig?” she questioned him.
“It was fantastic. You shoulda been there. The crowd was amazing!” he smiled.
“And so were they!” laughed Mandy, “Good to see that my time was not put to waste!”
Krisanne looked at Mandy briefly and then back at Nicky.
“We don’t have to stay here long, do we?” she asked him, “There are other things I would much rather be getting on with!”
Mandy knew straight away what she meant, and she swore she saw Nicky frowning. He just smiled and walked inside with her. He gave Mandy a knowing look and then looked away quickly.
Once they were inside, the music blared loudly and the drinks were flowing nicely. Soon, they all heard the clinking of glass. Everyone hushed and looked at the source. There was Louis, standing up in the middle of the room, waiting for everyone to remain quiet.
“Ok everyone. We all know why we are here. To party hard after such hard work. These lads have been amazing, practising, rehearsing and all that. They have done really well, and that gig had a massive response from the fans. I have never heard them cheer so loudly, and to that, I have to thank quite a lot of people. First of all, thanks to the boys, for working really hard and giving it their all. Next, thanks to everyone involved in setting up the lights, sound, stage, etc etc, and last but not least, to Mandy. For making up some great dances to the songs, and for having the patience of a saint in dealing with these lads!” he laughed. Mandy laughed and raised her glass to thank him.
“Anyway, that’s all from me. You guys were great. I hope you do this well again tomorrow!” smiled Louis.
Everyone raised their glasses and had a sip. Mandy cleared her throat and looked at everyone.
“I have got something I have to say too!” she smiled. Everyone stopped talking and looked. Krisanne was talking to Nicky, but he hushed her and looked at Mandy. Mandy blushed and looked at everyone.
“I just wanna say well done to the lads. They have done really well tonight and they have made me really proud. It was not easy teaching them the moves, and there were times when I felt like smashing my head against a brick wall and knocking a few heads together!” she laughed, looking at Nicky. He winked at her and then took a sip from his drink.
“Anyway, they have all excelled themselves tonight and I think we owe them a round of applause. Louis, I hope you know what great lads you have here!” smiled Mandy, “You should be proud of them!”
Everyone cheered and clapped, and then Nicky stepped in. Everyone looked at him. “Seeing as everyone is making a speech, I thought I might as well join in!” he smiled. Everyone laughed.
“I just wanna say thanks to everyone aswell. If it wasn’t for them, we wouldn’t be where we are today!” he smiled, and then looked at Louis, “Louis. I know we don’t always see eye to eye, and we are always arguing about one thing or another, but I love you, man. You’re the best!”
Louis laughed and shook his head. Next Nicky looked at the lads, “And you lads, you are there for me every time I need you. You have certainly kept my spirits up every time I am down, so cheers for that!” They all cheered and raised his glass to him. After thanking some other people, he finally looked at Mandy.
“And last of all, but certainly not least, Mandy. Louis is right. You must have the patience of a saint; especially after all the shite you have had to put up with me around. I know I made it really difficult for you and that I have been a royal pain in the backside, but I wanna thank you for keeping me on my toes and not taking any shite from me. Most of all, thanks for being so supportive. I mean, I have not made it easy for you, and you have been there for me. So thank you. And thanks for listening!” he winked.
Mandy smiled as she stared at him. She looked at Krisanne, who did not look all that pleased and then she looked at the ground, wishing that the arm that was draped around Krisanne at the moment, was draped around hers. She sighed and then walked to the drinks table to get herself another drink. 

Chapter Text

After several drinks, Mandy suddenly felt the effects. Her head was woozy, and her lips were numb. She sat down and stared into space. Anna looked at her.
“Are you ok?” she asked.
Mandy looked at her and gave her a daft grin. Anna laughed.
“OK, she is drunk!” she giggled. Angie and Tracee looked at her and laughed. Mandy sighed, “He’s nice, isn’t he?”
Anna gave her odd looks, “Who?”
Mandy stared at Nicky and said nothing. She just sighed. Anna looked at the direction she was looking at and gasped.
“Nicky?” she gasped.
Mandy smiled and then looked at her.
“You fancy Nicky?” shrieked Angie.
Mandy just grinned and then shrugged, “Well, just look at him. He is so sexy!”
“And also married!” reminded Tracee.
“Yeah, to the biggest bitch in history!” she smirked.
The girls gave her shocked looks, “Since when did you dislike Krisanne? Come to think of it, since when did you start fancying Nicky? You two are always fighting like cat and dog!” asked Tracee.
Mandy simply shrugged, “Never liked Krisanne. She is not very sociable like you lot. At least you take the time to talk to me and invite me to places. She just looks down on me as if I am scum. And Nicky? I have always had a soft spot for him. He just has that face! We fight because…well…I get frustrated because I cannot have him and I suppose I take it out on him, which is wrong. But we have made amends now.”
Shane decided to join the girls. He put his arm around Tracee’s shoulders.
“Hey girls. What’s up?” he grinned, looking at all of them and kissing Tracee’s forehead.
“Mandy’s drunk and she is fantasising about…” started Tracee.
“About no-one!” shouted Mandy, hoping she would shut up. Tracee giggled and shook her head.
“About who?” asked Shane, looking from Mandy to Tracee.
“I said no-one!” grinned Mandy, wanting to take a sip from her drink, and finding out her glass was empty. Shane laughed at her, “Want another one?”
Mandy grinned, “Wouldn’t mind!”
“Ok, I’ll get you one if you tell me who you are fantasising about!” he smirked evilly. Mandy stared at him for a minute and shook her head, “In that case I shall get it myself. See ya!” she grinned, stumbling away.
Shane laughed and then left Tracee and joined the lads again, telling them that Mandy had her eye out for someone. The lads laughed and carried on talking. Mandy got her drink and then went back to the girls.
“Anyone up for a dance?” asked Angie.
“I’ll go!” said Mandy, raising her hand stupidly, “I am so hyper!”
Angie looked at her, “Not kidding!” she laughed.
Mandy gave her a stupid grin and followed Angie to the dance floor. The other girls decided to join their men.
“So, Tracee. Are you gonna tell me who Mandy is fantasising about?” asked Shane again.
Tracee shook her head and zipped her lips, “Sorry. It’s strictly confidential.”
“Oh come on, Tracee. Tell us! Pleeeeeeeease!” whined Brian.
Tracee looked at him and almost burst out laughing, “Sorry guys. I keep my secrets!” Brian looked at Shane, “Shay! Sort your woman out, will you?”
Shane simply shrugged, “Sorry mate. But she actually is good at keeping secrets!”
Nicky smiled and then looked at Mandy dancing. He then laughed.
“Is her life all about dancing? I mean, when you are working at a coffee shop, most people don’t wanna see coffee again when they are not working. When you work in a school, most people don’t wanna see kids when they are not working. Mandy however, works as a choreographer, and yet, when she is not working, she is still dancing!” he laughed.
Tracee giggled, “That’s coz right now she is not teaching it. She is dancing for fun!” Nicky shrugged and continued with his drink. Not long after, Krisanne nudged him, “I am tired now, babe. Shall we go?”
Nicky looked at her, “But it is only midnight!”
“Yeah, but I am tired!” she whined.
Nicky sighed, “I tell you what! Why don’t we book a room and we can stay here tonight! You can go up and sleep, and I can stay here and party and everyone is happy!”
Krisanne looked at him, disapprovingly, “You’re gonna leave me on my own?”
Nicky sighed and ran his fingers through his hair, “Man, I can’t win! Krisanne, this is our after gig party. I am not going to bed yet. We are celebrating and I am still buzzing!”
“But we don’t have to sleep!” she smiled, running her fingers up and down his chest. Nicky sighed and placed his hands on his hips. He looked down, to control his patience and then looked up at her, “Point is, babe, I don’t wanna leave this party yet. I am having too much fun!”
Krisanne sighed and looked at him angrily, “Fine. If my own husband doesn’t want to come up with me and make love to me, then I shall have to go on my own! Good night!” she huffed, storming off. All the lads looked at Nicky.
“Shouldn’t you go after her or something?” suggested Mark.
Nicky sighed, “I have had it up to here with that woman! She thinks I am some sort of baby making machine or something.” He stormed off after her. Mandy noticed them arguing at the corner of the room and frowned. Then she saw that she had stormed up and Nicky stayed behind and walked back to the lads.
“Looks like there has been another famous Byrne row!” smiled Angie, sneaking up behind her. Mandy jumped a little and looked at her. She grabbed onto the table to regain her balance.
“Huh?” she said.
Angie smiled, “She has done the disappearing act again, hasn’t she?”
“Oh, Krisanne? Yes, she has!” shrugged Mandy.
“I have said it before and I shall say it again, those two should never have got together, let alone get married. They are too different!” smiled Angie.
Mandy shrugged, “Yeah, well. They loved each other. That’s what matters, eh?”
Angie rolled her eyes, “Yeah but do they love each other now?”
“Nicky told me he loves her and cares a lot about her! Why shouldn’t they? They are just having a few domestic problems, but I am sure they can sort it out!” smiled Mandy. Her head was spinning and she looked around for a seat.
“Are you ok Mandz?” asked Angie, sitting down next to her.
“Yeah. Just really dizzy!” she giggled.
Angie looked at her, “How many have you had?”
Mandy gave her a daft look, “I lost count after my fifth one!” she giggled, “And now I am gonna go and get myself another one!”
Angie gave her funny looks, “Do you think you should? I mean, you’re near enough wasted already!”
“I am still young and life is too short to be sensible!” she snorted.
“What has gotten into you, Mandy? I have never seen you like this before!” said Angie, starting to worry about her.
“Let’s just say that I am fed up with being sensible and proper all the time. I need to live my life!” she shrugged, as she got up and fell back on her seat again. She started giggling hysterically.
“By drinking?” shrieked Angie.
Mandy squinted, as she looked at her, “Mum? Is that you?” she grinned mockingly. Angie shook her head, “I think you should go and sleep it off!”
“And miss out on these free drinks? Not bloody likely!” she laughed loudly.
“Your life!” sang Angie, walking away. Mandy stared at Nicky, and then looked away. Nicky then stared at Mandy, drinking his drink at the same time, and then looked away again. It was at this point that Mandy started feeling sick. She walked up to her friends and hugged them all, “I think I am gonna go now. Not feeling to good!”
“Want me to call you a cab?” asked Anna.
“No, but you can call me Mandy if you want!” she laughed hysterically at her own joke. Anna gave her strange looks.
“Nah. I am gonna book myself a room here! Easier!” shrugged Mandy, finally responding to her question.
“Ok hun. See ya tomorrow, yeah?” smiled Anna.
Mandy nodded and walked out of the hall, and to the reception. She booked herself a room, and grabbed the keys, after which she got into the lift which took her up to her floor. 

Chapter Text

Nicky was still down at the party, when he looked at the time. It was quarter past three in the morning, and he was now very very drunk. He looked at the others and he swayed about.
“Ok guys, I think I’d better go up to Kris now before she throws another one of her wobblies!” he grinned.
“Righteeo, Nico. See ya tomorrow!” smiled Brian, patting him on the back. Nicky nodded and staggered off in search of his room.
Mandy was in her room now. As she did not expect to be staying at a hotel, she did not have any nightclothes with her. Luckily, the hotel had supplied her with a bathrobe, so she put that on, and then sat on the bed, watching some telly. She sighed as she flicked through the channels as she couldn’t sleep. The room would not stop spinning. She heard noises, coming from her door and looked at it suspiciously, but then smiled when the noise stopped. Five minutes later she heard the door again. It sounded as if someone was trying to get in. She was getting scared now, and walked towards the door. She pressed her ear against it and heard some mumbling.
“Who’s there?” she asked.
“Kris, it’s me! Open up!” he whispered.
Mandy looked at the door, “Nicky?”
“Who else would it be? Come on, open up, I need the loo!” he muttered, hopping from foot to foot.
Mandy opened the door. Nicky was about to go in, when he noticed it was Mandy. “What are you doing in my room?” he squeaked.
“Your room?” she shrieked, “This is my room!”
“Uh, uh! This is my room!” he argued.
“No Nicky. It is mine. Look!” she said, showing him her card.
“No. your key says room 208. This is room 206!” he argued again, taking a look.
“No Nicky. This is room 208! Look!” she laughed, pointing to the number on the door. Nicky squinted as he looked at then laughed, “Oh god, I am drunker than I thought! Where’s room 206 then?”
Mandy got out and looked at the door beside hers, “Right here!”
Nicky looked and laughed, “Oops! Sorry! I didn’t get you out of bed, did I?”
Mandy grinned, “I was just watching telly!”
“Look, I am really bursting here. Mind if I go to your bathroom? I cannot hold it in anymore!” he winced. Without giving her the chance to answer, he just ran inside and locked himself in the bathroom. Mandy shook her head and sat on her bed again. She heard the toilet flush, and then looked at the door opening.
“Feel better?” she grinned.
“Ah, yes. Much better thanks! Anyway, what are you doing in this hotel?” he asked with a smile, sitting down next to her.
“Well, I am too drunk to drive!” she giggled, “And I cannot be arsed to wait for a cab, so I thought I’d stay here tonight!”
Nicky smiled and shrugged, “Yeah, same here! Plus I thought it would be better, as Kris wanted to come up to bed, and I didn’t, so it was the best thing to do!”
Mandy sighed and nodded.
“I have had enough, you know?” he admitted.
“Nicky! Come on, she’s your wife. She just wants to be with you!” sighed Mandy.
“And I am starting to get fed up with her stroppiness! She cannot get everything she wants!” he whined.
“She wanted to spend some time with you, showing you how much she loves you. Is that so bad?” she gasped.
“It is when you know that all she wants from you is a baby, and nothing else!” he hissed.
“Nicky, come on! You know it’s a lot more than that!” smiled Mandy, patting his hand.
“Maybe, but that thought is always in my head, and I cannot get rid of those thoughts. I feel like I am just being used and that is why I cannot perform, if you know what I mean!” he frowned.
Mandy giggled at the way he put that, “It’s all psychololoogical!” she slurred. Nicky looked at her and smiled, “So you’re a psychologist now, are ye? Or psychololoogist, as you put it!”
Mandy laughed loudly, “Well, no, but I did it at school!”
Nicky smiled and noticed her robe was partly open at the top. He could not help but look down, and he could see her cleavage. He tried to take his eyes away, but could not stop looking. Mandy had not noticed yet, as she was looking the other way. “Anyway, shouldn’t you be getting back to…” she started, but stopped when she looked at him. He was looking down her robe and biting his lip.
“Er, Nicky?” she said uncomfortably, pulling her robe together. Nicky looked up at her. “What?” he asked.
“My boobs are not doing the talking. My mouth is!” she smirked.
Nicky smiled at her and blushed, “Sorry!”
Mandy giggled.
“Anyway, what were you saying?” he smiled.
Mandy thought about his question and then looked at him, “You know what? I cannot even remember!”
Nicky looked at her for a second and then burst out laughing. Mandy laughed too.
“Nicky, why are you being so nice to me all of a sudden?” she asked, playing with the belt on her robe.
“What do you mean?” he asked. His eyes were half open and looked really heavy.
“Well, you were always so horrible to me. I thought you hated me!” she smiled.
Nicky smirked, “Well, I wouldn’t say hate. That is too strong a word, but I did think you were too serious about the dancing, and made us work too hard!”
“Well, only coz I wanted you lot to give everyone the best performance ever!” she frowned.
“I know!” he smiled, “I realise that now, and I am sorry for making your life hell!”
“So when did you realise that you actually thought I wasn’t that horrible person you thought I was?” she smiled, slightly slurring her words.
“When I talked to you at that café, and gave me some sound advice! I never thought you were horrible though. I’ve always thought you were very sexy, just too serious,” he grinned.
Mandy blushed smiled.
“But I thought you hated me too!” he continued, slurring his words aswell.
“As you said, it is too strong a word. I never hated you, I just got annoyed coz I knew you had potential and you kept wasting it! But I have always thought you were very sexy too,” she shrugged.
“You’re starting to sound like my old teachers! Except the sexy part,” he chuckled.
Mandy laughed, “I feel so sorry for them for having you as a student!” she cackled.
“Oi! That was uncalled for!” he laughed!
Mandy grinned, “Oooh I remember what I was gonna say before!”
Nicky grinned, “Ten years later. What?”
“I said, I think you should be getting back to Krisanne now!” she laughed.
“I think you might be right! Oh well, see you tomorrow, Mandz!” he winked, getting up. Mandy got up and followed him to the door. He suddenly turned around before he opened the door and looked at her. Her robe was partly open again. He tried not to look again. He just had a quick peek and licked his lips before looking into her eyes. “Thanks for everything!” he smiled.
“What for?” she asked.
“Just for being there!” he smiled, looking down for a second and then back up. Mandy smiled, “No problem!”
Nicky looked at her for a second, wondering whether he should or not. He stared into her eyes and felt his head leaning towards her. Mandy just stared at him, wondering the same thing. Her eyes closed and that’s when he finally brushed his lips against hers. Mandy eventually pulled away and looked at him.
“Nicky…” she whispered.
Nicky closed his eyes and sighed, “Again. I am sorry! It’s just that…”
“What?” whispered Mandy.
“I dunno. I have seen a new you, and I like it!” he admitted, “And I cannot control myself!”
Mandy swallowed hard, “Please, Nicky. Don’t!”
Nicky shook his head, “I don’t want to make you uncomfortable, but you are doing things to me that Kris hasn’t managed to do in ages!”
Mandy looked at him confused, before he looked down on himself. Mandy looked at his trousers and straight away knew what he was on about. Nicky blushed heavily. “That has not happened in 2 months, babe!” he sighed, looking away from her.
Mandy bit her lip, not knowing what to say. She wanted him. She wanted him badly, and being this drunk made her not even think about the consequences. She looked at him and he then he looked at her. They looked at each other for a few seconds before Mandy made the next move. She got closer to him and brushed her lips against his. “Make love to me, Nicky!” she whispered.
Nicky licked her lips and picked her up and pressed her against the wall. He kissed her lips roughly and then looked at her.
“Kris is next door. We have to be really quiet!” he panted, still kissing her lips. Mandy leaned her head back so he would kiss her neck, “Me being quiet? Well that’s a challenge if I ever saw one!”
Nicky smiled and kissed her again, this time taking her to the bed and throwing her on it and then climbing on top of her.
“Question is, Nicky, can you be quiet?” she whispered, as she removed his top.
Nicky looked down at her and smirked, “Worth a shot!”
Mandy smiled and then kissed him hard, “Well, let’s give it a shot then!”

Chapter Text

Mandy laid back in bed with the covers up to her chest. Nicky lay beside her, trying to get his breath back.
“Oh my god!” whispered Mandy, staring up at the ceiling.
“ I know!” he whispered back.
Mandy turned her head and looked at him, “Think you should go back to Krisanne now!” she slurred.
Nicky nodded and got up. He got dressed and looked at her laying on the bed.
“Just have to say that I have not experienced that in a very long time. I really enjoyed it! It is the first time I have actually enjoyed sex in a very long time,” he smiled, putting his belt back on.
Mandy sighed and looked at him, “Same here!”
“Anyway, see you tomorrow, right?” he smiled.
Mandy smiled and nodded, “Night, Nico!”
Nicky smiled and walked out after putting his shoes on. Mandy sighed and turned around in bed, wondering if that was the biggest mistake she had ever made. Truth was, she was too drunk to even care. She was just happy that she had got his attention for just one night! 

In the morning, she got up and headed straight for the restaurant for a buffet breakfast. Turned out, all the lads had stayed there for the night. As soon as she went in, she saw all of them sitting at the table. Nicky was also there, but as far as Mandy could see, no Krisanne. Mandy frowned when she saw him, but sat down with them anyway, as Anna had already told her to join them.
“So, how’s your head this morning!” smiled Shane, stuffing a rasher of bacon in his mouth.
Mandy smiled, “Still there!” she joked.
Shane grinned and continued eating his breakfast. She then looked at Nicky, who briefly glanced at her and then looked away uncomfortably. Mandy sighed and called the waiter over, to order an orange juice.
“Good party, last night eh?” smiled Tracee, “Should have one more often!”
Mandy grinned, “Yeah, it was great! Loved every minute of it!”
She looked at Nicky as she said that. Nicky looked at her again, and then looked away. “Anyway, I am gonna go and get my breakfast now! Back in a sec!” she sighed. 

When she went away, Brian looked at Nicky, “Had another argument you two? You could cut the tension up with a knife!”
“No!” answered Nicky, “we haven’t!”
“So why so tense? What’s happened?” asked Brian again.
“Nothing has happened. I am fine. I am sure she is fine. We’re just suffering from massive hangovers!” he huffed.
Brian shrugged, not totally convinced by that.
When Mandy returned, she sat down and ate her special K cereal.
“Is that all you’re having?” shrieked Anna.
“Ow. No, no. No, no. Absolutely no shouting!” winced Mandy, rubbing her temples. “Sorry!” grinned Anna slightly quieter, “Is that all you’re having?”
“Yeah. Why?” she asked, looking at her confused.
“We are at this top hotel, where Breakfast is included, and you are having cereal?” she squeaked.
Mandy shrugged, “I am not hungry!”
Anna nodded and accepted her answer. She then looked at Mark.
“Ok then. Wanna leave? I am about done here!” she smiled.
“Sure. Let’s go!” smiled Mark, putting his napkin on the table and getting up. He held her hand and they started to walk off.
“Hang on a sec!” shouted Kian, “We’re going with you!”
He and Angie got up and joined them, leaving Brian and Shane with Tracee and Joy and Mandy and Nicky. It was now, that Krisanne had decided on joining them.
“Hey babe!” smiled Nicky, kissing her gently. Krisanne fobbed him off and went straight to the buffet. Mandy looked at them and shook her head.
“Ok, I am going up aswell!” said Brian, grabbing Joy’s hand. Tracee and Shane decided on heading up aswell.
“Why do I get the distinct feeling that they are getting away from us?” asked Mandy suddenly. Nicky shrugged, “I guess they can see that Kris and I are about to have another argument. I know for a fact that they don’t like Kris, so it might be just that! I’d disappear too if I were you. Our fights are not pleasant.”
Mandy sighed, “Another tiff?” she asked.
“Yep! She was not impressed that I got to bed at 4am this morning!” he shrugged, taking a bite of his sausage.
“Oh god!” she whispered.
“She did not talk to me last night, and this morning she has just tried to avoid me at all costs!” he added.
“Do you think she knows…I mean…” stuttered Mandy.
Nicky shook his head, “No. She thought I was at the party all night! Don’t worry!” “Nicky..About last night!” she started.
“It shouldn’t have happened, I know. But what can you do?” he shrugged.
“Nicky!” she gasped.
“What?” he whispered.
“We need to talk about it!” she whispered.
“Not now, eh?” he moaned.
“Why not?” she shrieked.
Nicky looked at Krisanne, who was busily getting her food, “Coz now is not the right time, that’s why?” he hushed her.
“Nicky, we slept together, and then you said you enjoyed it! We seriously need to talk about it, and soon!” she whispered.
“And we will, when the time is right!” he added back.
“Nicky!” she said disapprovingly.
“Look, we cannot talk about it now, ok? And that’s all there is to it. End of!” he hissed.
Mandy gave him an angry look and then stood up. Krisanne then sat down.
“What’s wrong?” she asked.
“Nothing!” mumbled Mandy, “I was just leaving! See you later!”
Krisanne nodded and looked at Nicky.
“Had another one of your arguments with her?” she smirked.
“Just leave it, eh Kris?” he sighed.
“What was it about this time? That you miscounted one of the steps? That you were too slow?” she chuckled.
“I said leave it, yeh?” he said slightly louder.
“Ooh sorry! Someone’s in a mood!” she huffed.
“Yeah well, someone has a banging headache, and is not in the mood for jokes, so just as I said, leave it!” he moaned.
Krisanne looked at him for a sec, “You know what? I am sick and tired of the way you are treating me, Nicky! If you carry on like this, you can go to these parties by yourself from now on! If you would have listened to me and gone up at the same time as me last night, then you would have been fine today!”
“And I am in no mood for your damn lectures!” he hissed, “So just leave me alone! And maybe I didn’t wanna go up. Maybe I just wanted to stay and have a good time for once. My god, woman. What happened to the Krisanne I married? The woman who was the life and soul of the party? What has happened to you?” he raised his voice.
“Maybe she grew up and gained other priorities in life!” she snarled, annoyed by his comment.
“Yeah, well maybe I feel a little bit too young for those priorities you are talking about. God, I am only 24 years old!” he shrieked.
“Well act like it then!” she hissed.
“What, by having a child? I still am living my youth, so no chance!” he snarled.
“So when are you gonna decide on having one, when you’re forty and too old to appreciate them?” she growled.
“No. When I am ready and when I feel I have enjoyed and made the most of my life!” he hissed, “And stop going on about it. It’s just putting me off the idea even more!”
“Well, maybe I should go with someone who actually wants kids, eh?” she screamed. Nicky looked at her, hurt by that comment,
“Very well then. Do as you please!” he grunted, getting up, slamming his napkin down before storming off! 

Mandy stormed up to her room and slammed the door shut. She then threw herself on the bed and felt something hard under her bum. She lifted herself up and found a watch on the bed. Nicky’s watch. She picked it up, sat back down and looked at it. She sighed and threw herself back on the bed.
“Why, Mandz? Why do you keep doing this to yourself?” she scolded herself, “Getting involved with married men is just pointless!”
She put her hands over her face and cried softly. Ten minutes later, she heard a knock on the door. She quickly wiped her eyes and got closer to the door.
“Who is it?” she squeaked.
“It’s me, Anna!” came the reply.
Mandy sighed and opened the door. Anna saw her standing there. She could tell she had been crying.
“Hey! Have you been crying?” she gasped.
Mandy shrugged and let her in. She sat on the bed and looked at the floor.
“What’s the matter, hun?” asked Anna.
Mandy blinked and shook her head.
“Oh come on, you can tell me!” smiled Anna.
Mandy shook her head again, “I don’t think I can!”
“It cannot be that bad!” laughed Anna, “Though I am guessing, judging by that really tense atmosphere during breakfast that you have had another one of your famous arguments with Nicky. Hun, when are you gonna stop letting him get to you. You know what he’s like! And besides, he is having loads of problems! What has he done now?”
Mandy shook her head, “Yeah, we have kinda had a bit of an argument, but not like you think. Oh god!”
“What?” asked Anna.
Mandy finally looked at her and dried her eyes, “You have got to promise me that you will not breathe a word about this to anyone!”
Anna crossed her heart with her finger and looked at her. Mandy sighed.
“Last night, when I came up to my room after the party, me and Nicky…me and Nicky…” she sighed, and could not finish that sentence.
“You and Nicky, what?” asked Anna, getting highly suspicious.
“Me and Nicky slept together!” she finally said, bowing her head down.
“YOU WHAT???” shrieked Anna. 

Chapter Text

“You slept with him?” shrieked Anna.
Mandy sighed and nodded, feeling quite ashamed.
“Oh my god!” whispered Anna, “But…”
“He had come back from the party, and he thought this was his room. He tried opening it, but obviously he could not get in. So I opened and he stumbled inside, rushing to the toilets. We got talking, and he talked to me, again, about his problems with Krisanne, and that’s how it started. We were both very drunk…no excuse, I know, and we just did it. Then he got up and went back to his wife. And this morning, he refuses to talk to me about it!” explained Mandy.
Anna stared at her, “So what’s gonna happen?”
Mandy shrugged, “Your guess is as good as mine. I wanted to talk to him about what happened to clear the air up a bit, but he doesn’t wanna know. So I dunno!”
“What are you gonna do?” she asked.
“Well, I am gonna go back home now. Cannot face him!” she scowled.
Anna smiled, “Are you gonna be ok?”
“I’ll live!” shrugged Mandy, “He’s not exactly the love of my life!”
Anna couldn’t help but chuckle, “Chin up. Besides, you don’t wanna mess around with married men again, Mandz. Not after last time!”
“I know! That’s what I keep telling myself. What happened last night was just a drunken mistake that shall NEVER happen again!” sighed Mandy.
“OK then. How are you getting home?” she asked.
“I’ll get a cab or something!” she shrugged.
Anna smiled and got up, “ok then hun. I need to go. Mark wanted to go to the pool. See you tomorrow, yeah?”
“Tomorrow?” asked Mandy quizzically.
“Yeah. You’re rehearsing with the lads again, aren’t you? To freshen their brains?” laughed Anna.
“Oh yeah, course I am. That should be interesting!” smirked Mandy.
Anna smiled, “Ok then. See you tomorrow. Take care now!”
“You won’t tell anyone about this, will you? I mean, if Nicky finds out I have told you, he will hate me for life, and he hates me enough as it is!” checked Mandy.
Anna smiled and looked at her, “Don’t worry. Your secrets safe with me!”
“Thanks!” smiled Mandy, “I appreciate that!”
Anna smiled and left. Mandy grabbed her bags and checked out of the hotel. She saw Louis walking around the lobby.
“Hey. Leaving already?” he smiled.
“Yep. Going home now. Got quite a few things to do. Plus I have those kids to choreograph later on this afternoon!” she smiled.
Louis smiled, “You got your car?”
“No. I am getting a cab!” she smiled.
Louis shook his head, “No you’re not. If you hang around for 5 minutes, I can arrange a car to take you. Hang on, ok?”
“It’s ok, Louis. Really, I can take a cab!” she insisted.
Louis look at her, “stop arguing with me and do as you’re told!”
Mandy laughed and sat down on the sofa in the lobby. She looked around and saw Nicky walking hand in hand with Krisanne. She sighed and looked away. As they had to pass straight by her, he stopped and looked at her.
“Hey!” he sighed.
“Hi!” frowned Mandy, unable to look him in the eye.
“What are you doing down here?” he questioned.
“Oh. I am going back home. Louis told me he would get me a car to drive me home!” she shrugged.
Nicky nodded and was about to say something, when Krisanne tugged his hand, “Come on babe. We have only got an hour till we have to check out!” she smiled.
She pulled Nicky away. Nicky looked back as she pulled him. Mandy looked at him and frowned. He then turned his head and walked away with his wife. Louis suddenly appeared.
“Ok, a car is waiting for you outside. I have arranged for it to go and pick you up tomorrow and take you to the arena for the rehearsals, ok? Rich is picking you up at 9am!” he explained.
Mandy got up and smiled, “Ok. Thanks Louis. See you tomorrow!”
She upped and left. When she got home, she lay in the bathtub and soaked in the warm water for half an hour, thinking of nothing else but what happened last night. 

She was gutted to think that at that moment, Nicky was doing the same thing with his wife in their room. She finally got out of the tub, and got dressed, ready to rehearse with the kids.
When she had finished, she was exhausted, so decided to call it a day, and surrendered herself to bed. She was woken up the following morning by her alarm clock. She moaned and looked at the time. Springing out of bed, she had her breakfast and waited outside for the car to come and collect her. It finally got there. She got in the car, which took her rapidly to the arena. The trip there was silent. She went in the arena and dumped her bags at the table. Brian, Kian and Mark were there. 

“Hey!” she smiled, taking her jacket off, “Ready to impress me?”
Shane smiled, “Not quite yet. Still waiting for Nicky!”
Mandy frowned and sat down, “Oh, ok!”
Kian and Brian exchanged looks. Mark decided to approach her. “Hey!” he smiled, sitting opposite her.
“Oh. Hi Mark!” she smiled, getting her cds out.
“I don’t mean to be nosy, and you can tell me to butt out if you want, but has something happened to you and Nicky?” he asked.
Mandy quickly looked up at him, starting to panic, wondering how much he knew, “What do you mean? What has Anna told you?”
“Anna? She hasn’t told me anything. Why?” he asked.
Mandy sighed and shook her head, “nevermind. Anyway, why do you ask?”
“We all know that you two were not exactly best friends, but then something happened and you were civil to each other all the time. We were all glad about that, but now, again, there is a lot of hostility between you two. What’s happened?”
“Nothing!” she shrugged, “I guess we are not compatible, that’s all!”
She got up to get away, but he grabbed her hand, “Don’t give me that, Mandz. We all saw that frown on your face when we mentioned Nicky a minute ago. Have you had a disagreement or something?”
Mandy looked at him and blinked, “As I said before, I guess we are not compatible.” “Mandz!” he said, giving her a knowing look.
Mandy slammed the cds on the table, “For God’s sake, Mark, what do you want me to say? Yes we had a disagreement, but that is none of your business, is it?” she shouted, causing Brian, Kian and Shane to look in their direction. Mark looked at them and then at Mandy. Mandy instantly regretted snapping at him and sighed. “Look, Mark. I didn’t mean to snap at you. I am sorry ok? I have just woken up in a bad mood, I am tired and cranky, and I am sorry!” she sighed.
Mark smiled and nodded, “It’s ok. Just don’t let him wind you up, ok? He has got a lot of problems in his head!”
“Yeah and I know all about them.” She sighed, looking away.
“Anyway, I’ll leave you to it, ok? I am gonna phone Nicky and see what’s up with him!” he smiled, taking his phone out of his pocket!
“Good idea!” smiled Mandy back, taking a gulpful of water from her bottle.
Mark hung up and looked at her, “He is not answering. I am guessing he is on his way here!”
“He’d better be!” muttered Mandy under her breath. Mark heard her and chuckled, walking back to the lads.
Not ten seconds later, Nicky walked in.
“Hey. Sorry I am late. Personal reasons!” he muttered, quickly removing his sweater and staying with his t-shirt.
“That’s ok. Ok lads, get into position!” shouted Mandy, clapping her hands, trying to avoid looking at Nicky, which was proving to be quite difficult.
They all stood in their places and looked at Mandy.
“Ok, do you want me to go over the steps, or shall I just watch you?” she asked.
“Erm, I wouldn’t mind you going over the steps, if that’s ok!” smiled Mark.
Mandy smiled and turned around. She yelled out what steps she was doing, and did them simultaneously. Mark looked and repeated her actions, when Shane stopped her.
“Er, Mandz, you got that wrong. Aren’t you supposed to swing to the side before you cross step?” he asked, scratching his head.
Mandy thought and smiled, “You’re right. Sorry, thanks Shane!”
Shane winked and folded his arms, watching her start again. Mark looked on and repeated her actions again, when Shane stopped her again.
“Mandz!” he interrupted.
Mandy sighed and looked at him, “What now?”
“Sorry, love, you just missed out a whole sequence! The kick right bit!” he hesitated in saying, noticing the look on her face.
“Sorry. I am sorry, ok? Let’s try that one more time!” she sighed, stopping the music and turning it back on. She started the movements again, and the lads watched closely. Shane looked at Kian, “You tell her. I am not telling her this time!”
Kian gulped and raised his hand slowly, “Woah woah woah, Mandz, hang on a sec!” Mandy stopped and put her hands on her hips facing away from them, “For the love of god!” she mumbled, and then she turned around, with a fierce look on her face, “WHAT NOW????”
Kian looked at Shane and then back at Mandy, “You just made another mistake!” Mandy sighed and let her head drop, then she looked at them again, “You know what? Since you are so good at this, why don’t you just take over my job, teach that pair over there (pointing to Nicky and Mark) and let me get out of your way? I have got better things to do with my time anyway!” she hissed, grabbing her bottled water and her towel and storming out. The lads stared at her with open mouths and then they looked at each other.
“Great! Now she’s left. Now what?” moaned Brian.
“I’ll go and talk to her!” sighed Nicky, grabbing his towel and running after her.
Shane looked at Kian, “I think there is something going on with those two. Did you notice the coldness when he walked in? You could cut the tension with a knife!”
“Nah. Don’t be silly, they are always at each other’s throats,” laughed Kian, “If they don’t argue about one thing, they argue about another!”

Nicky ran out of the arena and finally caught up with Mandy, who had now sat down on the floor, taking deep breaths, placing her hand on her face.
“What was that all about?” he asked, standing opposite her.
Mandy uncovered her face and looked up at him, “What do you want?” she mumbled.
“I wanna know what’s wrong with you, and why you are snapping at everyone today?” he answered with a shrug.
Mandy continued staring at him, “You mean, you have no idea?”
“It’s the reason why I am asking!” he answered calmly.
Mandy sighed and looked away from him. Nicky sighed and sat next to her.
“Nicky. We slept together. Has that totally slipped your mind?” she asked him.
“Of course it hasn’t, but hey. We were drunk. It happened, we cannot dwell on it!” he shrugged.
Mandy looked at him, “So you can forget about it that easily huh? What if Krisanne finds out!”
“She won’t!” he answered, “We are the only ones who know, so there’s really no reason why she should find out, unless you tell her. You’re not gonna tell her, are you?”
Mandy looked at him, “Is that all you’re worried about? Me telling her? Nicky, I am confused as hell. What made you do it? I need to talk about this and you don’t seem to want to.” she shrieked.
Nicky gave her confused looks, “We were drunk. What other reason could there be?”
This shattered Mandy’s heart to pieces. She knew it was a long shot, but she had this teeny tiny hope inside her that he had feelings for her. Even if they were tiny feelings, she hoped that he had them. She blinked and looked at him.
“So that’s all it was. A drunken moment!” she said.
“Yeah. Why? What did you think it was?” he smirked
Mandy shook her head, “Nothing!”
“No, tell me!” he smiled.
“Look, Nicky, just leave it ok? I am uncomfortable enough around you as it is.” She sighed, getting up.
Nicky looked at her and got up, “There is no need to feel uncomfortable around me! It was just one night of passion!”
“Nicky, you said that you enjoyed it and that you hadn’t felt that in a long time! How can you be so calm about this? Is it not bothering you at all?” she screamed.
Nicky was taken aback by this and looked at her, “of course I enjoyed it. Do you know how long it had been since I last had sex? And by that I mean enjoyable sex.”
“So basically you used me for a good time. I was just a shag to you!” she sniffed.
Nicky rolled his eyes and looked at her, “Look, Mandy. You are a very beautiful woman, and I guess that played a big part in it too. I know what you are trying to ask me, and to be totally honest with you, yes, I do find you very attractive. But I am a married man, even if at the moment I am not happy, I am still married.”
Mandy nodded, “That’s all I wanted to hear.”
Nicky smiled and leaned over to kiss her forehead, “Shall we go up now?”
Mandy managed half a smile and nodded. 

Chapter Text

When they got back to the stage area, Nicky took a swig from his bottled water and put it back on the step.
“Ok guys, I will go over the steps properly this time!” she smiled, closing her bottle. She looked at Shane and Kian and smiled, “I am sorry I snapped at you guys. Just having a bad day!”
Kian and Shane smiled understandingly and nodded, “No problem Mandz. We all have our off days!”
Mandy smiled and went to put the music on. When it started, she went over the dance, properly this time, and looked at the lads when she had finished.
“Ok guys. That is the routine. Now you do it. I’ll sit here and watch, and remember, I m not your vocal person type thingy, but I wanna hear good voices and I wanna see good movements!” she smiled.
When they had finished, Mandy gave them her approval and they all marched to the backstage area to meet up with the girls. They were due to go back to the hotel. Mandy stayed behind, as she wanted to practice the song for the dance for those kids. They were dancing to Bonnie Tyler’s ‘I need a hero’ as it was for a Shrek play they were doing. She had spent the whole night preparing for it, planning who was going to do which moves, and how she was going to go out about it. She put the song on, and sat down to listen to it, working it all out in her head. She then put the song again, and began to dance to it. It was quite an intense song, and a lot of movements were required. She was so into the song, that she did not even realise that she was being watched. 

“Pssst hey guys. Look at this!” smiled Nicky, not taking his eyes away.
The other guys joined him at the back door and smiled, as they saw Mandy was dancing energetically to the song.
“Good isn’t she?” smiled Kian.
“Indeed!” smiled Shane, “We sure got the best!”
“Wrong! I got the best for you!” came a voice from behind them. They all looked back and saw Louis smiling big.
“She sure can dance!” smiled Nicky.
They all looked at her again, and by now she had finished. She went to the tape, got the cd out and put it back in the case. Then she got her bag and started heading for the door.
“Quick, she is coming. Look busy!” whispered Nicky.
“Erm, why do we have to look busy?” chuckled Shane, “We were doing nothing wrong!”
Nicky grinned, “Yeah. True!”
Mandy walked in, taking swigs from her bottle of water and smiled, “Hey guys! You’re still here?”
“Yeah, we are staying here for the rest of the day. We wanna practice the songs and need to do sound checks and everything!” shrugged Kian.
“Where are the girls?” she asked, “I was gonna go and join them.”
“Oh, they got bored, so they went to town to spend our money!” joked Kian.
Mandy smiled, “Lucky girls! Anyway, I am off too. See you tonight at the gig. Good luck and do me proud, yeh?” she grinned.
They all nodded and started walking away. Nicky ran to her and stopped her.
“Hey!” he smiled, walking with her.
“Nico! What’s up?” she asked, flinging the bag over her shoulder.
“Just wanted to make sure you were ok!” he smiled.
“I am fine. Why shouldn’t I be?” she asked.
“Dunno, coz of before, I suppose! You were pretty stressed out!” he shrugged.
Mandy laughed, “Don’t worry. I am fine!”
“Are you sure?” he checked.
Mandy sighed, “Look, I was just reading too much into what happened with us ok? No biggie!”
“What do you mean?” he asked.
Mandy sighed and stopped to look at him, “Ok, look it is no secret! I think you’re great. In fact, no. I think you are more than great. You are incredible!”
Nicky grinned, “Thank you!”
“Yeah, now I think I should get going or I’ll be late, I have a rehearsal with those
kids, and those feelings I have for you, well we can brush them aside. Goodbye!” she said rapidly, walking away. Nicky stopped, and took a while to register what she had just said. He then ran to her.
“Woah. Hang on. Rewind! What did you just say?” he asked.
“I said I have a rehearsal with those kids tonight and I had to go!” she said, blinking, acting as if she had said nothing out of the ordinary.
“No. No. After that. What did you say?” he asked, holding her arm so she would not leave.
Mandy sighed and looked at the floor, “Ok. Don’t freak out, alright?”
Nicky looked at her and nodded.
“I like you. I think the world of you and I have very strong feelings for you! You are all I think about,” she whispered.
Nicky looked at her, “This is a joke, right?” he laughed, hoping she would say yes. Mandy frowned and shook her head, “Wish it was!”
“But…why…how long?” he stumbled with his words.
“Since the beginning Nico. Since I walked into that room and got introduced to you!” she sighed.
“But we fought like cat and dog!” he shrieked.
“Yeah, I know. Dunno why really. You annoyed me so much, but it was probably coz of the frustration that I couldn’t have you!” she frowned.
Nicky rubbed his forehead and looked at her, “But I am a married man!!!”
“Nicky. I am not asking you to like me back, ok? I know you are married and I respect that. I shouldn’t have told you anything. So sorry.” She sighed embarrassedly, starting to run away.
“No, Mandy, wait!” he cried out.
“Sorry!” she shouted out, as she ran around the corner and out of his sight.
Nicky watched her run away and walked back to the guys. Kian looked at him.
“You ok, Byrne?” he grinned his famous Egan grin.
“Yeah. Fine!” he sighed, sitting down and staring into space, deep in thought. He could not believe what Mandy had told him. He had no idea she fancied him. He thought last night was just a drunken moment, and that was all. Brian snapped him out of his thoughts.
“What’s up, dude?” he asked, clicking his fingers in front of his face.
Nicky shook his head and looked at him, “Nothing…” he started, “…I am fine!”
With that, he got up, and walked out of the room, “I need to go for a walk or something!”
The lads all looked at him and shrugged, “Wonder what’s eating him!” said Mark. 

“No idea! Maybe Krisanne has finally announced that she is pregnant!” laughed Kian. Anna and Angie walked in the room, with Tracee not far behind them. “Hellooooooooo!” sang Angie, “We’re back!”
“And we’re loaded with bags!” laughed Anna, dropping them on the floor.
“Christ, woman, how much have you bought?” gasped Mark, looking at the huge bags in front of him.
“Not enough!” grinned Anna.
“Ok, let me rephrase that, how many clothes does one woman need?” he smirked. Anna pouted and draped her arms around his neck, “You want me to look good when I see you at your shows, don’t you?”
Mark laughed, “What’s wrong with your other clothes?”
“Well, some fans of yours go to every single gig, and if they see me with the same outfit more than once, they are gonna think that Mark Feehily doesn’t look after me!” she pouted.
“That is the lamest excuse I have ever heard!” he laughed, “You’re seriously nuts!”
Anna grinned, “Nah, you love me really!”
Mark smiled and kissed her lips gently, “You know what? I really really do!”
Anna smiled, “Wanna see what I bought?”
Mark smiled and nodded. He followed Anna to his dressing room and sat on the chair. As Anna showed him outfit after outfit what she had bought, Mark seemed distracted. Anna looked at him and put her dress down, “Mark? What’s wrong?”
Mark looked at her, “I dunno. I am worried about Nicky. He is acting all weird!”
“Weird? How?” she questioned him.
“Well, I dunno really. He seems to be in a world of his own, and is not responding to anything!” he shrugged.
“Mark, he is not a robot!” she laughed.
Mark looked at her knowingly, “You know what I mean! I am just wondering if everything is really ok with him and Krisanne!”
“Well, you know him. He ain’t happy. Don’t worry about him. He is probably just feeling guilty about what happened with him and Mandy last night!” she shrugged. She realised what she had just said and looked at him. She closed her eyes and sighed.
Mark looked at her, “What? What happened?”
“Sorry Mark. I shouldn’t have said that. Forget I said anything!” she laughed nervously, starting to walk out. Mark got up, grabbed her arm and quickly pulled her inside, “What happened?” he asked again.
Anna sighed and sat down, “ok, Mandy told me in the strictest confidence. You cannot breathe a word about it to anyone ok?”
“Fine! What happened?” he asked, yet again.
“Mark, I mean it. Not a word to the others! Especially Kian!” she warned him.
“I said ok. Now tell me!” he asked impatiently.
Anna sighed and looked at him, “Nicky slept with Mandy last night!”
Mark blinked and shot up onto his feet, “He what?????”
Anna looked at him, “remember, not a word to anyone, and I mean ANYONE!”
Mark nodded, “What? Why?”
“Coz she specifically asked me to keep it to myself!” she answered.
“No, I mean, why did he sleep with her?” he gasped.
“They were both drunk. He thought her room was his, as they were next door to each other, and he tried to open it, but she opened it and then he rushed to the toilets, and that was that. It happened!”
“Does she fancy him?” he gasped.
Anna shrugged, “She must do deep down inside if she slept with him. I dunno!”
“Oh my god!” whispered Mark, “No wonder she was odd with us this morning…and with him!” 

Chapter Text

The lads were fuffing about on stage, doing their sound checks, while the girls stayed in their dressing room, chatting with each other. Tracee noticed the distant look on Anna’s face.
“Hey. What’s up? You look worried!” she said, clicking her fingers in front of her face.
Anna shook her head, “Just thinking about something. Don’t worry!”
Tracee knew her better than that and demanded to know what was troubling her. Anna sighed.
“I cannot tell you, Tracee. I wish I could, but I have already let it slip once today and I really cannot tell anyone else. God I so need to get it out of my system!” she sighed, rubbing her face.
Tracee did not want to pressurize her and left it at that.
“OK babe. But if you need to talk about it, I am here ok?” she offered.
Anna smiled gratefully and nodded, “OK, I am not gonna mention any names, but there is this cousin of mine, who has taken a liking to someone she works with. Trouble is, he is not available.”
“So he is married?” questioned Angie.
“Well, he is involved, that’s all I am saying! But it gets worse. She slept with him!” she continued.
“Ohhh that is tricky.” Muttered Tracee.
“Yeah!” sighed Anna.
“And I take it this lad will not leave his girl!” said Angie.
Anna bit her lip and shook her head, “I don’t think he will. But she really likes him. Trouble is, they have to see each other everyday as they work together!”
Tracee thought about this for a while, and finally twigged who she was on about. She decided to ask her later in private, as the others had not twigged yet, and she knew that she shouldn’t know this. 

As the lads walked around the stage, singing some songs, Nicky sighed and walked to the backstage area. Mark decided on taking this opportunity to go and talk to him. “Hey bud. Are you ok?” he asked, taking a seat next to him.
“Yeah, why shouldn’t I be?” muttered Nicky.
Mark could not take anymore, “You slept with her?”
Nicky looked quickly at him, his eyes wide open in shock. “With who?” he dreaded to ask.
“You know who!” sighed Mark, “Nicky. What about Kris?”
Nicky shot up and looked at him, “Who told you about it?”
“Does it matter?” asked Mark.
Nicky was fuming. He knew that he had not told anyone about this, so obviously it would have been Mandy who told him.
“I am gonna kill her!” he hissed through gritted teeth, “I cannot believe she told you!”
He started to walk away, when Mark grabbed his arm.
“Nico, relax man. She did not tell me. Anna did!” he sighed.
“Anna? How does she know?” he shrieked.
Mark remained quiet. Nicky bowed his head.
“Oh. She told her!” he sighed. Mark nodded.
“I thought you hated each other!” he said.
“Nah. I have never hated her. She has got on my nerves a few times, yeah but I have never hated her. And we were both really drunk, and basically didn’t give a shit!” he shrugged, “I felt really guilty the next morning though, and could not face her!”
“Explains the tension during breakfast!” sighed Mark. Nicky nodded.
“It gets worse, mate!” he sighed, “She has confessed to me that she has feelings for me!” “WHAT???” shrieked Mark, “And what did you say to that?”
“I wasn’t given the chance to react. She fled as soon as she realised what she had just admitted to! I cannot believe she told Anna though!” he sighed.
“And how do you feel about her?” asked Mark.
Nicky sighed, “I am not sure if I feel that way about her or not. I mean, yeah, she is nice and I do like her, but I dunno if I would ever get involved. I mean, I am a married man, Mark. Ok so maybe I am not happily married, but still married nonetheless! I made the vows!”
Mark gave him knowing looks, “Are you sure about that?”
Nicky sighed and ran his hands through his hair, “Oh who am I kidding? I like her. I like her a lot. I wouldn’t call it love, but I really do fancy her! I think about her all the time.”
Mark nodded, “Sounds like love to me to be honest. So what are you gonna do?”
“Well, I want to talk to her and explain things, but she keeps avoiding me!” he sighed. “What about Kris? Are you gonna tell her?” he asked.
Nicky gave him a knowing look and then looked away, “I am too young to die, mate!” Mark chuckled slightly and patted his back, “Whatever happens, I hope everything sorts itself out, man!”
Nicky nodded and thanked him before he walked back to the stage with him. When they were done with the sound check, they went backstage again, and onto the canteen. The girls had now joined them. Mandy walked in, and smiled at them. “Hey!” she grinned, trying very hard not to look at Nicky. Mark looked at Nicky and then at Mandy.
Anna went up to get her food and Tracee went with her. As they waited in the line, Tracee decided to talk to Anna.
“Hey! You know what you were talking about before, about your cousin and all that?” she asked, clearing her throat.
“Yeah!” answered Anna, slightly uncomfortable.
“You were talking about Mandy and Nicky, weren’t you?” she sighed.
Anna looked at her quickly, “Oh my god, was it that obvious?”
Tracee smiled and shook her head, “I don’t think any of the other girls twigged. But you know me, I put a lot of thought into everything! They are both acting very shifty so that got me thinking and I put two and two together.”
Anna frowned and nodded, “Yes, it was about Mandy and Nicky!”
“So they slept together!” she checked.
Anna looked at her and nodded, “Please don’t say anything to anyone. I let it slip to Mark earlier and I really don’t want anyone else knowing. Mandy told me in the strictest of confidence. That is why I said it was my cousin, so that would set everyone off the track. Obviously didn’t work on you!”
Tracee smiled and vowed to her that she would keep quiet about this. Anna knew she could trust her, so she was not that worried. When she got her food, they both went back to the table and sat down. It was at this moment, that Mandy announced that she was gonna go and get something to eat. Nicky decided on following her, as he still needed to get his food.
“Hey!” he sighed, as he stood next to her in the line. Mandy looked at him and then looked away uncomfortably.
“Just wondering one thing. When we slept together, I had no idea that we were gonna start announcing it to people!” he said sarcastically.
Mandy sighed and without looking at him answered, “People?”
“How come Mark knows?” he asked.
“Mark knows?” she shrieked out. Mark looked over as he heard his name and sighed. “Yes, Mark knows. Well?” he demanded to know.
“Anna must’ve told him!” she sighed, “I cannot believe she did not keep it to herself!” “And why did you tell Anna?” he asked, looking quite annoyed.
Mandy sighed and now looked at him, “I had to tell someone Nicky. It was killing me. I needed to talk to someone about it! I couldn’t handle it anymore! She caught me crying and I had to come clean.”
“Crying” his face softened.
Mandy nodded, “Yes, crying. You think any of this is easy on me? You think I can just move on? That I can just put it behind me, like you can? I can’t, Nicky. The feelings are there. I cannot just forget about everything as if it had never happened.”
“We need to talk about these feelings, Mandy,” he sighed.
“Nicky, not now, eh?” she sighed.
“Yes, NOW! What are you trying to do to me? First you tell people that we slept together, and then you say have feelings for me! What is that all about?” he shrieked.
“Oh my god, you slept together? You love Nicky?” came a voice from behind them. They both slowly turned around to see a very shocked looking Angie.
“Well I guess now another one of you knows. Won’t be long before it gets to Krisanne! I suppose you’ll be telling Kian now. Great. Just great!” he sighed.
“Nicky, don’t worry, I won’t say anything, but oh my god, you two slept together?” she shrieked softly, “When did that happen?”
Nicky sighed and ran his hands through his hair, getting really stressed.
“Angie, please. Do not say a thing, especially to Kian. Please!” Mandy begged.
Angie shook her head, “Don’t worry. It has nothing to do with me. Kris may be his cousin, but I sure as hell don’t like her!”
Nicky looked at her, “That is my wife you are talking about there, Angie!”
Angie looked at him and smirked, “Sorry Nico. But it’s true! She looks down on all of us and never even bothers talking to us. She thinks she is so much better than everyone else, it’s insulting!”
Nicky decided to leave it at that, knowing it was true. He then looked at Angie again, “Listen, Ange, would you mind giving me and Mandz some space? We really need to talk!”
Angie smiled and shrugged, “Sure. Sorry!”
Nicky smiled gratefully and looked at Mandy, “We seriously need to talk about this before it gets out of hand!”
Mandy bowed her head down and agreed.
“But not now! Don’t want the others getting suspicious. We’ll talk later!” he sighed. Mandy nodded, grabbed her food, and followed him back to the table.

Chapter Text

After lunch, everyone decided to take the rest of their time off to rest and relax in their rooms. Mandy was in her room. She paced around the room for a while before she turned her stereo on, and listened to some music to calm her down a bit. Her confrontation with Nicky at the canteen had left her stressed out, and she needed to be relaxed before she went to the studio for her dance session with the kids. She suddenly heard a knock at the door. Knowing who it was already, she sighed and opened the door. There was Nicky, looking at her.
“Can I come in?” he sighed.
Mandy nodded and opened the door wider to allow him in. So much for de-stressing, she thought. She watched him go inside and sit on the bed. Sighing deeply to herself, she closed the door and went to sit on the chair.
“OK. How long have you felt this way about me?” he asked.
“Nicky, I don’t feel very comfortable talking about this!” she sighed, looking the other way.
“How long have you felt this way about me!” he repeated, ignoring her comment. Mandy sighed and looked out the window from afar, “Since I first saw you!”
“So a year!” he said.
“Roughly,” she shrugged.
“So what do you propose I do?” he asked, scratching his head.
Mandy looked at him quickly, “What do you mean by that?”
“Well, I am not gonna leave my wife! I am married, Mandy, in case you have forgotten!” he said firmly.
Mandy got up and looked at him, “I am not expecting anything from you, Nicky!” she shot back angrily, “And how dare you come in and assume that I want anything else to happen between us. Yes, I love you. Yes, I have strong feelings for you, but that’s all they are. Feelings. I am aware of the fact that you are married. God knows I have to remind myself every day that you are married!”
Nicky looked at her, “So what do we do?”
“What do you mean, what do we do? Nothing! We do nothing. We carry on as normal. As if nothing ever happened between us and as if you didn’t know how I felt!” she sighed.
“And you think it is that simple? Don’t you think it is gonna be slightly uncomfortable to work with each other every day with that thought in our heads?” he shouted.
Mandy closed her eyes and counted to ten to calm down a bit, “We’re gonna have to, aren’t we? Coz you are not leaving your wife, and I sure as hell am not getting involved with a married man. Not again. Not after what happened with John!”
Nicky looked at her and got up. He put his hands behind his head and paced the room angrily, “Why did you have to admit your feelings for me? Why could you not have kept them to yourself?”
“Coz I had to let them out, that’s why. I could not take it anymore. Don’t worry Nico, as I said before, I am not expecting anything from you, and I did not tell you just so that something could happen between us. I just needed to let you know, that’s all!” she said.
“And that is supposed to help me is it? Do you know how hard it is gonna be, working with you, knowing how you feel, huh? Do you know how difficult that is gonna be?” he yelled.
Mandy looked at him fiercely, “Don’t shout at me, Nicky! I could always resign and go somewhere else. Would that make you happy?”
Nicky sighed and shook his head, “No. That’s not what I am saying. Not at all!” he sat back down on the bed.
Mandy looked at him, “You think this is easy for me? You think I don’t find it hard? Coz I can assure you, Nicky, working with you is and has been one of the hardest experiences of my career!” she moaned.
“Well, no-one forced you to take us on!” he growled.
“No, you’re right. No-one did force me, but I thought it would be good to work with a pop band. I thought it would help my career and look good on my CV. Believe me, I did not think it was gonna be this hard.” She scowled.
Nicky looked at her, “Well you sure as hell have not made it easy on me either!” he shouted.
“Oh, and how do you figure that?” she shrieked, putting her hands on her hips.
“Do you have any idea how hard it is working with you, when you are married to this woman, who you are questioning on whether you still love or not?” he shouted.
“What does that have to do with me?” she screeched.
“You did not make things any easier!” he screamed.
“How?” she yelled back.
“You just didn’t!” he huffed.
“I don’t get it, Nicky. I seriously dunno what me working with you has to do with you and your wife!” she growled.
“Working with you, day after day after day, seeing you everyday, it’s not easy!” he spat.
“But what does that have to do with me making things difficult with you and Krisanne? You are not making any sense!” she sighed impatiently.
“It’s just not!” he hissed.
Mandy sighed and sat back down, “Well, I still don’t get it!” she folded her arms.
“Why?” he sighed.
“Why what?” she asked, looking at him again.
“Why did you have to come and tell me this? Why now?” he shouted.
“I told you, I had to let it out!” she said exasperated.
Nicky banged his hands on the nightstand and stood up, “Dammit Mandy!”
“What?” she shouted, getting up aswell.
“I didn’t need this right now. I am stressed enough with my wife, to have to go through this aswell!” he shouted.
“Well, it is not my bloody fault you are having problems with Krisanne, is it?” she yelled.
“Yes it is!” he shouted back.
“What?” she shrieked.
“We’d probably be happy if it weren’t for you!” he growled.
“How DARE you blame your problems on me. I have nothing to do with your problems, so leave me out of it!” she screamed.
“You have everything to do with my problems!” he shouted back.
“Why exactly?” she shouted, pacing quickly up and down the room.
“Coz I have feelings for you too!” he yelled, banging on the night table again. Mandy stopped on her tracks and slowly turned around to face him. Nicky realised what he had said and sat down
“Shit!” he whispered, covering his face with his hands.
“What did you say?” she whispered.
“Nothing!” he said, sound muffled.
“You have feelings for me too?” she asked, sitting down slowly on the chair.
Nicky took his hands away from his face and sighed softly, “Yes!” he whispered. Mandy stared ahead of her in shock, “Oh my god!”
“I shouldn’t have told you. I didn’t want to tell you. Mandy, nothing can happen. Nothing!” he sighed.
Mandy nodded in agreement, “I know that. I don’t want anything to happen, but oh my god, how long?”
“Since you first came to the picture!” he admitted.
Mandy blinked, “That long?” she shrieked.
Nicky nodded without looking at her.
“But Krisanne…” she started.
“I love Krisanne, Mandy!” he made sure of letting her know that, “She is my wife after all.”
“I know that!” she sighed, “And I am not gonna ask you to leave her. Hell, I am not asking anything of you. But I am glad you told me the truth. Makes everything a lot clearer now!”
Nicky nodded, “So what happens now?”
Mandy shrugged, “As I said earlier, we carry on as normal, and forget everything that has happened. It is the only way!”
“You’re right!” he nodded, “I just hope we are strong enough to do that!”
“I know I can.” She sighed, “It’s all up to you now!”
Nicky nodded and got up, “I need to go and rest for a bit. I am tired and Krisanne is coming today.”
Mandy nodded and opened the door, “Glad we got this sorted!”
Nicky nodded and walked out of her room and straight into his. He lay on the bed and thought about everything that they had talked about. He knew that forgetting about it was not gonna be easy, and pretending that they had not had that conversation was gonna be even harder, but he had to try. He had to try for the sake of his wife and his marriage. He had to make that work, and that was the only way to do it! 

Chapter Text

Mandy got out of her room and went for a walk to clear her head. She knew that if she stayed in her room, she would be thinking about Nicky all the time, and she was sick and tired of thinking about him, knowing that nothing could ever happen between them. She stuffed her hands in her pocket and took a long stroll down the countryside. After walking around for half an hour, chilled to the bone, she decided on heading back to the hotel. She had to get ready for the dance rehearsals with the kids anyway. She walked into the warm hotel, and grabbed her stuff. She was not going to her normal studios. She decided to move to the hotel she was staying at, so she would be closer for the next intense rehearsal session with the lads before the concert. She grabbed her stereo and cds and marched off to the studio in the hotel. On the way she bumped into Nicky.
“Oh, sorry!” she sighed, stepping aside and walking away.
“Where are you off to?” he asked, with his hands stuffed in his pockets.
“Practising with the kids!” she answered coldly before walking away.
Nicky looked at her walking away and shrugged, before continuing his journey to his room, to wait for Krisanne.
Mandy walked into the studio to be welcomed by the collection of teenagers.
“Hey all!” she smiled, slamming the stereo on the table, “Are we all here?”
“No!” answered Jasmine, “Lauren is not here yet.”
Mandy smiled and nodded, “Ok, we’ll give her another 5 minutes. In the meantime, let’s warm ourselves up!”
She put on a song on the stereo, and let the kids improvise their own movements there and then as she looked for the cd. When she found it, she took the disk out of the sleeve and put it on the table, as she watched the kids dancing. Lauren finally made it, apologising for being late. Mandy gave her a friendly smile and nodded. She stopped the music and clapped her hands twice.
“Ok girls, and boys. We’re ready. Now I need Princess Fiona and Prince charming over here!” she called out, “And Shrek and donkey, you go over there. Fairy godmother, I need you right here, and the rest of you, scatter around!”
The kids obeyed her and looked at her, wondering what she was gonna make them do. “Ok, the song starts with Fairy god mother singing slowly. Now Godmother, here’s what you are gonna do. Just watch me.” She smiled. Lauren smiled and observed her carefully. Mandy put the music on and she sat in her position. When she heard the introduction of ‘I need a hero’, she was crouching down, really still. When she heard the woman singing, she slowly got up, and gracefully walked along the room, gliding in and out of the extras. The song now started to speed up, and she stopped. Lauren smiled.
“Think you can do that?” she smiled, panting slightly. Lauren just nodded. When Mandy put the song on again, and watched Lauren repeating her moves. Mandy smiled and corrected her in a few places. When she got it to near perfection, she then decided to work on princess Fiona and Prince Charming, showing them their dance moves. After an hour, she had got through more than she had imagined, Happy with the result, she decided to go over it one more time. As she was putting the track on the cd, she saw the door opening and Nicky walking in. He smiled at her and sat down, waiting for the others to arrive. Mandy looked away from him and talked to her students. She suddenly heard a loud scream. Mandy froze, wondering what had happened, when she slowly turned around and saw one of her students looking at Nicky in shock. Mandy laughed and walked over to her.
“I take it you are a fan of his!” she smiled, putting her arm around her.
“What is Nicky Byrne doing in here?” she shrieked.
“I am Westlife’s choreographer. Did your manager not tell you that?” laughed Mandy. Rosie shook her head, “But it’s Nicky Byrne!”
Nicky laughed and walked over to her, “In the flesh. Nice to meet you!”
Rosie was glued to the spot, not knowing what to do. Nicky stepped forward and hugged her, “No need to look so worried. It is only me after all!”
“Oh my god, I have been a fan of yours for such a long time. You have always been my favourite lifer. I mean, your voice is just…just…oh my god!” she freaked out. Nicky laughed, “Thanks for your kind words.”
“Can I have my photo taken with you? Oh my god, my friends are never gonna believe this!” she squeaked, getting her camera out. Nicky laughed and stood beside her. Mandy took the camera and aimed at them. She took the photo and gave it back to Rosie.
“Ok girls one last time, and I wanna see you do it perfectly!” she announced.
The girls all took their positions and waited for the song to come up. As she saw Princess Fiona and Prince Charming dancing, she shook her head and turned the music off.
“No no no. Prince Charming, you really have to look as if you mean that you love her. That you want to marry her. You are besotted with her, and your face does not give me that impression. Princess Fiona, you need to look as if you are not enjoying this. Smiling does not give anyone that impression. Here let me show you!”
“And let me help!” grinned Nicky, getting up.
Mandy looked at Nicky in disbelief, “What?”
“I know the moves. Come on, let’s show them!” he grinned, walking up to her.
Unsure about this, Mandy went to put the music back on and then got close to Nicky. Nicky grabbed her hand and winked at her. They started dancing, and then at the end, he stopped, pulled her back and leaned over on top of her. Their faces were really close. His face showed a lot of feelings, and Mandy, who was still shocked by this, tried her hardest not to kiss him there and then. Nicky looked deep into her eyes, showing the other kids the look that Mandy was after. Mandy tried to concentrate and then showed feelings of discomfort. Nicky smiled and then let go of her.
“Ok, did you get that?” she asked, finally able to talk again, and still slightly uncomfortable.
Rosie nodded and so did Lance. Mandy smiled and put the music back on, while Nicky took his seat. Mandy sat on the table and watched them dance. When they had finished, she turned the music off and clapped, “That was much, much better. We’ll pick up on this tomorrow. Good job girls and boys!”
Rosie walked up to Mandy, “I might be five minutes late tomorrow again, Mandy. My dad has this important appointment and he has to drive me here!”
“Ok then Rosie, no problem. See you tomorrow, ok?” smiled Mandy.
Rosie smiled and she walked out of the studio, still looking at Nicky. Nicky smiled at her and gave her a wink, making her blush intensely. Mandy shook her head and took the disk out of the cd player.
“You’re early!” she said, with her back turned to him.
“Early?” he asked, looking confused, “I thought we were meant to meet up at half past!”
“Didn’t anyone tell you? We moved the time forward by half an hour, coz Shane had to sort some stuff out with Louis in a little meeting!” she explained.
“Meeting? No-one told me about a meeting. What about?” he asked.
“I think it has something to do with Shane needing some time off next week, as his brother is getting married or something. I dunno!” she shrugged.
“Oh that. Well, no-one told me!” he sighed.
“Yeah well. We are meeting at 4 o’clock now!” she answered.
“Right. I’ll just go and grab myself a drink or something, and I’ll be back later then!” he shrugged.
Mandy nodded and turned away. Before he walked off, he stopped and turned around. “Mandz?” he asked.
“Yes?” she questioned.
Nicky looked at her and sighed, “We are ok, aren’t we?”
“Yep!” she answered abruptly, “We’re fine!”
Nicky smiled and then walked away. Mandy, when she saw he had gone, she relaxed herself, let her tension out and sat on the chair, sighing softly to herself. She needed to get her mind off him again, and the best way she knew how was to dance. She put the cd back in the player, and played the Shrek song again. This time, she practiced all the moves again, making sure she was happy with her choice of movements. After a while, she decided to put another song up. One of the other songs she was supposed to teach the kids. Sitting and thinking about it for a while, to get some inspiration, she smiled and started the song again. All the movements she had imagined in her head, she put to practice. She was so into it, that she did not notice Nicky walking back in. Not wanting to disturb her, he tiptoed to a chair and sat down watching her. She twirled about to the fast rhythmic music and suddenly, with a loud yelp, she fell arse first on the floor. Grabbing her foot tightly, she breathed heavily and winced with pain. Witnessing this, Nicky quickly stood up and ran over to the stereo, turning the music off. Silence filled the air, apart from the whimpers coming from Mandy. He ran over to her and crouched down beside her, “Are you ok?”
“What do you think?” she growled with gritted teeth.
“What happened there?” he shrieked.
“I twisted my ankle, you pillock. Oh god, it hurts!” she winced.
“Can you move your foot?” he asked.
Mandy tried moving it but it was too painful, “It bloody hurts!” she screamed, still clutching hold of her foot.
Nicky licked his lips nervously, and grabbed her hand, “Can you get up?”
Mandy lifted herself, pulling onto Nicky’s hand and tried to put her foot down, only to lift it up again quickly, “No!”
Looking around him nervously, Nicky knew he had to do something. She was in a lot of pain. Without giving it another thought, he picked her up, and sat her on the chair. Mandy felt slightly uncomfortable, but draped her arms around his neck, hanging on for comfort. He placed her on the chair and crouched down in front of her.
“Ok, I am taking your shoe off!” he announced.
Mandy kicked her foot about, “No you won’t. Don’t touch my foot, Nicky!”
Nicky tutted and looked at her, “Your foot is gonna swell to the size of a melon, and the shoe needs to come off Mandy!”
“No!” she answered.
“Oh just shut up and sit still!” he sighed, taking the laces off. Mandy sighed and looked at what he was doing. Removing the shoe, and placing it on the floor next to him, he grabbed her foot.
“Ow, watch it. It hurts!” she screamed.
Nicky looked at her, and then at her slowly swelling foot, “It looks bad. You should go and get it checked!”
Mandy winced and nodded, taking a look at her foot, “I cannot afford anything to happen to me right now. What about your rehearsals? Oh my God, what about the kids rehearsals?” she panicked.
“I reckon you will be put to rest for about a week, so no dancing for you for a while!” he shook his head.
“What? Who made you the doctor?” she shrieked, annoyed with the thought that she had to give up dancing for a week.
“Hey, I know my stuff. Besides, this happened to me last year.” He explained.
“But I am so busy, I cannot stop for a week!” she gasped.
“Sorry babe, but you’re gonna have to!” he shrugged.
Mandy looked at him, “Did you just call me babe?”
Nicky looked at her and blushed, “I call everyone babe!”
Mandy nodded and looked at her foot, “I need to call the doctor then!”
Nicky smiled, “We have our doctor here in the hotel. I’ll take you up to your room and I’ll give him a call. And don’t worry about our rehearsals. We know what we are doing already. It’s just Mark who needs constant reminders, and we can show him!”
“Good. But what about the kids?” she asked.
“How long do they need you for?” he asked.
“ 4 Weeks!” she shrugged.
“Well, they are gonna either have to hire someone else, or wait a week, and cram 2 weeks into 1. Or maybe you can have them for 2 hours instead of 1 when you get better!” he suggested.
Mandy sighed and nodded. Nicky grabbed her foot and moved it around to allow circulation. Looking at him, she sighed.
“Nicky?” she said softly.
Nicky stopped what he was doing and looked up at her, “What?”
“Thanks!” she smiled. Nicky smiled and shrugged.
She smiled as she watched him massage her foot, It felt so good. She shook her head, trying to get all her thoughts out, but it was no use. She could not help it. He was like a drug, addictive in her mind, and no will power to stop those thoughts from entering her head.
“Ok, I think I’ll take you up now!” he smiled. He lifted her up, and she draped her arms around his neck again. She looked up at him, and he looked at her. Their eyes locked and he put her down on the chair again. Kneeling down in front of her, he brushed away the hair from her face and then cupped her face with his hands. Without uttering a single word, he leaned forwards, and brushed his lips against hers. When he felt her responding he closed his eyes, and pressed his lips softly against hers, teasing her with his tongue. When he felt her responding, he slipped his tongue inside, and searched for her tongue. When he found it, he played with it for a while, before pulling away. They both looked at each other, and bit their lips. Not knowing what to say, they decided to say nothing at all. He just picked her up again, and held her tightly.
“Think I’d better take you to your room now!” he said, clearing his throat. Mandy nodded.
When they got to her room, he opened the door and placed her on the bed. Sitting down on it, he watched her playing with her fingers.
“Mandz!” he whispered.
Mandy shook her head, “No Nicky. I don’t want to hear it!”
Nicky shook his head and looked at her, “It was nice though!”
Mandy half smiled and nodded. Taking her by surprise, she felt his lips on her lips again. She threw her arms around his neck, suddenly forgetting about the pain in her foot, and pulled him on top of her. He feverishly removed all her clothes, and kissed her passionately.
“Nicky, this is so wrong!” she whispered, moaning at the same time.
Nicky just carried on kissing her, “but it feels so right!”
Mandy knew she should have stopped herself, but she did not have the will power. She just surrendered herself to him, and started removing his clothes. He was laying on the bed now, and slowly and painfully, Mandy shuffled down towards his lower body. Reaching her hand down, she grabbed his manhood, and started playing with it gently, sending Nicky into a fit of moans. She teasingly rubbed her thumb over his tip, and edged closer towards it. Nicky’s moans turned louder when he felt her warm breath over his rock hard member now. Leaning his head back, he grabbed a fistful of her hair, and pushed her head towards it. Mandy smirked naughtily, and opened her mouth, allowing his manhood to penetrate her mouth. Slowly, she started sucking it, gaining speed with time. Holding the shaft with her hand, she jerked it, as she sucked on it, sending Nicky into ecstasy. When her jaw started to ache, she pulled it out of her mouth, and Nicky pulled her up. Looking straight into her eyes with passion, he gently lay her on her on back, and started kissing her chest. Moving down slowly, he reached her belly button. He drew circles around it with his tongue, making Mandy arch her back and letting out soft moans. Nicky continued licking her, going further and further down. As he reached her thighs, he kissed each one in turn and then looked at her moist centre. Bringing his face closer to it, he spread her lips apart with his hands, and gently pressed his tongue against her throbbing clitoris. Moving his tongue in a rhythmic movement, and after listening to her satisfied sounds, he inserted 2 fingers, feeling her wet walls squeezing against his fingers. Mandy’s moans started getting louder. Just as she was about to reach the stars, Nicky stopped and heaved himself up, so he was on eye level with her again. Without uttering a single word, he pressed his body on top of hers, making her feel his stiff member against her thighs. Spreading her legs open, to give him easy access to her eagerly awaiting target, he moved about a bit, until he was happy with where he was. Moving slowly, he inserted his manhood slowly into her wet crevice, making her moan with desire. Feeling him pushing in deeper, she bit her lip, and scratched her nails on his back, making him wince with pleasurable pain. Mandy started bucking her hips faster, as a sign that she wanted him to speed up his pace. Nicky dutifully obliged, sending her into heaven. Nicky pushed in deeper and faster, making Mandy moan out loud. Feeling that all familiar feeling in the pit of her stomach, she dug her nails deeper into his back, and locked his waist with her thighs.
“Oh my god!” she panted loudly, “This is it!”
Knowing how excited he had made her, turned Nicky on, and this made him get the same feeling Mandy had. He started moving faster, as he felt his balls tighten. Biting into her neck, he screamed out loud, letting all the feelings out, along with Mandy. After their little chorus, Nicky rolled over and lay on his back beside Mandy. Both of them breathing heavily, they looked at each other.
“Well, so much for getting my foot checked!” she joked.
Nicky smiled, “Still hurting?”
“Like you wouldn’t believe!” she answered.
“Well, I’ll get dressed and get the doctor then!” he smiled. Mandy grabbed his hand. “Nicky!” she said. Nicky sighed and looked at her, knowing what she was thinking.
“I know. We did it again. And again, we’re gonna have to forget about it!” he sighed. “How can you do it and just forget it?” she shrieked, “Does it not mean anything to you? It’s twice we have done it, Nicky. Twice!”
Nicky bowed his head down and shrugged, “I like it too much, Mandy, that is my problem, and that really scares me, which is why I need to put it to the back of my mind!”
Mandy frowned and nodded, “Just go and get the doctor!” she whispered.
Nicky nodded and dutifully went to get him. 

Chapter Text

After the doctor had been and gone, Nicky remained in the room with Mandy. They were both silent for a while when Nicky broke the silence.
“So, it’s crutches for you for the following week!” he sighed.
“Looks like it!” mumbled Mandy, peeved that she had been forced to give up dancing for an entire week.
“So what are you going to do?” he asked.
Mandy shrugged, “Not a lot I can do. I’ll have to call the kids agent and let her know. She’s not gonna be happy!”
“Want me to ring them for you?” he offered.
Mandy smiled, “Thanks Nicky, but it’s something I have to do for myself. Remember it is my foot that is in pain, not my tongue.”
Nicky laughed and looked at her. “There was definitely nothing wrong with your tongue.”They both stopped smiling and looked away from each other.
“Mandy!” he sighed.
Mandy swallowed and looked at him, “What?”
“I just wanna say…” he started, playing with his fingers.
Mandy shook her head, “no Nicky. Don’t, please!”
Nicky shook his head, “Please let me finish.”
Mandy sighed and nodded.
“I just want to say that…it just felt…perfect!” he shrugged, “And I really enjoyed it!” Mandy shrugged, “It’s just a pity that we cannot do it again!”
Nicky sighed and rubbed his face, not believing what he was about to say, “Kris and I have been having problems for ages. That is no secret, and I want you to know that I am not using you to get over those problems. My feelings for you are genuine. I really do like you…A LOT!!!”
Mandy sighed and swallowed hard, “I like you a lot too, Nicky. Just a shame you are married, coz you know that a married man is a no no for me from now on!”
“Is that why you have slept with me twice?” he laughed.
Mandy smirked, “Yeah well, I cannot help myself!”
“And that is how I feel whenever you are around. I cannot help myself. Mandy, I lay down in bed at night wishing that I could be with you. In fact, just last night I was thinking…I was thinking…oh god I cannot believe I am about to say this. I mean thinking it is one thing, but actually saying it is another!” he sighed.
“What?” she asked, hanging on to his every word.
“I was thinking about leaving Kris!” he whispered.
Mandy looked at him, with a look of pure shock on her, “Nico, you cannot do that!”
“I don’t love her, Mandz. I just don’t love her anymore. She is not the same person she was before I got married to her. She has changed so much. I feel awful about it, yes, but it doesn’t change the fact that the magic has gone!” he frowned.
Mandy looked at him, feeling totally sorry for him, “I think you’ll have to think about it carefully!”
Nicky nodded, “Do you know what it’s like, laying in bed next to one woman, and wishing that that woman was someone else? Wishing that woman was…you?”
Mandy sighed and looked away uncomfortably, “Nicky…”
Nicky shrugged, “I dunno. I guess I am just fed up with lying to her, lying to you and lying to myself. I cannot take much more of this. My god, she is coming over tonight and I am not even excited about it. I am dreading it!”
“Bet she is excited though!” she smiled.
“Probably, but only because she is only thinking that she can at last try to conceive!” he mumbled, closing his eyes.
Mandy snorted.
“It’s not funny. It really is all she thinks about. I dunno what’s gonna happen the day she says she is pregnant. I really don’t want a child.” He sighed.
Mandy gave him a sympathetic look.
“Can I let you into a secret?” he asked. Mandy nodded and leaned forwards slightly. “There is no way she can get pregnant!” he whispered.
“What? How come?” she asked confused, “Oh god, you’re not gonna tell me you are faking it, are you? I mean, we can tell, you know?” she giggled.
Nicky shook his head, “I am putting that spermicide stuff when we are getting down to it.” He shamefully bowed his head. Mandy brought her hands to her mouth.
“Nicky, that is awful!” she gasped.
Nicky sighed, “It is either that or have a baby! I don’t want a baby. Not now and not for a long time. I need to be free for a while. I wanna enjoy my youth. I am only 24 years old, Mandy. I have so many things I want to do before I settle down with children. Don’t get me wrong, I love kids, but I don’t wanna have any yet. I am not ready!”
Mandy lay back and smiled at him, “Well, if you’re not ready, then it’s best that you don’t have kids yet!”
“Trouble is, she thinks there’s something wrong with her and me, and that is why she is not conceiving. She wants us to go to the doctors for tests now!” he sighed.
“Oh dear!” she mumbled.
“Yeah. And he might give us the all clear and then it will be hell on earth living with her. She’ll want to see other doctors, oh god I just don’t even wanna think about it!” he moaned.
“I dunno what to suggest, Nicky!” she sighed.
“I do. I want out. There, I said it. I want out of the marriage. I just want out. I cannot cope anymore!” he frowned.
Mandy looked at him, “Don’t you think you should think about it more carefully?”
“It’s all I have been doing for the past week. Think. I cannot think anymore. I am done with thinking. I need to do it now!” he sighed.
Mandy was about to say something when there was a knock on the door. Mandy and Nicky looked at it, “I’ll get it, shall I?”
“Please do!” she smiled.
Nicky nodded and got up. He opened the door to be faced with a mob of angry looking Westlife boys.
“Why are you both still here? More to the point, why are you in here, Nicky?” growled Kian.
“Oh god, I totally forgot to call you guys!” gasped Mandy, sitting in an upright position now, “I am so sorry!”
“I thought we were meant to be rehearsing!” asked Mark, looking at Nicky and Mandy suspiciously. Nicky looked at him uncomfortably and then looked at the others,
“Mandy twisted her ankle and she cannot do anything with us for a week!” he explained.
Shane looked at her, “How?”
“Well, I was just downstairs in the studio, making time till you lot got there, and I just twisted my ankle!” she shrugged.
“But why is Nicky up here?” asked Kian, sounding confused.
“He came to the studio early!” she sighed.
“Yeah, coz no-one bothered to tell me that the time for rehearsal had been moved forward!” he spat.
“So anyway, he came in, just in time to see me fall on my arse!” she giggled, “So he brought me to my room and called the doctor!”
“And what did the doctor say?” asked Brian, sitting on the bed.
“Well, I am under strict orders not to do any dancing or put any weight on my foot for at least a week!” she shrugged, “And he has given me crutches!”
“Oh god. What happens now?” panicked Mark, “I need to go over these moves!”
“Relax Mark!” laughed Nicky, “We’ll go over it with you!”
Mark seemed to relax a bit and smiled, “Ok then!”
“Well, we’d better get going to practice then!” smiled Shane, “Or we’re not gonna have time!”
Nicky looked at them and smiled, “Ok, you guys go down. I need to talk to Mandy a second!”
Mark looked at him worriedly. Nicky noticed and shook his head. Mark sighed and walked out with the others.
“Ok, is it me, or do Mandy and Nicky seem awfully close?” asked Brian.
“Better not be messing with anyone behind my cousin’s back!” growled Kian, “I’ll kill him!” 

Chapter Text

Mandy stayed in her room, resting her foot, when she heard someone knocking on the door next to hers. She heaved herself up, grabbed her crutches and opened the door to have a look. She saw Krisanne.
“Hi!” she smiled uncomfortably.
“Have you seen Nicky?” she asked coldly.
“Sure. The lads have all gone to the arena to get ready for the concert!” she smiled. Krisanne huffed loudly, “He was meant to be here!”
Mandy grimaced slightly, “Sorry. Do you want to come in?”
Krisanne just sighed, “No thanks. I got better things to do. I’ll just go to the arena myself. I am gonna throttle him when I see him!”
Mandy shrugged and closed the door, “Unfriendly manipulative little bitch!” she mumbled to herself. She went back to her bed and switched the telly. When she had had enough, she grabbed her crutches and hobbled off to the hotel bar for a few drinks and friendly faces.
Five hours later, she heard the squabble of various Irish voices enter the bar. Grinning to herself, she turned around and there they were. Her eyes automatically fixed on Nicky. He discretely winked at her. Mandy frowned when she saw his arm draped around Krisanne, who was keeping herself to herself, instead of mixing with the other girls.
“Hey Mandz. What are you doing down here? Aren’t you supposed to be resting your foot?” laughed Shane.
“Yeah well. It’s boring up in that room by myself. I need some friendly faces around me!” she smiled.
“Well, you got us now!” grinned Brian, putting his arm around her, “Fancy a drink?” “Wouldn’t mind a voddy and coke, cheers Bri!” she smiled.
Brian smiled and went to the bar to order one, and the others their drinks.
Nicky sat himself next to Mandy, unintentionally. It was the only space available, much to his approval. He looked at her.
“You alright?” he smiled.
Mandy smiled and nodded, “Yeah, I suppose!”
She looked away again, not wanting Krisanne to notice the awkwardness. Brian smiled and lit up a cigarette.
“Oooh could I have one, please Bri? I have ran out and they don’t sell Marlborough lights here! I am gasping for one!” she pleaded.
“Sure. Here you go!” he smiled. He took a cigarette out of the pack and handed it to Mandy. Mandy smiled and then leaned closer to him so he would light the cigarette. Brian happily obliged and then put the lighter back in his pocket. Krisanne looked at him and sighed.
“Must you smoke?” she nagged waving the smoke away from her in disgust.
Brian exhaled the smoke out on her face, “Yes I must!” he bravely answered.
“Nicky, you know that lessens the chances of conception, don’t you?” she coughed, waving the smoke away. Nicky rolled his eyes back. From the look on his face, Mandy could see that he really wanted to get that cigarette and ram it up where the sun didn’t shine on her.
“Well, too bad if my little men down there don’t like it. I am not the one who is smoking and I am not leaving, if that is what you are trying to hint at!” he snapped.
Krisanne squinted and gave him evil looks, “Well, just as long as you take more care of me when I get pregnant!”
“Don’t hold yer breath!” he mumbled quietly. Mandy heard him and tried hard not to giggle. He looked at her and gave her a face, which seemed to say, “See what I have to live with?” Mandy sighed understandingly and made her excuses to use the bathroom.
“Need a hand?” offered Nicky.
“Nicky, I am sure the girl can manage on her own. She has the crutches to help her!” sighed Krisanne, rolling her eyes.
“Just trying to be a gentleman, that’s all!” he shrugged, looking at Mandy, as she hobbled away. He was deep in thought, when Mark suddenly interrupted him.
“Hey Nicky! How long did you say she was off for?” he asked.
“Who?” asked Nicky quizzically.
“The queen!” he sighed sarcastically, rolling his eyes back, “Mandy, you idiot!”
“Oh!” he grinned, “A week, the doctor said!”
When Mandy got back, Krisanne made her excuses, wanting to go to the room. “Nicky, hunny, I am tired. Can we go up to the room now?” she purred.
“But we only just got here!” he protested.
“Oh please. I have been travelling all day, I am knackered. Come on!” she pouted.
Not wanting to create a scene, he huffed loudly and got up, “Come on then!” Krisanne grinned and grabbed her bag. Nicky looked at Mandy as he squeezed past her when she had just got back. Mandy smiled at him and stayed where she was. Watching Nicky leave, Mark took this opportunity to talk to her.
“Ok Mandz, what’s going on?” he sighed.
Mandy looked back at him, “What do you mean?”
“Come on, I can see the looks you are giving each other. I saw the looks he was giving you when you were in your room earlier. You seem to be getting really close. Now I know you slept with him once, but he is married, and she is Kian’s cousin. If he finds out, you’re toast!” he whispered.
Mandy sighed and looked at him, “I don’t think it’s any of your business, Mark, do you?” “Look, I really don’t wanna get involved. I know Nicky is not happy in his marriage, but having an affair?” he shrieked softly.
“Who says I am having an affair? So I slept with him once. Doesn’t mean I am in a relationship with him. Me and Nicky have talked about this already anyway, and I seriously believe it is none of your business, so please lay off!” she hissed. She got up and grabbed her crutches.
“Where are you going?” asked Anna.
“I need to get some sleep. My night has been ruined already. Goodnight!” she spat.
“But what about your drink?” shrieked Mark.
“You drink it!” she snapped, hobbling away rapidly. 

When she got up to her room, she slammed the door hard and threw herself on the bed. She then hobbled over to the mini bar and grabbed herself a miniature bottle of vodka and a small can of coke. She sighed as she poured them into the glass and then placed it on the night table. Heavily bringing her feet on the bed, she winced as her foot throbbed. She took a sip of her drink and leaned back against the headboard, welcoming the relaxing silence. Moments later, there was a knock at the door.
She forced herself out of bed, grabbed her crutches and opened the door, to see Anna and Tracee staring at her.
“Thought you’d need some company and a shoulder to cry on!” smiled Tracee. Mandy smiled gratefully and allowed them in.
“So…what’s going on?” she asked.
Mandy sighed and bowed her head down, “You know!”
“Mandy, he is married babe! You cannot do this to yourself! You have been in this situation before, remember?” sighed Anna.
“Don’t you think I don’t know that? I cannot help having these feelings for him. Especially now!” she frowned.
“What do you mean, especially now?” asked Anna suspiciously.
“We slept together again!” she whispered, looking away.
“WHAT?” shrieked Tracee, “you slept with Nicky??”
Mandy sighed and bowed her head down.
“I thought you said it wouldn’t happen again!” Anna sighed.
“Well it did, and this time neither of us were drunk! We couldn’t help it. And now….and now…” she trailed off, unsure of whether she should really say this.
“Now what?” asked Anna, trying to understand the whole situation.
“Now he has confessed to me that he is willing to leave Kris for me!” she finally said. “And you believe him!” laughed Tracee, “How many times have you been told that before?”
“Twice!” admitted Mandy.
“And how many times has it happened?” questioned Tracee further.
“Never!” shrugged Mandy, “But Nicky is different!”
“How, different? He is still married, isn’t he? And I seriously cannot see him leaving Krisanne. Kian would crucify him!” laughed Anna.
“Who gives a toss about Kian!” answered Mandy moodily, “Kian has got nothing to do with this!”
“He is her cousin, in case you have forgotten, Mandz!” sighed Tracee.
“I know. Oh god this is so hard. My life is such a mess. Why? Why do I always end up in these situations? I am gonna be labelled a home wrecker soon!” cried Mandy, hobbling away to the window.
“You are not a home wrecker, Mandz. You just cannot help who you fall in love with. You need to think seriously about what you want. If you want him, then fine, talk to him about it and come to a decision. But my advice? I would stay well clear from him, coz you’ll only end up getting hurt!” advised Anna. Tracee nodded in agreement.
“I know!” sighed Mandy.
“OK then. Are you alright, though?” asked Tracee.
Mandy nodded slowly, “I’ll be fine! I am gonna get some sleep now. I am tired!”
“Ok babe. What are you doing, now that you are off work for a week?” smiled Anna.
“I guess I’ll go home, relax and think things through!” sighed Mandy.
“Yeah, good idea. Anyway, we’ll leave you to it now. Don’t forget to say goodbye when you leave tomorrow!” smiled Tracee.
Mandy nodded and gave them both a kiss. When they left, Mandy turned the lights off and finally lay down to get some sleep. Moments later, she was awakened to some banging noises coming from next door. Wondering what it was, she sat up in bed and looked around. That’s when she heard Krisanne’s moans loudly and clearly. With a frown and a sigh, she lay down in bed again, covering her ears with the pillow, hoping that she would soon stop, as this was torturing her. 

Chapter Text

Mandy was up bright and early the very next morning. She packed all her clothes in the bag and then hobbled around the room in her crutches. She sighed and then decided to go down for breakfast. As usual, she was met by the others.
“Hey Mandz. Over here!” smiled Shane, waving her over. Mandy smiled and joined them.
“How’s your foot?” asked Kian.
Mandy looked down at it and then back at Kian, “Still there, as you can see!” she smiled.
Kian chuckled and shook his head, “So, what are you gonna do?”
“I am going home!” she sighed, “Seeing as I cannot do much else!”
Nicky suddenly looked up at her. Mandy bowed her head down. She did not want to see his face.
“You’re not gonna stay and watch the tour?” shrieked Mark.
“No. Doctor said I need to rest my foot, and that’s what I am gonna do!” she smiled. Nicky shook his head and looked away.
The waiter came and took Mandy’s order. As usual, she ordered a bowl of Kellogg’s special K with red berries.
“So you’ll be back with us in a week, right?” checked Nicky.
“Of course!” she smiled.
“How is that gonna work, though?” asked Kian confused, “I mean, you have the kids to rehearse with and everything!”
“I rehearse with the kids twice a week! So when you are on tour, whatever place you’re at, I shall be there if I am not with the kids. It’ll just mean I’ll have a hell of a lot of travelling to do!” she laughed.
Kian smiled and continued eating his breakfast. Angie got closer to her, “Are you ok?”
Mandy looked at her, smiled and nodded.
“Are you leaving coz of Nicky?” she whispered.
Mandy frowned, looked at Nicky briefly, who was distracted playing with his food and nodded slowly.
Angie squeezed her hand, and then carried on eating. When they had finished, they all went up to their rooms. Mandy sat on the bed, and looked around her one more time. She got up and heard a knock on the door. When she opened the door, she saw Nicky standing there, not looking too happy.
“Can I come in?” he sighed.
Mandy sighed, opened the door wider and allowed him in, “Does Kris know you are here?”
“Quite frankly, I don’t care!” he sighed, taking a seat on the bed.
“Not from what I heard!” she mumbled as she closed the door.
“I’m sorry? What did you say?” he asked, looking at her.
Mandy shook her head, “Nothing!” she huffed.
“Mandz, if you have something to say, then please say it!” he sighed.
Mandy looked at him, sighed and then hobbled to the window.
“Are you really leaving?” he asked softly.
Mandy nodded, with her back still turned to him.
“Why? I really thought you were gonna hang around for the tour!” he frowned.
“I really did too…until last night!” she whispered.
“Last night? What happened last night?” he asked confused.
“You of all people should know what happened last night!” she sighed.
Nicky scratched his head, giving her confused looks, “Eh?”
Mandy turned around and looked at him, but staying on the same spot, “I heard you last night, Nicky!”
“Heard me what?” he asked, still looking confused.
“I heard you and Kris…you know….and this morning too!” she sighed.
“Oh!” answered Nicky, trying to think of an excuse.
Mandy shook her head, “Nicky, you don’t owe me any explanations. She is your wife. But after admitting your feelings towards me, and me feeling the way I do about you, I cannot do this to myself. It hurts too much!” she sighed.
“But…” he started.
Mandy shook her head again, “Nicky. Listen to me. I am not being nasty or spiteful. I am glad you are making a go with Kris. I am really happy for you. But I just cannot take it anymore. You said before you were gonna leave her. I don’t think you should. I think you should stay with her!”
“But I am gonna leave her!” he argued.
“Not judging by her moans this morning. Seems to me like she was having the time of her life!” she huffed.
“She was. I wasn’t!” he argued, “Mandy, I want you to stay! I want you!”
Mandy shook her head, “Sorry Nicky. My mind is made up. I cannot do this to myself anymore. I have been through it too many times before, and it is always me who gets hurt. I am doing the right thing for once. I just hope you two can really sort yourselves out!” she sighed.
“But I don’t wanna sort myself out. I just want you, dammit!” he slightly raised his voice. He got up and paced around the room.
“Well, I am not gonna force you into anything Nicky. All I am gonna say is that I am not gonna wait for you to leave her. If you decide to leave her, then it has nothing to do with me. You know where I am if you do. And if you don’t leave her, then all the best. I’ll see you in a week!” she frowned, picking up her bag. Struggling to carry her bag and hobble on her crutches proved to be a bit difficult, so she let the bag drop down.
“Need a hand?” sighed Nicky.
“Would be helpful!” shrugged Mandy.
Nicky walked over to her. He picked the bag up and stood up again. He looked deep into her eyes. Both of them just stared at each other. Nicky decided to brave it, and moved his face closer to hers. When he saw that she did not move away, he pressed his lips against hers gently, and gave her a soft kiss. Mandy just closed her eyes and let herself be kissed by him, though she did not return the gesture. Nicky pulled away and Mandy opened her eyes to see that he was staring deep into hers.
“You’re lovely!” he whispered, “And I shall miss you!”
Mandy nodded. The lump in her throat forbade her from speaking. She refused to let the tears seep from her eyes though, she just turned around and looked around.
“Ready?” he asked.
Turning around, Mandy nodded and walked out after him. When they got downstairs, Nicky helped Mandy into the cab and stood there, waving at her as the car disappeared in the horizon. 

Chapter Text

After a week had passed, Mandy was fit and well to dance again. She was now due to go to Manchester to go back with the lads, and continue rehearsing their dance moves. She was at the train station, waiting for the train, when she heard a voice behind her. “Hey! Nice to see you walking again!”
Mandy recognised the voice immediately, and quickly turned around to look at Nicky, grinning at her.
“Nicky! What are you doing here? I mean, why are you here? I mean…” she was lost for words.
Nicky smiled, “I came to pick you up!”
“But you’re supposed to be in Manchester!” she gasped.
“I drove here last night from Birmingham to come and get you!” he smiled.
“But…” she started.
“But nothing!” he smiled grabbing her case, “Come on. Let’s go to the car. It’s gonna be a long drive!”
Mandy got up and followed him to his car. She got inside and buckled up. Nicky got in his seat and started the engine.
“So, how’s your foot?” he asked.
Mandy ignored his question, “Nicky, I just don’t understand why you are here!”
“I told ya. I came to pick you up!” he smiled, reversing the car to get out of the parking. He put his hand on the passenger seat as he looked back, and at the same time, played with her hair. When he had got out of the space, he put the car in first gear and drove away. He looked at her briefly and smiled.
“Yes, but why?” she asked, still not believing he was there.
“Coz I wanted to!” he smiled, matter of factly.
Mandy sighed and looked ahead of her. She then looked at him again.
“Nicky, what’s going on?” she asked.
“What do you mean?” he smiled, looking at her briefly, before turning his attention back to the road.
“I mean, I dunno, what is going on? What’s happened?” she asked.
Nicky sighed as he stopped at the traffic lights, “Kris and I have split up. I told her I didn’t want to be with her anymore. It’s over!”
Mandy almost choked and placed her hand on her chest, “WHAT???” she shrieked.
“We separated. I told her that I couldn’t take her obsession anymore and that I wanted a break!” he sighed.
“Oh my god!” she whispered, “I didn’t think you would do it!”
“I told you I would. I couldn’t handle it anymore, and I wanted to be with you!” he smiled, as he drove again after the lights turned green.
Mandy stared ahead of her in shock, “I cannot believe you did it!”
Nicky shrugged and continued driving.
“Did you tell her about us?” she asked.
Nicky shook his head, “No. I just didn’t have the heart to do that. Besides, when I told her, there was no us. You left, remember?”
Mandy nodded, “But you didn’t tell her that we slept together!”
“No, I didn’t feel the need to bring that up. I told her that I did not want a baby, end of, and if she couldn’t accept that, then there was only one way to go! So she left!” he explained.
“Ahhh, but she might come back!” checked Mandy.
Nicky shook his head, “No. She phoned me later than night, and told me that she wanted a separation. She wanted a baby more than anything and if I couldn’t give her one, then she didn’t want to be with me! Just goes to show what she really thought of me, doesn’t it?”
Mandy nodded, “So she ended it then?”
“We both ended it, I guess. I just gave her the option of sticking with me, or leaving me! She just made the decision!” he shrugged.
“And you’re not upset about this?” she gasped.
“Well, I was at first. I felt really used. But the more I thought about it, the more I realised that it was for the best. Now we can be together!” he smiled, looking at her.
“I dunno, Nicky!” she frowned.
Nicky’s smile got wiped out of his face, “What do you mean, you dunno? I am a single man now. No guilty conscience no nothing. I thought that’s what you wanted!” he gasped.
“I did, but I just feel…I dunno, what if she decides to take you back? What then?” she asked.
“I will just say no!” he shrugged, “easy!”
“But I dunno! Nicky, this is just too complicated! What if you get feelings for her again and you’ll want her back? I just don’t wanna get hurt again!” she grimaced. Nicky sighed and pulled over at the nearest lay-by. He stopped the car and looked at her.
“Mandz, what is this really about? You don’t want me anymore? You just loved the thrill of the chase and now that you don’t have to chase me anymore, you don’t want me anymore? Is that it?” He sighed.
“What? No, of course not!” She gasped.
“Mandz. I have had these feelings for you for a while now. When you left last week, I felt so empty. So bored. So unhappy. I needed you there with me! I missed you!” he said softly, grazing his hand over her thigh.
Mandy looked at his hand and then at him, “I missed you too!”
Nicky smiled, “So can we be together, then?”
Mandy sighed, “What about Kian? How does he feel about this?”
“What does it have to do with him?” he sighed, banging his hand on the steering wheel!
“He is her cousin, Nicky!” she argued.
“For fucks sake. I thought you wanted to be with me!” he said agitatedly, “I thought you’d be happy. We can be together now, and to hell with what everyone thinks! And now you are making up excuses not to be together? I don’t understand you!”
“I thought I’d be happy too. But now it is so final. I dunno, I guess I just did not expect it to happen!” she sighed.
“So you don’t want me now? Is that what you’re saying?” he asked.
“Yes. I mean no. I mean…” she stuttered.
“Well, what is it, yes or no?” he asked confrontationally.
Mandy sighed, “I do want you. I guess I am just scared about how everyone is gonna react!”
“Sod what everyone thinks, Mandy. Think about yourself for once in your life! We finally have the chance to be together. Think about it. You and me, forever. We can be happy. I can make you happy and I know you will make me very happy!” he smiled, rubbing his finger over her cheek.
Mandy looked at him and sighed.
“Don’t be scared Mandy. We’re gonna be ok. Now I need to know if you want me. Even if you don’t, I will not get back with Krisanne. We are very much over, now.” He whispered.
Mandy leaned against his hand and smiled, “You and me versus the world, yeah?” 

“So you are saying yes?” He asked, looking hopeful.
“Let’s just say we’ll go on a trial period and see where that takes us!” she smiled. Nicky smiled, relieved to hear that and hugged her hard, “You don’t know how happy you have just made me by saying that!” he sighed happily. He pulled away and pressed his lips against hers. As they kissed hungrily, he put his hands behind her neck and played with her hair gently. When they pulled apart, Mandy licked her lips. “Kian is gonna freak!” she sighed.
“Don’t worry about him!” he winked, “I can handle Egan!”
Mandy smiled and leaned her head back on the headrest.
“Well, let's get driving yeah? Or we’ll never get there!” he smiled.
Mandy nodded and closed her eyes, falling asleep contentedly. 

Chapter Text

When they arrived, Nicky and Mandy made their way upstairs to the bedroom. They had decided on keeping their ‘relationship’ secret from everyone still, as Kian was still hung up about Kris and Nicky breaking up, and it was still too soon to start announcing it. Nicky had booked Mandy’s room next to his, with adjoining doors, so that they could pay each other little visits if they got lonely in the middle of the night. Mandy walked into her room, admiring it with a smile, while Nicky stood behind her. “Like your room?” he smiled.
Mandy looked back at him and smiled, “Love it!”
“Ok love, you get yourself sorted out. I am just going to let the lads know that I am back. Oh, and they don’t know that I went to pick you up, so just don’t mention anything about it ok? They would just get suspicious!” he explained, rolling his eyes.
“Yeah!” smiled Mandy, “Don’t worry, my lips are sealed.”
Nicky grinned and walked out. Mandy decided on taking a long hot soak in her huge round bath. She almost shrieked when she saw it had a Jacuzzi button. Jumping on the spot excitedly, she filled the bath and sat on the bath stool, filing her nails, keeping an eye on the bath, making sure it filled up to the right level. When it was done, she removed her clothes and got inside, letting out a loud relaxing moan as she stretched out inside the tub. Not long after, she heard the door opening. She opened her eyes and twisted her head around to see Nicky looking at her with a grin on his face.
“You don’t waste time, do ya?” he laughed, sitting on the edge of the tub.
“What do you mean?” she smiled.
“I knew you were gonna get into this tub straight away. All girls love Jacuzzis!” he laughed.
Mandy smiled and closed her eyes again, “It has been a long journey and I need to relax a bit!”
“I can help you there!” he grinned.
Mandy opened one eye and looked at him, “How exactly?”
Nicky winked at her as he started removing his clothes. He finally got in and sat behind her. Pulling her close to him, he wrapped his legs around her and put his hands on her shoulders.
“Now just close your eyes and think about nothing. This is gonna make you feel like a new woman!” he smiled.
Massaging her shoulders gently, she bowed her head down, enjoying every single moment. Letting out satisfying groans as Nicky’s hands went down to her lower back, rubbing it in circular movements.
“Feels nice?” he asked with a smile.
“Oh yeah. God I needed this!” she smiled, continuing with the moaning.
“Mandy? Honey? You’re gonna have to stop with the moaning. It is not doing me any favours!” he grinned, shifting slightly.
Mandy felt what he was talking about and opened her eyes. With a huge grin, she started moaning even louder.
“Mandz, I mean it. Stop!” he laughed.
Mandy ignored his pleas, and continued.
“Ok, that’s it. I am not responsible for my actions now!” he growled. Turning her around, he looked into her eyes as she sat astride him on his lap. Mandy smiled at him as she bit her lower lip.
“You really are a little minx, aren’t you?” he smiled, as he leaned forwards to kiss her. Mandy pulled her head back and placed a finger on his lips.
“Oh, you are a little tease too?” he laughed, “nice!”
Mandy smiled and leaned her head forwards to make him believe she was going to kiss him. Just as he closed his eyes and puckered his lips, she leaned her arms out and grabbed the soap from the side of the tub. With a grin, she got off his lap.
“Ah here it is. I was looking for this!” she smiled. With a look of confusion, Nicky opened his eyes and stared at her with his mouth wide open.
“I cannot believe you have just done that!” he gasped.
“Done what, hun?” she smiled innocently, as she grabbed the flannel.
“Try to seduce me, and when you finally get there, you pretend…oh my god, you’re evil!” he laughed.
Mandy grinned, “Dunno what you are talking about!”
Nicky looked at her. When she least expected it, he grabbed her waist and sat her on his lap.
“You may be a little tease, but I am very persistent and I will not stop until I get what I want!” he whispered with his lips close to hers. Mandy grinned.
“I know you are persistent. But I am not easy!” she grinned.
“Says she who has slept with me twice already!” he laughed.
“Well, maybe I have changed!” she smirked.
“Mandz. Do me a favour?” he smiled.
“What?” she grinned.
“Just kiss me and put me out of my misery. We both know that we are going to fuck eventually!” he smiled.
“Oh, do we?” she smirked. She gave him a peck on the lips and then got up. Grabbing her towel, she wrapped it around herself and with a grin, she walked out of the bathroom, leaving Nicky inside the tub with a very wide mouth.
“I cannot believe she did it again!” he scolded himself.
“Sucker!” grinned Mandy, as she sat on the stool of her dressing table and combed her hair.
Nicky came out of the tub with a towel wrapped around his waist. He looked at her as he sat on the bed. She was getting dressed.
“You do know that those clothes are coming off any minute now, don’t you?” he smirked.
“Oh really?” she grinned, “How come?”
“Well, coz after that little act in the tub, I am gonna rip them off ya!” he shrugged. Mandy winked at him and then opened the door to leave.
“Where are you going?” he shrieked, getting out of the way in case anyone passed by. “Just for a wander round the hotel. Wanna check it out!” she grinned. She kissed her fingers and wiggled them at him, “See you later!” she winked and then left, closing the door behind her. Nicky just looked at her, unable to move from the spot. He laughed to himself and finally got dressed. When he as ready, he left the room and searched frantically for her. Along the way he bumped into Kian.
“Hey Nicky. You’re in a rush. Where are you going?” he laughed.
“Oh, nowhere!” he smiled, looking around.
“Looking for someone?” he asked.
Nicky did not answer. He just kept on looking.
“Nicky, mate! Who are you looking for?” he asked again, trying to get him to look at him. He finally looked at him and sighed, “No-one!”
“So, what happened with Kris?” he asked.
“Kris?” asked Nicky, looking around again.
“Well, you went to see her, didn’t you?” asked Kian, looking confused.
“Oh yeah, that’s right. Sorry. No she wasn’t in!” he said, looking distracted.
“Nicky, are you ok?” asked Kian, looking worried, “You seem very distracted.”
“Yes, I am f…” he started. He stopped when he finally saw Mandy walking around. She saw him and smiled naughtily. Then she scampered off. Nicky smiled when he saw her.
“Mate!” huffed Kian impatiently.
“Oh sorry. No, I am fine. Was just thinking about a few things. But I am fine! No worries!” he smiled, giving him a friendly slap on the back, “Anyway, I’ll see you later!” He grinned and walked away. Kian looked at him walking away and shook his head.
“He’s acting strange!” he said to Angie, “And I intend to find out what is bothering him!”
“Ah, maybe he is just a bit confused about Kris and all that. He has just broken up with her and all that!” smiled Angie, “Don’t worry!”
Kian smiled and continued walking away with her.
Nicky walked around and finally saw Mandy outside a shop window display. He licked his lips and grabbed her arm, making her jump.
“Oh god, Nicky. Scared the life out of me!” she gasped, trying to catch her breath back.
“You have got a lot to answer for!” he said, giving her his most serious look.
“What have I done now?” she laughed.
Nicky looked at her, “you left me in your room and you walked out!”
Mandy laughed softly, “Well, you weren’t ready!”
“Mandy! What are you playing at? Do you want me or not?” he gasped.
Mandy looked at him and blinked. She then smiled and pinched his cheeks, “bless ye!”
Grinning to herself she walked off. Nicky stood there and then ran after her, grabbing her arm again.
“MANDY!” he huffed. Mandy turned around and kissed him gently on the lips. “You’re lovely!” she smiled, walking off again. Nicky remained there.
“Great, first I get a woman who only wants me for a baby, and then I get a woman who does not want me at all!” he sighed to himself. 

Chapter Text

Mandy carried on walking until she bumped into someone. She looked up to see a girl with black hair and brown eyes staring back at her. After staring at her for a while, her eyes almost popped open.
“Abs?” she shrieked, “Abeth, is that you?”
Abeth stared at her for a while before she reacted, “Oh my god, Mandy?”
“What the hell are you doing here?” laughed Mandy, giving her a hug. Abeth laughed and pulled away, “I was about to ask you the same thing!”
“I am just here to do my job!” laughed Mandy.
“You work at this hotel?” she shrieked.
Mandy laughed and shook her head, “No! I am a choreographer!”
“Ooooh and what are you doing here then?” she asked interestedly.
“I asked you first!” giggled Mandy.
Abeth laughed and shook her head, “I am here coz I am going to a concert tomorrow!”
“A concert?” asked Mandy, “There is only one concert here tomorrow. You seeing Westlife?”
“Got it in one. Are you going aswell?” she asked, “never put you as a fan. At school you were always into rap and all that crap!”
“Well, for starters yes I am going to the concert and secondly, I was young. I can assure you, that rap phase will not happen again!” she giggled.
“Cool, what seat are you at?” she asked.
Mandy smiled, “Oh I have not got a seat number!” she shrugged matter of factly. Abeth looked confused. She flicked her long black hair back and stared at her, “So where are you standing then? Or are you standing outside the venue all day hoping someone will give you their tickets?”
Mandy laughed, “I will be backstage, watching my boys do their best!”
Abeth looked at her suspiciously, “You won backstage passes? Oh my god, how jammy are you? Do you know how hard it is to win those?” she shrieked.
Mandy couldn’t help but laugh out loud now, “No hun. I did not win any tickets. As I said, I am just there to do my job!”
“Your jo..Oh my god, you’re their choreographer?” she shrieked, almost jumping on the spot.
Mandy grinned and nodded.
“Are you kidding me?” she shrieked even louder.
“Nope!” laughed Mandy.
“You sod!” she laughed, “How did you manage that? So you know the lads personally then?”
Mandy laughed loudly, “Well, I wouldn’t be able to teach them their dance moves through a satellite link would I?” she laughed, “Well I could but that would be hell. Especially with Mark and Nicky around!”
“So you know Brian?” she asked, still visibly shocked.
“Oh, is Brian your favourite then?” she teased.
Abeth blushed, “Maybe!”
Mandy laughed, “You’re staying at this hotel, right?”
“That’s right. I booked into the most expensive hotel in the hope that I might meet them!” she blushed, “Sad, I know!”
Mandy shook her head, “Are you in for a shock!”
“What?” asked Abeth, staring at her with her eyes wide open, “Oh they are not staying here are they? Mandy, tell me they are not staying here? I will shit myself!”
Mandy laughed, “They are staying here. I can give you his room number if you want!” she nudged her.
Abeth shook her head quickly, “I couldn’t!” she laughed, “No, I am a big fan, but I do respect their privacy! No I don’t want his room number!”
“I could arrange a little meeting with them all though!” she winked.
“You could?” she gasped.
“Listen, we are rehearsing their dances at 4pm in the hotel studio. Just make sure you are around. Come to my room and you can come with me. Room 308!” she grinned.
“Oh my god!” she gasped, “Excellent!”
“Ok then. I’ll see you then. I have to go now and get some rest before a stressful rehearsal. Nice seeing you though!” she smiled.
Abeth smiled and nodded, as she walked away to the diner. Mandy got into the lift and went straight to her room. Nicky was in his room, laying on the bed, bored out of his skull. Hearing some movements from next door, he grinned and opened the adjoining doors. Mandy was busy picking out her pink tracksuit bottoms and a matching tight pink t-shirt. Nicky coughed, making Mandy turn around quickly.
“Hey, what are you doing in here?” she grinned.
“Why did you run away from me?” he asked, folding his arms.
“I did not run away from you. I walked away and too bad if you cannot follow me!” she grinned.
Nicky sighed and walked to the bed. He sat on it and looked at her straightening the clothes on the bed, “Why are you doing this?”
“Doing what, babe?” she grinned, walking to and from the wardrobe.
“Avoiding me all the time!” he whined, “I thought you wanted me!”
“Who said I didn’t?” she asked, pausing and giving him a shocked look. She then grinned and continued with what she was doing.
“Well why are you avoiding me then?” he asked.
“By avoiding, you mean not giving in to your advances, I take it!” she smiled.
Nicky grinned, “You know me too well!”
“Don’t you have any will power? Can you not wait?” she giggled.
“No. I am weak, Mandy!” he smiled, “I want you now!”
Mandy pouted and walked up to him. She sat on his lap and tapped his cheek with her hand, “Awwwwww babe!” Nicky batted his baby blues at him. Mandy grinned and kissed his cheek, “Nevermind!”
She got up again and went to the bathroom with a big smile on her face. Nicky looked at her and sighed. He walked to the bathroom and knocked on the door.
“Mandy, open up!” he yelled.
“I need my privacy!” she shouted back, “Give me 5 minutes!”
Nicky sighed yet again and sat on the bed once more. When she came out, she looked at Nicky.
“I need to get changed now Nix!” she smiled.
“Ok. I am not stopping you!” he grinned.
Mandy gave him a knowing look, “Nicky!”
“What is the problem?” he asked impatiently.
“There’s no problem, only I want to get dressed and you won’t let me!” she shrugged. Nicky walked behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist, nuzzling on her neck gently.
“How about I remove all your clothes and have my wicked way with you before you get dressed!” he mumbled against her neck. Mandy closed her eyes, enjoying every single moment of this. She wanted to give in to him, but she also wanted to wait. She wanted to be sure that he really felt the way he said for her, and that she was not just there to comfort his every need and give him what he was missing when he was with Krisanne. She shrugged him off, “Nicky, rehearsal starts soon and I need to get dressed. And come to think of it, so do you!”
“Ah but we can be quick. Please Mandy, I want you so much!” he whispered, nibbling on her ear. Mandy closed her eyes and pulled herself away from him again.
“Please Nicky. I don’t wanna be late, I really must get ready. I have got loads to do!” she pleaded.
Nicky sighed angrily and walked away, “Is all this just a game to you?” he spat, “Were you playing me all along that last time we were together?”
“No Nicky. I just…listen, don’t you think it’s better if we wait? Wouldn’t it be more exciting?” she grinned.
“Now is exciting enough for me. I have waited for you for ages Mandz. I cannot wait anymore!” he whined.
“Is that all I am to you? A shag?” she shrieked.
“You know that’s not how I feel!” he sighed.
“Good. Then you won’t mind waiting a bit longer then!” she smiled, kissing his lips quickly.
“Fine! Whatever. But it’d better be worth it when it does happen!” he mumbled, walking away.
“Oh you’d better believe it baby!” she winked.
Nicky let out a little laugh before he walked back into his bedroom. Mandy chuckled to herself and finally got into her pink tracksuit bottoms and matching top. As she was tying up her laces to her pink trainers, she heard a knock on the door.
“One minute!” she called out. She ran to the door and saw Abeth standing there. “Hey!” she smiled, “Just in time. I was about to walk out!” 

Chapter Text

Mandy and Abeth walked downstairs and stopped when they got to the studio door. “I am so nervous!” shivered Abeth, “I cannot believe I am going to meet them. Do you know how long I have waited for this?”
Mandy laughed, “They’re only people, Abs. Nothing to be nervous about!” 

“Are you kidding me? Have you not seen how flippin gorgeous Brian is? Have you not noticed that yet?” she shrieked.
Mandy laughed softly, “They are all flippin gorgeous, and yes I have noticed. But once you get to know them, you’ll see what I mean!” She looked at her and smiled, “Are you ready for this?”
Abeth gave herself the once over and then looked at Mandy, nodding as she bit on her lower lip. Mandy smiled, grabbed her hand and opened the door. The lads were all there already, sitting on the chairs, talking to each other.
“Hey guys!” smiled Mandy, as she made her way to the table, and plonked the cd player there, “You all set?” She smiled as she felt Abeth tensing up.“Yep” answered Shane, “We’re ready!”
He smiled and looked at Abeth, who looked at all of them in shock. Shane grinned and walked up to her, “Hello. I don’t believe I know you!”
Abeth tried to speak. She opened her mouth, but no words came out. She looked to Mandy for help. Mandy laughed and walked over to them.
“Guys, I would like you all to meet Abeth. She and I used to go to school together. We used to be great mates, until we just went our separate ways. Anyway, I just bumped into her here at the hotel. Turns out she is going to your concert tomorrow!” she smiled. Everyone smiled at Abeth and shook her hand. Abeth’s hands were trembling out of control. Brian was the last to shake her hand. He looked deep into her brown eyes and smiled. Abeth could not look into his eyes, for the fear of blushing.
“You ok?” he asked, “You’re shaking like a leaf! Are ye cold?”
Abeth just shook her head, “I’m s-s-sorry! Just a bit nervous.” She giggled. Her nerves showed in her laugh. Brian just smiled and winked at her, “Nothing to be nervous about, love. We’re pretty tame!”
Abeth smiled and looked at Mandy, who held her thumb up at her.
“Ok then, lads. Get into starting position. We’ll start with ‘Mandy!’” she yelled, clapping her hands. Hearing a loud moan from the boys, she turned around and put her hands on her hips.
“Problem?” she asked, raising her eyebrows.
“Do we have to start with that one? I hate Mandy!” whined Nicky.
Mandy looked at him, “I’ll try not to take that personally!” she grinned.
Nicky laughed, “You know what I mean. I hate that song! Can’t we start with another one?”
Mandy shook her head, “Sorry Nix, but we are doing this in order. At the gig you start with Mandy, so here you will do the same!”
Nicky pulled a face and got into his space. Mandy turned the music on, and Shane started singing. Soon, they were all doing their sequences perfectly, as Abeth sat down, and watched them in awe. Mandy looked at Nicky and smiled, putting her finger on her lip. Nicky had a lot of trouble concentrating. He was still suffering. Looking at Mandy made it worse. He wanted her so much, it has started to disrupt his concentration.
“Nicky, concentrate!” she smiled, walking behind him, looking at his pert bum. Nicky shot her a look and tried very hard to get his moves right. Mandy decided to tease him a bit. She smiled evilly and placed her hand on his back, rubbing it slowly up and down. Nicky closed his eyes, and tried very hard not to mess up his moves. When he had to turn around, he came face to face with her, giving her a very disapproving looks. She smiled at him, licking her lips seductively, and gave him her best come to bed eyes. Nicky shot her a warning look and tried harder to concentrate, occasionally missing out on a step. Mandy laughed and concentrated on Mark now, who was actually doing really well. She smiled and then stood at the front looking at all of them collaborating! When the rehearsals were finally over, she gave them a well-deserved clap and started packing her things. Abeth joined her and smiled excitedly.
“That was great. I have had my own private performance!” she squealed, as the guys were at the back of the room, drying themselves off with their towels.
Mandy grinned, “Enjoyed it?”
“That was amazing!” she smiled excitedly, “Did you teach them all those moves?”
Mandy nodded proudly, “All my own work! Impressed?”
“I’ll say!” she laughed, “So we owe the moves to you, when we see them at the gig, right?”
“That’s right!” laughed Mandy, “It is all down to me!”
Abeth was about to say something when Nicky interrupted.
“We’re going to the bar for a few drinks, Mandz. Wanna join us?” he yelled from across the room. He had his towel round his neck and was holding onto both ends. “Ok Nico. I’ll go and have a shower first and then I’ll join you there!” she smiled back. She looked at Abeth, “Wanna join us?”
“Try and stop me!” she grinned.
Just then, Mandy noticed Nicky walking towards them. He gave her a short smile and picked up his keys from the table.
“So you’re coming to the bar then?” he asked Abeth.
“I might!” she smiled. Nicky grinned and then looked at Mandy.
“See you soon Mandz!” he smiled. When he got closer to her, he leaned towards her ear, “And don’t be long. The bath will be waiting for you!”
Mandy blushed and looked at Abeth.
“Why are you blushing? What did he say to you?” she giggled.
“Nothing. Nicky just likes to embarrass me!” she excused him.
Abeth gave her the look, “Something you are not telling me, Mandz? Like, you are really involved with Nicky?” she teased.
“Don’t be ridiculous!” laughed Mandy nervously, “He has a wife, remember?”
“He broke up with her, remember?” she grinned naughtily.
Mandy shook her head and laughed, “There is nothing going on between me and Nicky. We are good friends and that’s all its ever gonna be!” she smiled and started walking away. Abeth looked at her, “Yeah, right!” she mumbled, walking after her. 

Chapter Text

After the shower, in which Nicky unsuccessfully tried extremely hard to seduce Mandy, they finally managed to meet down at the bar. Abeth was already there, wearing her most exquisite black evening dress. Her thick black hair was up in a bun, with some hairs spraying out of it. Her copper and mahogany highlights were clearly visible under the light. Her deep brown eyes sparkled as she talked to Brian. Mandy looked at her and smiled, as she saw her finger tracing the rim of the glass. Brian seemed to be really interested in her topic of conversation. Nicky looked at her and grinned.
“What are you smiling about?” he asked.
Mandy looked at him, smiled and then looked at Abeth again, “Just how well those two seem to be getting on, after just having met. It’s about time Brian got involved with someone, don’t you think?”
Nicky laughed softly, “Are you trying to set those two up?”
“Well, she fancies him like mad, and from the look on his face, I can say pretty much the same about him. Just look at how they are connecting. The eye contact, the sparkle in their eyes, their body language.” She grinned.
Nicky laughed and shook his head, “How about you spend less time trying to pair them up, and spend more time getting us together?”
Mandy looked at him and tutted, “All in good time, Nico. All in good time!”
“Oh come on, Mandz. I have waited long enough!” he whined. He stood behind Mandy, as close to her as possible. Mandy smiled when she felt how much he wanted her through his trousers. She turned around and looked at him. She then looked down at his groin and licked her lips. Then she looked at his face again.
“What?” he said defensively, “I cannot control it, you know? It has a mind of its own. The poor chap is gagging for some action!”
Mandy smiled and stood on her tiptoes to ruffle his hair up, “Just concentrate on being a good boy and we’ll see what happens.”
She grinned and walked away to their friends. Nicky sighed and followed her two seconds later.
“Hey guys, you finally made it!” cheered Anna.
“Yeah, sorry about that. I was on my way down, when I heard Mandy screaming from her room. She had no idea what to wear, and her hair wouldn’t go the way it wanted to!” teased Nicky.
Mandy shot him a look, and then turned to look back at Anna, “I had a bit of a crisis, yes.” She then looked at Abeth, “Have you guys met yet?”
“Sorry, I thought she was a mate of Brian’s. Who is she?” asked Anna, looking at Abeth and smiling.
Mandy laughed and called Abeth over.
“Abs, I would like you to meet some of my friends. This is Anna. She is Mark’s girl!” she introduced.
“I gathered that!” laughed Abeth, “Nice to meet you, Anna.”
“Likewise!” smiled Anna, greeting her with a handshake.
Mandy introduced her to the others, “And this is Tracee, Shane’s girl, and Angie, Kian’s girl.”
Abeth greeted them in the same way she had greeted Anna.
“Ok then, I’ll let you go and talk to Brian again.” She smirked, looking away. Abeth turned to look at Brian and realised he was having a serious conversation with Mark. “It’s ok. He seems to be busy!” she laughed, turning back to face Mandy.
The girls all sat around the table, while the guys stood up, chatting with each other. “So, Mandz. How’s things with Nicky?” asked Anna softly.
Abeth looked at her with her eyes open wide, “I knew it. You are together, I bloody knew it!” she screamed with laughter.
Mandy flapped her arms in a bid to keep her from shouting. Nicky looked over, giving her strange looks. Abeth blushed slightly, and slid down her seat.
Mandy sighed and bowed her head down, “Ok, yes. We are together, but it is all very hush hush at the moment. We don’t want any complications from his wife, and Kian would murder us both. So please please do not mention anything to anyone ok?”
“Fine!” smiled Abeth, “but I knew it!”
“Abs, I mean it. Breathe a word of this and it could mean the end for Westlife. Please!” she repeated.
“Hey. I already said I wouldn’t didn’t I?” she smiled.
“Ok, thanks!” smiled Mandy, sighing with relief.
Anna smiled sheepishly, “Sorry. I didn’t think!”
“It’s ok, Anna!” laughed Mandy, “She would have found out sooner or later. But yeah, things are good. I am showing him, however that I am no pushover, and I am not gonna bend over backwards for him. I learnt from my previous mistakes, and it ain’t gonna happen again. I am keeping him on his toes!” she cackled wickedly.
“Good on ya!” grinned Angie, “I’ll drink to that!”
She raised her glass of amarula flambé and smiled, as the other girls raised theirs, and clicked them together. They took a sip of their drink, before the rest of the lads joined them.
“What are we drinking to?” asked Shane, sitting down next to Tracee.
“To life in general!” giggled Tracee.
“I’ll drink to that!” grinned Nicky, taking a large gulpful from his vodka and coke.
He gave Mandy a discrete wink as he took his gulp and Mandy smiled, looking away from him.
“OK, I am gonna get myself a drink. Anyone want one?” offered Shane.
After everyone gave their orders, the lads all swarmed off with Shane, while Nicky sat with the girls.
“OK, girls. You have got to help me out here!” he said, as Mandy excused herself to go to the ladies room, “How does Mandy feel about me?”
The girls looked at each other and sighed, “She is mad about you, Nicky. You know that!” answered Tracee with a smile.
“Then why…oh nevermind!” he sighed, throwing the beer mat on the table and leaning back on the chair.
“Why what? Go on” smiled Anna.
“Why won’t she… She won’t even touch me!” he whined.
Anna tried hard not to laughed and leaned forwards, “Nicky. She is crazy about you. In fact, I would even go as far as to say that she loves you. But she has been pretty unlucky in love at the moment and does not want to ruin things by doing what she always does. Leap in with both feet, without thinking! She is being careful!”
“Careful about what? I would never hurt her! She knows that.” he argued, folding his arms.
“Does she?” Anna raised a brow.
“Well, yeah,” he answered, “I hope she does.”
“She is just playing it safe, Nicky. What you have to do is stop being so persistent, or that is just gonna give her the impression that you only want one thing, which I hope is not the case!” smiled Tracee.
Nicky looked at her, as if he couldn’t believe she had just said that, “Course it is not the case. I adore that woman.”
“Good!” smiled Anna, “So just prove it to her, and then you’ll probably get a lot more out of her!
Nicky nodded and then looked at Mandy, who was now making her way back. She looked at him and smiled. He gave her a sexy wink and shifted in his seat to let her sit down.
“You ok?” he whispered, getting closer to her. His warm breath in her ear made butterflies appear in her stomach. She grinned, looked at him and nodded, “Yep, I’m fine! And you?”
“Better, now that you are back!” he smiled. Mandy looked at his twinkling eyes and smiled sweetly. Nicky discretely placed his hand on her leg and gave it a slight squeeze. Mandy almost choked on her drink and swallowed hard. Nicky looked at her as she looked at him and smiled.
“Sexy baby!” he whispered at her before the rest of the clan joined them. Mandy smiled happily as she continued drinking her drink. 

Chapter Text

The party was going in full swing, and by now, everyone was merry. The drinks were flowing, and jokes were recited, making everyone fall with laughter. Mandy checked the time of her watch and smiled.
“The bar is about to close!” she smiled.
“Yeah, and I am quite tired. I am thinking about heading back to my room to get some sleep!” smiled Nicky, looking at Mandy from the corner of her eyes. Mandy smiled. “Yeah. I think I am gonna do the same thing!” yawned Shane, “Coming babe?” he asked, looking at Tracee.
“Yep!” grinned Tracee, “Let’s go.”
Everyone got their things together, and headed up to their rooms. Mandy went to hers and Nicky went to his. Abeth went a few floors lower to her own room. Brian accompanied her there, and after giving her a friendly kiss on the cheek, he made his way up to his room. He was about to go to his room, when he stopped outside Mandy’s room. He wanted to know a bit more about Abeth, so he decided to knock. Mandy opened the door and looked at Brian grinning.
“Hey Bri. What’s up, and what’s with the grin?” she smiled, leaning against the door. “Can I come in a sec please?” he pleaded, “I want to talk to you about something!” Mandy smiled and opened the door wider, “Sure. Come on in!”
Brian went inside and sat on the bed, looking at Mandy. Mandy sat next to him and slapped his thigh, “Ok Big Mac, what’s on your mind?”
“Abeth!” he said, in a one worded answer.
“Oh!” smiled Mandy, “What about her?”
“Well, I just wanted to know…I was wondering if…” he sighed and shifted nervously in his seat. He laughed and looked at Mandy again, “Well, I quite like her, and we seemed to get on pretty well. I know she is a fan, and I don’t normally date fans, but I was wondering if…Mandz, do you think she would go out with me if I asked her?” Mandy laughed and put a friendly arm around his shoulders, “Brian, Why don’t you ask her yourself?” she giggled.
“Well, I would, but I don’t wanna make a fool out of myself. What if she says no? I would be a laughing stock with the other guys!” he shrugged.
“Don’t worry, Brian. She likes you a lot. I don’t think she would turn you down!” she laughed.
“Well, you know her better than anyone here. How do you think I should approach her about it? I mean, should I just come out with it, or have a speech prepared, or what?” he asked.
Mandy shook her head and laughed. She couldn’t believe Brian would get so nervous about this. Normally, he was so confident about his girls.
“Just be yourself, Bri. I mean, you have asked tons of girls out before, so just do what you always do!” she smiled.
“What, use a corny line?” he gasped, “That would work with her, would it? I mean, I don’t think she looks the type to fall for that!”
“You don’t have to come up with any corny lines. Just comment on how she is looking, how well you got on today, and if she would like to accompany you for dinner or something.” Shrugged Mandy.
Brian smiled and nodded, “Fine. Ok, thanks for that Mandz. It’s just I really like her, and I don’t wanna screw up. I really want to get to know her a bit more!”
“It’s ok, Brian. I think she will be over the moon. I mean, she really does like you.” laughed Mandy.
Brian smiled and got up. Just about as he was going to leave, there was a knock on the connecting door, and in walked Nicky, with his boxers on.
“Ok sweetheart. Prepare yourself for the ride of your life!” he grinned. His grin got wiped off his face when he noticed Brian with a horrified look on his face. Mandy’s heart fell, and Nicky gulped softly. His smile quickly disappeared and he bowed his head down as he sat on the bed, “Oh shite!”
“Nicky?” shrieked Brian. He then looked at Mandy, “And Mandy?????”
Mandy sighed and sat down next to Nicky, “How are we ever gonna get out of this one?” she whispered to Nicky. Nicky opened his mouth various times to talk, but nothing came out.
“Since when are you together? I mean, are you together? I am sure you are, or else Nicky wouldn’t have barged in through the door half naked. Oh my god, this is huge!” gasped Brian.
Nicky got up and walked towards him, “Brian. Please, we don’t want Kian to know. He would be really pissed off. I mean, I know I am not with Kris anymore, but he would still kill us both. Please!”
“I can guarantee it,” chuckled Brian.
“Brian please, not a word,” begged Mandy.
“Sure, fine, whatever, but oh my god, I cannot believe this. Well, thinking about it now, things are starting to make sense. The looks you give each other, the tension at rehear…. Oh my god, you were still seeing each other when you were still together with Krisanne, weren’t you?” he suddenly realised.
Both Mandy and Nicky bowed their heads down, not knowing what to say.
“Only at the end!” shrugged Nicky softly.
“Oh man, if Kian finds out about this, he is really gonna rip into you!” laughed Brian in disbelief.
“Well, that’s why we would appreciate it if you kept this to yourself. Don’t say anything to Kian or to the others lads. The girls all know, and they have kept this to themselves really well. Oh and Mark knows too. The only ones who don’t know are Kian and Shane, so please Bri. Please!” begged Mandy.
“Fine, yeah. No problem, I won’t say anything. But how did it happen? I mean, we all thought you hated each other.” he was still shrieking.
Nicky told him everything that went on, and Brian was attentive throughout the whole conversation.
“So you broke up with Kris just to be with Mandy!” he repeated.
“That’s right!” sighed Nicky with a smile, “And now, I am finally happy. Well, I would be if…”
“If what?” asked Mandy, folding her arms and looking at him challengingly.
“If we could get some privacy, and I can get what I have been waiting for all night!” he grinned.
Mandy got up really offended.
“Is that all I am to you, Nicky? A Shag?” she shrieked.
Nicky looked worried and shook his head frantically, “No. Mandz, god no, that is not…”
“Whatever Nicky.” She interrupted, “I should have known this was too good to be true!”
She stormed off into the bathroom and slammed the door, locking it behind her. Nicky looked at Brian with a worried face.
“Fuck’s sake! I have been waiting all fucking night for this!” he muttered, “And now I am not even close!”
“Word your sentences carefully, Nicky!” advised Brian, “Coz from this side of the conversation, that really does sound like you only want one thing from her!”
Nicky sighed and looked at him, “You still here?”
Brian grinned, “Yeah, just leaving now. Good luck mate!”
“Thanks!” muttered Nicky.
When Brian left, Nicky walked to the bathroom and banged on the door.
“Mandz, come on, come out. We can talk about this!” he pleaded.
“Get stuffed, Nicky!” she shouted back. He could tell she was crying.
“Come on, baby. I didn’t mean it like that. You know I didn’t! I’m sorry if it sounded like that. I really didn’t mean for it to sound like that!” he grovelled.
“Just leave, Nicky. I am not interested!” she cried.
“I am not leaving until you come out so we can talk. Now I don’t care how long I have to sit here for, but there is a nice comfortable bed there. Just think how comfortable you could be lying in it!” he smiled, sitting down and leaning his back against the door.
“Give up, will ya?” she screamed.
“Oh, alright then. Have it your way. Goodnight!” he sighed. He got up from the floor and walked to the connecting door. He opened it, but stayed in the room, and then slammed the door shut so Mandy would hear it. Then he tiptoed and went by the bathroom door, so Mandy wouldn’t hear him. Thinking he had left, Mandy unlocked the door, and slowly walked out. Nicky stood pinned by the wall until she was in sight. He suddenly grabbed her hand, making her leap out of her skin and smiled.
“You lying sod!” she screamed, hitting him with her free hand.
“I am sorry, darling, but I really wanna explain myself to you!” he smiled. He led her to the bed and made her sit down.
“Ok, go on!” she sighed, wiping her eyes.
Nicky smiled and took her hand, “I really didn’t mean for it to sound as if I only wanted you for a good time. You know how I feel about you. I am crazy about you, Mandz. Totally besotted. But tonight, you have kept me waiting for so long, that I am really about to burst. I have wanted you since this morning, and you kept fobbing me off. And now I cannot take anymore. It’s the way you make me feel. I see you, and all I want to do is to touch you, and do all these naughty things with you. You are such an incredibly sexy woman, that if I could, I would spend my whole lifetime in bed with you.”
Mandy smiled slightly, “carry on!”
Nicky laughed, “Ok, you make my life worth living. You bring sunshine to my cloudiest of days!” He recited dramatically.
Mandy giggled at his corny lines and dramatic gestures and Nicky laughed along with her.
“You know I wouldn’t hurt you like that. You know that I want you for more than just a good time. I want you for life, as you make me feel like no other woman has ever managed to make me feel before. I have never felt this strongly about anyone before. Not even with Kris. I am falling for you Mandz! I am falling in love with you, big time.” he explained.
“What did Brian say?” she asked.
Nicky opened his eyes with shock, “Have you heard what I have just said?”
Mandy smiled and nodded, “Yes, Nico, but what did Brian say?”
Nicky could not believe what she was asking, “I cannot believe I have just poured my feelings out to you and you are talking about something completely different. Geez, do you fancy me at all?”
Mandy sighed and looked at him, “You know I fancy you, Nicky. And I am really flattered that you feel like that about me. That really makes me happy. Now if you want me to tell you that I love you, then I’m afraid it’s not gonna happen just yet. It is too soon for me to say those words. I am taking things slowly, Nico. I have been hurt way too many times before, and I want to make sure I feel like that before I actually say the words!”
Nicky shrugged, “Fair enough, but I wanted to tell you how I feel, and now I also wanna show you!”
Mandy smiled, “OK Nicky. Alright! I think I have kept you waiting for far too long now!”
Nicky grinned and brought her closer to him. He was sitting on the bed, and she was standing up. He put both his hands on her bum and made her stand between his legs. He pulled her head down and kissed her softly on the lips.
“I love you!” he whispered. Mandy smiled and kissed him back.
Nicky lifted up her dress and put his hands on her bare flesh. He squeezed her bum gently and started kissing her stomach. Mandy let out a few little moans, and drew her head back, as she grabbed fistfuls of his hair. Nicky removed her dress completely, and threw it on the floor. He then removed his boxers, as Mandy removed his grey t-shirt. She threw it across the room, and looked into his now dark blue lustful eyes. She rubbed her hands over his chest, feeling the wispy chest hairs in-between her slim fingers. Nicky then picked her up and threw her on the bed.
“I have been waiting all day for this!” he whispered, as he bit gently into her neck, “God I want you so much!”
“Me too!” she whispered back, as she moved her head to the side, to give him better access to her neck. Nicky moved from her neck down to her stomach, gently licking around her belly button, and then moving down south. He parted her legs, and kissed each thigh in turn. As he got closer to her entrance, Mandy let out some louder moans. When he finally got to her wet centre, Mandy arched her back and her moans got louder. She bucked her hips, as Nicky glided his tongue around her sensitive region. Unable to take much more, she grabbed his hair, tugging on it slightly, as she felt that familiar feeling in the pit of her stomach. Nicky looked up at her when her screams faded and smiled at her.
“Did you enjoy that?” he asked hoarsely.
Mandy grinned and nodded, “And now it is my turn!”
Nicky smiled and flipped over. Mandy went on top of him, and started licking his stomach. Her tongue glided down his stomach, and to his manhood. She licked the head slowly, making Nicky growl with pleasure. She wrapped her small hand around his thick member, and slightly jerked it up and down, licking his head gently.
“Oh God, Mandz, don’t do this to me. Don’t tease me, I need you so much.” He moaned, throwing his head back.
Mandy smiled and then wrapped her full lips around his cock, sucking on it gently at first, and gradually increasing in pace. Nicky moaned loudly, as he let his fingers run through her straight brown hair. He then pulled her up and looked into her eyes, so full of passion.
“I need to make love to you now!” he growled, “Coz I don’t think I can take much more!”
Mandy bit her lip and started moving. Nicky stopped her.
“I want you on top. I need to see you making love to me!” he demanded.
Mandy bit her lips again and smiled. She placed herself on his manhood, and gently let it slip inside her. Feeling his hard member inside of her, she let out a loud gasp, and gently moved up and down. She gradually increased in pace, and let her hands rest on his chest. Nicky closed his eyes and savoured the whole moment. He grabbed her hand and placed it on her entrance.
“I need to see you playing with yourself!” he demanded, “That turns me on so much!” Wanting to satisfy his every need, she placed her finger on her hardened nub and started rubbing it gently. Nicky opened his eyes and looked at what she was doing. Mandy started feeling herself coming again. She closed her eyes, threw her head back and cried out loud in pleasure. Nicky rocked his hips even faster, feeling that all familiar tightening in his balls.
“Oh god, I am about to come!” he moaned loudly.
“Me too!” shouted Mandy, “shit, this feels so good!”
Before Nicky had the chance to agree, he moved even faster underneath her and screamed her name out loud. Mandy started moaning louder, as she felt that same feeling. Soon, they reduced pace, until they came to a stop. Mandy was sitting on top of him, trying to catch her breath back, as Nicky lay on the bed, with his hands over his eyes, totally breathless.
“Oh wow!” he panted, “That was unbelievable!”
Mandy grinned and lay on top of his sweaty body.
“Told you it was gonna be worth the wait!” she mumbled against his lips.
Nicky let out a little laugh and rubbed his hand over her sweaty back. The beads of sweat dripped from her body.
“I know!” he smiled, “And it sure was!”

Chapter Text

The following morning, everyone was in the restaurant having their buffet breakfast, except for Mandy and Nicky, who had ordered room service.
“Where’s Nicky?” asked Shane, looking around, “I would have thought he would be the first one here!”
“He’s probably sleeping!” shrugged Tracee, “You know what he’s like in the mornings!”
Shane seemed to accept this and continued eating his bacon. Kian looked around as he chewed on his toast and pulled a face.
“Where is Mandy though?” he asked.
“I dunno!” shrugged Anna, “Maybe she is having room service, or she might still be asleep. It is only 8 in the morning, you know? Not all of us are early risers!”
Mark smiled and shook his head, knowing the real reason why they were both not there.
“But we have rehearsals in an hour!” continued Kian, “Surely she should be up by now!”
“Well, I dunno, Kian. Maybe she is having room service and eating breakfast in bed. I know I would’ve done that!” smiled Angie.
Kian shrugged and drank his juice.
“So, it’s off to Scotland tomorrow!” smiled Shane, rubbing his hands.
“Yeah, and I cannot wait to be in my own home town again!” smiled Tracee, “I am so looking forward to it!”
“Will Mandy be coming though? I mean, she has those rehearsals with the kids and everything!” asked Mark.
“Oh, I hadn’t thought of that!” answered Shane, scratching his head, “But anyway, we know our moves well enough now!”
“Yeah!” smiled Kian, “We can cope without her!”
Anna and Angie exchanged glances and drank their orange juice. 

Meanwhile, back in Mandy’s room, Nicky and Mandy sat up in bed, scoffing their breakfast.
“This is nice,” smiled Nicky, as he fed his sausage to her. Mandy took a bite and smiled as she chewed.
“Yeah!” she sighed. Nicky sat up and looked at her.
“What’s wrong, babe?” he asked.
“I am just thinking about tomorrow. It’s gonna be ages until we see each other again!” she frowned.
“Yeah. How long do these rehearsals go for?” he asked, slightly peeved.
“Two more weeks!” she sighed, “That’s two weeks without seeing you!”
“Well, depends where we are. If we are closer, like Manchester or something, you could always commute!” he smiled, “You can use my car!”
Mandy smiled and looked at him, “Do you mean that?”
“Course I do, babe. I want you with me!” he smiled, as he run his fingers down her long silky brown hair, “I need you with me!”
“So where will you be after Edinburgh?” she asked.
“Glasgow, Dundee and then down to Newcastle. After that it will be Manchester, Birmingham, and back to Wembley!” he smiled.
Mandy nodded, “So I won’t see you for 3 days!” she pouted.
“Awww babe!” he pouted back, as he put the finished trays on the floor, “Maybe we should make up for lost time now!”
Mandy smiled and wriggled down on the bed, “Maybe we should!”
Nicky kissed her hungrily and then went down to her neck, “And maybe I can take you out to a fancy restaurant for a meal tonight, as a special treat!” he mumbled against her neck.
“Hmmmm good idea!” she smiled, enjoying his little nibbles.
“And then maybe we could come back here and make up a bit more for lost time!” he continued, tracing his tongue down her stomach.
“Fantastic idea!” she groaned.
“And then maybe…” he started.
“Nicky. Just shut up and get on with it!” she whispered, arching her back. Nicky grinned and continued, doing an encore from last night. 

An hour later, everyone met up in the studio hall for rehearsals. All the girls were there, and they crowded around Mandy.
“So, had a good night?” winked Anna.
“And morning?” snorted Angie.
Mandy blushed and looked the other way, “Have no idea what you are on about?” she grinned.
Anna laughed, “Course you don’t! So Brian knows now, does he?”
Mandy looked quickly at her, “He told you?”
Anna nodded, “He was so psyched, he had to tell someone, and since he knew that I knew, he told me! Don’t worry, he is not gonna tell anyone!”
“He’d better not!” mumbled Mandy, “Or he’s history!”
Anna smiled and walked away to her chair to sit down. Mandy clapped her hands, getting the lads’ attention.
“Ok lads, we have a lot to get through today, since you won’t be seeing me for the next three days!” she yelled. She looked at Nicky after she had said that, who gave her a discrete wink. Mandy smiled and turned around to put the stereo on.
“You’re a jammy git,” whispered Brian to Nicky, “How the hell did you manage to get her?”
“Shut up, will ya?” he whispered back in a growl, “You’re gonna give the whole thing away.”
Brian laughed and looked forwards, to see Mandy with her hands on her hips and tapping her foot.
“Finished chatting, have ya?” she tutted.
Nicky smiled and nodded. Mandy rolled her eyes and put the music on, “OK lads. Impress me. I am gonna sit here and watch!”
When rehearsals were over, Mandy thanked them all for coming and wished them luck.
“I think you should do fine without me!” she smiled, “You’ve excelled yourselves today!”
She looked at Nicky and read his thoughts. She frowned slightly and started packing up. The lads walked up to Mandy and hugged her.
“How about we go for a drink tonight, just to say thanks for everything!” smiled Shane.
Mandy looked at Nicky, wondering how she was gonna get out of this, “Er, I have to go and meet someone tonight. Sorry lads!”
“How about when you get back? We might still be partying!” smiled Nicky.
Mandy gave him a look, not knowing what he meant by that. Maybe he had forgotten about the meal he had suggested earlier.
“I don’t know, Nicky. I really have to go and meet this person!” she smiled through gritted teeth.
“But you might make it back on time!” he answered in the same way as her.
Mandy shrugged, “We’ll see!”
Shane looked from Mandy to Nicky as they talked, "Why are you two acting weird?”
They both looked at him, “We’re not acting weird. We’re just talking.” Shrugged Mandy.“With clenched teeth? What’s going on?” Laughed Shane.
“Nothing is going on, Shane.” Smiled Nicky.
Shane gave them strange looks and shook his head.
Nicky smiled and rolled his eyes. Everyone walked off to their rooms for a shower. When Mandy was in her room, Nicky walked in.
“What was all that about?” she asked in disbelief.
“Well, when we come back from the meal, we could join them for a while!” he shrugged, “Might not make it so suspicious!”
Mandy smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck, “Oh. I thought you had forgotten about our arrangement tonight!”
Nicky laughed and rubbed noses with her, “Are you kidding me? I am looking forward to that!”
“So what’s the plan? Where are you gonna tell them you are going?” she smiled.
“I dunno!” he shrugged, “I’ll think of something. In the meantime, I am gonna have a shower. Care to join me?”
Mandy grinned, “I got the bath ready!”
Nicky laughed, “Trust you.”
Mandy smiled and walked off. Nicky slapped her bum and walked after her, “Come on then sweaty pants, let’s get cleaned up!”
“Or not!” she winked naughtily, as she closed the bathroom door, and started ripping his clothes off. 

Chapter Text

When Mandy was ready, she knocked on the door to let Nicky know that she was about to leave. Nicky looked her up and down. Her short skirt gave him a good view of her tanned legs. When he got to her top, he was transfixed by her cleavage, showing through her low cut black top. He grinned and nodded in approval.
“Like what you see?” she grinned, giving him a playful twirl.
“Absolutely!” he almost drooled with a grin.
“Ok then, be a good boy and don’t take too long. It is freezing out there!” she winked. “I’ll be there as soon as I can. Just order me a beer when you get there, ok?” he smiled, giving her a very hard kiss on the lips. Mandy nodded and walked away. Soon, there was a knock on Nicky’s door. He opened it and saw Anna and Mark standing there.
“Hey! What’s up?” he asked.
“Looking good, Byrne!” grinned Mark, “Going anywhere special?”
Anna nudged him, “Stop taunting the guy, Mark. You know full well were he is going!”
Mark grinned, “So, what are you gonna tell Kian?”
“I am gonna tell Kian nothing. I don’t have to tell him where I am going every time I go out. And if he asks, I’ll just say I went to see an old mate!” he shrugged.
“But it is gonna be very suspicious, you and Mandy going out on the same night. Too much of a coincidence!” smiled Anna.
“Well, if he asks the next morning, then I’ll tell him I didn’t feel well, and that I stayed in bed all night!” he shrugged cleverly, “All I need to do is make sure he doesn’t see me getting out of the hotel! Care to help me with that?”
Anna laughed, “Right, this is the plan. We will go to Kian’s room and distract him, though I am sure Angie is doing that already. You just leave and run the hell out of here, got it?”
Nicky nodded and then looked at them cautiously, “Why are you here, anyway? Is there something you wanted?”
Anna grinned, “Just came to wish you luck really, and to wish you a good time tonight! Now go and get her, tiger!”
Nicky grinned and kissed her cheek quickly, “You’re an angel. Thanks!”
“Ok, whatever!” laughed Anna, wiping her cheek with her hand, “Just wait until we are inside and then take the stairs down. Please hurry!”
Nicky nodded and stayed by the door. He saw Anna and Mark knocking on Kian’s door and then saw them go inside. As on cue, he dashed out his room, put the do not disturb sign out on the door and sped down the stairs. He was totally out of breath when he got to the bottom of the stairs. He looked up and panted, “Mandy is gonna be the death of me at this rate!” He then smiled, shook his head and walked away to his car.
Anna saw him getting in the car and closed the curtains at the window. Kian looked at her. 

“Anything wrong?” he questioned.
Anna looked at him and smiled, “Not really. Just too many fans down there, looking up here!”
“Oh, let me have a look!” he grinned, walking quickly to the window.
“No! You can’t!” she said abruptly.
“What? Course I can. It is my hotel window!” he laughed.
“No, but Kian, you really don’t wanna know what those banners say!” she thought quickly.
“Nah, it don’t bother me!” he laughed, “I can take everything they throw at me!” Anna gulped, looked around quickly and saw that Nicky had now disappeared. She moved away and smiled. Kian looked out the window and shrugged, “Nothing wrong with a sign that says that!” he smiled, “Why get bothered about it?”
“So it doesn’t bother you that someone says they would have Nicky over you, anytime?” grinned Anna.
“Course not. I have my girl!” he smiled, pulling Angie closer to him and giving her a kiss on the lips, “I don’t need anyone else!”
“That’s good to know. Anyway, we came by to see what time you are going down the bar tonight!” smiled Mark.
“Oh, in about 10 minutes!” he smiled, “As soon as Angie is ready. Actually, you’d better give her another hour. She still has not decided what she is gonna wear!”
Angie smiled, “I’ll be ready in 10 minutes!”
“Yeah, I am gonna call Nicky and tell him we are going down soon!” smiled Kian, picking up the phone.
“Oh, I already called round at Nicky’s. He said he has got a bit of a funny stomach, and is having an early night!” explained Anna.
“Ah rubbish. He is just being a lazy git and miserable coz of the break up. I’ll convince him!” grinned Kian, dialling his number. Anna hang up.
“Kian, he really is not feeling well. I saw the look on his face. He is as pale as ever! He really doesn’t look well. Best let him rest!” she smiled, with her heart in her throat, hoping she wouldn’t get caught out.
“Really?” he asked, “Wonder what’s up with him. Ok then, I guess it’s just us. Brian is taking Abeth out tonight. Finally got the guts to ask her out!”
Anna smiled, “And what about Shane and Tracee?”
“Oh, yes, they are coming! They are probably there already!” smiled Kian.
“Ok then, Mark and I are gonna head off down. See ya in a bit!” smiled Anna, more at ease now that Kian had bought her story. Kian smiled and nodded. 

Mandy was already sitting down at a table, when Nicky got in. When she saw him, she smiled. Her eyes were all twinkly, and there was a look of love in them.
“Finally, you made it!” she smiled, handing him his beer.
Nicky took it, had a sip and smiled as he licked the froth off his lips, “Yeah. With a bit of help from Anna and Mark!”
“Oh!” giggled Mandy, “she kept Kian distracted, did she?”
Nicky nodded as he took the menu, “Have you already decided what you’re having?”
“I decided about 20 minutes ago!” she smiled, “I am starving! I could eat my own arm!”
“Sorry!” he chuckled, “But it will be worth it. Spending some time on our own. We deserve it!”
Mandy smiled and grabbed his hand, “I think so too!”
Nicky smiled, looked into her eyes and kissed her lips. The kiss was still lingering, even when he pulled away. She touched her lips and smiled.
“What?” he asked.
“Nothing!” she sighed contentedly, “That felt nice!”
“Well, here’s another one!” he grinned, leaning over again.
They were still in the kiss when the waiter interrupted them.
“Good evening!” he smiled, in his Italian accent, “Are you both ready to order?”
“I am!” laughed Mandy, “Not sure about this handsome young man opposite me!”
“I am!” smiled Nicky.
Mandy smiled and gave him her order. Nicky finally decided on the spot, and opted for the ravioli.
“Good choice, sir!” smiled the waiter, as he took the menus away.
Mandy looked at Nicky and smiled when the waiter had gone away, “So, what is it you have planned tonight?”
“Well!” smiled Nicky, “As you may know, the places we go to are limited, coz of the amount of fans everywhere, but I can promise you, that wherever I take you after this, you are gonna enjoy!”
“Oooh, now you have me intrigued. Come on, tell me!” she pleaded.
“No! It is a surprise, and I love surprising you!” he smiled, kissing the back of her hand, “So stop trying to find out!”
“Not fair!” she sulked, “I wanna know!”
“And you will find out soon enough!” he smiled, “So let's just enjoy our meal, and leave the surprises till later!” 

Chapter Text

Abeth waited nervously in her room for Brian to come and pick her up. She checked herself on the mirror one last time and then sat on the bed again, checking her watch nervously. Only 3 minutes had passed since she last checked. She sighed nervously and looked around the room, smiling at the though of having bagged a date with Brian. This was something that every fan wished for, and she had just had her dream come true. Who would have thought that her favourite man in the whole world wanted to date her? This seemed to good to be true. Her thoughts were interrupted by a soft knock on the door. She gave herself the once over in the mirror again and smiled before she opened the door. She then saw Brian, standing there, looking rather sexy in his black suit.
“Hi!” she smiled.
“Are you ready?” he asked. He eyed her up and down and then looked into her brown eyes. Abeth smiled and nodded. Grabbing her bag, which was dangling on the chair next to her, she checked she had everything she needed inside and then walked outside. She closed the door and looked at Brian.
“So, where are you taking me?” she asked confidently. She pulled a face as she realised how forward she must have sounded. Brian looked at her face and laughed. “I am taking you to the finest restaurant in town…apparently, so I’ve been told. Never been there myself, so I hope it is good!” he smiled.
Abeth smiled and they stopped outside the lift. Remembering his fear for lifts, she looked at him cautiously.
“We can always take the stairs, you know?” she smiled.
Brian looked at her and grinned, “You really are a fan, aren’t you?”
Abeth blushed and nodded.
“It’s ok. I shall be brave. It’s not like it’s my first time in a lift anyway. And we’re too high up to go by stairs! I don’t mind, honestly. If I do start to panic, I’ll just grab your hand!” he smiled.
Abeth giggled and looked at the doors as she heard the ping of the lift. When they opened, she stepped in and looked at Brian.
“Are you sure?” she checked, “I really don’t mind taking the stairs!”
Brian nodded, “I’ll be fine, really!” He felt the beads of sweat starting to produce on his forehead. Abeth smiled at him and felt really relieved when they finally got to the ground floor. She felt uncomfortable that Brian felt uncomfortable in the lift.
“Ok, see? No harm done!” he smiled, in a bid to make her feel better. Abeth smiled and walked out. Brian stopped and held out his arm, so she would link arms with him. Abeth smiled and did just that. Soon enough, they were in the limo, heading off to the chosen restaurant. 

Mandy and Nicky had finished their meal, and were about to leave.
“So, did you enjoy that?” smiled Nicky, as he left a generous tip in the box.
“Mmm, that was lovely!” smiled Mandy, putting her black coat on, “So, spill it Nico. Where are you taking me now?”
Nicky laughed as he put his black jacket on, “I told you, I am not telling. You’ll find out soon enough. Now come on!” He held out his hand and smiled when Mandy took it. They linked fingers together and walked out of the restaurant. They got into the car and drove off. Mandy looked at him as he drove. Nicky looked at her briefly and laughed.
“Please don’t get too excited. It’s nothing to be excited about. It really is no big deal. I am just taking us to a secluded spot where we can be together, that’s all!” he smiled. Mandy smiled and rested her head on his shoulders as he drove on, “Anywhere with you, Nicky, is good enough for me!”
She closed her eyes for a while and then felt Nicky stop the car. When she opened them, her jaw almost dropped open by what she saw. It was the most breath taking view she had ever seen.
“Where are we?” she gasped.
Nicky smiled and turned the key in the ignition, “We are at the top of Hailson’s peak!” he smiled, “I had been told that it has the most breath taking view ever, and they were right.”
“Wow!” she smiled, opening the door and getting out, “This is truly amazing. You can see everything from here!”
Nicky nodded and stood behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist, “and we are all alone, and we can do what we want!”
Mandy turned around in his arms and lifted her arms, wrapping them around his neck, “You old romantic, you!” she smiled, nuzzling noses with him, “How did you know I would like this?”
Nicky put a blanket on the bonnet of the car and picked her up. He sat her down on it and walked between her legs, holding onto her tenderly, “Remember when you first started working with us, we played the truth or dare game?”
Mandy grinned and nodded.
“Well, I remember you were asked what you preferred, romantic loving in the outdoors or wild loving indoors, and I remember you answered ‘I love to…’”
“Feel the breeze when I am making love, and I love the sound of nature in my most intimate moment. Yes I remember, I cannot believe you remembered that though!” she interrupted.
Nicky smiled and kissed her one time on the lips, “I remember everything that’s to do with you, babe! For example, I know you always want to eat something sweet after making love, which is why I got some strawberries in the trunk of the car. And I know that you like to look out of the window as soon as you wake up in the morning, which is why I got us the hotel room with the best view.”
Mandy smiled and surrendered to his kiss. As it turned more intense, Nicky pulled her down from the car, and gently lay her down on the blanket on the grass.
“And now I want you to experience this moment with me, in the outdoors, just as you like it!” he mumbled against her lips, as he started removing her clothes. 

The next morning, when they all woke up, they assembled, as usual, for breakfast at the diner. Mandy and Nicky were the first ones there.
“Hey, you two!” smiled Shane. He looked at Nicky and smiled, “Feeling better?”
Nicky smiled as he nibbled on his toast, “Yeah, much better, thanks. I think I was just exhausted. That early night did me the world of good!”
Mandy tried not to laugh as she ate her cereal. Shane looked at her, “And how about you? Did you have fun with your old friends?”
Tracee smiled in the background, “let her eat her breakfast in peace, Shane!”
“What, I am only making conversation and being nice!” he gasped.
Mandy giggled, “I had a fantastic time. It was nice to catch up with things!”
She looked at Nicky from the corners of her eyes after she said that. Nicky smiled and ate his toast.
Soon enough, the whole crew were there, munching away happily on their breakfast. When Mandy finished, she excused herself and made her way back to her room. Shortly after, Nicky complained that he needed the gents, so he made his way upstairs too. He knocked on Mandy’s door and grinned. He jumped on her when she opened. “You think they fell for it?” asked Mandy worriedly, knowing how bad she was at lying.
“Yeah, I think so!” he smiled, wrapping his arms around her waist, “Anyway, are you packed already?”
Mandy frowned and nodded, “three days without you. It’s going to be hard!”
“I’ll call you!” he smiled, “Every time I get the chance! You’ll be so sick of me by the end of those 3 days that you won’t want to come back to me!”
“Never!” argued Mandy, “I miss you when you’re not around!”

Down at the café, Shane spotted a newspaper lying around. He picked it up and sat on the table again. His face went as white as a sheet when he saw the front cover.
“Oh my god!” he whispered, looking at it. 

Chapter Text

Brian and Mark looked over his shoulder at the paper to see what Shane was fussing about. They looked at each other and then at their plates.
“Oh boy!” whispered Mark.
“Oh boy? Is that all you can say?” shrieked Shane, “It’s Nicky and Mandy, kissing. When did they get together?”
“A few weeks before Nicky and Kris split up!” answered Mark with a shrug.
Shane coughed and looked up quickly at him, “You mean you knew?” he shrieked.
“Yes, I knew!” sighed Mark.
“And you didn’t tell me?” shrieked Shane again.
Mark shook his head, “I promised to keep it to myself and I did. Besides, it’s really none of your business, is it?”
Shane looked at Brian, who did not seem shocked at all.
“By the look on your face, I take it you knew aswell!” he sighed.
Brian nodded, “I was in Mandy’s room, asking her for advice about Abeth when Nicky walked in, wearing just his boxers!”
Shane shook his head, “I take it Kian doesn’t know!”
“No, and we would rather it stayed that way. Imagine what would happen if he found out?” gasped Brian.
“He is bound to find out, Bri. It’s all over the front page of the sun for God’s sake!” shrieked Shane.
They all heard the voices of the girls walking towards them and Shane quickly put the paper behind his back and turned around.
“What’s going on?” asked Anna with a grin, wrapping her arms around Mark’s waist. “Nothing!” answered Shane quickly, shaking his head vigorously.
“It’s Ok, Shane. They know too!” sighed Mark.
Shane looked at the girls, and then stayed focused on Tracee, “And you knew too? Did everyone know except me and Kian and Kris?”
Everyone looked at each other and shrugged. Just then Kian walked towards them and smiled.
“What is this, a band meeting or something? What are you all doing huddled around each other?” he joked.
Shane put the paper behind his back and tucked it in his trousers and smiled, “No, we were just talking about what we are doing today?”
“Well, we don’t have to rehearse today, thank god, so we are free as a bird. What are we gonna do?” he asked.
“Well, we were suggesting going to the pool today!” answered Anna quickly, “We ain’t even gone to the pool since we got here!”
Mark nodded, relieved by her quick thinking.
“Hmm that sounds good. I’ll go up to my room and get ready then!” he winked, walking off. Just as he was walking off, he caught a glimpse of a newspaper on the table in the lobby. He picked it up and opened it up. His face totally changed when he saw the front page.
“WHAT???” he yelled.
Everyone looked at each other and ran speedily to the lobby. Kian had already dashed off at this stage. Mark saw the paper on the floor and put the pieces together.
“Oh great. He’s seen the papers!” he moaned.
Everyone looked at each other again and dashed to the lift, to try and stop Kian.
Kian stormed up the stairs until he got to the right floor. He banged on Nicky’s door. “Nicky! Open this door right now!” he screamed.
Nicky, who was in Mandy’s room, looked at her and she looked at him, “Is that Kian?” he whispered.
“Sounds like him!” shrugged Mandy, “and he don’t sound too happy!”
“Nicky, I said open this god damn door. I know what you’ve done!”
Mandy and Nicky exchanged glances again, and she started panicking.
“He knows?” she whispered, “How the hell does he know?”
“I dunno. Shit! What do we do?” whispered Nicky, in a panic, pacing quickly around the room.
“He is probably gonna come here to see if you are here. Just very quietly go to your room and stay there!” whispered Mandy.
Nicky nodded and did as he was told. He stopped before he closed the door, “What about you? He is gonna crucify you aswell!”
“Don’t worry. I can handle him. Just stay there and wait for me, ok?” she smiled, kissing his nose. Nicky nodded and quietly closed the door. As suspected, Kian banged on her door next.
“Mandy, open this door. I know you are in!” he demanded.
Mandy took a deep breath and casually opened the door, “Hey Kian. What’s up?” she grinned.
Kian stared at her with disgust and looked around the room, “Is he here?”
“Is who here?” she played along.
“You know damn well who!” he growled, pushing his way in, “Nicky, come out wherever you are!”
“Nicky is not here, Kian. What’s the problem?” she asked, following him as he went to the bathroom and pulled the shower screen back with force.
“You know what the problem is. This is the problem!” he growled, showing her the front page of the paper which he had picked up from outside her door. Mandy looked at it and then looked at Kian, “Oh!”
“Oh? Is that all you can say?” he screamed, throwing the paper down, “You and him together?”
“Well, he is a single man, Kian. He can date who he wants!” she answered, trying to sound cool.
“Oh no. No, no, no! This has been going on way before him and Kris split up.” He answered angrily, “You are responsible for their break-up. I just know it. It all makes sense now. You fucking home wrecker!”
“Now hang on a minute. When Nicky and Krisanne split up, I was at home, with crutches. This has nothing to do with me!” she answered.
“Oh yes it has everything to do with you. You split them up! Feel proud of yourself, do ya? Breaking up a marriage?” he shouted. He was walking towards her and Mandy slowly walked backwards, edging away from him.
“I did not break them up. Nicky and Kris split up coz they were not getting along. It had nothing to do with me!” she explained calmly.
“Rubbish. You were seeing each other when they were together. It is all falling into place now. The uncomfortable silences. The stares. The disappearing acts.” He insisted, “You are nothing but a home wrecking whore!”
That’s when Nicky stormed out of his room and into Mandy’s, “Don’t you DARE call her that again!” he roared.
Kian looked at Nicky and then marched towards him, “You bastard!” he yelled, punching him in the jaw. Nicky toppled back but managed to regain his balance. He looked at Kian and tried to calm the whole situation down.
“Listen, Kian. Kris and me tried to be together. But she and I wanted different things. We couldn’t go on like that anymore. All we did was argue!” he explained calmly.
“So that gives you the right to cheat on her, does it? You fucking twat!” growled Kian, walking quickly towards him again. Nicky got out of his way and went to the other side of the room.
“I am sorry it had to happen, but the fact is, it did!” he sighed, “Mandy and I found out we had loads in common, and we just fell for each other.”
“I bet SHE made you break up with Kris, right?” he snarled, giving Mandy an evil glance.  “She is never happy unless she breaks up a marriage.”
Mandy decided to butt in, “Now hang on a minute. I did not make him do anything. I broke it off with Nicky in the end, to give him some space and see what he wanted. I told him not to contact me or talk to me until he and Kris were over, if he was gonna end it! So no, I did not make him do anything he didn’t want to do!”
“Well, I don’t believe you!” hissed Kian, folding his arms.
Just then there was a knock on the door, followed by shouting.
“Kian, are you in there? Come on, man. Don’t go jumping into anything!” shouted Shane, banging hard on the door.
Mandy sighed and opened the door. The lads and girls all rushed in dreading what they were gonna see. They relaxed a bit when they saw that no-one was killing anyone.
But Anna did notice the fat lip on Nicky and then she looked at Mandy.
“Are you ok?” she mouthed.
Mandy smiled and nodded.
Kian looked back at Nicky and got closer to him, “You are nothing but a selfish, cold hearted asshole. You are gonna pay for this!” he hissed through gritted teeth, before walking off. Angie ran over to join Kian, and left everyone else in the room.
 “Wow, are you ok?” asked Mark, wincing at the sight of his lip.
Nicky smiled and nodded, “Well, that’s that sorted. Now is the worse bit. Waiting for Kris to phone me up and have a go too.”
“Well, then turn your phone off!” grinned Brian, “That way, you won’t have to deal with her.”
Nicky sighed and shook his head, “No. I am gonna have to deal with this sooner or later, and I would much rather it be sooner!”
Everyone smiled and then decided to head off, leaving Mandy and Nicky alone. Mandy looked worried. Nicky noticed this and cuddled her.
“Don’t worry, babe. Everything will sort itself out. You’ll see.” He smiled, kissing her head. Mandy closed her eyes and nodded, more worried about what the public was gonna make of her, now that everything was out in the open.

Chapter Text

Mandy had her bags ready and now it was time for her to catch the train back to London. She took a last look at the room and frowned.
“Awww don’t worry babe. We’ll be back together again before you know it!” smiled Nicky, rubbing his hands up and down the length of her arms.
Mandy managed a weak smile, “Yeah I know. But I am gonna miss you, that’s all. And I am worried about you and Kian!”
Nicky smiled and hugged her, “I am gonna miss you too babe. And don’t worry about Kian. It’s gonna be ok!”
“Nicky, he is furious. He punched you last night. He will do it again!” sighed Mandy rubbing his cheek and frowning at the bruise that had formed there.
“Don’t worry, I’ll just keep a low profile!” he grinned.
“Low profile? Nicky, you have to be on stage tonight. Oh god, I don’t even wanna think about what the atmosphere on that stage is gonna be like. The fans are gonna know something is up, the papers will lap it all up…oh god, your future as a singer is gonna be ruined because of me! If he punches you again…” she huffed, throwing herself on the bed.
Nicky shook his head and sat down next to her, placing an arm around her shoulders. He knew she was right, but he had to say something to make her not worry so much. “No they won’t. Kian will not want that to happen to the band, and he will make an effort to put on a good show. He is very good at pretending!” he smiled, not letting on about how worried he actually was.
Mandy sighed and nodded, “I hope you’re right!”
“You know I am right.” He smiled, shaking her slightly.
The phone rang. Nicky answered it, thanked the person and hung up. He looked at Mandy and pressed his lips, “Cab’s here, babe!” he frowned.
Mandy sniffed and got up, “Suppose I’d better get a move on then!”
Nicky walked to her, with a brave face and hugged her warmly, “Take care ok? And see you in three days. Have good rehearsals!”
Mandy looked up into his eyes and kissed him warmly, “I’ll ring you when I get home!”
“Not if I ring you first!” he smiled, wiping a tear away from her eye.
Mandy smiled, kissed him one last time, grabbed her bags and walked out of the room. Nicky walked down with her in case she was confronted by Kian. He sighed when he saw him walking with Angie in the lobby. He squeezed her hand when he saw him walking towards them.
“Leaving, are you? Can’t handle the pressure, huh?” he smirked.
“I have rehearsals with the kids, Kian!” she sighed, not looking into his eyes.
“Oh good. Hope you break your foot and cannot come back!” he snarled.
Nicky glared at him and shook his head, making Kian raise a brow, “Problem?”
Nicky rolled his eyes and looked at Mandy, “Come on, darling.”
Angie looked at him and nudged him hard on his ribs. Kian looked at her and shrugged. Then he looked back at Mandy.
“Thanks, Kian. That means a lot!” sighed Mandy sarcastically as she walked away, rolling her eyes and looking away.
“I’m sorry, Mandz. He doesn’t mean it!” apologised Angie.
“What? Yes I do mean it, thank you so much, and please don’t speak or apologise on my behalf. She has broken up a marriage, and she is not gonna get away with it. You know what, Mandz? Even if it kills me, I am gonna get Kris and Nicky back together. You mark my words!” he hissed loudly after her.
“Not gonna happen, Kian!” Nicky muttered as he walked on with Mandy.
“We shall see,” Kian smirked.
“Yeah, well. Whatever. I have to go now. See you in three days!” she sighed, walking away.
“Yeah?” shouted Kian after her, “We’ll see about that!”
Angie looked at him, giving him a look of disgust and shook her head. Kian looked at her and flinched, “What?”
“Just grow up, Kian. Grow up!” she mumbled, walking away.
Nicky sighed and held her by the waist when they got to the entrance, avoiding going outside because of the fans, "Sorry you had to go through that, baby.” He leaned in for a gentle kiss.
“Don’t be. I’m ok,” she smiled bravely, "Just get yourself upstairs and keep a low profile, ok?”
Nicky nodded, kissed her and walked back to his room. Once he was there, he looked out of the window and saw Mandy giving her bags to the cab driver. She looked up and saw him standing there. He wiggled his fingers to say goodbye. Mandy blew a kiss at him and then got in the car. He could hear the fans from his room. Some of them were cheering and some of them just stood there, saying nothing. Most of them just ignored her and looked up to his window, screaming even louder when they saw him. Nicky sighed sadly, and closed the curtains when he saw the cab disappearing off into the distance.

The next few days were spent moping around. The concert had actually gone well. Kian put all the problems to the back of his mind, so as not to make the fans suspicious, but when they were out of view, he made a few comments at Nicky, which he just dutifully ignored. Mandy was now due to come back the next day, and Nicky was starting to perk up. He had hardly left his room. The only time he left was when he had to go to the concert. At every hotel he went to, he would go straight to his room and stay there, not wanting to see anybody, especially Kian. But tonight he actually went to bed with a smile. He grabbed his mobile phone and started texting her.
Back in London, Mandy was almost asleep, when the beeping on her phone woke her up. Grumbling, she turned around, picked up her phone and read the message.

 Not long to go. I am getting so excited about seeing you again. Three days have seemed like Three years. I need you so much! Wish you were in my bed so I could keep you warm! 

Mandy smiled and decided to reply. She was awake now, and it was gonna take forever for her to fall asleep again. Nicky grinned when he heard his phone beeping. 

I need you to keep me warm now. My heaters broken, and I am freezing my tits off!

Nicky laughed and decided to phone her. Mandy heard her phone ringing and answered it with a smile.
“I know exactly how to keep those amazing tits warm.” He grinned.
Mandy laughed and shook her head, “I know you do."
“You sound tired!” he smiled, snuggling into the bed sheets.
“That’s coz I was falling asleep when you texted me! It’s been a very tough day with rehearsals,” she answered with a weak laugh.
“Aww sorry babe. I was just missing you, that’s all!” he pouted.
“No problem. I am missing you too. You know I am. But just a few more hours and we’ll be together again!”
Nicky grinned and lowered his voice, “So you’re in bed now, right?”
“That’s right!” she answered, noticing a naughty tone on his voice.
“So, what are you wearing right now?” he whispered.
“Nicky!” shrieked Mandy in laughter.
“Oh come on. You said you want me to keep you warm, and if I cannot do that physically, then I’m gonna have to put a picture in your head to keep you warm, or maybe even hot!” he chuckled.
“Well, to do that I am gonna have to lie to you!” she grinned.
“Lie away!” he smirked.
“Ok then. I am wearing a black silky slip with lacy hems and plunging neckline!” she lied, almost laughing.
“Mmm nice!” smiled Nicky, “Wanna know what I am wearing?”
“Go on. Entice me!” laughed Mandy.
“Ok, I am in my bed, with absolutely nothing on. And I have to say, my second in command down there is getting very impatient. It needs to get a home run, and fast!” he chuckled. “Or at the very least, third base.”
Mandy laughed, “Nicky!” she shrieked, still laughing, “That’s rude!”
“Since when are you scared of a bit of dirty talking?” he smiled.
“True!” shrugged Mandy. She heard her phone beeping, “I’m sorry babe, but my battery is dying on me. I am gonna have to go!”
“Ok darling. I’ll see you tomorrow. Good night!” he smiled.
“Night Nicky., Sweet dreams!” she smiled and kissed him down the phone.
“If you are in my dreams, babe, it will be the sweetest ever. Oh, by the way, what are you really wearing?” he grinned.
“Do you really wanna know?” she asked, raising her brow, and hearing the beeping again.
“Yeah, I do!” he smiled, pulling the covers tighter around him.
“OK, I am wearing my lilac fleecy pyjamas, with those thick bed socks I have, and a thermal vest underneath. I am cuddling my hot water bottle too!” she smiled.
“Mmm nice and sexy!” laughed Nicky sarcastically.
“I told you, it’s freezing in here without any heating.” She whined.
“Awww babe. You’ll be nice and warm in my arms tomorrow.” He smiled.
“Can’t wait!” she smiled. She listened out for him, but she heard nothing. She looked at her phone and noticed that it had switched itself off.
“Damn battery!” she sighed. She finally put the phone down, and rolled over, trying to fall asleep again. 

Chapter Text

Mandy smiled when she entered the glamorous Hilton Hotel! She made her way to the counter, and got her key card to hers and Nicky’s room, as Nicky had previously arranged. She had asked the receptionist not to mention that she was there, as she wanted to surprise him. She grabbed her bags and made her way to the eighth floor. When she was there, she went inside the room, admiring it. The first thing she did was drop her bags and check the bathroom. She smiled big when she saw the Jacuzzi there. Next she went back out, and got out her tiny black slip that she told Nicky about on the phone the night earlier. She put it on, and ordered some champagne from the bar. When that got there, she got 2 glasses and filled them up. Then she got to bed and just waited. She checked the time and figured that he would be arriving soon. About half an hour and two champagne glasses later, she heard the door opening. She got into her sexiest position and held onto her glass. She saw Nicky walking in, but he was busy holding onto all his bags to even notice that she was there. When a minute had passed, watching him rummaging around his bag looking for something, she decided to get his attention. 

“You know, it’s rude to keep a girl waiting!” she smiled, in her most seductive voice. Nicky jumped, stopped what he was doing and looked quickly at her.
“Mandy!” he gasped, “The receptionist told me you were not here yet!”
Mandy grinned and kneeled down on the bed, crawling closer to the foot of the bed to where he was, “That’s coz I asked her not to!” she purred, “I wanted to surprise you.” Nicky grinned and kneeled down on the bed closer to her. He wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her forwards, making her body rub against him, “I love surprises!” he mumbled, as he kissed her neck, “And god I missed you so much! You look amazing.”
Mandy laughed and pulled her head back, enjoying his little kisses immensely. She closed her eyes and savoured them all.
“I missed you too!” she moaned in a mere whisper, “But enough with the chit chat. I think your second in command is getting way too impatient now! Let’s get it to third base.” she grumbled, as her hip rubbed against his groin. She reached her hand down and cupped it. She then pulled the zip down and stuck her hand inside, grabbing his fully erect member. Nicky bit his lip and smiled, “I think you might be right!” he mumbled against her neck, “And we cannot have him being ignored, can we? But I would prefer the home run as well as third base.”
Mandy laughed as she kissed him, “I have never understood those American terms.”
Nicky grinned against her lips. “And may I say how sexy you look in that little outfit? You have no idea what it is doing to me,” he smiled, eyeing her up and down.
“I have a very good idea, yes! I can feel it,” she smiled.
Nicky grinned and pressed his lips hard against her eagerly awaiting lips. “Well, it’s definitely working!” he smiled against her lips. He then pushed her down on the bed and stroked her stomach under her slip, making Mandy writhe in pleasure. He then pulled it up over her head and threw it across the room. Mandy feverishly removed his clothes and rolled over on top of him. She looked at him cunningly and smiled, “I think you’re quite tired after your gigs and the long journey here. How about I take the lead?”
Nicky bit his lip and smiled, “I think that would be the best idea!”
Mandy smiled and kissed him hard on the lips, taking the lead, making him enjoy every single moment. 

When it was over, they both lay down in each other’s arms, panting and catching their breath.
“Wow!” he panted, “Those three days without you sure made this feel good!”
Mandy laughed, “Are you telling me that it isn’t good usually?”
Nicky looked at her and laughed, “Don’t put words in my mouth babe! You know that’s not what I was saying?”
“I’d rather put something else in your mouth,” she winked, making him laugh.
“That can be arranged.” He grinned.
Mandy grinned, “I know. I knew what you meant. Just teasing you!”
Nicky rolled over and climbed on top of her, “And you love teasing me, don’t you, you little tease?”
Mandy giggled and put her arms around his neck, “You know I do. I quite enjoy it!” Nicky smiled at her lovingly and kissed her tenderly, “So how about another round?” Mandy bit her lip, “As much as I would LOVE to do that, I am feeling pretty stinky after travelling all day in a train. I really need a bath!” she smiled, making him roll over so she could get up. Nicky lay on his back and put his hands behind his head, “Now how did I know you were gonna say that?”
Mandy looked at him and grinned, “Thanks for booking a room with a Jacuzzi, by the way!”
Nicky grinned and licked his lips, “No problem. I know how much you enjoy those Jacuzzis. How about I join you?”
Mandy threw her head back in laughter, “Admit it, Byrne. You enjoy them as much as I do!”
“Well, I enjoy them when you’re in it, yes!” he smiled.
Mandy looked at him. Her eyes were all sparkly and her cheeks were all red. “Fine. Come on then!” she smiled, “But I get to press the button.”
Nicky grinned naughtily and wrapped his arms around her waist, “I think you’ll find that is my job!” he whispered, nuzzling his lips against her neck.
Mandy laughed loudly and slapped him on the chest, “Don’t be rude!”
Nicky grinned as they both disappeared into the bathroom. 

Anna, Tracee and Angie were wandering around the hotel, checking out the bars and the shops. Abeth was in the room with Brian. Since they got together, they hardly spent any time apart. She was really thankful to Mandy for getting them together. She never got the chance to thank her, and she really wanted to do that. She knew that she was due back today, so she just figured she would wait until dinner time. 

When Mandy and Nicky finished their ‘bath’, they got out and got dressed.
“So, how has Kian been?” she finally asked the unavoidable question.
Nicky frowned and looked at the floor, “I have been avoiding him at all costs, but he seemed to put on a front at the gigs, so nothing was suspicious. But other than that, I have been staying cooped in my room all the time, ordering room service and not leaving for anything, apart from the gigs. He has made the snide remark here and there, but he is not gonna let it go!”
Mandy smiled sympathetically and sat on his lap, flinging her arms around his neck, “Well, we’re not gonna stay cooped in this room all the time, are we?”
Nicky raised his eyebrows at her and smiled, “Would that be such a bad idea?”
Mandy laughed, “Well, I think there is a certain amount of times that we can do that, and you know as well as I do, that it will become boring after a while!”
Nicky raised his eyebrows in shock, “Are you saying that you will get bored of me?” he pouted.

“Now who’s putting words in whose mouth?” She laughed.
“Hmmmm as you said, I would rather put something else in your mouth.”
Mandy laughed, “You know what I am like. I need a bit of variety in my life!”
“So? I’ll just get you some toys!” he smiled cheekily, “There’s a bit of variety!”
Mandy gave him a knowing look, “You perv! Now I am hungry. How about we head to the bar for a little bite to eat. I ain’t eaten since breakfast!”
“Did you miss lunch, young lady? What have I told you about skipping meals?” he tutted.
Mandy smiled sheepishly, “Well, it is three o’clock. In some places, that is lunchtime. Like Spain, for example!”
Nicky smiled, “Well, we’re not in Spain, are we? We’re in Manchester. Now come on. Up you get!” he smiled, pushing her off his lap, “Let’s go and get you something nice to eat!”
“What if we see Kian?” she asked.
“We’ll just ignore him and his snide remarks. I am not gonna be intimidated by him any longer and neither are you!” he answered stubbornly.
Mandy smiled at him, admiring his courage and grabbed his hand. They both left their rooms and went straight to the bar. There they saw Brian and Abeth. Nicky saw them and waved at them. They sat down with them, and looked at the menu.
“Hey Mandz!” smiled Abeth, “Welcome back!”
Mandy looked at her from above her menu and smiled, “Thanks. How’s things?”
Abeth looked at Brian as he walked off with Nicky to get them some drinks, and smiled dreamily, “This is like a dream come true. I cannot believe I am going out with Brian. I have been dreaming about this for so long. I keep having to pinch myself to make sure it’s real!”
Mandy laughed, “It’s real alright! So I take it things are going well between you two?”
Abeth smiled and nodded, “Everything is perfect. He is such a sweetheart. Always buying me things, even though I tell him not to. I keep having to tell him to stop, but he won’t have it!”
“Meh, make the most of it! He is quite a romantic.” smiled Mandy, “Let him spoil you!”
Abeth grinned, “I am not that kind of girl, Mandz, and I don’t want him to think that I am taking advantage of him!”
“I am sure he does it coz he has huge feelings for you. Has he told you he loves you yet?” she asked looking at the menu.
“No!” she answered.
“Have you?” smiled Mandy, still staring at the menu, her eyes stopping at a steak sandwich.
Abeth looked at her in shock, “We have only been together for three days Mandz. Don’t you think it’s a bit soon for that?”
Mandy looked at her and smiled, “Well he is obviously as smitten about you as you are about him. I think someone should make the first move. He comes across as quite confident, but when it comes to girls, he gets really shy.”
“I can’t tell him that. What if he freaks out and runs a mile?” gasped Abeth.
Mandy laughed and shook her head, “He won’t. Trust me on this one! But I do have to say, only say it if you mean it!”
Abeth looked at her, as she rearranged the clips on her jet-black hair, “Have you told Nicky you love him yet?”
Mandy looked away from the menu and straight at Abeth, “Who says I love him?”
Abeth laughed, “It’s all in your eyes, chick. So, have you told him? And more importantly, has he told you?”
Mandy shook her head, “It’s too soon for us!”
Abeth looked at her, “but it isn’t for me and Bri?”
Mandy giggled, “it is different for us. He has just left his wife. It is way too soon. But I am sure we’ll get round to it one day, soon I hope!”
Abeth smiled and stopped the conversation when she saw Nicky and Brian walking towards them. They were now joined with Anna and Mark.
“MANDZ!!!” cheered Anna, happily hugging her, “When did you get here?”
“Oh, about two hours ago!” smiled Mandy, checking the time, “Feels good to be back!”
Anna smiled and sat beside her, “And how was rehearsals with the kids? Are they getting anywhere yet?”
“Well, those three days have done them the world of good!” smiled Mandy, “Show is next week, so a few more days rehearsing and they should be perfect!”
“And when do you have to go and rehearse again?” asked Mark.
Mandy looked at him and smiled, “Hey Mark. Next rehearsal is in two days time, which is good anyway, as you’ll all be in Wembley, so I won’t have to spend any more time away from this sexy beast!” smiled Mandy, patting Nicky’s leg. Nicky laughed and kissed the top of her head.
Abeth frowned when she saw Kian walking to their table. Mandy saw her, “What’s wrong, chick?”
Abeth nudged her head towards Kian, making Mandy look back. She turned around again and let out an uncomfortable smile, “We can handle this ok? Don’t worry. We are all adults here!”
“Yeah, we know we are but is Kian?” grimaced Nicky, making Mandy almost laugh out loud. Kian got to the table and looked disgustedly at Mandy.
“You’re back!” he growled.
“KIAN!” scolded Angie. Mandy looked at her and smiled.
“Hey Angie. Alright?” she grinned, ignoring him. Kian continued giving her dirty looks. Mandy looked at him briefly and then glanced at her menu again.
“You make me sick, you know that?” he growled.
Mandy slammed her menu down and looked at him in the eye, “Look Kian, I have just come down here for a snack, as I am hungry. Now if you don’t like the fact that I am here, then just fuck off and go somewhere else. I am not gonna let you intimidate me and leave, so if that is your plan, then I suggest you stop even thinking about it, coz it ain’t gonna work. Now leave me alone and let me choose my snack in peace. Thank you!” she huffed, picking her menu again. Kian pulled a face and stormed off. Everyone looked at her in shock. Angie stared at them, rolled her eyes and then ran off after Kian, “I am so sorry about him!” she managed to mumble before she ran off.
“I applaud you for your courage to stand up to him!” laughed Brian applauding, “I don’t think any one of us has had the courage to do that yet!” 

Mandy smiled, still looking at her menu, “Well, I have had enough of him and his thoughts. Someone should tell him he should get off his high horse and let others live their lives in the way they choose to!” 

Chapter Text

When they had all finished eating, they each went up to their rooms. Mark and Anna were enjoying a quiet day in, just relaxing and watching telly. They were both quite tired with all the travelling and late nights, so they welcomed the fact that they had a day off today. Brian and Abeth decided to relax in the hotel pool. Angie and Kian went up to the room, but Angie left soon after as she was getting tired of Kian moping around and getting into bad moods. She went for a walk in the park, near the hotel. Shane and Tracee decided on going to the hotel Spa for a bit of pampering. Mandy and Nicky went back to their room. Nicky looked at Mandy as she switched the telly on. He smiled at her. Mandy noticed this and smiled back at him.
“What are you smiling about?” she grinned.
“The fact that you had the balls to stand up to Kian. He can get pretty scary, you know?” he laughed.
“Meh, he don’t scare me at all. He is just all talk, that lad!” she shrugged, “Besides, he has no right to have a pop at anyone!”
Nicky smiled and cuddled up to her, “Still. It was very courageous of you. I think that deserves one of my lovely neck rubs!”
Mandy smiled and pretended to think about that, “Come to think of it, it was quite stressful. A backrub is exactly what I need!”
“Ahhh I said a neck rub, not a backrub!” he laughed.
Mandy pouted and batted her eyes at him, “but a backrub would be so much better!” Nicky couldn’t resist that face and laughed, “Ok. You twisted my arm. Just take your top off and lay down on the bed while I get the massage oils from the bathroom!” Mandy grinned, took her top off and lay face down on the bed. She put her arms up and closed her eyes. Nicky came back and Mandy felt him kneeling down on the bed. Next he straddled her, sitting on her bum and rubbed the lotion on his fingers. He then firmly pressed his fingers onto her back, rubbing all the knotted areas.
“Mmm that’s nice!” she moaned in desirable pleasure.
“Like it, do you?” he grinned, as he moved lower down her back.
“Oh yeah!” she sighed loudly, “That feels good!”
“Hunny, you’re gonna have to keep your voice down. Anyone walking past would think we were doing something else!” he chuckled lightly.
Mandy let out a naughty grin and suddenly started shouting, “YES! YES! YES! MORE!”
Nicky laughed loudly and lay on top of her, “You trying to get me a bad reputation here?”
Mandy giggled, “Nico, baby, you already have a bad reputation!”
Nicky thought about it and shrugged, “True. Scream away. Might be respected by the girls after that!”
Mandy laughed loudly, “you wish!” 

Nicky smiled and continued rubbing his hands firmly against her back.
“Your skin is so smooth!” he whispered. He bent down slightly and kissed her back. Feeling his moist lips on her back made her tingle inside. She closed her eyes and smiled, enjoying every single kiss.
“And it feels so good against my lips!” he whispered, moving his lips to the base of her neck. This made Mandy come out in goosebumps everywhere. Nicky smiled when he saw the tiny spots all over her body.
“Oh, so that is your weak spot, is it? The base of your neck?” he smiled, removing his lips.
Mandy opened her eyes and turned her head around to look at him, “Don’t you dare stop now!”
Nicky grinned naughtily and got off her. He then stood by her side and smiled at her, Wondering what was going on, Mandy turned around and saw him standing beside her, grinning down at her, “What’s going on?”
“It’s payback time!” he smirked.
“Eh?” she asked, clearly confused. Her eyebrows were furrowed down and she was squinting slightly.
“You did this to me the last time we were together, so now it is my turn to do it to you!” he smirked.
Mandy laughed loudly, “And you think you’re gonna last as long as I did?”
“And longer! I think you underestimate how competitive I actually am.” grinned Nicky, putting his hands on his hips.
“A tenner says you don’t!” she smiled, putting her top on.
“Alright then. You’re on. A tenner says I can last longer than you did!” he smiled, shaking her hand. Mandy nodded and put the telly on. Nicky sat on the bed next to her. Mandy smiled to herself, as she put the movie channel on. She grinned when she saw what movie was on. It was American pie 2. She knew what was coming in that film, and she knew how Nicky would react. He reacted that way the last time they watched that film.
“You’re not watching this again, are you?” he sighed, “Isn’t there something else on?” “But I love this film!” she grinned.
Nicky rolled his eyes and put his hands behind her back. Mandy smiled and rested her head against his chest. With her fingers, she gently rubbed the hairs that were under his belly button. This was already enough for Nicky to want to take her there and then. He just closed his eyes and tried very hard to stop himself from giving in. He knew she was doing it on purpose and just tried to think about something else. Mandy saw the look on his face from the corner of her eyes and smirked to herself. 

Anna was finally bored of being stuck in. She looked at Mark, who was fast asleep. She smiled, kissed his head and picked up the phone. She dialled a number and soon enough she heard Mandy’s voice on the other side.
“Hey Mandz. Are you busy?” she asked.
Mandy giggled, “not yet, but I am hoping to be soon, if you know what I mean!”
“Oh right. Nevermind then!” smiled Anna, “I won’t keep you any longer!”
“Why? What’s up, chick?” smiled Mandy.
“Well, I was getting bored. Mark is fast asleep and there is nothing on telly!” she sighed.
“Oh. Are you not watching American pie 2? It’s on at the moment. We are watching that!” chirped Mandy, as she continued playing with Nicky’s belly button hair. She heard him sigh slightly and smiled.
“It’s on? What channel?” shrieked Anna, grabbing the remote. This made Mark wake up slightly, jolting out of bed, “What’s wrong?” he panicked.
Anna looked at him and laughed. When she heard Mandy giving her the channel number, she thanked her and hang up. Then she looked at Mark.
“American Pie 2 is on!” she smiled.
“That’s what the shouting was all about?” he gasped, “I thought something terrible had happened!”
“Sorry babe!” she laughed, “Everything is fine!”
Mark chuckled lightly and looked at her, “You get too excited too quickly!”
Anna bit her lip and looked at him up and down. She smiled when she saw him with just his boxers on. Mark tilted his head to the side and smiled.
“Are you about done ogling at me?” he smirked.
“Not just yet!” answered Anna cheekily, “Gimme just one more second!”
Then she looked straight into his eyes and grinned, “Now I am!”
“Like what you see, do you?” he laughed.
Anna nodded her head as a smile graced her lips, “I sooooooooooo do!”
Mark smiled and leaned in to kiss her, “Well, why don’t I show you what I can do with it?” he whispered against her lips.
Anna looked at him and grinned. She picked the remote, turned the telly off and got under the covers, “Come and give me a demonstration, big boy!”
Mark smiled and gave in to her advances, making sure she knew exactly what he could do with what she was looking at. 

Meanwhile, back in Nicky’s room, they were still watching American pie. Nicky had now become engrossed in it. Mandy smiled as she knew the part where the 2 girls kiss was coming up any minute now. Nicky widened his eyes as he realised this and made his excuses to get up. Mandy felt him getting up and looked at him, “Where are you going?” “I need a wee!” he grinned, “I won’t be long!”
“Sure you won’t!” she smirked. When he was out, she realised that this was a sky digibox, and she had heard all about it. She could pause TV, as you can to a video.
She grinned and pressed the pause button, waiting for Nicky to come out. When he thought it was safe to come out, he flushed the toilet and got back onto the bed. Mandy pressed the play button and smiled. When Nicky saw that the famous bit was coming on, he looked at Mandy.
“Hasn’t this bit been on yet?” he gasped.
Mandy tried very hard to stop herself from laughing. She shook her head as her gaze remained fixed on the telly, as to not give anything away. Nicky sighed and grabbed the hotel magazine. He opened it and pretended that he was reading it. Mandy almost laughed out loud, but managed to suppress her laughter. The bit finally came on. The two girls were kissing, and Mandy looked at Nicky from the corners of her eyes. She saw Nicky looking at the telly, with his mouth wide open. He crossed one leg over another. Mandy looked at his trousers and saw that they were quite tight. Raising an eyebrow, she gently ‘accidentally’ let her hand brush past his groin. She laughed when she felt how this scene was affecting him.
“My my!” she laughed, “Someone’s in the mood!”
Nicky looked at her with his mouth wide open, “I have no idea what you are talking about!”
“Course not!” she giggled, “I believe ya!”
Nicky laughed and turned around, rolling on top of her, “You’re one evil lady!”
Mandy cackled, “One of the best, actually!”
“Hmm, you got that right!” he smiled as he pressed his lips against hers.
“So, does this mean I win?” she smirked.
Nicky licked his lips hungrily and kissed them quickly one more time, “How can I resist you?”
Mandy laughed and gave in to his advances, but they soon got disturbed when his mobile phone started ringing.
“Don’t answer it!” she whispered.
Nicky sighed and got up, “I have to darling. It might be Louis or something and could be important. I really got bollocked the last time I ignored a call.”
Mandy sighed and sat up in bed. Nicky looked at his phone and then at Mandy. “What?” she asked.
“It’s Kris!” he answered shakily.
“Probably found out about us!” she sighed.
“Do you mind if I take this call? It has to be done sooner or later and I wanna get it over and done with!” he grimaced.
Mandy smiled and nodded. She put her top back on and gave him a kiss, “I’ll be down at the bar if you need me, ok?”
Nicky kissed her back and nodded. When she was gone, he answered the phone, dreading every single minute of it. 

Chapter Text

Mandy walked in the bar and saw Angie and Kian there. Rolling her eyes, she walked the other way and sat opposite the bar. Angie had seen her and smiled. She turned to Kian and told him that she would be back soon. Mandy felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned around to see Angie smiling at her.
“What’s the matter? Not talking to me anymore?” she joked.
Mandy smiled and sighed, “Sorry Angie. I just cannot face another one of Kian’s snide remarks, so I thought I’d stay out of the way!”
Angie nodded, “You’re probably doing the right thing. Kian is in a stinking mood at the moment!”
“I know!” frowned Mandy, “Sorry!”
“There is nothing for you to be sorry about. Kian should realise that this is none of his business and he really should stay out of it. Besides, you love Nicky. You cannot be sorry about that!” she grinned.
“No, I am not sorry about loving Nicky, but I am sorry for making you put up with it!” sighed Mandy.
“Nah. Don’t worry about it. I know how to handle Egan!” smiled Angie.
Mandy snorted with laughter when she heard her refer to him by his surname.
“So, where’s Nicky?” she asked, pulling out a piece of fluff from Mandy’s hair and flicking it away.
Mandy smoothed her coppery coloured hair down and smiled, “He is up in his room. Kris called so I thought I’d make myself scarce. Don’t wanna be there!”
Angie smiled, “Yeah, I can imagine. I guess she has found out about you two!”
“Well, it was bound to happen. I am just surprised she didn’t call sooner!” shrugged Mandy. She looked at Kian, who was giving her filthy looks and sighing as he checked the time.
“I think Egan is getting impatient, hun!” smiled Mandy, “You’d better go back to him!”
Angie looked at Kian and smiled, “OK then, babe. Take it easy, ok? I think he wants to go up to the room or something!”
Mandy smiled and gave her a hug. Angie left, and as soon as they left, Nicky walked in. He saw Mandy sitting there and walked to her. He gave her a quick rub on the back and sat next to her. Mandy looked at him and smiled, “So? What happened?” Nicky sighed as he called the barmaid over, “She wants to come to talk to me tomorrow!”
Mandy frowned, “Oh. What do you reckon she wants?”
“I dunno, but she said she just had to speak to me about a few things. I suppose she wants to get the divorce sorted. Don’t really know!” he shrugged, as he ordered his drink.
“So, does she know about us?” she questioned.
“She must know, Mandz. I mean, it has been all over the papers!” he sighed, “I am just not looking forward to it.”
Mandy smiled sympathetically and squeezed his hand, “I suppose everyone knowing is a good thing!”
Nicky smiled and rubbed her hand over his cheek, “yeah. Now we don’t have to hide anymore and can be seen in public!”
Mandy nodded and kissed his hand, “So what now?”
“Well, we have a drink and then go back up to our room and continue from where we left off!” he answered naughtily.
Mandy laughed, “I had a feeling you were gonna say that. Anyway, what time is Kris coming tomorrow?”
“She said she was gonna come round at 9 o’clock!” he answered.
“In the morning?” she shrieked, spitting out her drink.
Nicky nodded, “So early night for us tonight!”
Mandy sighed and shook her head, “Well, better get it out of the way sooner in the day I suppose!”
Nicky looked at her, “Are you ok about all this?”
Mandy smiled and nodded, “Yeah. Why shouldn’t I be?” she lied.
“Well, I dunno. It’s quite a delicate matter. It can’t be easy for you!” he shrugged.
“Nico, I trust you, ok? I know you’re not gonna hurt me. It’s fine. I am a bit worried about what her intentions are, but I know you won’t put up with any shite, so I am not all that worried really!” she smiled.
Nicky smiled, “Thank you!”
When they finished their drinks, they went back to their room and certainly finished what they had started. They both lay in bed after that, with huge grins on their faces. 

Nicky looked at the time and sighed, “Think we’d better call it a day!”
Mandy looked at him quickly, with a worried expression on her face, “What?”
Nicky saw her face and laughed, “Oh god, no. That’s not what I meant. I meant, we’d better get some sleep. Early start tomorrow!”
Mandy sighed with relief and slapped him playfully on his chest, “Don’t scare me like that again, Nico. For a second there I thought you were dumping me!”
Nicky pouted and rolled over on top of her, “Now why would I ever dump the sexiest thing to have ever come into my life? It’s not gonna happen babe, no matter what. Coz I love you!”
Mandy smiled and kissed him, “Good! Coz I don’t wanna lose you!”
Nicky grinned, “Do you love me?”
“That’s a song in the tour, innit?” she grinned.
“Mandz, I am being serious here!” he sighed, rolling off of her and back onto the bed. “Nicky, we have discussed this already. I do like you. I am very fond of you and I care a lot about you, but I am not ready to say those magical words yet. I want to, but I can’t!” she sighed.
Nicky frowned and nodded. Mandy noticed the glum look on his face and sighed, “Babe, I really do like you a lot. But the word love is a very strong word for me, and I wanna make sure that I really do feel that before I actually say it. Please, don’t be offended by that!”
“I’m not!” he shrugged glumly.
Mandy made him look at her and smiled, “Want me to show you how much I care for you?”
Nicky smiled and shrugged, “Do what you want!”
Mandy smiled and leaned closer to him. She planted her lips on his lips and gave him the most breath-taking kiss he had ever experienced. When she pulled away, she opened her eyes and stared at him. He finally opened his eyes and grinned.
“Believe me now?” she grinned.
Nicky nodded, “I think that’s enough proof. But I just need some more reassurance. Don’t think I understood that all that well!”
Mandy laughed and went for the second kiss, which eventually led them to a repeat performance of what they had experienced earlier. 

Chapter Text

Early the next morning, Nicky and Mandy roused from their sleep and got dressed. Nicky checked the time and frowned, “Any time now!”
Mandy smiled and sat beside him, “You really are dreading this, aren’t you?”
Nicky looked at her and smiled softly, “Yeah, I am. I just really don’t wanna face her, but if it means that I can get out of that marriage and spend the rest of my life with you, then it’s worth it!” he smiled as he brushed back a lock of hair from her face. Mandy looked at him and smiled, “Better leave you to it then. Good luck babe. I’ll be with the girls if you need me ok?” 

Nicky nodded and kissed her tenderly, “Will give you a call when we are done, ok?” Mandy nodded and kissed him one last time before she left. When she opened the door, she came face to face with Kris. Kris looked at her snootily, took off her sunglasses and looked at Nicky. 

“Nicky?” she greeted him.
“Hi Kris!” he greeted her nervously. Mandy looked at Nicky.
“Good luck!” she mouthed. Nicky smiled at her and nodded. Then she moved to the side and let Kris go in. Mandy turned around and left.
Kris sat on the bed and looked at Nicky. Nicky sighed, ran his hands through his short blonde hair and stared ahead of him.
“How long has it been going on?” she questioned him coldly.
“Huh?” he asked, trying to sound confused, giving himself a few more seconds to think about it.
“How long have you and Mandy been together!” she repeated.
“Well, we got together shortly after we split up!” he shrugged, without looking at her.
“Oh stop lying, Nicky. I can read you like a book. You two got together when we were still together, didn’t you?” she hissed.
Nicky sighed and didn’t answer.
“I said didn’t you?” she yelled.
Nicky sighed again and looked at the floor, “Ok yes, we were. But we were as good as over already.”
“Oh that’s rubbish, and you know it is!” hissed Kris, “I can’t believe I was such a fool as to not notice. How could you?”
“Look, I’m sorry ok, but she made me feel good about myself. She made me feel wanted!” he excused.
“And I didn’t?” she shrieked, getting up.
Nicky looked at her quickly, “No, actually. You didn’t. You made me feel like a baby making machine. All you ever wanted out of me was a kid. You didn’t even show me any affection when we were out with the others. The only time you showed me any kind of affection was at night when we were in bed. God, Kris, you never even wanted to go out anymore. All you wanted was to stay at home and make babies.” He snapped.
Kris sighed and looked at the floor, “That does not justify you cheating on me!”
Nicky rubbed his hand over his face and sat down beside her again, “I know it doesn’t. But it happened. I am sorry it did, and I am sorry I hurt you, but I couldn’t handle it anymore. You didn’t even care that I didn’t want a child. I was not ready for a child, Kris. Not yet.”
Kris bit her lip and sighed, “Well, you’d better get used to it!” she mumbled.
“What?” he asked, “What did you mean by that?”
Kris shed a tear and looked up at him, “Please don’t freak out, ok?”
Nicky nodded, as he felt his heart thumping hard against his chest. He became short of breath and his hands got sweaty.
“Nicky, I’m pregnant!” she whispered.
“Wh-what?” he stammered.
“I am going to have your baby, Nix. I am eight weeks pregnant. I took a test two days ago and it came out positive!” she mumbled, looking up at the ceiling.
Nicky remained staring at her trying to utter some words, but not being able to.
“And it’s mine?” he finally came out with, after much opening and closing his mouth. Kris looked at him quickly, “How could you even ask me that?” she screeched.
Nicky shook his head, “Sorry. Stupid question. I know. It’s just come as a bit of a shock that’s all. Are you sure?” he gasped.
“Sure? Of course I am sure. I have taken about 4 tests, hoping that at least one of them would come out negative, but no. They were all positive. You are the father, Nicky. You are gonna be a daddy!” she sniffed.
Nicky sighed and paced around the room, “Wow. I don’t know what to say!”
Kris got up and followed him around, “Nix. I know we are not together anymore, and I don’t expect you to suddenly come running back to me just coz of this. I know you are with Mandy now. But I just thought you had a right to know!”
Nicky stopped where he was and looked at her, “So what happens now?”
“Well, I am not gonna stop you from seeing your child, if that’s what you’re worried about. I just wanted to discuss the matter, that’s all!” she shrugged.
Nicky sighed, sat on the bed and rested his face on his hands, “oh god, why now?” he sighed.
Krisanne shrugged and sat down beside him, “I am sorry it had to happen too, but the fact is, it has. Now I know you have a lot to think about, so I will leave you to it!”
“What am I gonna tell Mandy?” he gasped.
Kris shrugged, “That’s your problem, not mine. I have done what I came here to do. Good luck telling her!”
Nicky looked at her, “When is it due?”
“May 4th!” she answered, “I’ll let you know when it happens. I suppose you wanna be there for the birth!”
Nicky nodded, “Thanks. I’ll keep in touch, ok?”
Kris smiled and nodded. She kissed Nicky’s cheek and soon left. Nicky sat on his bed, wondering how on earth he was gonna break this news to Mandy. And he thought about what he was going to do about all this mess he had got himself into. He lay on the bed and stared at the ceiling for a while, thinking about what the best thing to do was. He loved Mandy, but Kris was carrying his child. He had always imagined that when he had a family, he would be in a good stable family, and not the mess he had got himself into. He sat up again, and checked the time. He replayed the conversation he had with Kris over and over again, and then thought about how to break this to Mandy. He knew this would break her heart. He knew this would upset her, and it’s not what she needed right now. But he had to do the right thing. He had a child to think about now, and he had to come to a decision about what was right for his unborn baby. He heard his phone beeping letting him know that there was a message waiting for him. He sighed, grabbed his phone and opened the message, seeing it was from Mandy. 

How’s it going? Has she gone yet? Hope everything is going ok. I am in town with the girls and we are getting mobbed lol. See you in about an hour. Got myself some lovely stuff. I will model them for you tonight. ;) ;)

Nicky sighed and lay down in bed again. How on earth was he going to explain this to her? 

Chapter Text

Mandy returned back to the room, laden with bags and a huge grin spread on her face. That soon changed when she saw the worried expression on Nicky’s face. She put her bags down and went running to him.
“What’s wrong babe?” she asked, putting her arms around him.
Nicky just looked at her and sighed softly.
“Nicky, what happened? What did she say? What did she want?” she asked, starting to panic.
Nicky sighed again and looked at her, “You’d better sit down for this!”
Mandy looked at him and slowly sat down. He frowned and sat down beside her. Grabbing her hand, he rubbed his thumb gently over it and finally looked at her. “Nicky? You’re scaring me!” she whispered.
“Mandz, she’s pregnant!” he said in almost a whisper.
Mandy flinched slightly and continued looking at him, “What?” she gasped.
“Kris is pregnant. She is carrying my child. She is having my baby!” he clarified. Mandy stood up and walked to the window in shock. Nicky shook his head, sighed deeply and walked towards her, standing behind her and placing his hands on her hips.
“And I suppose it’s yours!” she frowned.
Nicky nodded and finally added a ‘yes.’
“But I thought you were being careful. I thought you said she couldn’t have kids. I thought you said you were using that spermicide stuff!” she rambled.
“I suppose that didn’t work too well!” he sighed, “But yes, she said it is mine, and she seemed genuine about it!”
“Ah, she said. Doesn’t mean it’s true though!” she said, trying to make herself feel better.
“I believe her, Mandz. She wouldn’t make this up. Not after she has wanted it for so long!” he sighed.
Mandy carried on staring out the window, without looking at him, “I knew all this was too good to be true!” she sighed, “I knew that somewhere along the line, something would go wrong and the bubble would burst! You’re dumping me, aren’t you?”
“Mandz, please don’t talk like that!” he sighed.
Mandy turned around, and Nicky noticed the tears welling up in her eyes, “So what are you gonna do?”
“I dunno!” he sighed, bowing his head down and shaking his head.
“Oh, right!” she squeaked, “So you might go back to her.”
“Mandz, I don’t wanna hurt you. You mean the world to me, but I have to think about my baby now. I have to do the right thing!”
“So all of a sudden you want a baby. Is that it?” Her voice shook and her lips trembled.
“I never wanted a baby, but it is gonna happen whether I like it or not!” he argued back, “And I have to face it sooner or later!”
Mandy sniffed and wiped her eyes, “So you are gonna go back to a woman who you don’t even love, just coz she is having your baby. What kind of a relationship is that?”
“I’ll work something out!” he sighed, “But I do have to try!”
“So you really are dumping me then!” she checked.
“No. I dunno. God I am so confused! This is so hard.” he whined, sitting down and resting his head on his hands.
“Well, let me make this a lot easier for you then!” she growled.
She got her bag and starting putting her clothes inside.
“Mandz, what are you doing?” he sighed, looking at her, tiredness showing in his eyes.
“What do you think?” she snarled, “I am leaving!”
“You can’t leave!!!” he gasped.
“Says who? You? And I am gonna listen to you, am I? You obviously wanna make another go with Kris, so I am just making this a lot easier for you. I am making your own decision for you!” she shouted with tears in her eyes.
“I don’t want you to go!” he frowned.
“But you want to go back to Kris!” she added, “So I am leaving you in peace and letting you get another chance with your wife. It’s ok, Nicky. Really, it is. I am used to this. I have grown immune to it now. It’s just the same story all the time. Hook up with a guy who happens to be married, they leave their wives and then go back to them. Story of my life. You are not the first, and you won’t be the last, I am sure. I have this habit of attracting the wrong kind of men. Maybe I should be celibate and become a nun. Less chance of getting hurt!” she sniffed bitterly.
“I don’t want to go back to Kris, darling. But I feel like I have no choice.” He sighed.
“You do have the choice, Nix. You do. And you are choosing her.” She cried, quickly wiping her tears away.
“She is carrying my child, sweetheart,” he argued calmly.
“Doesn’t mean you have to go back to her. She can still have your child and you can still stay with me. But that’s not what you want.”
“I don’t want to be a part time dad, Mandz.” He sighed.
“Well, there you go then.” She shrugged.
“I don’t wanna hurt you, babe!” he sighed, getting up and placing his arms around her waist.
Mandy pushed him off, “Please Nicky. Don’t ok? It’s bad enough that you’re leaving me, without having you being all lovey dovey with me. I cannot handle that, and you cannot have us both. So just do me a favour and stop it!” she cried.
Nicky sat on the bed and looked at her, “I really don’t want you to go!” he sniffed, letting his tears roll freely down his cheeks.
“But you don’t wanna stay with me either. You cannot have us both, Nicky.” She said coldly, still packing her stuff, “I am going. Please don’t try to contact me. Don’t ring me, don’t write to me, just don’t do anything with me. Leave me alone and please let me get on with my life! I at least deserve that.” She snarled, as she closed her bag.
“We can work something out. I don’t wanna lose you!” he cried as he wiped his tears away.
“No, Nicky, we can’t!” she cried, “You have clearly said it. You have to try. To me, that means that you wanna get back with Kris.”
“But I love you!” he screamed.
Mandy sighed and looked at him, “You don’t love me. You love the idea of being with me, but you don’t love me. If you did, then you would not even have contemplated going back to that woman. The fact that you are contemplating it means that you still love her and wanna make another go of things. So I wish you well, and hope your child is healthy.”
She headed for the door and opened it. She stopped when she felt Nicky’s hand on her arm, stopping her from going out.
“Please. Please stay with me. I don’t wanna live without you!” he begged.
“You cannot have us both,” she sighed, “You have made your choice.”
Nicky sighed and let go of her arm.
“Goodbye, Nicky. And good luck!” she sighed. With that, she broke free from Nicky’s grip and walked out the door. Nicky stayed there watching her leave as the tears escaped his shining blue eyes. He slammed the door shut, and curled up into a ball, crying himself senseless. 

As Mandy walked out of the corridor, she saw Anna walking out of her room. She saw the look on Mandy’s face and noticed her tear stained cheeks.
“What’s happened? I heard some shouting. Did you two have a fight or something?” she asked, genuinely worried.
Mandy looked at her, “Let’s just say that history repeats itself!”
Anna gave her confused looks, “What do you mean by that?”
“Just ask Nicky!” sighed Mandy, “I have to go. Got a cab waiting for me. See ya some day, I hope.”
“Are you going for good? Have you and Nicky had a fight?” she gasped.
“See ya, Anna. It was nice knowing you. Please keep in touch when you’re in the area!” she added, not wanting to mention anything. Anna remained open mouthed as Mandy gave her a hug and walked out of the hotel and out of Nicky’s life, forever. Anna ran back to her room and jumped on the bed, Mark gave her weird looks and laughed, “What are you on?”
“Mandy and Nicky have split up!” she panted, “She has left!”
Mark sprang up in bed, “They what?”
“Seriously. Mandy just said that history repeats itself or something like that. Wonder what that could mean!” she added, still clearly confused.
Mark shook his head and laid back on the bed again, “Nicky, you idiot!”
“What? What’s going on?” she asked.
“Mandy has got this knack of going for married men, and those married men eventually go back to their wives!” he explained.
“Meaning?” she questioned.
“Think about it babe. Who came to talk to Nicky this morning?” he questioned.
“Kris. But I don’t understand. Why would they break up coz of that? Mandz knew that she was coming!” she answered, still clearly confused.
“Ok, what happened to Mandy all the time with married men?” he questioned again.
“You said they keep going back to…ooooooooooh!” she finally got it.
Mark nodded.
“So you think he has gone back to Kris?” she shrieked.
Mark shushed her, “It makes sense if she said history keeps repeating itself!”
“But Nicky fell out of love with Kris. Why would he want her back? It doesn’t make any sense,” she questioned, confused again.
Mark shrugged, “I have no idea, but I am about to find out. Back in a bit!”
He jumped out of bed, put his trousers on and went straight to Nicky’s. He pounded on the door and Nicky eventually opened it, looking miserable.
Mark flicked him on the head and went in, “You idiot. You dumped her? You’re going back to Kris?”
Nicky sighed and closed the door, “I have to!”
“You don’t have to!” argued Mark, “You don’t love her anymore!”
“I have my reasons, Mark!” he sighed, “Trust me. There is no way out!”
“What’s happened?” he thought, “I thought you were crazy about Mandy. At least, you acted like you were!”
“I was!” frowned Nicky, “And I still am. But I have just found something out that is gonna change my life forever, and it has changed my thoughts on things!”
“What could possibly have happened to make you dump Mandy?” he sighed.
“I didn’t wanna hurt her. I love her, Mark. I just don’t know why this had to happen?” he cried.
“What had to happen?” asked Mark quizzically.
Nicky sighed, took a deep breath and looked at him, “Kris is…” He stopped, looked at the floor and shook his head.
“What?” asked Mark again.
“Well, Kris is pregnant!” he finally said.
Mark remained open mouthed, “She’s what???” he gasped.
“She is carrying my child. That’s why Mandy has left. That’s why she walked out!” he explained.
“So you are going back to Kris coz she is pregnant?” he screamed.
“I have to, Mark. That’s my child she is carrying. I have to be there for the both of them!” he argued.
“You can be there for them and still be with Mandy!” huffed Mark, “You don’t even love Kris!”
“I can make myself love her!” he shrugged.
“What?” shrieked Mark, spinning around quickly, “Have you heard yourself? You cannot force yourself to love someone. It comes from within. If you don’t love her, then that relationship is not gonna work out and then it will be too late to make amends with Mandz. You are making a big mistake there, Nico!” he advised.
“I just have to make it work, for the sake of my baby!” he sighed, “Now if you don’t mind, there is something on telly I have to watch!”
Mark shook his head. He walked to the door and opened it, “Frankly, I think you are making a huge mistake. But hey, it’s your life. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!”
He left, closed the door and walked away, leaving Nicky in his room, with tears flowing down his cheeks again. 

Chapter Text

Nicky sat on his bed, not wanting to come out. He knew he had to call Kris up to let him know about his decision. He looked at the phone and sighed deeply. Rubbing his temples, he let out another big sigh and picked up the phone. He dialled Kris’s number and finally managed to talk to her. He told her that he was going round to talk to her in about 20 minutes. That would give him enough time to figure out in his head what he was going to say to her. In the meantime, everyone was gathered in the hotel pool, discussing the latest gossip.
“I cannot believe she left!” gasped Abeth, “She loved him so much!”
“Yeah. I thought he loved her. I thought she loved him!” gasped Angie.
“Yeah but when there is a child involved, there’s not a lot you can do!” smirked Kian. Angie looked at him, “She’s pregnant?” she shrieked.
Kian smiled and nodded, “I am gonna be a cousin again! Hope the child doesn’t turn out like his father!”
“So Nicky really is gonna go back to Kris!” sighed Anna, “Poor Mandy!”
“Poor Mandy? What about what poor Kris has been through?” shouted Kian, sitting down on his lounger, “She’s been through hell and back!”
“Yeah, but Nicky and Mandy loved each other so much. I am gonna go and give her a call!” sighed Abeth, “See how she is. She must be feeling terrible!”
Brian nodded and let go of her. Abeth went down to the phone, followed by Anna, who was also curious to know how she was. After a few rings, Abeth got the answering machine. She sighed, left a message and hang up.
“She wasn’t in?” asked Anna.
“Either that, or she doesn’t want to talk to anyone.” She sighed.
Anna frowned, “I cannot believe he would dump her like that!” she shook her head, “I am gonna go up to see him!”
Just as she was waiting for the lift, the doors opened and Anna noticed Nicky inside, with his arms stretched to the side, holding on to each wall of the lift.
“Ah, just the man I wanted to see!” warned Anna.
“Don’t give me a hard time, ok Fin?” he sighed, “I am not in the mood!”
“Where are you going?” asked Anna.
“Going to see Kris!” he sighed, “Need to talk to her!”
“What about?” she asked, folding her arms.
Nicky looked at her quickly, “That really is none of your business!”
“Nico. I am just really worried about Mandy. She is not answering her phone or anything!” she sighed.
“Look, I feel really bad about this too. I didn’t ask for this to happen. But Kris is having a baby. MY baby, and I cannot just ignore it!” he huffed, with tears starting to form in his eyes, “I love Mandy to death. I love her so much, but I have a responsibility now. My son or daughter will be depending on me, and I just cannot turn my back on his or her mum. I didn’t want this to happen at all. It is just my luck that it did, coz that’s the way life works for me, isn’t it? I have something good and then something happens and it snatches it away from me!”
Anna started feeling really sorry for him now. She rubbed his arm and hugged him as the tears flowed down his cheeks, “I’ll talk to Mandy, ok? At least, I will if she ever picks up the phone!”
Nicky nodded and wiped his tears away, “Please tell her I am sorry ok? I tried a zillion times to tell her, but she wasn’t having any of it. And with good reason too!”
Anna smiled and nodded, “I’ll tell her tomorrow when we go down to London.”
Nicky nodded and thanked her. Then he put his cap, and his sunglasses off and walked to the hotel where Kris was staying.
Mandy was in her room, in her house, listening to her Westlife Greatest hits cd. She looked at a photo she had taken of Nicky 2 days ago and rubbed his face. She scrunched her face up and started sobbing quietly. She looked a mess. She had not left the house. Her hair was all knotted up in a mess, and she had a pale look on her skin. She gently sank further down the bed, until she ended up laying down, sobbing with tears rapidly falling down her cheek. Feeling a sudden anger, she ripped the photo to pieces and scattered it around the room. She looked down when her little tantrum had ended and saw a tiny piece of the photo, which showed Nicky’s smile. She picked it up and cried even more, holding that tiny piece against her.
“Oh Nicky. Why?” she cried, “Why?” 

Nicky got back to the hotel. Kris had decided to take him back, but stayed at this other hotel, as she had to return home now. She had a job and could not travel around with Nicky. She liked her independence and hated having to rely on Nicky for money. This suited Nicky just fine, as he could gather up his thoughts on the whole situation. When he got to the hotel, he saw Kian walking towards him. He rolled his eyes and sighed.
“Oh great. Just the person I needed to see right now!” he muttered sarcastically to himself.
Kian stopped him, “So. Kris tells me you are back together!”
“Yes Kian. We are together again!” he sighed, wanting to walk away.
“So Mandy has left, has she?” he smirked.
“Yes, she has left. Happy now?” he sneered.
“Well, it is too bad for Mandy, but she ought to know by now that married men always return to their wives, no matter what!” he grinned.
“Ok, let me make this one thing clear for you, Egan. The reason I am going back to Kris is coz she is having my child. That is the only reason why I am returning to her. I still have very strong feelings for Mandy, and those feelings are just not gonna go away anytime soon. I have explained that to Kris too!” he snarled.
“What? And she is accepting that?” shrieked Angie.
Nicky looked at her and nodded, “Yes she has. She said that maybe one day I will forget about Mandy and learn to love her again!”
“And do you think so?” questioned Angie.
Nicky shrugged, “I might learn to love Kris again, but I shall never stop loving
Mandy. And that is a fact, so before you start grinning like a Cheshire cat, Kian, don’t get your hopes up. Our relationship might not work, coz of these feelings, but I am gonna try!”
Kian gave him a look of disgust, “Well, at least we got rid of that bitch and you can be with my cousin again!”
In a temper, Nicky grabbed Kian by the scruff of the neck and pinned him against the wall, “If I ever hear you saying a bad word against Mandy, I swear I shall not think twice about ramming this fist in your gob, Egan!”
Kian looked at him, “Get yer mitts off me, man!” he huffed, pushing him away. Nicky let go of him, shook his head and walked up the stairs to his room, taking 2 steps at a time. Kian let out a smirk, and watched him leave.
“I knew they would end up together again!” he smiled, “I just knew it. Our Kris sure is persistent!”
“What do you mean?” questioned Angie.
Kian looked at her, smiled and kissed her forehead, “Exactly what I said. She is persistent! She wanted a baby, and she kept on trying until she got it.”
“And it makes you happy that Mandy is down in the dumps, does it?” she growled.
Kian looked at her, “I know you were fond of Mandy, baby, but Kris is my cousin. She was down in the dumps aswell after Nicky cheated on her with Mandz. You have to look at it from my shoes!”
Angie shook her head and walked away, “You don’t have to be so happy about someone else’s misery though!”
Kian sighed and ran to get closer to her, “I am not happy that Mandy is miserable. I am happy that my cousin’s life is back on track again.” He smiled, “It is too bad for Mandy, but she should have expected it really!”
Angie shook her head and looked away, “I give up!” 

Chapter Text

Westlife were now in London, as they had to perform in Wembley that night. When they arrived at their hotel, they all settled into their hotel rooms, except for Nicky, who stayed at his house with Kris. He sat on the sofa and rubbed his temples. Kris smiled and sat next to him, “Headache?”
Nicky looked at her and smiled weakly, “Yeah. Had a bit of an all night bender last night, and I am now exhausted. God knows how I am gonna perform at the gig tonight!”
Kris pouted and rubbed her hands through his hair, “Awwwwww babe. Why don’t you go and have a nap? Maybe we could have one together!”
Nicky looked at her, “Yeah, think I will get some sleep now!”
“Excellent!” cheered Kris, “You go up. I’ll be there in a minute, big boy!” she winked.
Nicky looked at her, “Kris, I am too tired for anything, you do know that, right?”
“Oh come on, Nix. We ain’t made up properly yet!” she purred, running her hands underneath Nicky’s shirt and rubbing his chest.
“I know we ain’t, and we’ve got plenty of time for that, but one, I am very very tired and two, I don’t think we should do anything yet. Might harm the baby!” he smiled, trying to think of excuses fast. The truth of the matter was that he couldn’t. He couldn’t sleep with her. He still had massive feelings for Mandy, and he just couldn’t bring himself to sleep with Kris. Kris looked at him and sighed.
“We can still have sex when I am pregnant, you know?” she grinned, stroking his chest hairs gently.
“Well, it’s just that it has taken you so long to get pregnant, and it is a miracle that you are pregnant, by the way, I don’t wanna risk anything!” he continued with his quick thinking. He studied Kris’s face for a while, wondering what she made of that and whether she would accept it. Kris just frowned.
“Babe, I would love to make up with you…in that way…” he lied, “But it’s the baby I am thinking of!”
“OK!” she pouted, “So you are saying that you are not gonna have sex with me for the next 7 months?” 

Nicky shook his head, “No. Just until the doctor gives us his approval, ok?”
Kris seemed to accept this and let him go. Nicky sighed softly with relief and made his way upstairs. When he had just got into bed, he saw Kris walk in. She sat on the bed and looked at him.
“I am just gonna go to town to do some food shopping ok? I won’t be long!” she smiled, as she kissed his lips gently. Nicky looked at her and smiled, “Ok love. Take as long as you want. I will be asleep anyway!”
Kris nodded, gave him one more kiss and then left. When he heard the front door closing, he took out his mobile phone and looked at Mandy’s number displayed on his phone. He wondered on whether he should call her or not. Staring at the phone for a while, he let out a deep sigh and pressed the call button. He was getting butterflies in his stomach when he heard the ringing tone. His heart almost jumped when the tone stopped and was replaced by Mandy’s voice. She sounded sad. There was no tone to her voice at all, and she spoke in almost a whisper. He could tell she had been crying. Unable to speak, Nicky just listened to her voice, which was growing more and more impatient. He finally heard the line going dead and threw the phone down in a huff. He decided on trying again, plucking up the courage on what he was going to say to her. Hearing her voice again, he finally made himself speak. Mandy just froze when she heard his voice.
“Nicky!” she whispered.
“Hey!” he finally said.
There was a long pause before Mandy spoke again, “What do you want?” she asked coldly.
“I just wanted to see how you were!” he sighed sadly.
“What’s it to you? What do you care?” she growled.
“I care, babe. Believe me, I do. I didn’t mean to hurt you, you do know that, don’t you?” he frowned.
“Well, the fact is that you did. I can’t believe I did not see that one coming!” she hissed.
“Don’t be mad at me babe. Please. Kris is pregnant. What was I supposed to do? She is carrying my baby.” He grovelled.
“Look, I don’t wanna talk to you anymore, ok? So please just hang up!” she
squeaked.
“Darling, please don’t cry. I feel bad enough about this already!” he sighed, rubbing his head.
“Well, good!” she screamed.
There was a long pause. Nicky thought she had hang up, and he was about to hang up when he heard her sighing, “Are you still there?”
“What do you think?” she sniffed.
“Look, I am going round your place and we can talk, ok?” he said softly.
“I don’t wanna see you and I don’t wanna talk to you, so don’t bother!” she snarled. “Well, I wanna see you and I wanna talk to you, so see you in a few minutes. I’ll be on my way now!” he smiled.
Before she was about to answer, he hang up the phone and grabbed his keys. 

Back at the hotel, Anna managed to put her last few things away, and finally sat on the bed. Mark just looked at her.
“I seriously don’t understand why you have to unpack when you’re only gonna end up packing it all again in 2 days time!” he laughed.
“I like to be organised, Mark!” she smiled as she put her laces on her trainers. “Where are you going?” he asked curiously.
“I am gonna go round and see how Mandy is!” she smiled, “You don’t mind, do you?”
Mark smiled and shook his head, “Course not! You tell her I said hi ok?”
Anna smiled and nodded before she kissed him lovingly on his lips. She then met up with Abeth, Angie and Tracee and then left. 

Nicky arrived at Mandy’s house and pounded on the door. Mandy looked out the window and sighed, not wanting to open it. Nicky continued with the pounding, “Mandz. I know you are in. Let me in!” he shouted.
“Go away!” shouted Mandy back, loud enough for him to hear.
“I am going nowhere!” he shouted, “Not until you let me in so we can talk!”
“I have nothing to say to you, now please just leave!” she shouted back.
Nicky sighed and turned around, leaning against the front door when he saw Anna, Tracee, Angie and Abeth walking towards him.
“Hey Nicky!” smiled Abeth, “Isn’t Mandy in?”
“Yes she is!” he sighed, “not that she will let me in, mind!”
Anna shook her head and smiled, moving out of the way. She gently knocked on the door and opened the letterbox flap, “Mandz. It’s me. Anna!”
Hearing her voice, she ran to the door and quickly opened it. When she opened it, she saw the girls there and Nicky. Nicky looked at her and walked towards her.
“Girls, come in!” she said, “Nicky, you can stay out there, with the rubbish!”
Nicky just looked at her and managed to stop her from closing the door in his face, “I am coming in, and we are gonna talk, and that’s all there is to this!” he stubbornly answered.
Knowing she had no choice, she sighed and then closed the door behind him, “I don’t see how we are gonna talk when the girls are here though!” she smirked.
Nicky just shrugged, “I’ll just wait in the garden until they leave. No skin off my nose!”
Rolling her eyes, she sat on the sofa, while Nicky went to the back door and out to the garden. Anna looked at her.
“How are you keeping up?” she asked sympathetically.
“We have been so worried about you,” added Angie. Mandy looked at her.
“Kian must be having a field day with all that’s been going on!” she sighed.
“Meh, who cares what Kian thinks?” laughed Angie, “I don’t!”
Mandy couldn’t help but let out a small giggle.
“It’s nice to see you laugh, hun!” smiled Tracee, “Even though you probably don’t feel like doing that much!”
Mandy nodded, “It’s hard. I just love him so much. I don’t know why I am so worked up over it though. I should be immune to it by now!”
“Coz you love him, babe!” sighed Abeth, “You can still see it in your eyes!”
Mandy shrugged, “Yeah, but there is no chance of getting back together now. Not now that he is gonna be a daddy!”
Anna stared at her, “I know you are hurting hun, but you will get over this with time!” “Maybe I don’t wanna get over it!” she cried, “Maybe I just want him back!”
“You have got to be realistic about this babe!” sighed Tracee, “His wife is expecting and he wants to be there for the baby!”
“I know!” whispered Mandy, “That’s what’s so hard about all this. The fact that we are never gonna be together again!”
“I suppose having to work with him makes it worse, huh?” sympathised Abeth.
“Yeah, well. I have come to a decision about that, though!” she sighed, playing with the tassels on the cushion.
“Oh?” asked Angie, “What decision?”
“I am gonna resign from being Westlife’s choreographer!” she announced! 

Chapter Text

The girls stayed talking to Mandy for about an hour, while Nicky stayed out in the garden all this time. The girls had tried to convince Mandy to continue being Westlife’s choreographer, but Mandy wasn’t having it. She would have to be their choreographer for the next final 3 weeks of the tour, but after that, she was going to resign. It was too difficult with the man she loved in the band, having to see him and deal with him every day. She couldn’t do it! She let out a deep sigh and relaxed on the sofa. She closed her eyes and curled her knees up to her chest. She jumped when she heard Nicky’s voice. 

“So, have the girls gone, have they?” he asked, still standing up.
Mandy looked up at him and frowned, “Thought you had gone!”
“I am not going anywhere, babe. Not until we’ve talked.” He smiled.
Mandy shrugged and turned the TV on. Nicky switched it back off and sat opposite her.
“We’re gonna have to talk sooner or later, babe!” he smiled.
Mandy ignored him and looked another way. Anywhere but his eyes. She knew that as soon as she looked into his eyes, she would be like putty in his hands. Nicky sighed and continued looking at her.
“I am so sorry darling!” he whispered.
“Don’t you ‘darling’ me!” she shouted, “You told me you would never go back to her!”
“Yeah well, I didn’t think she would ever get pregnant!” he answered in a cool manner.
“That’s just an excuse.” She screamed as she got up from the sofa, “You were just stringing me along and using me to get what you couldn’t get from her!”
Nicky got up angrily and followed her, “You know that is NOT true! I loved you dammit. I told you enough times. I didn’t think you would be so bothered about it. Not once did you tell me you loved me. Not once!”
Mandy turned around and looked fiercely at him, still avoiding his eyes, “That’s coz I knew deep down that this was going to happen. I mean, why shouldn’t it? It has happened to me every other time, and I keep telling myself, no more married men. But somehow, they all fool me into believing that they love me and that they will never leave me. When will I ever learn?”
“I did love you, Mandz. And I still do!” he sighed.
“Yeah, course you do!” she sneered, “It’s just very convenient that Kris got pregnant just when we were together. Funny how she didn’t get pregnant before!”
Nicky looked at her, “Are you saying she is lying? Or that I am?”
Mandy looked at him, “You told me the doctors said that she couldn’t get pregnant, so you work it out!”
“No, what I said was that the doctors said that she would have trouble conceiving because she is not producing enough eggs.” He corrected her.
Mandy shrugged, “Whatever. I just think it is all too much of a coincidence!”
“Mandz!” he sighed, “I know you don’t want her to be pregnant, just so we can be together again. Believe me, I want the same thing!”
“Don’t flatter yourself!” she snarled.
Nicky shook his head, “But she is pregnant, babe. I have seen the scans. She has even bought some clothes for the baby. You don’t do that if you are lying about it. It’s just crazy!”
Mandy sighed and bowed her head, “Please go away, Nicky.”
“No. I am not leaving until I am sure that you’re alright!” he argued.
Mandy looked up at him quickly, “Alright? Alright? You think I am gonna be alright just coz we are talking about this? You think I am gonna get over this that quickly? Well, I’ve got news for you, Nicky. I am not gonna get over this. Not today, not tomorrow, not ever!” she shouted.
“Well, you’re gonna have to babe, coz we are working together and it could get a tad uncomfortable!” he shouted back.
Mandy just smirked and folded her arms as she leaned her back against the wall. “What?” he asked, surprised by the look on her face.
“I’ll only be working with you for the next 3 weeks!” she smirked, biting her nail.
“What do you mean by that? You’re our choreographer. You’ll need to train us for next year’s tour!” he said rather mystified.
Mandy shook her head, “After 3 weeks time, I’m history. I’m gone!”
“Eh?” he asked, still confused, walking closer towards her. She closed her eyes and looked up at him again. He was now standing directly in front of her.
“I am quitting. I am resigning. After this tour is over, you’re gonna have to look for a replacement, coz I am not doing it!” she smirked.
“What?” he shrieked, “You can’t do that!”
“I can and I will!” she smirked, “I don’t wanna work with you anymore, Nicky. It is just too hard and it will never work! Hell, I cannot even look at you right now!”
“But you will get over it Mandz. Don’t make any rash decisions like that. I….I don’t want you to leave!” he whispered.
Mandy looked up at him and widened her eyes, “Just like I didn’t want YOU to leave, you mean!”
Nicky rubbed his forehead and looked at her, “I have explained about that already!”
“Aye! But that means squat to me!” she sighed.
“Mandy, I know you are trying to hurt me, just like I have hurt you, but please. Please don’t leave!” he pleaded.
“Not everything is about you Nicky!” she shouted, “Now I just want you to leave me alone. Go away and leave me in peace. This discussion is over!”
With that, she pushed herself away from the wall and went to walk away. Nicky grabbed her hand and pushed her back against the wall. Next he leaned his body forwards and had her pinned there. Mandy looked up at him, and into his eyes. She did it. His eyes held her captive, “Let me go, Nicky!” she whispered.
“I don’t want you to quit!” he said again, looking seriously at her. Mandy continued staring into his eyes and then looked away again, “I have to!”
“Why?” he asked, still holding onto her arm.
Mandy shrugged her arm away, “Coz I do, ok? Coz seeing you everyday is one of the most painful things I ever have to go through. I cannot go through with it. I cannot go through with seeing you, yet not being able to even kiss you.” she screamed, with tears in her eyes, “Now please just leave me alone!” 

She started to walk away, When Nicky grabbed her arm and pinned her against the wall again. This time, he quickly pressed his lips against hers, willing her mouth to open with his tongue. Mandy tried to resist, but his persistent tongue forbade her. She eventually surrendered into his arms, wrapping her arms around his neck and opening her mouth, giving his tongue access to hers. Before they realised what they were doing, they started undressing each other, in the middle of the living room. Clothes were scattered all around the living room floor. Still kissing her passionately, he moved her backwards until they reached the sofa. Once there, he threw her down on it, with his lips still on hers and continued kissing. Mandy soon regained her senses and pulled away from his kiss. She quickly got up and put her clothes back on, leaving Nicky watching her, totally baffled.
“What’s going on?” he asked.
“We cannot do this. You think you can just kiss me and get away with it? You think you can just kiss me and make love to me and then everything will be alright? You’re wrong!” she screamed with tears flowing down her cheeks.
“Mandz, calm down sweetheart!” he calmly said, getting up.
“No I will not calm down. Just put your clothes back on and leave!” she sobbed, “get the hell out of my life!”
She flung his jeans at him and sprinted off to the kitchen, slamming the door behind her. Soon after, she heard the door opening. She had her back turned to Nicky.
“For what it’s worth, I am sorry, ok? I didn’t want this to happen either, but it did. I still hold very strong feelings for you, and I don’t think those feelings will disappear!” he explained himself. Mandy remained with her back towards him and just sniffed.
“I love you, and I always will!” he sniffed, feeling that lump in his throat.
Seeing that he got no reaction from her, he wiped his eyes, hunched and then walked out. Hearing the front door slam, Mandy burst out crying, smashing the mug that was in front of her against the wall. 

Chapter Text

Mandy left the house, making her way towards the arena where Westlife were performing later on. She had to go through rehearsals. She really was not looking forward to it at all. Just the thought of seeing Nicky just gave her butterflies in her stomach. She knew that she was going to be uncomfortable, yet she had to do this until the end of the tour. She closed her eyes before she went in and inhaled deeply, letting it all out as soon as she opened the door. She walked in and saw Anna and Angie standing there, by the coke machine. They both looked at her and smiled, “Hey hun. How are you doing?”
Mandy shrugged, “Been better!”
“Awww babe!” they frowned.
Mandy shrugged again, “Just 3 more weeks and that’s it. I won’t have to see him again!”
“Did you talk yesterday?” asked Anna softly.
Mandy nodded, “He just kept saying he was sorry, and he really didn’t want it to happen, and that he still had very strong feelings for me! He even tried it on!”
“He tried to make out with you?” gasped Angie.
Mandy nodded, “And I did give in to his advances for a while. It felt so good and I missed his arms around me so much that I couldn’t help it. But I managed to stop myself just in time, and told him to leave, never to come back again!”
Angie and Anna both looked at her, “For what it’s worth, hun, he does not look happy with Kris at all!”
Mandy bowed her head down, “Of all things that could happen, why this? Why the hell did she have to go and get herself pregnant?”
“Just one of those things, hun!” sympathised Anna.
“You know what? I keep hoping, wishing that this was all a dream. Or that she wasn’t even pregnant. That she was just tricking him into believing it, just so I can have him back!” she frowned.
Angie and Anna looked at each other. Soon Tracee had joined them.
“Hey girls, what’s going on?” she asked chirpily. She saw Mandy and stopped grinning, “Hey Mandz!”
Anna smiled at her and looked at Mandy, “Maybe she is!”
Mandy shook her head, “No. Nicky said he saw the scans, and she has even started buying baby clothes! No chance of it ever being fake, I’m afraid!” she sniffed.
“He might still come to his senses, and leave her again. I mean, I don’t see them staying together that long, kid or no kid. He doesn’t even love her. You cannot stay with someone you don’t love. It just don’t happen!” smiled Tracee.
Anna and Angie nodded at her statement. Mandy sighed, “Don’t know if I would even take him back if things didn’t work out!”
“Course you would!” laughed Anna, “You love him!”
“Yeah! I know I do, but I am second best to no-one. I don’t feel I could trust him again!” she shrugged.
“You are not second best, hun. That is the point. Kris is the one who is second best. You are the only thing on his mind all the time.” Argued Angie.
Mandy sighed, “I dunno!”
“Trust me. You are number one to him. When you two were together, it has been the happiest I have ever seen him in months!” smiled Tracee, “You will always be his number one!”
Mandy shrugged again, “Oh well. Life’s a bitch. I guess we have to go and face the music now!”
Everyone nodded and followed Mandy to the arena! When she went in, the first person she saw was Nicky. He was standing around the stage, doing nothing in particular. He looked up when the door opened and saw Mandy standing there. He froze on the spot. He so wanted to go with her, give her a big hug, hold her in his arms the way he used to, but he knew he couldn’t. Kian saw her and mumbled to himself, followed by a slight smirk. Mandy looked at Nicky briefly and then went to the table to put her stuff there. Shane approached her.
“Hey babe! How are you keeping up?” he asked.
Mandy turned around and smiled at him, “I thought I was ok, until now. Seeing him now…How am I going to get through this, Shane?”
Shane smiled sympathetically and nodded, “This must be really hard for you, huh?” Mandy was about to answer, when Kian butted in the conversation, “Yeah, well, I am sure it isn’t. And if it is, then she could always resign!”
Shane looked at him and sighed. He shook his head at Kian and then looked at Mandy.
“Take no notice of him love. He is still feeling kinda bitter!” he smiled.
Mandy looked at Kian walking away, then at Nicky moping around and then back at Shane, “But he’s right. Which is why I am quitting after this year’s tour!”
“What?” shrieked Shane. He was now joined by Brian, who wanted to know what all the fuss was about. Mark decided to stay out of it, not wanting to be involved, and stayed with Anna instead. 

“What’s going on?” asked Brian.
“Mandy just said she is not gonna be our choreographer anymore!” gasped Shane. Brian looked at Mandy in disbelief, “but you have to stay. You’re the best Westlife has ever had. Even the critics in the papers say so.”
“Sorry guys, but it’s just too hard with the situation I am in at the moment! I cannot do it!” she frowned.
“But why?” asked Shane.
Nicky, who was walking past answered for her, “Coz she cannot stand being in the same room as me, coz I am the biggest bastard she has ever met!” he muttered, before he walked off. Brian, Shane and Mandy just looked at him, watching him leave. Brian and Shane then looked at Mandy.
“He’s not, you know?” she sighed.
“He’s not what? The reason why you are quitting?” asked Brian.
Mandy shook her head, “No, he is. But I don’t think he’s a bastard at all. Deep down, I know he is doing the right thing by sticking with his family, but it’s just….it’s just too painful being in the same room as him, after everything we have been through together!” Shane smiled, “We know that. So what are you gonna do?”
Mandy shrugged, “I am really enjoying working with the kids at the moment, so I might concentrate on that. Or concentrate on another band or something. Depends how much in demand I am in!”
Shane laughed, “Traitor!”
Mandy smiled, “Nah!”
“I was kidding hun. I am sure Louis will give you a great report on your references, so I think you’ll be highly in demand!” smiled Shane.
Mandy thanked him and looked away, “Guess we’d better get started now. Can one of you get Nicky please? We kinda need him for rehearsals!”
Brian volunteered to go and get him, rushing through the doors and looking for him! “Hey bud. When you’re ready!” he smiled, taking a seat next to him. Nicky did not look at him.
“I can’t!” he whispered.
“Course you can!” Brian nudged him.
Nicky shook his head, “Just seeing her hurts. God I want her so much!” he rolled his eyes. Brian looked at him, feeling sorry for him. He didn’t know what to say so he just stared another way. Nicky sighed and shook his head.
“She doesn’t think you’re a bastard, you know?” Brian finally said.
Nicky shook his head and laughed, “No, course not!”
“She said it herself. She knows that deep down you’re doing the right thing!” he argued.
“Then why do I feel like the biggest bastard in history?” he snapped, standing up, “Why do I feel like I have let her down, just for doing what I think is right?”
“She does probably feel let down, as do you, but as you said, you are doing what is right in this situation. You just have to get on with your lives!” smiled Brian.
“I just wish it weren’t so damn hard!” he sighed, kicking a stone hard, “Everything I do turns out bad!”
Brian sighed and looked at him, “It is bound to be hard. After all, you still love her to bits!”
Nicky nodded and sat down, “And don’t I know it. Kris wanted to make love to me yesterday, and I just couldn’t bring myself to do it. I know that if I do it, then I’m gonna be thinking about Mandy all the time. I mean, it’s not right, is it? Having sex with your wife and thinking about another woman. I had to make some lame excuse about not wanting to hurt the baby!”
Brian laughed, “You cannot hurt the baby, you twonk!!!”
“I do know that, Bri, but I had to tell her something. Told her that it took her so long to get pregnant, that I didn’t wanna risk doing anything to harm the baby! I dunno, how long am I gonna keep this up for, man?”
Brian looked at him, “You’re gonna have to come clean with her, mate! Or maybe just give up on her altogether and get back with Mandy. It’s gonna drive you mad!”
“But it’s my baby, Bri. I mean, fair enough, I didn’t want a child yet, but it is gonna happen whether I like it or not and I do need to be responsible for it!” he sighed.
“You can still be responsible and be with the woman you truly love! You don’t have to stay with her just for the baby’s sake. Trust me, it will only end up nasty and you’re only gonna end up hating Kris!” advised Brian.
Nicky sighed and nodded, “I know. But I do have to at least try. I don’t want any child of mine to not have a father. A good stable family life is important to me, Bri.”
“And you call being with a woman you don’t even love, stable?” he gasped.
“Well, no. but I must learn to love her again. And I do love her…in a sense…” he hesitated.
“But not in that way!” concluded Brian.
Nicky sighed and nodded. He was about to say something when Mark came in.
“Sorry, but Mandy is getting a bit impatient out there. Any chance you could come with us some time this year before she loses it?” he grimaced.
Brian looked at him and smiled, “We’ll be right there, Mark!”
Nicky looked at Brian and sighed, “There is only one thing I can do!”
“And what’s that?” asked Brian, curiously.
“Do what I did at the beginning, when I was with Kris and fancied Mandy like mad!” he sighed, looking up at the ceiling.
Brian looked at him, still puzzled. Seeing the puzzled look on his friend’s face made him sigh and get up, “Start acting like I cannot stand her again!”
“What?” gasped Brian, “That’s gonna break her heart!”
“I know, and it is gonna break mine too, just like it broke my heart the last time, but if I can convince myself that I don’t like her at all, then maybe I can learn to love Kris again, and maybe it will be better for her!” he sighed sadly, as the tears started forming in his eyes, “Coz I do know that friendship is not an option anymore!” 

Chapter Text

Mandy sat on the stage while she waited for Mark, Brian and Nicky to make their appearance again. When she finally saw them, she rolled her eyes and got up.
“At last!” she sighed, “Thought I was gonna be here until tomorrow!”
Nicky looked at her, “Well, I’m sorry to keep you waiting, your majesty, but some people have got things on their mind!”
“Nicky, come on, man. Don’t do this,” Brian whispered.
Nicky looked at him and sighed.
Mandy looked at him, hurt by the hostility in his voice. Why was he being like this? She didn’t understand why he was suddenly being so hostile towards her. She then looked at Brian, who just shook his head as if to say to ignore him. Mandy rolled her eyes and took her position at the front. She looked at the band behind the lads, signalling them to start and then looked at the lads. Nicky in particular. Nicky was aware that she was watching him and tried to avoid all eye contact with her. Mandy then slowly looked towards the others and smiled when she saw them all collaborating together, moving in sync! She looked back at Nicky and nodded when she saw him doing all the right steps. Suddenly, he lost concentration and forgot the next moves. He just stood there, looking at the others. He put his hands on his hips and just stayed there, chewing on his lip. Mandy signalled for the band to stop playing and looked at Nicky. “Interested in joining in? Anytime soon would be nice, Nicky!” she sighed.
Nicky looked at her, “I forgot my moves ok?” he snapped.
Mandy shook her head, “You shouldn’t be at the stage where you forget your moves anymore, Nicky. You should know it with your eyes closed by now!”
“Yeah well, maybe some people have got much more important things on their mind, instead of worrying about some pathetic little dance moves, twinkletoes!” he growled before storming off. Mandy just looked at him storming off and sighed. She looked at the others and then excused herself, following Nicky in. She walked into the dressing room and saw him standing there. He hated what he had said to her. He hated himself for hurting her even more than she was already hurting. But he had to make her hate him, in order to stop hurting, even if it was wrong. He stood by the wall and leaned against it, banging his head against it softly, cursing out loud. Mandy walked in and saw him standing there.
“What the fuck, Nicky?” she growled, “What the fuck was all that about, making me feel blooming small?”
Nicky stopped banging his head and looked at her, “You’re doing it again. You keep telling me what to do and singling me out in front of everyone. You know I hate it when you do that!”
“Well, I am sorry Nicky, but as I have said dozens of times before, I am the one who will be red in the face if it all goes wrong in the gig!” she shrieked.
“And as I said far too many times before, you take this far too seriously!” he sneered, walking away. Mandy followed him with her eyes.
“Why are you being so horrible to me? What have I done to you that is so wrong?” she screamed.
Nicky turned around and looked at her, “Nothing. You have done nothing wrong, and that is the whole point!!!!” he screamed.
“The whole point of what?” asked Mandy, confused by that.
Nicky sighed and looked away, “Oh nothing!”
“Nicky, if you have something to say to me then say it now!” she growled.
Nicky looked at her and then looked away again, sighing deeply. Mandy waited for an answer.
“I don’t have any time for this Nicky, now if you’re gonna talk, talk now coz we have lots of things to do!” she hissed.
Nicky looked at her again, “I ain’t stopping you!” he shrugged.
“Oh yes you are. Coz we need you for rehearsals, and you know it. Only you’re being too childish to cooperate!” she hissed, “Now I am gonna go back. I expect to see you within five minutes!”
As she walked away, Nicky grabbed her hand and pulled her back, “Don’t talk to me like that!”
Mandy looked away and tried to shrug her hands away from him, but he was too strong, “Don’t touch me!”
Nicky looked her and tightened his grip. He then pushed her back against the wall and kissed her passionately. Mandy pushed him back and looked at him, “I told you, I want nothing more to do with you!”
Nicky just looked at her and went for another kiss, which Mandy dutifully surrendered to. Nicky cupped her face with his hands as he kissed her while Mandy’s hands wandered all over his body. When he pulled away, he just looked at her.
“I can’t do it. I just can’t do it!” he whispered, leaning his forehead against hers.
“Do what?” she asked, rubbing her lips with her fingers.
“I cannot make myself hate you!” he admitted.
“Is that what you were trying to do?” she gasped.
Nicky shook his head, “no. I was trying to make you hate me so it wouldn’t hurt you as much. But I cannot do it. I love you way too much!”
Mandy bowed her head down and started crying, “I miss you!”
“I miss you too sweetheart, and I really wish things weren’t so difficult, but…” he started.
Mandy nodded, “I understand. But you do realise we cannot be friends!”
Nicky sighed, “I was hoping you wouldn’t say that!”
“I am sorry Nicky, but being with you and not being able to have you is too hard for me. And that is why I am resigning. I know you have to make it work with Kris coz of the baby, but I cannot handle it.” She cried.
“I know!” he sighed hugging her.
Mandy pulled away from him and went to the door. She turned around to look at him once more, “I don’t hate you. I just want you to know that!”
“Thanks!” he mumbled.
Mandy nodded and walked outside. Nicky sat on the floor and banged his head gently against the wall again, biting his lip as he did so. He eventually went back to the stage to find everyone waiting for him.
“Hey! Sorry!” he smiled sheepishly.
Mandy nodded, “It’s ok. Now let's continue please, as I have tons of things to do today!”
Everyone got into position and Mandy signalled the band to start again. She sat back and watched everyone making their moves. This time, all of them getting it perfectly. Mandy nodded as she watched them, smiling to see everyone in sync. When the whole performance was over, and after correcting one or two moves from a couple of the lads, she sat down and smiled, “Well done. Do everyone proud tonight!”
The lads crowded together, taking swigs of their drinks every now and then and discussing what they were gonna do for the next three hours. Nicky stared at Mandy, who was packing all her stuff away. He decided to approach her.
“What are you doing now?” he asked.
Mandy suddenly turned around when she heard his voice and sighed, “I need to go and talk to Louis about resigning!”
Nicky put his hands on her arms, “Please don’t do it, Mandz. We need you!”
“Nicky, I thought we already discussed this!” she sighed.
“I know, but I don’t want you to leave!” he frowned.
“And we have already discussed we cannot be friends either!” she frowned
“Forget about me. I don’t care about me, but the other lads really want you to stay on. They don’t work as well with anyone else. God, even Mark is doing so well with you as our coach!” he explained.
Mandy shook her head, “And I have already explained to the other lads why I have to do this, and they understand. I am sorry Nicky, but working with you is no longer possible. Now if you don’t mind, I must get going. I have got an appointment to see Louis in ten minutes and then I have to rehearse with the kids. Bye!” she sighed, walking off. Nicky watched her leave with a huge lump in his throat. 

Chapter Text

When Mandy finished talking to Louis, she sighed with relief and walked out of the office. Louis had tried his best to convince her to stay, but she remained firm to her choice and insisted that she had to leave due to personal reasons. Louis had guessed what those reasons were, and finally accepted her decision. She walked away and then went straight home, where she got showered and changed and then went to rehearse with the kids. 

“Hi Mandy!” smiled Lauren sweetly when she saw her.
“Hi Lauren!” smiled Mandy, trying to look happy, “You’re all early today!”
Lauren smiled, “Me and the girls all wanted to know if Nicky and Westlife were coming to see us!”
Mandy frowned slightly and sighed, “I’m afraid not sweetie!” she sighed, “I don’t work with them anymore!”
Lauren looked at her and blinked, “Really? Why?”
“You’re too young to understand!” laughed Mandy lightly, “But I will ask them if they would like to see the show next week, ok?”
Lauren accepted this and nodded, before walking off. Mandy stood at the front of the hall and looked at all the girls chatting. She clapped her hands loudly to get their attention and waited for them to settle down.
“OK girls, let’s start from the beginning. For this week, we shall be rehearsing every day, seeing as you are performing next week, and I don’t have a lot of commitments anymore. I shall stand here and I will see how you perform, while your acting coach sees how you act. I want nice dancing and good expressions ok?” she instructed. Everyone nodded and got to their places. Mandy put the cd on and sat on the table, moving her head to the beat of the music. The acting coach moved around the hall, making sure they were all up to scratch and Mandy watched them dance from where she was. In the middle of rehearsals, Mandy saw the door opening and Brian walking in. As soon as one of the girls saw him, she stopped dancing and stared at him, open mouthed. Soon, they had all stopped and stared at him. The acting coach was furious and slammed the towel on the floor.
“God’s sake. We are never going to get this done properly!” she huffed, grabbing her bottle of water. Mandy rolled her eyes and turned the music off.
“Ok girls, let’s take five ok? Go and have a drink or something. I want you back to your positions in five minutes for the next track!” she smiled. She walked up to Brian and looked at him.
“What in heaven’s name are you doing here? You knew I was rehearsing!” she sighed. Brian nodded, “I know. And I am sorry for interrupting!”
“It’s not me you should worry about. If you think I take my job too seriously, you should see dragon mouth over there!” she smiled, nudging her head at the furious looking acting coach, “I swear she’s evil!”
Brian chuckled.
“Anyway, what brings you to this neck of the woods?” she asked, taking a swig from her bottled water.
Brian looked at her and sighed, “Do you really have to leave us?”
Mandy sighed and turned around walking away, “Ah. So he has sent you, has he?”
Brian shook his head and followed her, “No. Nicky has not sent me, if that’s who you mean. We are all upset that you are leaving us. You are the best choreographer we have ever had, Mandy, and frankly, I don’t want anyone else. Louis has just announced it as official that you are leaving. I thought you would change your mind when you told us, but now that Louis has told us, it just seems more real!”
“That’s coz it is real, Brian. I am leaving. I am sorry. I really, really am, but I cannot stay there. Not under these circumstances. I cannot concentrate on my job when I have Nicky there, directly in front of me, when I have such huge feelings for him!” she sighed, looking at the floor.
“He’s in bits, you know?” he smiled, looking at her, bowing her head down so he could look into her eyes.
“Imagine how I am feeling then. I am the one who got dumped, Brian. Not him. He has no right to feel like that! No right at all!” Her voice shook and her eyes filled up.
“I know!” he sighed, “And we all think he’s an idiot for going back to Kris, but he is doing what he feels is right!”
“We have already had this conversation, Bri. Don’t wanna do it again. Now if you don’t mind, I have got rehearsals to get on with!” she sighed.
Brian sighed and nodded. Mandy felt bad for snapping and sighed.
“Look, I am sorry ok? Didn’t mean to upset you!” he apologised.
Mandy shook her head, “No. I am sorry. I shouldn’t have snapped. It’s just that it is all doing my head in. I want to be with him, yet I can’t. I just don’t know how to handle it yet. Especially when he comes to me and makes it blatantly obvious that he wants me, but then has no intentions of staying with me. At the moment, I feel like the bit on the side, which is so not what I wanna be!”
“And I can understand that! But anyway babe. I’ll let you get on. I know you’ll probably say no, but it feels weird not to ask you. We are having a party tonight at the hotel as a celebration for finishing the tour. You are more than welcome to come!” he asked invitingly.
Mandy smiled, “Probably not a good idea!”
“Oh come on. You can celebrate your retirement and we can celebrate our end of tour. You won’t see us again for ages after tonight!” he frowned.
That soon made Mandy realise what was actually going on. She frowned and then bowed her head down. Tears streamed down her eyes. Brian heard her sniffing and raised her head up.
“Hey. Don’t cry!” he whispered.
“I’m sorry. I just can’t help it!” she sobbed, “I miss him so much!”
Brian sighed and held her close in his arms, “It’s ok. You cry all you want!”
Mandy rested her head against his chest and cried some more, until she was all out of tears. She finally pulled back and dried her eyes.
“Is that better?” he smiled softly.
Mandy sniffed and nodded, “Sorry about that. It’s just so hard!”
“I understand that!” he smiled, stroking her hair, “But at the same time, we are all hoping that you join us!”
“Will Kris be there?” she asked weakly.
“Probably!” he shrugged, “But to hell with her, eh? You just prove to the both of them that you don’t need him and you can be on your own!”
Mandy shrugged, “I dunno!”
“Ok, I will leave it up to you. Party will start at about midnight, after the concert. If you do decide to come, we’ll see you there. If not, then we’ll make it a point to go and see you before we all head off to Ireland, ok?” he smiled, holding her by her arms. Mandy smiled and nodded, “Thanks Bri!”
“No problem. Anyway…” he smiled kissing her forehead, “See you later, I hope!” Mandy smiled and nodded, watching him leave. She then got back to the front, dried her tears with her towel and took another gulpful of water. She got the kids attention again and got on with rehearsals. After another good days rehearsal, she got home and got showered again. When she was dressed in her pyjamas, she finally sat down to relax, when she saw there was a message on the machine. She sighed and pushed the red button to listen to it. She froze when she heard who it was. 

“Hi Mandy. It is Kris here. Just to let you know, I don’t want you anywhere near my husband. He is off bounds, got that? He wants to be with me, not you. So just leave us alone. He doesn’t want you no more. Not now that I am having his baby, so you can forget about any ideas you ever had of taking him away from me again. If that is what you are planning, then I have total disrespect for you, trying to take my kids father away from him. Anyway, that’s all I wanted to say. And I hope I don’t see you at this party tonight! You are clearly not wanted there, by anyone. Nicky included. Goodnight!”

Mandy sighed as she heard the clicking noise of when she hang up. Fury began to take over her emotions. She did not want to go to the party, but having this woman telling her that she was not welcome made her just more determined to go. She had to go now, just to make a statement. She furiously got up to her room, picked out her sexiest outfit which she knew Nicky would go crazy over and then did her hair and make up. An hour later, she was ready to go. After calling a cab, she waited in her living room, looking out the window waiting for the cab. When it finally got there, she vacated her house and went inside the cab, which took her to the hotel. She walked into the lobby and was stopped by the receptionist.
“Excuse me madam. Can I help you?” she called out.
Mandy stopped and turned around to look at her, “Oh, no thanks. I know my way around!”
“Where is it you’re going?” she asked.
Mandy rolled her eyes and walked to the desk, “I am going to party with Westlife!” she smiled.
“Oh, I am sorry madam. But no fans are allowed in there!” she smiled apologetically. “Fan? Fan? Do I look like a fan to you?” she answered rudely, still annoyed by that phone call, “I am not a fan. I am their choreographer and I have been invited, thank you so much!”
“Yeah, we get that all the time. I am sorry madam, but we have not been informed about this. We cannot let you go!” she explained.
“Oh but I can do what I want!” she snarled, “And you cannot stop me!”
She turned on her heels and started walking away. Two big security men soon turned up at her side and grabbed her arm, “Come on ma’am. Think it’s time you go!”
“Go? I am not going anywhere. I am in fact going to this party, whether you like it or not!” she shouted, creating a scene. Hotel guests all stopped what they were doing to gawp.
The security men tugged her and almost got to the door, when they heard someone shouting, “What’s going on?”
The men loosened their grip on Mandy, though they still held her arms and looked back, “We are just getting rid of this fan!”
“Brian. Tell these bunch of losers that I am invited, will ya?” she shouted, slightly out of breath.
Brian looked at the lads, “She is with me. She is no psychotic fan, guys. She is our choreographer. Now please let her go!” he instructed.
The security men instantly let her go and got back to their stands. The receptionist blushed slightly and Brian walked up to Mandy.
“Are you ok?” he checked, concerned.
“I am fine!” muttered Mandy, smoothing her clothes down, “Thank you.”
She stormed off in the direction of the party, leaving Brian there, totally speechless, by the sight in front of him minutes ago. 

Chapter Text

Mandy stormed inside the reception hall and grabbed herself a drink, downing it in one.
“Wow! Thirsty, were you?” came the voice from beside her.
Mandy looked to her side and sighed, “Anna, hi. Sorry I just really needed that!”
“No problem hun. I thought you weren’t gonna come!” she smiled.
Mandy shook her head, “I wasn’t. Until I got a call from that super cow Nicky married. Who the hell does she think she is?”
“Oh dear. What happened?” sang Anna.
Mandy gulped her drink and put the glass back on the counter, “She left a message on my machine, saying she didn’t want me anywhere near Nicky, and that he wanted her right now, and not me. And she also warned me not to come to the party coz no-one wanted me here!”
“Oh babe. You know that’s not true!” sympathised Anna, “I was hoping you would come. We all were. You worked hard for this tour too and you need this party as much as the lads!”
“Thanks!” smiled Mandy, “But you think I am gonna listen to a word super bitch says? The only reason I came was to ruin her night, the way she has ruined my life!”
Anna snorted, “You never change. Good on ya, though. As for Nicky not wanting you? That is so far from the truth it is unbelievable. He mopes around all day in the hotel rooms and he hardly pays any attention to Kris. Only Kris is too blind to notice!”
Mandy smiled, “Yeah well. He has not loved her for ages. I don’t know what makes him think he can love her again. Idiot!”
At that moment, Nicky walked into the room. He scanned the room and finally saw her there. He could not take his eyes off her. His eyes wandered up her tanned leg showing from the slit of her long, tight, red dress. Then they stayed focused on her cleavage, clearly visible from the plunging neckline and then onto that long neck he was aching to nibble on. Finally his eyes met hers and stayed captive for a few seconds before he swallowed hard and looked away. Mandy stared at him for a while, and then looked away. She wanted so much to go up to him and be held by him, the way he used to hold her. She used all the strength she had to stop herself from doing that. She stared at him again as he was walking away, and watched him as he stood himself next to Kris. Kris smiled at him and threw her arms all over him. Nicky smiled and hugged her.
“So much for hardly paying any attention to Kris, huh?” she moaned.
Anna looked over his direction and frowned, “That’s just a show!” she smiled, “He loves you.”
Mandy shook her head, “Whatever!”
“Look. You came here to have fun, and that’s what’s gonna happen. I am gonna make sure you have fun. Now let’s go and get the other girls!” she smiled.
Mandy grinned, “Where’s Mark?”
“Mingling!” laughed Anna, “Mingling with all the guests.”
“He left you on your own?” she shrieked.
“I told him to go. I was actually just waiting for Tracee to get back from the loos! Ah look, there she is now!” she smiled.
Mandy turned around and saw Tracee walking towards her.
“Mandz! You came?” screamed Tracee, already half drunk.
Mandy laughed, “Nothing gets past you, does it?”
“Good to have you here, babe. What made you change your mind?” she asked, after she hugged her.
Mandy explained about the phone call and how she was gonna make Kris miserable tonight! Tracee laughed.
“You be careful babe. We don’t want you getting hurt!” she warned.
Mandy shook her head, “I don’t think there’s any chance of that happening. Not more than I am already hurting anyway!”
Tracee frowned, “Does she know you are here yet?”
Mandy shook her head, “She ain’t seen me and I don’t think Nicky has told her, or else she would be here, marching my orders already!”
Tracee smiled, “Well, let’s go and have some fun. Let’s parade around her!”
Mandy snorted, “Good idea. I am up for these childish games. You know me, still a kid at heart. But first, let me get myself another drink. I plan on getting totally rat arsed tonight!”
Tracee giggled, “I’m gonna get myself one too. Let’s head for the bar!”
After they got their drinks, they headed off to wander around the hall. Kris suddenly spotted her and tensed up. Nicky looked at her.
“What is she doing here?” she fumed.
Nicky looked at her, “Who?” he asked, knowing fully well who she was talking about. “What is Mandy doing here?” she growled.
Nicky looked at her and sighed. He wanted her so much. He just shook his head quickly to snap back to reality, “Well, she is our choreographer, babe!”
“Not anymore she ain’t!” she snarled, “She has no right being here!”
Brian decided to butt in at this point, “She has every right to be here. She has worked hard enough with us!”
Kris looked at him and shook her head, “I told her not to come! I told her she wasn’t welcome!”
Nicky let go of her waist and looked at her, “You what? When?” he gasped.
Kris shook her head, “Nevermind, but she is so gonna regret coming!” she smirked. “Kris, just forget it, ok? I want to have a good time. Now let it go already!” he snapped. “Are you siding with her Nicky?” she argued, “Are you defending her?”
Nicky sighed and scratched his head before storming off, “I need a drink!”
Kris nodded and stayed where she was.
“She is so not welcome here. Just wait till Kian sees her!” she smirked.
Abeth looked at her, “What is your problem?”
Kris looked at her, “My problem is that she stole him away from me, and she thinks she can do it again. Well, Nicky is never going back to her now. Not when I am carrying his child. She is just wasting her time!”
Abeth shook her head, “You should just get over it, already. Or else, you are just gonna lose him again!” she muttered before walking off. Kris shrugged and continued drinking her water. Nicky returned with his drink and sat on the chair. Kris looked at him.
“I’m tired!” she whinged.
Nicky looked at her quickly, “no. Kris. Don’t start. I wanna stay!” he sighed.
“Nicky, in case you have forgotten I am pregnant. Come on!”
“I am not leaving!” he stood his ground, “The party has only just began and I wanna enjoy myself!”
“Well, I am not leaving without you!” she muttered.
“Fine, as long as you understand that I am staying here! It’s our party for fucks sake!” he moaned.
Kris shrugged and sat back down. Nicky stared at Mandy, who was now at the bar, getting herself another drink. Kris sighed and got up, “I am going to the toilet!”
Nicky nodded and continued staring at Mandy. Mandy briefly looked towards his direction and saw that he was on his own.
“Go and talk to him!” came a voice from beside her. Mandy looked at her and smiled. “Hey Abeth! Where’s Bri?” she asked.
Abeth smiled, “Talking to Mark and Shane! He is drunk!”
Mandy laughed, “No surprises there!” she grinned, looking straight at Nicky. Nicky half smiled and bowed his head down.
Abeth turned around and saw who she was staring at, “Looking good, isn’t he?”
“Looking delicious. Where’s Kris?” she asked, “Gone to her room already?”
“Dunno!” shrugged Abeth, “Listen why don’t you go and talk to him. He is dying to talk to you!”
Mandy shook her head, “No. It will only cause trouble. I’ll stay here. If he wants to talk he can come over. I am not gonna get accused of trying to steal anyone’s man!”
Abeth smiled and nodded.
“Anyway, I need the loos. Won’t be long!” she smiled.
Abeth nodded again and then decided to go with her. She needed the loo aswell. As they walked up the stairs to the toilets, Kris came out. She looked at Mandy and smirked.
“Well, well, well. Look who’s here? If it isn’t the home wrecker herself!” she smirked.
“Leave it Kris!” warned Abeth. Mandy decided to carry on walking.
Kris followed her and grabbed her arm, “Thought I told you to stay away from the party!”
Mandy stared at her and smiled, “You only got yourself to blame for me turning up. I wasn’t gonna come but your pathetic message made me want to. You really ought to get a life, you know?”
Kris pressed her lips together in anger, “You just stay away from my Nicky!”
“You’d better really watch it with your threats, coz it just makes me do things you don’t want me to do. You don’t know me at all, and if I wanna talk to Nicky, then I will talk to Nicky. There’s not a lot you can do about it!” she smirked.
“Oh, I shall do plenty. Believe me!” snarled Kris.
“Are you threatening me again?” asked Mandy folding her arms.
“No, just warning you!” she hissed, “Stay away from my husband!”
“He is only with you coz of the baby. He told me himself, you were crap in bed and he has no feelings for you whatsoever, and that is the reason why he couldn’t get it up most of the times when he was with you! When he was with me, he had no problems. He functioned very well, if you get what I mean.” she laughed.
Kris gasped and looked clearly shocked, “What did you say?”
“You heard!” grinned Mandy, “Who’s the loser now?”
Kris pulled a face, grabbed her hair and started pulling it. Mandy screamed.
“Get away from me you psycho!” she hissed.
“You stay the hell away from my man. He loves me, not you!” screamed Kris.
Mandy flipped her over and now grabbed her hair. Abeth just stood there, trying to break them up. When she saw she couldn’t, she quickly ran downstairs to get Nicky. Moments later, Nicky ran up the stairs and looked at them both, “Quit it, the both of you!” he shouted, trying to break them apart. He grabbed Kris and looked at Mandy. “You’d better go, Mandz!” he panted.
Mandy looked at him and then looked at Kris, “Don’t know what you see in that psycho bitch anyway!” she huffed, “Seriously.”
Nicky shook his head and looked at Kris. Then he looked at Mandy, “She is pregnant for fucks sake!”
“And that worries you does it? You always said you never wanted her kids. I might’ve done you a favour then!” smirked Mandy.
“You little bitch!” screamed Kris, getting away from Nicky’s grip, and jumping on Mandy’s back, strangling her slightly as she held onto her neck.
“Get off me, you freak! I cannot fucking breathe,” shouted Mandy, purple-faced while squirming and pushing her away. Kris fell a few steps back, lost her balance and toppled down the stairs.
“KRIS!!!” shouted Nicky. Mandy turned around after catching her breath and looked at her rolling down in shock, both of them with horrified looks on their faces. 

Chapter Text

“Oh my god!” whispered Mandy, covering her mouth with her hands.
“Look what you’ve done!” yelled Nicky, running down the stairs, where Kris lay motionless.
“I’m sorry!” she whimpered, with her mouth still covered, “Oh my god!”
Abeth looked at her in shock. Mandy looked back at her.
“I didn’t mean to do that. She just jumped on me and I couldn’t breathe!” she panicked.
“I know hun. I know. Don’t worry!” she soothed.
“Oh god what if I have killed her? What if she has lost the baby? Nicky will never forgive me!” she cried.
Abeth put her arm around her, “She’ll be ok. Come on, let’s get you some water!” Mandy shook her head and ran down the stairs, “No, I need to see if she is ok!”
Abeth sighed and ran after her. Mandy was at the bottom, looking at Kris on the floor and Nicky kneeling down next to her.
“Is she ok?” she stammered, with tears rolling down her cheeks.
“Does she look bloody alright to you?” snapped Nicky loudly, “Go and get us a fucking ambulance, will you?”
Mandy ran off to the hall and stopped, looking at everyone, “Someone call an ambulance, quick!”
Anna stopped what she was doing and looked at the shocked expression on her face. She ran to her, with Mark by her side and grabbed her arm, “What’s happened?”
“I think I killed her!” she cried hysterically, “Oh god!”
“Killed who? Mandy, you are not making any sense. What’s going on?” asked Mark. Mandy cried and ran back to the scene of the accident. Mark and Anna followed her and soon there was a trail of others behind them. Anna stopped and put her hands on her mouth when she saw Kris laying motionless on the floor and Nicky beside her, slapping her face gently, trying to wake her up. Anna walked to Abeth, “What happened?” she whispered.
Abeth sighed and told her what had been going on. Anna frowned and looked at Mandy, standing there helplessly. She sighed and walked to her.
“It’s not your fault, babe. Don’t worry!” she soothed.
“It is my fault! I have hurt her!” she cried, “This is all my fault and now I am gonna go to jail coz of it….oh god I cannot even bear thinking about it!”
Mark rushed off to Kris and put his hand on her neck.
“She’s got a pulse, mate.” He said.
Nicky got up and put his hands behind his head. He looked at Mandy and gave her an evil stare before he looked away. Mandy cried and walked up to him, “Nicky, I didn’t mean to push her down the stairs. She was just strangling me and…”
“I don’t wanna hear it, Mandy!” he shouted, “My wife could die for all I know. All I care about right now is this ambulance getting here. My wife and my baby’s lives are at stake here!”
Kian came running in and saw Kris on the floor, “What happened?”
Nicky looked at Mandy and then at Kris, “She fell down the stairs!”
Kian looked at Nicky and then at Mandy, “This had better not be your doing!”
Mandy sobbed loudly and ran off, out the hotel and down the road.
“Someone had better go after her!” whispered Anna.
“I’ll go!” offered Tracee.
Mandy carried on running as fast as her legs would carry her. She soon got tired and stopped, leaning against a tree, outstretching her hands against the tree and bending down, catching her breath through her sobs. Tracee soon caught up with her.
“Hey!” she said softly, rubbing her back.
“They all hate me now. But I swear, on my life, Tracee, I didn’t want that to happen. It’s just she…she jumped on me and I couldn’t even move or breathe. I had to do something so I pushed her back. She had her hands around my neck. I was struggling to breathe. Now she could lose the baby and it will all be my fault, and Nicky will hate me for the rest of my life!” she sobbed.
Tracee shook her head, “Don’t think Nicky will hate you for it, babe. It was an accident, and they do happen”
“Yeah, but he won’t see it in that way!” she sobbed, “What am I gonna do?”
“Well, it’s too late now hun!” she soothed.
“I need to go with them to the hospital, and see how she is!” she sniffed, drying her eyes, “I need to go!”
“Do you think that’s a good idea, with Kian around?” she asked.
“I don’t care about Kian. I need to be there, to be sure!” she sniffed, walking away.
“Ok, honey. I’ll take you. You’ve just got to calm down!” she ordered.
Mandy sniffed and nodded.
“Ok, let’s go. Shane will take us there!” she smiled soothingly rubbing her back. Mandy nodded and walked off with her. When they got there, they got in Shane’s car and sped off to the hospital. The ambulance had already been and gone. Mandy sat at the back. She was never a religious person, but at that moment, she closed her eyes and prayed that Kris and the baby would be ok. She prayed, hoping that someone up there cared. She felt the car stop and opened her eyes.
“We’re here Mandz. Are you sure you wanna do this?” asked Tracee.
Mandy nodded, “I have to do this. I have to know that she’s going to be alright. I may not have liked her much but she didn’t deserve this!”
“Once again, Mandz, it is not your fault she fell!” sighed Shane.
“If I wouldn’t have thrown her back she would have been ok!” frowned Mandy, “So it has got a lot to do with me!”
Tracee shook her head, “Don’t beat yourself up about it, Mandz. She was hurting you, so instinct made you push her off you. You weren’t to know she was gonna fall!” “Whatever!” sighed Mandy, “I just know that I need to be there.”
Tracee nodded and got out of the car. Shane stayed inside, as he wanted to find parking. Mandy ran off and Tracee sped after her. When they got to the right place, everyone was already there.
“How is she?” she panted, looking around.
“What do you care?” snarled Kian, shooting up from his seat, “You stay out of here. You’re not welcome!”
“Kian, it is not her fault babe. Calm down!” soothed Angie, rubbing his arm.
“Not her fault? She pushed her off the damn stairs!” he argued.
Mandy felt the tears stinging in her eyes.
“It was an accident, Kian. She didn’t do it on purpose!” added Anna.
“That was no accident!” he growled.
“Kian, come on man!” started Brian, holding onto Abeth.
Mandy shook her head, “It’s Ok, Bri. It’s fine. I understand why he is angry, but I am gonna stay all the same!” she sniffed.
Kian pulled a face and looked out the window.
“Where’s Nicky?” she asked.
Kian looked at her quickly, “You stay away from Nicky. You think I am angry? You just wait till he sees you here!”
Mandy frowned and took a seat. She checked the time and leaned her head back.
“Are you ok?” whispered Anna.
Mandy looked at her, smiled sadly and nodded, “I’ll be fine!”
Anna squeezed her shoulder and then rested her head against Mark’s shoulder.
Mandy raised her head when she saw Nicky come out of the room. Kian stood up. “How is she?” he asked.
“She’s gonna be fine!” he sighed.
“And the baby?” asked Kian.
“I don’t know. They haven’t said anything about the baby yet. They are still checking her out. They just told me to get out as they need their space!” he shrugged.
Kian nodded and sat back down again. Nicky looked at Mandy, sighed and took a seat. “What a mess!” he sighed.
Mandy looked away uncomfortably and then got up, “I am going for a drink if anyone wants one!”
Everyone declined and Mandy left. Nicky watched her leave and sighed, banging his head back on the wall gently. He then got up without saying anything and left.
Mandy was by the coffee machine waiting for the coffee to pour to the cup. She grabbed it, turned around and almost bumped into Nicky. Without looking at him, she stepped to the side and started to walk away. Nicky grabbed her arm and pulled her back. Mandy stayed there, glued to the spot, unable to look at him.
“She’s gonna be ok!” he said.
Mandy nodded, “Good!”
“Mandz. Look, I am sorry about the way I acted, ok? I shouldn’t have snapped at you. I saw what happened and I know it was an accident!” he explained.
Mandy nodded, “Yeah, well!”
“Don’t feel bad about it babe. It could have happened to anyone!” he added.
“But it didn’t happen to anyone did it? It happened to me.” She cried.
Nicky sighed and just stared at her.
“I just hope she hasn’t lost the baby, coz then I would never forgive myself!” she sniffed.
Nicky half smiled and nodded, “Whatever happens now, happens. My main concern is Kris!”
Mandy nodded, “I understand what you’re saying. I am gonna go and sit down now!” Nicky let her pass and watched her walk off. He walked behind her and they both took their seats. Nicky stood up quickly when they saw the doctor coming out.
“Mr Byrne?” he called.
Nicky walked up to him, “Is Kris ok?”
The doctor nodded and smiled, “Your wife is fine, sir.”
“And the baby?” he asked with a lot of hope showing in his eyes. The kind of hope that made Mandy realise that he did want this baby after all and how much he still loved his wife.
“Can you please come in with me, Mr Byrne?” he asked, avoiding his question. Nicky looked at the others, his face full of concern. When he was gone, Kian looked around.
“That cannot be good!” he commented. He shot Mandy a dirty look.
“She loses that baby, and god help you, Mandz. Seriously!” he menaced.
Angie nudged him, “Stop that, Kian! Stop it right now. She feels bad enough!”
“But I am right, aren’t I? God help her if Nicky is no longer gonna be a dad! I bet she did it on purpose so she would lose the baby and Nicky would crawl back to her. Don’t think the plan is gonna work darling!!” he smirked.
Mandy’s lips quivered. She got up and ran off. Angie looked at Kian and stood up.
“I just wish you would really grow up, Kian. I am so sick of your stupid comments!” she shrieked loudly, before she ran off.
Kian watched her leave, in shock and remained on his seat.
Moments later, the door flew open and everyone saw Nicky storming out. He sped past everyone, down the stairs and out onto the patio area of the hospital.
Everyone looked at each other.
“Wonder what all that was about!” whispered Abeth.
“Well, I am guessing Kris has lost the baby!” frowned Kian, “Either that or it is badly damaged. Either way, He is not a happy Chappy and god help Mandy now!!!” 

Chapter Text

Mandy saw Nicky storming out of the hospital while she was standing outside having a cigarette. She could tell he was annoyed by the creases on his forehead and dreaded to find out why. She watched him as he fished out his mobile phone and starting scrolling. Nicky looked at her briefly and then looked away as he held his phone to his ear. He cursed loudly and hung up, placing it back in his pocket. If Kris had lost the baby, Mandy would never forgive herself for it. Mandy was sure that Nicky would never forgive her either. Deciding she couldn’t take it anymore, she pushed herself off the wall, stubbed the cigarette out with her foot and slowly made her way towards him. “Nicky?” she called out softly. Nicky looked at her briefly and then looked away.
“What’s happened?” she asked in a stutter.
Nicky shook his head and continued focusing on a spot opposite him.
“How’s Kris? How’s the baby?” she asked more directly.
Nicky looked at her quickly, “What baby?”
Mandy took this as a bad sign. She covered her mouth with her hand and took a step back. She looked at him as her eyes glazed with tears, completely horrified.
“She’s lost it? She’s lost the baby?” she squeaked, still walking backwards very slowly.
Nicky looked at her and sighed, “Mandy wait!” he calmly said.
“Oh my god!” she cried before running off.
“Mandy, wait! Come back!” he called out, starting to run after her. He decided to give up when she was out of view. He just sat by the wall, wondering what to do next. Mandy stopped running when she got to the taxi stand. She got inside the taxi, which soon took her home. When she was there, she quickly showered and got into her t-shirt, ready for bed. She then sat on the bed thinking about what had just happened.
“Oh my God! I am a murderer!” she cried to herself, “I killed Nicky’s child. I murdered Nicky’s baby! Oh god, he’s gonna hate me as much as I hate myself right now!”
She rocked back and forth when she heard the phone ringing. Not in the mood to talk to anyone, she let the machine pick it up. She heard Nicky’s voice.

“Mandy, pick up the phone, please…I need to talk to you.. are you there? Please just answer the phone if you’re there! We really must talk!” she then heard him sigh, “Ok, when you get this message, please call me on my mobile! I’ll try again later! We need to talk about what’s happened!” 

Mandy heard the clicking sound making it clear that he had hang up. He didn’t sound angry. Just surprisingly calm. He sounded desperate. Desperate to talk to her. Desperate to let her know what was on his mind. Mandy looked at the machine and then got into bed. She really needed to clear her head and sleep all this off, hoping that when she woke up it would all have turned out to be a nightmare! 

Nicky walked back into the ward and grabbed his jacket. Everyone looked at him. “Where are you going?” asked Kian, straightening up.
“Home!” mumbled Nicky, “Need to sleep!”
“What about Kris?” he shrieked.
“What about her?” he asked, looking another way.
“Well, she is your wife, Nicky. She is carrying your baby! You’re just gonna leave her?” he shrieked.
Nicky stared at him and shook his head, “I guess not!” he sighed.
Kian smiled and relaxed back on the chair.
“I’ll wait till she wakes up. I need to talk to her. There is something she needs to know!” he frowned.
Angie sat up, “Has she lost the baby, Nicky? Is that why you stormed off?”
Nicky shook his head, “I need to talk to Kris before I actually let you guys know. Sorry but she has to be the first to know! You can all go home now if you want, by the way. I’ll be fine!”
“Are you sure, mate?” checked Mark, “It doesn’t feel right leaving you on your own!” Nicky smiled, “It’s ok. Really I am gonna be fine. I am just gonna lay here and wait. I am pretty tired anyway!”
Shane looked at him, “Why don’t you go home to sleep? There’s no use being here, is there?”
Nicky sighed, “You might be right! I’ll come back first thing in the morning! I am really tired!”
Mark smiled, “Ok then. Come on. Let’s go! I got my car!”
They all left and went to the hotel. As soon as Nicky’s head hit the pillow, he fell fast asleep.
In the morning, Mandy woke up and listened to the message Nicky had left on the machine again. She started thinking.
“Maybe he wants me back. Maybe now that Kris has lost the baby, he wants to come back to me!” she thought to herself. She then found herself shaking her head quickly, “Don’t be so naïve, Mandy. You don’t want him back, no matter what. He is bad news. He will only end up hurting you again!”
She then started thinking some more, “But what if he doesn’t? What if he is genuine and really wants me back and divorces Kris?”
She shook her head again, “Oh get real!” she scolded herself.
She sighed, got up and headed straight to the shower. When she got out, she looked at the time. She had the big show today. The one she was rehearsing the kids for. She got dressed and went to the studio for some last minute rehearsals.
Nicky got up and went straight to the hospital. He checked with the doctor, who told him she was now awake and asking for him. Nicky nodded and made his way to her room. He walked in and saw she was sitting down.
“Morning!” he smiled.
Kris was very happy to see him and stretched out her arms, “Oh Nicky!”
“You gave us all quite a scare there!” he laughed.
Kris nodded, “We can all blame Mandy for that!”
Nicky sighed, “can we?”.
“Nicky!!! She pushed me down the stairs!!!” she protested.
“It was an accident babe. And you were strangling her. She just pushed you away so she could breathe!” he explained.
Kris winced as she sat up more in bed, “Nicky? Are my ears playing up? Are you actually defending her?” she shrieked.
Nicky sighed again, “I am not defending anyone. You were both in the wrong. That’s all I am saying! But her face was purple coz she couldn’t breathe. Your arms were around her neck, Kris. She couldn’t breathe so she shoved you off. It is unfortunate that you lost your balance and fell backwards.”
“Oh my god, unfortunate? I cannot believe I am hearing this. How could you say that? What about the baby?” she sighed impatiently.
“What about the baby?” he shrugged.
Kris looked at him suspiciously, “Nicky?”
Nicky sighed and got up, “Look, Kris, that’s enough. You can stop this now. I know, ok?”
“You know about what?” she stammered.
“I know about that little charade you pulled to get me back. I know there never was a baby!” he snarled.
Kris looked at him, not knowing what to say, “B…but….”
Nicky shook his head, “Just save it, Kris! When were you planning on telling me anyway? You don’t seriously think that I would have never found out, did ya? I mean, sooner or later, you would have had to show, your tummy would have swelled up. You seriously thought I wasn’t gonna notice that you didn’t have a bump?” he growled.
Kris just looked down, “I just wanted you back. I figured I would have got pregnant before you found out!”
“You are seriously disturbed.” he hissed, “How was that meant to happen? Immaculate conception?”
“Well, you wouldn’t wanna sleep with me anyway!” she shouted amongst her tears, “But I would have got pregnant if you would have shown me some affection!”
“Well, it’s a good job I never slept with you then, wasn’t it? I can’t believe I fell for it. Whose scan was that you showed me anyway?” he shouted.
“My friend’s!” she frowned.
Nicky nodded, “You’re one sick twisted freak. I mean, even buying clothes for the baby! You’re seriously fucked up!”
“I had to get you back, Nicky. I love you so much!” she cried.
“By tricking me into believing that you were carrying the child that I did not want? By ruining other people’s happiness?” he yelled, banging his fist on the door.
“By other people you mean Mandy, I presume!” she asked angrily.
“Yes, I mean Mandy. I broke her heart, only coz you wanted to play games! You’re just pure evil!” he shouted.
“What about me, huh? What about my broken heart? I love you too, Nicky. You broke my heart too when you left me. Don’t I count?” she sobbed.
Nicky sighed and sat on the bed, calming down, “We are both very different people, Kris. We don’t belong together. I am in love with Mandy, and I cannot help it. I just don’t love you anymore. Not in that way. I only got back with you coz of the baby, and I did explain that to you from the start. But knowing now that there is no baby, I cannot stay with you. My heart belongs to Mandy!”
“She would be a fool to take you back!” she hissed.
“Yeah, well. That’s for her to decide. Maybe she will and maybe she won’t but one thing’s for sure. I am gonna try my hardest!” he growled.
Kris shook her head, “But what about me?” she squeaked.
Nicky got up again and paced around the room, “You think I am gonna stay with someone who manipulates others just to get her own way? You are nothing but a spoilt little bitch, who only thinks about herself. Now I am leaving. Hope you get better soon and don’t even TRY to pull a stunt like that again, you hear me? No matter who I am with, even if Mandy doesn’t want to know me, and with good reason too, I am not, and I repeat NOT getting back with you again. Not now, not ever! So goodbye. You’ll get the divorce papers soon!” he explained before walking out.
He instantly felt bad about what he had said to her, but he was angry that all the heartbreak he caused to Mandy and himself was in vain and totally unnecessary, and it was the only way Kris would understand that he would never take her back again. That from now on, it was just him and the girl he loved most in this god forsaken world. Him and Mandy! 

Chapter Text

Mandy got back from rehearsals, happy with the fact that the kids were definitely ready for tomorrow’s first showing of the musical. She had a shower and got dressed into her comfy clothes. She then got the ice cream from the freezer and settled down to watch some TV. Just as she switched the TV on, she heard the doorbell. Letting out a heavy sigh, she got up and headed for the door. Her jaw dropped when she saw Nicky there.
“I would have thought I’d be the last person you would have wanted to see after killing your child!” she blurted out.
Nicky sighed and then looked at her, “Can I come in, please?”
Mandy looked at him. Without saying a word, she nodded and opened the door wider to let him in. Nicky made his way into the living room and stayed standing up.
“Sit down, Nicky!” she sighed, throwing the cushions to the armchair, to give him some space.
Nicky sighed deeply and sat down, rubbing his hands through his hair.
“I suppose you’ve come to tell me what a bad person I am and how much you hate me for killing your child!” sighed Mandy, throwing the magazine on the table.
Just about as Nicky was gonna answer, she cut in again.
“And I don’t blame you. I pretty much hate myself right now! I mean, I killed your child.” She sniffed, feeling her voice getting weaker. Nicky remained looking at her.
“I mean, she had enough trouble getting pregnant, and even though you’ve always said you didn’t want any kids, I know that you really wanted this one in the end. Oh god, I am so sorry Nicky!” she sobbed, “I didn’t mean it. You’ve got to believe me!” She cried some more and then dried her eyes. Nicky just let her cry and release everything she had. When she finally stopped. Nicky stared at her.
“Finished?” he asked calmly.
Mandy sniffed and nodded.
“OK can I say what I came here to say now?” he questioned.
Mandy sniffed and nodded, “I’m sorry!”
“Oh just Shhhh!” he cut in.
Mandy nodded and sat forwards, resting her arms on her lap and brushing her hair back, that was dangling over her face.
“Right, last night I found out something that I am very glad I found out. I have already talked to Kris about it and she knows the score! And I really feel the need to tell you now!” he explained.
Mandy looked at him anxiously.
“I was speaking to the nurses looking after Kris, and I asked about the baby. Turns out there was no baby to begin with!” he sighed.
Mandy quickly looked at him with a look of shock on her face, “What?” she gasped. “What you heard!” he sighed, “She conned me into getting back with her by telling me she was pregnant, when really she wasn’t! You were right, darling. She lied about the whole thing.”
“But…how would that work?” she shrieked, “Sooner or later we would have all known!”
“I know and I did tell her that. I just broke up with her a few hours ago, by the way!” he sighed.
“Oh. I’m sorry!” she mumbled, “I knew you were looking forward to being a daddy!” “Are you kidding me?” he shrieked, “I told ya, I never wanted a baby. Not yet!”
Mandy shrugged, “I have reasons to believe that you were starting to warm to the idea, but hey, whatever!”
Nicky smiled, “I am just sorry I caused you so much heartache, babe!” he ran his finger on her cheek. Mandy pulled away. Nicky stared at her.
“But hey. We can finally be together again!” he smiled, getting closer to her.
Mandy looked at him quickly, “You what?”
“Well, me and Kris are not together anymore, so we can finally be together again… this time forever!” he smiled.
Mandy backed away, “You don’t seriously believe I am gonna take you back now, do you? After dumping me? You cannot do that Nicky! It’s not fair!” she shouted.
“But babe. We can be together again. I know I hurt you. I was hurting too. You think I wanted us to split up? All I thought about when I was back with Kris, was you. I need you in my life babe!” he argued.
“And you think that by just saying sorry I can forget about everything that happened and get back together with you? Well guess what, sweetheart. My name is not Kris. I will not be second best to anyone, no matter what. You wanted out, you got it! I am not getting back together with you, got that?” she growled.
Nicky looked at her, “You want me and you know you do!”
“Maybe I do, but it does not mean it’s gonna happen! God knows I love you, Nicky, but I am not putting myself in that situation anymore. God knows I have learned and know better by now. Married men are not worth it!” she sighed.
Nicky let out a sarcastic laugh, “That’s great, that is. When we were together all I could think about was hearing you telling me you loved me. Now we are not together, you tell me. Fantastic stuff!” he rolled his eyes.
Mandy just stared at him and blinked.
“But I am getting a divorce, babe. I am divorcing her. I don’t want her in my life anymore. I want…I want you!” he pleaded.
“Well, too bad Nicky. You made your bed, now you have to lie in it. You did what you had to do and now I am doing what I have to do, and that is end it with you completely. Now if you don’t mind, I wanna have an early night. I have got an early start tomorrow and I wanna get some sleep for tomorrow’s show!” she argued.
Nicky frowned and got up. He went to the door and then turned around, “What time is the musical tomorrow?”
“Why?” questioned Mandy suspiciously.
“Well, after hearing so much about it, I really wanna see it!” he frowned.
Mandy saw the sad look on his face. She had never wanted him more, but her pride stopped her from giving in.
“4pm. Enjoy the show!” she shrugged.
Nicky nodded and walked out the door before he turned around again. Mandy looked at him.
“Please think about us. Think about what I just told you. We can make it work!” he begged.
“Good night Nicky. See you tomorrow!” she sighed, before closing the door and collapsing on the floor in tears. 

Chapter Text

Nicky slowly made his way to his room once he got to the hotel. With a heavy sigh, he got out of the lift and walked to his door. Along the way he bumped into Mark, who was holding Anna’s hand firmly. Anna nudged Mark and looked at Nicky.
“Hey Nico!” he smiled, “How are you feeling!”
“Life’s shite!” mumbled Nicky, walking away.
Mark looked confused at him and looked back as he walked to his room. He let go of Anna’s hand and looked at her, “I am gonna go and talk to him!”
“And I will go with you!” answered Anna.
“I think we’d be best left on our own babe!” he smiled.
Anna shook her head, “Mandy is my mate and I wanna know what’s happened!”
Mark accepted this and they both made their way to Nicky’s room. He knocked on the door and waited for Nicky to answer, which he finally did, bearing the biggest frown in history. Mark looked at him.
“What do you want, Mark?” he sighed defeatedly.
“To talk to you!” answered Mark.
“Sorry. I am not in the mood!” he mumbled. As he was about to close the door, Mark put his hand out and stopped him.
“I think we should have a chat all the same!” insisted Mark.
Nicky sighed and opened the door wider. He went inside and headed straight for the mini bar, grabbing himself a miniature bottle of vodka and a can of diet coke. He poured the contents in a glass and drank it in one. Mark looked at him as he went to get another one.
“You know, drinking is not gonna solve anything you know?” he smiled.
“What do you know?” he answered rudely, getting another one and pouring it in the glass again.
Mark sighed and looked at him, “Ok, what happened in the hospital, Nico? Why the mood?”
“You wanna know why I am in a foul mood? You wanna know why at this very moment, I feel like kicking myself and smashing something so hard against the wall that it will shatter into a zillion pieces? You wanna know why I feel like getting so unbelievably pissed that I don’t feel anything anymore?” he hissed.
Mark looked at him, not knowing what to say.
“Well, I’ll tell you, Mark. I’ll tell you why. My lovely wife decided to tell me that she was pregnant. I thought the best thing to do was to go back to her and give her my support. I didn’t want to. I wanted to stay with Mandy, only the responsible side of me told me to go back with Kris. So I did, hurting Mandy in the process. Anyway, Kris falls down the stairs and there’s me, worrying about her and the baby. Only thing is, there is no baby!” he spat. “She lost it then?” questioned Anna.
Nicky stared at her, “No. There was no baby to begin with!”
“WHAT???” she shrieked, “She faked it?”
“Got it in one!” he winked, still annoyed.
“How would that have worked though?” asked Mark, still confused by it all.
Nicky shrugged and laughed fakely, “You tell me mate! Coz I am still trying to work it out. Now I have lost the woman I love because this bitch told me that she was carrying my child!”
“Have you talked to Mandy about this?” asked Anna.
Nicky sighed and nodded.
“And? How does she feel about it?” she asked.
“Relieved to know that she didn’t kill my child!” he shrugged.
“I meant, about you!” smiled Anna.
“Well, she has already told me that she doesn’t want me back. That I have hurt her enough and she is not gonna be second best, just coz it didn’t work out with Kris!” he shrugged, with tears forming in his eyes.
Anna looked at him sympathetically, “Oh Nicky!”
Nicky nodded, “So I lost her because of one stupid lie! I have broken up with Kris, by the way.”
“Well, at least that’s something. Did you tell Mandy that?” asked Mark.
Nicky nodded, “Even told her I was divorcing her. But she is not having it. She says I have caused her too much pain to ever trust me again!”
“Want me to go and talk some sense into her?” Anna offered.
Nicky looked at her for a while and sighed before shaking his head, “Nah, don’t worry. Her mind is made up. She was very determined.”
Mark and Anna looked at Nicky, not knowing what to say. Nicky pulled a face and got up, to look out of the window. He folded his arms and took in a deep breath. Anna and Mark knew he was crying by the way he kept raising his hands to his eyes every so often. Anna looked at Mark, “Do something!” she mouthed.
“What?” asked Mark, uncomfortable in this situation.
Anna nudged her head to the door, “Go. I’ll talk to him.” She whispered.
“Are you sure?” he whispered back.
Anna smiled and nodded. Mark kissed her and looked at Nicky, “I’m off mate. I’ll see you later. Are you gonna be ok?”
He saw Nicky nod. He then looked at Anna and then walked away. Anna looked at Nicky, sighed and then walked up to him.
“Talk to me, Nicky!” she said calmly.
“About what?” he shrugged, with the emotion showing in his voice.
“About how you are feeling? About what you are gonna do. About anything!” she smiled, putting a hand on his shoulder.
Nicky sighed and turned around. He wiped the next lot of tears that ran down his face and went to sit on the bed.
“I love her!” he squeaked, “I love her so much and I want her back in my life so much I can taste it. And just the thought of never seeing her again is killing me!”
“I assume we are talking about Mandy here!” she smiled.
“Of course. Who else would I be talking about?” he sighed.
Anna smiled, “Then fight for her, Nicky. You have to fight for her!”
“But she doesn’t want me. She told me!” he sniffed, “It’s no use!”
“Don’t give up on her, Nico!” she insisted, “I know she wants you back, but you have to regain her trust. She is hurting too, and she has been hurt too many times by married men!”
“But I am different! I will not hurt her again!” he argued.
“I know that. You know that. But she doesn’t! You have to make her believe you, Nicky. You have to. You make a great couple and it would be such a shame seeing that go to waste!” she smiled.
Nicky let out a little smile but soon it faded, “But with the tour already over, it is hardly likely I am gonna see her again. I mean, we are due to go back to Ireland the day after tomorrow. How the hell am I gonna see her again?”
“You can make it work if you really really want to, Nicky. Don’t you have vacation after the tour?” she asked.
Nicky nodded.
“Well then, stay here for a while longer and do your best to get her back!” she advised.
Nicky looked at her and shrugged, “I guess you might be right!”
Anna laughed, “I know I am right! Now you try. Try very hard to get her back coz you belong together. She loves you, Nicky. She really does. All she needs is to see it for herself! She just needs a bit of a nudge.”
Nicky nodded and Anna got up.
“Ok. I guess I’ll go now. We’ll be down at the bar in case you want to come, ok?” she smiled.
Nicky smiled and nodded. When Anna got back to the door he called her. Anna turned around and looked at him.
“Thanks!” he smiled.
Anna smiled and then walked out. Nicky grabbed his phone and started texting a message. Mandy was laying in bed when she heard the phone beeping. She picked it up and looked at the message. 

hi darling. Just a text to say goodnight and I really mean it when I say I love you. More than anything in the world and I am gonna do ANYTHING to get you back in my life again. I miss you and please know that I am not giving up on you. Love you too much to give you up, Nicky xxx 

Mandy let a tear escape from her eye and then turned around in bed. She turned the lights off and tried to fall asleep, as she kept replaying the conversation they had that evening, in her head.

Chapter Text

Mandy was at the theatre, backstage getting the kids ready for their first performance tonight. Everyone was a sack of nerves, running around and shouting. Mandy tried to keep the peace by collecting everyone together and giving them a good talking to. “Ok, everyone. I know you are all very nervous about tonight, but there is no need. I have every bit of faith in all of you, and I know you are all going to do great. Just keep your mind focused and you’ll be fine ok?” she smiled, looking at all of them in turn. Even the grown up actors were full of nerves. The stage coach came over to her in a panic.
“We have a problem!” she fretted.
Mandy looked at her with a look of confusion, “What’s wrong?”
“The queen is sick. She cannot make it! What are we going to do?” she panicked.
“Relax! Have we got the substitutes here?” she asked calmly.
The stagecoach shook her head, “Nope! She couldn’t make it!”
Mandy shook her head, “Looks like we have a huge problem then. Now what?” she asked, infuriated.
“We need to think of something and we need to think of something fast!” ranted the stagecoach.
“Yeah, Joy, but what?” she shrieked, sitting down and putting her hands on her head. “Well, you know the steps!” smiled Rosie sheepishly, “Couldn’t you do it?”
Mandy looked at her quickly. Then she saw the smile creeping up on Joy’s face. Mandy’s face paled.
“Oh no, no, no, no, no! That’s ridiculous! I can’t do it!” she laughed.
“Why not?” smiled Joy, “Rosie’s right! You know all the moves and the lines and everything! You’re our only hope!”
Mandy shook her head, “I cannot do it. Sorry guys, but you’re gonna have to find someone else, or try and convince the sub to do it!”
“The sub is ill too and cannot make it, Mandy. Please, you’re our only hope!” begged Joy.
“Sorry! I cannot go up there. I was not born to perform!” she argued.
“Oh well!” sighed Joy, “Looks like our first night in theatre is ruined. We’re just gonna have to cancel!” She looked at Mandy from the corner of her eyes, to see if she reacted in any way. Mandy sighed.
“I cannot go up there!” she mumbled.
“Why not? You’re a great dancer, Mandy!” chirped Rosie, “You remember what you told us! We’re all gonna do great and you have every bit of faith in us. Maybe you should have some faith in yourself!”
Mandy looked at her. She was rendered speechless, “How old are you again?”
“Nine!” grinned Rosie.
Mandy laughed, “Well, for a nine year old, you sure know how to talk your way round people!”
Rosie grinned, “Does that mean you’ll do it?”
Joy looked at her with a pleading look in her eyes and smiled.
Mandy sighed and got up, “Oh, ok then! But just tonight. Tomorrow you’re on your own!”
Rosie grinned and cuddled Mandy. Mandy laughed and looked at Joy.
“Thanks!” smiled Joy, “We owe you big time!”
“I’ll hold you to that!” she chuckled, walking off to calm the others down again. Mandy walked to the dressing room and got dressed as the queen. She came back out and was welcomed with a loud cheer. Mandy laughed.
“Thanks guys!” she grinned, as nerves set in. She remembered that Nicky and the other lads and girls were coming to see the show tonight. The thought of Nicky seeing her just unsettled her stomach. She sat down and took a few deep breaths. She jumped when she heard a knock on the door. Joy answered and saw a man holding a bouquet of the most gorgeous red roses she had ever seen.
“Delivery for Miss Mandy Adams?” he questioned.
Joy looked at Mandy and smiled, “Well, aren’t you the lucky one?”
Mandy smiled and walked up to the door. She grabbed her flowers, thanked the guy and then sat back down on the chair. She grabbed the note that was with it and read it. 

12 red roses for a gorgeous lady! Good luck tonight. I am sure your talents will be demonstrated through these kids. Looking forward to seeing your work. I know it will be great. Love you, N xxx

Mandy sighed and put the roses in some water. She counted them, only to find that there were only eleven instead of twelve. She looked confused for a while and then shrugged, putting it down to the florist miscounting them. She sat down on the chair, feeling the thousands of butterflies in her stomach. She looked at the time. Five minutes to start. Joy was already making her way to the side of the stage to introduce the show. She walked to Mandy and smiled.
“Good luck tonight!” she whispered.
Mandy smiled and nodded. Soon, she heard Joy’s voice introducing the show. The lads and girls were already sitting on their seats at the front. Mandy peeped through the curtains and saw Nicky sitting there, fanning himself with the program. She sighed and walked back in.
“I can’t do this! I feel sick.” she whispered to herself. Rosie heard her.
“Mandy! You can!” she reminded her. Mandy looked at her and smiled.
“You know, for a nine year old, you’re extremely nosy!” she grinned.
Rosie smiled and shrugged. Mandy looked at the stage when she heard everyone clapping. Joy continued talking.
“And tonight, due to illness, the part of Sian Roberts has been replaced by the wonderful choreographer of this show, Mandy Adams! She will play the part of the queen. Hope you enjoy yourself tonight!” grinned Joy. She bowed when she heard everyone applauding and then took her way back to the entrance of the stage.
“Show them what you’re made of!” she whispered to Mandy. 

“She is gonna be in it?” shrieked Nicky, “Mandy is gonna perform?”
“Looks like it!” grinned Shane.
Kian sighed and shook his head. Nicky looked at him, “Problem?”
Kian looked at Nicky and shrugged, “Might have!”
Angie nudged him, warning him not to start now. Nicky pushed himself up to look at Kian closely.
“Now you listen here, and you listen well Kian! I know you hate the fact that I have broken up with Kris, but I do have my reasons!” he growled.
“Yeah and your reason is up there on stage!” he hissed.
Nicky shook his head, “Maybe you should have a good long talk with your cousin, mate, and find out why I have left her!”
Kian shook his head, “I know the reason!”
“Oh, so you know what she did?” he questioned.
Kian shook his head, “No, mate! I know what YOU did!!!”
“Me?” he shrieked. Soon everyone hushed him. He looked around and lowered his tone.
“Yeah. You left her to be with Mandy, and now she doesn’t want you back, so who’s laughing now?” he grinned.
Nicky’s face was like thunder, but the lights had dimmed and everyone went quiet. “We’ll continue with this later!” he hissed softly.
Kian just shrugged and held onto Angie’s hand. Angie pulled her hand away angrily and rested them on her lap. Kian just sighed, got up and headed to the bar.

When the show was over, the whole cast went to the front of the stage and bowed as everyone cheered. Mandy looked at the front row, to see her friends all clapping wildly with big grins on their faces. They cheered, whistled and clapped loudly. She then looked at Nicky, who demonstrated pride in his eyes. He smiled at her and continued clapping. He gave her a sly wink and smiled again. Mandy slowly diverted her eyes to the rest of the audience. Soon after they went backstage again.
“That was amazing!” grinned Joy, getting ready to go back out, “You all did really well there!”
Mandy smiled and went to her dressing room to get out of her clothes. She leaned her head back and thought of Nicky. How he was supporting her just by being in the audience. How he had sent her the roses, even though there was a rose missing. And how the pride reflected in his eyes. 

Chapter Text

Mandy was backstage, reading through the note Nicky had given her with the roses. She sighed and rubbed her hands over her face, when she heard a knock on the door. She saw the door opening and Joy poking her head inside, smiling at her, “Some friends here to see ya, hun!”
Mandy nodded, “Thanks, Joy!”
Joy smiled and turned to close the door. Before she managed that, she opened the door again and grinned at Mandy. Mandy looked at her curiously.
“What’s wrong?” she asked.
“Just wanted to say…that blond mate of yours...Brian? WOW!” she gasped with a grin.
Mandy laughed and shook her head, “He’s also very taken!”
“I know!” she grinned, “But no harm in looking, is there?” she added with a wink before she closed the door for good, leaving Mandy giggling to herself.
Minutes later, everyone walked in. Everyone, that is, except Nicky.
“Hi!” smiled Mandy, looking at all of them.
“Well. You sure are a dark horse!” grinned Abeth, “Why didn’t you tell us you were gonna be in the musical?”
“Well, I didn’t know myself until about half an hour before the show!” she sighed, “Kinda got convinced to do it!” She further explained how the girl had got ill and the sub was ill too.
“You were amazing up there!” smiled Anna, “And the choreography was spectacular. Hats off to you, chick!”
“Thanks!” smiled Mandy, blushing with modesty.
“Nice flowers!” grinned Tracee, eyeing up the roses.
“Thanks!” sighed Mandy, “They’re from Nicky!”
“Wow!” grinned Angie, “So you’re back with him or what?”
Mandy shook her head, “Don’t get any ideas, Angie. He is still not in my good books! He hurt me far too much!”
Kian looked at her, pulled a face and looked away again.
“What are you pulling that face for?” confronted Mandy, “You got a problem with me? If so, just tell me instead of pulling pathetic daft faces like that. Makes you look like an idiot!”
Kian just huffed and looked away, making Mandy angrier by the second.
“Now you listen here, Kian, and listen good, coz it is the last time I am actually gonna say this. What I did may have been wrong! I admit that! But what Kris did was not much better, leading us all on like that. Or could it be that you took a role in her little schemes? Huh?” she growled.
“What do you mean by that?” he asked, looking at her quickly.
“Well, whose idea was it to use those pathetic lies to get Nicky back, huh? Yours or hers? Or did you both come up with that plan together!” she continued.
“I have no idea what you are on about!” he huffed.
“Sure you don’t! That’s why you cannot even look at me!” smirked Mandy.
Kian sighed and got closer to her, looking deep into her eyes, “Mandy. I seriously have not got a clue what you are going on about. If I did I would openly admit it! Now please enlighten me on the subject!”
Mandy stared at him for a few seconds before she shook her head, “It is not my place to say anything. You wanna know, then you’d better go and talk to that cousin of yours. Or ask Nicky. I am sure he will only be too happy to inform you!”
“Well, if he was here I would ask him, so I guess you will have to tell me!” he smirked.
Mandy shook her head, “I am not getting involved! Where is Nicky, by the way? I saw him in the audience. Did he not have the guts to face me, or what?”
“He went for a drink!” explained Shane, “Said he would be round in a bit!”
“Pah, typical him!” mumbled Mandy, “Probably chatting up anything with a skirt!” Everyone gave each other a look and smiled, “Think it is more for Dutch courage actually hun!” smiled Anna.
“Whatever!” muttered Mandy.
Just then, there was a knock on the door. In came a shocked looking Joy. She was totally speechless.
“Joy? What’s wrong? Looks like you have seen a ghost!” gasped Mandy.
Joy looked at her and smiled, “You remember what I said about Brian before? Well scrap that. Nicky…..WOOOOOOOOW! And you are rejecting him???”
Mandy giggled and looked at Brian who just grinned, totally bemused by that.
“I am deeply offended by that. Byrne? Sexier than me? No way!” he grinned.
Joy leaned her head in and saw Brian standing there, arms folded and one leg crossed over the other one with a big grin on his face. She blushed a deep shade of crimson and looked at Mandy, who just laughed, “Don’t worry Joy. He is just winding you up. Send Nicky in!”
Joy nodded and quickly turned to walk away. As she walked past Mandy, she leaned in closer to her, “If you don’t take him, then I will!” she whispered cheekily.
Mandy just laughed, “Be my guest!”
Joy smiled, shaking her head as she vacated the dressing room.
Anna sighed and looked at the time on her watch, “Well, we’d better get going!” she smiled, grabbing mark’s hand.
“Oh, you don’t have to!” frowned Mandy, not wanting to be left alone with Nicky.
“Yes we do!” grinned Tracee, “You and Nicky have got a lot to talk about!”
“I’ve already said everything I needed to say to him!” growled Mandy
“Sure you have!” winked Abeth.
Mandy rolled her eyes and watched Nicky coming towards her. He got closer to her and kissed her cheek, “You were great up there!”
Mandy took a whiff of his Creed Aventus cologne and closed her eyes, trying to resist kissing him there and then, “Thank you!” she whispered, without looking at him.
“Ok! We’re off now, Mandz! I’ll give you a call before we go back to Ireland!” smiled Anna.
Mandy frowned and nodded, knowing that Nicky would be leaving in two days time also.
“Actually, why don’t we arrange to go out tonight?” suggested Mark, “As a farewell do!”
“Ooh, I do like that idea, Mark!” smiled Brian, as he looked at Mandy, “You up for it?”
Mandy scrunched her face and shook her head, “Oh, I don’t know, guys! I am tired and I need to go and talk to some people about a job in the morning!”
“Oh rubbish! We’ll pick you up at nine!” ordered Tracee, not taking no for an answer.
Mandy looked around at all the others. Then she looked at Nicky who had his head bowed down. Anna looked at her and raised her eyebrows as she grinned. Mandy just sighed, “Well, looks like I have no choice then!”
“Absolutely not. God knows when we’ll see you again!” frowned Anna, “So you’re coming whether you like it or not!”
Just as they were about to walk out, Kian got closer to Nicky, “We need to talk!” he grunted. Nicky just nodded and sat down as the others walked away.
“I see you got the roses!” he smiled, eyeing them up.
“Yeah, thanks!” shrugged Mandy, “They are lovely.”
“Glad you liked them. Though to be honest, half expected them to be chucked away in the bin or something!” he smiled weakly.
“Well, you know me! Never turn flowers down, no matter who they are from! Though, I think you or the florist needs to learn to count!” she muttered.
“What do you mean by that?” he asked, looking confused.
“Well, count them!” she sighed.
Nicky got up and walked closer to the roses, where he counted them one by one, “There’s eleven!” he said, turning round to look at her.
Mandy nodded, “Note said twelve red roses though!”
Nicky pulled a face, “I specifically ordered twelve. What’s wrong with these people?” Mandy just shrugged.
“I really did order twelve though, babe! Sorry about that!” he apologised.
Mandy shrugged again, “Not bothered!”
“Oh!” answered Nicky, trying not to grin and getting closer to her, “Well, I take it you don’t want this one then!” he smiled, producing a rose from behind his back.
Mandy looked at the rose and then at him, “What is it you want, Nicky?” she sighed, getting more and more tired.
“You know what I want?” he smiled, gently caressing her cheek.
Mandy noticed his eyes twinkling and she had to try very hard not to portray on her face what his touch was doing to her. She pulled away from him, grabbing the rose and placing it in the vase with the others, “We’ve already discussed this, Nicky and I have not changed my mind!”
“Oh, come on, Mandz! We are good together and you know it!” he argued, sitting down again.
“I said no, Nicky!” she said, firmly raising her voice.
Nicky gave her a hurt look, “Why are you trying to punish me, babe?” he sighed, “I was doing what I thought was right in that given situation! Can’t you understand that?” he asked furiously.
“I am not trying to punish you, Nicky. Not at all!” she sighed, “I am just saving myself from any more unnecessary heartache!”
“Heartache? What heartache? I won’t break your heart again, darling!” he sighed, getting up and pacing around the room.
“That’s what you said last time, and look what happened?” she frowned, resting her head on her hands.
“Well, it’s different now. I am getting divorced babe!” he smiled softly.
“Yeah, and what excuse will Kris give next to get you back, eh? I mean., she has already used the ‘I’m pregnant’ card. What will it be next? The ‘I’m terminally ill’ card? And you’ll go running back to her? Just like you did last time?”
Nicky walked up to her and cupped her face with his warm hands, “Now you listen to me, sweetheart! Last time it was a mistake. One that I fell for. I know better now. I know what she is capable of, and I will never EVER go running back to her again. Ever!” he whispered, softly kissing her lips, “I promise!” he whispered.
Mandy could feel herself giving into him, and was about to kiss him back, when a flashback of the pain she went through when she lost him brought her back to her senses and made her pull away.
“No, Nicky. I am sorry, but I cannot put myself through all that again. I WON’T put myself through that again. I do care a lot about you, but I have to think about myself, for once in my life!” she frowned heavily.
Nicky sighed and slapped his hands to his side, “Fine! Have it your way!” he grumbled, “You just be selfish!”
“Nicky, don’t be like that, please!” she cried.
“Well, how do you expect me to be? Happy that I cannot have you back in my life? You tell me, Mandy. You tell me how I should feel, coz all I feel right now is anger. Anger that one stupid woman had to destroy the one good thing that I had!” he shouted, walking furiously up and down the room.
“Just respect my decision, Nicky. Just like I respected yours!” she sobbed.
“Respect your decision?” he roared, “How the hell can I respect your decision when it is the wrong one?”
“Can’t we at least be friends?” she squeaked, amidst her tears.
Nicky shook his head and swallowed hard, trying to get rid of the lump in his throat, “I cannot stay friends with someone I have huge feelings for. You should know that, given the way I treated you at the beginning when you thought I hated you!”
Mandy looked at him and then looked down, “Then I’m sorry!”
Nicky looked at her for a while and put his hands on his hips. He sighed and looked down, shaking his head, “So I guess this is it then!” he said, as his voice broke.
“I guess so!” she whispered as tears filled her eyes.
Nicky bit his lip and nodded. He then grabbed his denim jacket and tearfully walked out, slamming the door behind him. Mandy sat down, bringing her hands to her face and sobbed uncontrollably. 

Chapter Text

Nicky walked into the hotel, still wiping his puffy red eyes every now and then. As he walked along his corridor to go to his room, he bumped into Kian.
“Nicky! Can we talk?” he sighed.
“Not now, Kian!” he answered, walking past him without looking at him.
“It’s important. There’s just something I need to know!” he insisted, following him to the door.
Nicky opened his door and wiped his eyes, “I said not now, ok???” he shouted, slamming the door behind him.
Kian stayed there on his spot, looking at the closed door. He shrugged and walked back to his room.
Nicky looked at his room. Soon, sadness was replaced by anger. Angry that he could not have the girl he wanted. Angry that he let this wonderful girl slip through his fingers. Angry that he had let himself be fooled to leave her. He let out a loud scream and pushed everything off the table. The ashtray shattered into a zillion tiny pieces, and the fruit bowl broke in quarters, making all the fruit inside roll all over the floor. Next, he flung the chairs from one side of the room to the other. He picked up one of the apples and smashed it against the wall. The picture frames came tumbling down, shattering the glass into a zillion pieces. When his rage was over, he sat on the bed, panting heavily and looked at his surroundings. That’s when he collapsed on the bed, where he let his anger out again, this time by crying against the pillow. 

Mandy walked out of her dressing room and was met by Joy. She noticed her puffy red eyes.
“Awww hun! Are you ok?” she asked sympathetically.
“I’ve just told him it’s over!” she sniffed into a tissue, “And we cannot even be friends!”
Joy sighed and shook her head, “Mandy, Mandy, Mandy! Why on earth did you do that?”
“I just can’t get back together with him, Joy. I cannot do it. He really broke my heart. He has already proven to me what I suspected all along. That he would never completely leave his wife. She will always be there. It’s far too complicated, I cannot handle it. I cannot go back to that stabbing pain in my heart anymore. I can’t!” she sobbed.
“Do you love him?” asked Joy, calmly.
Mandy cried and nodded, “More than anything in the world. I want him so much, but I just can’t…”
Joy sighed and hugged her, “Want my advice?”
Mandy pulled away and wiped her eyes, “Need as much advice as I can get at the moment!”
“I think you should wait a while, get your head sorted out and then come to a decision. You sound really confused and you really need to clear your head!” she smiled.
Mandy bit her lip and nodded, “You’re probably right!”
“You just need some space to think. Take some time off. Go on a holiday break. Give yourself some ‘me’ time and collect your thoughts. You’ll be able to think straight in a stress free environment.” Smiled Joy.
“Yeah!” smiled Mandy, “Well, anyway. I’d better go now. Have to go out tonight with the gang. They’re leaving in 2 days time!”
Joy smiled and nodded, “Ok hun. Have fun!”
Mandy smiled and nodded, “Thanks. And thank you for the advice. I needed that!” Meanwhile, back at the hotel. Nicky was sitting on his bed, staring at nothing, when there was a knock on the door. Nicky looked at the door but decided on ignoring it. There was another knock.
“Go away!” he shouted.
“Nicky! Are you ok?” shouted Shane.
“I said go away. Leave me alone!” he raised his voice, throwing the first thing he could get hold of at the door. Shane and Tracee jumped when they heard the bang of the magazine hitting the door.
“I am not going anywhere until you open this door, now open up!” yelled Shane stubbornly.
With a loud moan, and talking to himself, Nicky got out of his bed, unlocked the door and walked back to the bed, throwing himself on it. Shane and Tracee walked in, shocked by the state of the room, “What happened in here?” he asked.
Nicky simply shrugged, “Stress relief!” he answered, turning his head to look out the window.
Shane sighed and started picking up the pieces of shattered glass from the floor. Nicky looked at him briefly and then looked away again, “Don’t bother. I’ll clean it up later!”
“Nicky, you could cut your foot with all this glass lying around. And if the hotel manager catches sight of this, you will have to pay a fortune.” He said, still picking up the pieces.
“I said leave it!” growled Nicky.
Shane stopped what he was doing, but stayed crouching down. He slowly got up again, “What’s got into you, man?”
Nicky just shrugged.
“Is it Mandy?” asked Tracee calmly, giving him a sympathetic look.
“She doesn’t want me anymore. It’s definitely over. No chance of getting back together. We’re history!” he frowned.
“Oh Nicky!” sighed Tracee, hugging him. Nicky cried into her shoulder, “She doesn’t mean it! She’s just scared of getting hurt again, but she does want you!” Tracee soothed.
Nicky shook his head, “No she doesn’t! If she did, we would be together now!”
“Give her time, Nico! She’ll come round eventually, you’ll see!” smiled Tracee.
“When??? We’re off day after tomorrow!” he argued.
“Nicky. When she’s ready she’ll come round. She is very confused at the moment. But she’ll come round, no matter where you are. She loves you. Maybe tonight will be the night!” smiled Shane.
Nicky shook his head adamantly, “I ain’t going!”
“Oh nonsense! Of course you are coming! Don’t be an idiot!” smiled Tracee.
“I can’t go!” he frowned, “I can’t see her. It’s too painful!”
“Come on, Nicky! You won’t see her again after tomorrow!” sighed Shane.
“Maybe it’s for the best!” shrugged Nicky, “Maybe it is just meant to be this way!”
“Will you just listen to yourself?” shrieked Tracee, “You are so coming out tonight… whether you like it or not!”
Nicky looked at Shane, who smirked at him, “The voice has spoken, mate!”
Nicky smiled lightly, “Really, guys. I appreciate what you are trying to do, but I am not coming and that is that!”
Tracee sighed, “well, you know where we are if you change your mind!”
Nicky nodded, “Thanks.”
“Ok! We’d better go now. We need to get dressed. Need a hand with cleaning this mess up?” asked Shane.
Nicky shook his head, “Nah, I’ll do it. I’ll be alright. It will keep me busy and it will make me forget things for a while!”
“Ok then, mate! You call us if you need anything, ok?” smiled Shane.
Nicky nodded and walked them to the door. When they left, he sighed, turned around and set about tidying up the mess he had created earlier on.

Later on that evening, everyone was dressed and ready to go. Brian knocked on Nicky’s door. Judging by the way he was dressed, with his grey tracksuit bottoms and a creased up Adidas t-shirt, he was definitely not joining them. Brian looked him up and down, “Bit underdressed, aren’t you?” He grinned.
Nicky sighed and just stared at him.
 “So you’re really not coming then?” Brian sighed.
Nicky shook his head with a sad look in his eyes.
“Well, if you change your mind, you know where we are!” he smiled.
Nicky smiled and nodded. At that moment, Kian and Angie joined him.
“Nicky. I really need to speak to you, man!” sighed Kian, sick of trying.
“Ok!” sighed Nicky, “Come on in!”
Kian turned around and looked at Brian, “You guys go ahead. I’ll see you at the club!”
Brian nodded and walked off. Kian walked inside and sat on the bed, looking at Nicky. Nicky closed the door, sighed and sat on the bed, “Kian! I don’t wanna argue, ok? I am tired and really not in the mood!”
Kian shook his head, “I just wanna know what’s going on!”
“You haven’t talked to Kris?” he asked.
Kian shook his head, “Not since yesterday! She told me you two have split up again. I wanna know why. She has just lost your child, Nicky, in case you didn’t already know!” Nicky looked at him and laughed, making Kian seethe.
“What’s so funny?” he growled.
Nicky chuckled and shook his head, “She really hasn’t told you, then?”
“Told me what?” asked Kian, exasperatedly.
Nicky shook his head, “I am sure you don’t wanna hear this, mate!”
“Just tell me, Nicky!” sighed Kian, “I can take it!”
“Well. Your oh so wonderful moralistic cousin sure had everyone going when she said she was pregnant. She certainly had me fooled.” He hissed.
“What’s that supposed to mean?” asked Kian, confused.
“Why don’t you ask her?” smirked Nicky.
“I am asking you!” he snapped, “Now tell me!”
“She was never pregnant, Kian. It was all just a scam to get me to leave Mandy and go back to her. She was never having my baby! She was not having anyone’s baby. She was not pregnant!” he sighed.
“What?” shrieked Kian. Angie looked at him in shock.
“Yep. Exactly what you heard!” shrugged Nicky.
“That can’t be right? What about the scans she showed me? And the baby clothes she’s bought?” he gasped.
“The scan picture belonged to her friend. She amended the names on computer. As for the clothes? No offence to you, mate, I know she is your cousin and everything, but she is mad. She has lost the plot. She is one sandwich short of a picnic. Dunno what she is doing with those clothes!” shrugged Nicky.
“I don’t believe it!” whispered Angie.
“Now excuse me for being pissed off here and for not wanting to be back with her, but she has caused me to lose the girl I love. I am now divorcing Kris!” he snarled. Kian just looked at him and blinked, “Oh my god!”
“Yeah. Not such a wonderful sweet person now, is she?” smirked Nicky.
Kian got up and opened the door, “I need to go and talk to her!” 

Chapter Text

Nicky slouched on his bed, flicking through all the TV channels. Not finding anything remotely interesting, he turned the TV off in a huff and threw the remote on the bed, letting out a heavy sigh. He looked around the room, with his hands behind his head, wondering what to do next. He did not want to go to sleep, but he had nothing to do. His mind started to wander and thoughts of Mandy popped to his head. He thought about how he wouldn’t see her again after tomorrow. That very thought scared him half to death. He rubbed his eyes and jumped out of bed, heading for a shower. When he was done, he got dressed, threw on some Creed Aventus cologne and headed out of the hotel. 

Everyone except Kian and Angie were at the club. They were all sitting round the table, chatting and drinking. Mandy sighed and downed her drink down.
Anna looked at her, “Are you ok, hun?”
Mandy looked at her and smiled, “Yeah. I’m fine thanks!”
Anna gave her a sympathetic smile, “Missing him, huh?”
“Who?” asked Mandy.
Anna gave her a look.
Mandy frowned and bowed her head down, “I just don’t know what I feel anymore. I want him, but I don’t want him. The thought of him leaving and not seeing him again is killing me though!”
Anna was about to say something, when she spotted Nicky walking through the doorway. He stopped and looked around, trying to find everyone. Anna grinned and sipped her drink.
“Looks like your prayers have been answered!”
Mandy gave her confused looks. Anna nudged her head towards the door, making Mandy look. There he was, looking as sexy as ever. She swallowed hard and tried to breathe. He was wearing the clothes she had always loved him in. Black trousers, black shirt, with the top three buttons undone and a white tie, hanging loosely down the collar. He finally saw everyone and walked towards them.
“Oh god, he looks so good!” she mumbled.
Anna giggled and moved along the seat, giving Nicky some space to sit. Naturally beside Mandy.
“Hey!” he smiled, taking his seat.
“Nicky! You decided to come then!” smiled Brian, “Good on ya!”
“No actually, I am back in my room!” sighed Nicky, rolling his eyes.
Brian shook his head, “I can see your mood has not affected your sarcasm!”
Nicky grinned and shook his head, “Anyway. I was bored and there was nothing on telly!”
“Well, I am glad you came. At least we are all here now!” smiled Tracee.
“Erm, everyone?” questioned Mandy, looking around, “Where’s Kian and Angie?”
“He has probably gone to see Kris!” answered Nicky with an uninterested shrug. Everyone accepted this and started chatting among themselves. Mandy kept herself to herself.
“Are you ok?” asked Nicky, looking at her.
Mandy looked at him, and tried not to let her eyes give away how much she really wanted him. She just nodded and got up, “I need a drink!” she sighed.
Abeth stood up and offered to go with her. When they reached the bar, she decided to approach her, “Why don’t you get back with him already? It is obvious you both want each other, badly!”
Mandy shook her head, “I am not going over this again, ok?”
“But he wants you so much!” she whined.
“I know, and I want him too, Abs, but I am not prepared to get hurt again. Just like last time. I won’t do it!” she argued, “discussion over!”
Abeth shook her head, “I give up!”
“Good!” smiled Mandy, “Maybe now everyone will stop sending me on these guilt trips and stop making me feel like I am the bad one here!”
“We know you are not the bad one, hun. We can just see how much you are both suffering when really there is no need!” she explained.
“Yeah, well. Life is all about sacrifices. Sometimes you have to sacrifice the things you love just to be happy! Life really is not that kind!” sighed Mandy, taking her drink and walking back to the table. As she was walking back, she saw Kian and Angie storming over to the table.
“Oh goody. As if tonight was not awkward enough, Kian comes in in a bad mood. Fantastic!” she sighed sarcastically.
Abeth laughed and patted her back, “Just take it easy and don’t let him get to you ok?”
Kian stood by the table looking at Nicky, “Ah Nicky. Good you are here. We need to talk…urgently!”
Nicky sighed and put his drink down, “Look, Kian! I only came here for a nice relaxing drink! I don’t wanna argue anymore. I am tired of arguing!”
“I just need to talk to you, Nicky. I also need to speak to Mandy. Where is she? I thought she came!” he asked, looking around.
“She did, and she is here!” answered Mandy from behind him.
“Ok, can we go outside where it is quieter? There’s one or two things I have to say!” he sighed.
Mandy looked at Angie. Angie smiled and nodded at her.
Nicky got up and led the way, followed by Mandy and Kian. Nicky sat on the wall and Mandy stayed standing up next to Kian. Kian bit his nails nervously.
“Ok Egan. Out with it!” sighed Nicky.
“I’ve just been to see Kris. She basically confirmed what you said!” he explained.
“Ah, so you obviously didn’t trust me enough, you had to go and find out from the horse’s mouth!” grumbled Nicky. Mandy snorted quietly at his choice of words but soon stopped when Kian gave her a look. Nicky smiled knowing he had made Mandy laugh.
“Nicky. I don’t wanna argue about this, ok?” sighed Kian, putting his hands on his hips.
“Makes a change!” mumbled Mandy. Nicky looked at her and smiled slightly, unnoticed by Mandy.
“I just cannot believe she would do that!” moaned Kian, ignoring Mandy’s comment. “Well she did!” shrugged Nicky, jumping off the wall and standing up, “Now is that all you wanted to say? I am wasting valuable drinking time here!”
“Sit down Nicky. I am not finished!” sighed Kian.
Nicky sat down and looked at Kian as he folded his arms.
“What you did…what you BOTH did was wrong. I stand my ground on that one…” he started. Mandy rolled her eyes and sighed loudly. Kian looked at her.
“But she’s my cousin and I have always felt protective of her” he explained.
“Fair enough!” shrugged Nicky.
“But…” continued Kian, raising Mandy’s interests, “I still cannot believe she would go to those lengths to get you back.”
“You mean you were not involved in that little getting back together scheme?” grumbled Mandy.
Kian looked quickly at her, “You thought I was involved?” he gasped.
“Well, I wouldn’t put it past you. You were so against us being together!” shrugged Mandy.
“I don’t work that way, Mandy. I have always believed that what goes around comes around. Now as I was saying, what she did was wrong too. I never knew she had it in her to do that!” he continued.
“Yeah well, she surprised us all!” commented Nicky.
“I have had words with her. Now, I may be protective of her, but I am also man enough to admit when I am wrong. I see you have no love for Kris anymore, especially now, after what she has done. And I can put my hand on my heart and say I don’t blame you for wanting out. If Angie ever did that to me, I know I wouldn’t ever go back to her.” He sighed.
Mandy and Nicky exchanged looks and then looked back at Kian as he continued.
“I can also see how much you both love each other and how miserable you have been apart, and still are!” he smiled.
Mandy bowed her head down as Nicky nodded.
“I know I have not exactly made it easy for you both!” reasoned Kian, “And I just wanna say…I’m sorry, ok? I have been a jerk around you both and I have not been very fair. I just hope you will both find it in your heart to forgive me for the way I have acted!”
Mandy and Nicky stared at him incase he was going to continue. Kian looked at them and smiled sheepishly, “That’s is all!”
Mandy sighed and nodded, “Ok. Apology accepted, Kian. But you should know, Nicky and I are not together anymore, nor will we be. Too much has happened. I cannot put myself through that again!”
Kian looked at Nicky and saw the sad look in his eyes.
“Why not?” he asked.
“I have explained to Nicky why not. I do not have to and do not want to explain myself again!” she shrugged, “Now thank you for your apology. It was very good and decent of you to explain yourself and I appreciate it. I am going inside now!”
With that, she flicked her hair and slowly made her way back inside. Kian looked at Nicky, “Is she being serious?” he shrieked.
Nicky frowned and nodded, “Yep. It’s all over between us. For good!” 

Chapter Text

On the way back to the table, Mandy bought herself a drink. She sat down and downed her drink in one.
“Everything ok, hun?” asked Angie, noticing Mandy in one of her moods.
“Yeah!” she sighed, “Kian has just apologised!”
Angie smiled, “Oh good. I heard what Kris did. Kian had a right go at her!”
Mandy simply shrugged, “Yeah well. It’s a bit too late for all that now isn’t it?”
Angie’s face fell, “Course it’s not. You can still get back together!”
Mandy sighed loudly, “Oh for the love of god. I wish everyone would stop saying that. For the last time, No we cannot get back together. I am not his back up for when things go wrong for him, and I refuse to let myself be used like that. Now me and my drinks are gonna go over there where I can have some peace and quiet and I won’t have to see HIM all night! Goodbye!” 

With that, she picked up her two drinks and headed off to the bar.
Angie stared at her in shock as she was speaking, but grabbed her arm before she walked off. Mandy turned around and looked at her. Angie saw the unshed tears in her eyes, “I’m sorry, ok? I’ll…I mean… we’ll stop talking about him if it makes you feel uncomfortable!”
Mandy relaxed a bit, feeling bad for snapping at her, when she was only trying to help, “No. I am sorry. I shouldn’t have snapped at you like that. It’s just that my head is really messed up at the moment and I don’t know what I want or what I am supposed to do. And everyone going on about how me and Nicky should be together is really not helping!”
Angie smiled, “I can understand that. We’ll stop, alright?”
Mandy smiled and sat back down, “Thanks!”
Kian came back and sat beside Mandy. Nicky stayed at the bar.
“Mandz, about you and Nicky…” he started.
Mandy sighed and let her head drop on the table. Kian looked at Angie, who just shook her head. He gave her confused looks and Angie told him she would tell him later. Kian nodded and shrugged and started talking to Shane. Mandy looked up. Angie smiled at her.
“Thanks!” smiled Mandy.
“Kian. Why don’t you go and get us some drinks? I’ll go and help you!” smiled Angie.
Kian nodded and took down everyone’s orders before walking to the bar with Angie. “What was that all about?” he asked.
“Mandy just doesn’t wanna hear about Nicky anymore. Her mind is made up, so she says. She is just really confused, Kian, and she just doesn’t know what she wants!” she explained.
Kian smiled and nodded.
“On a different note, I am very proud of you for apologising to them both. I can imagine how hard that must have been!” she smiled, rubbing his back and then flinging her arms around his neck.
Kian grinned and gave her a quick peck on the lips, “Well, when I am wrong, I admit I am wrong!” he slipped his arms around her tiny waist.
“I am glad you all made up, though!” she grinned happily, “I hated all that tension between you and Nicky and Mandy!”
“It must have been very hard for you too. I’m sorry, love!” he smiled as he rubbed his nose against her nose.
Angie smiled and kissed him softly, intensifying by the second. They were soon interrupted by the bar maid, waiting to take their order.
As they waited for their drinks to come, Kian looked around the bar. He soon spotted Nicky, sitting there, talking to some blonde.
“Who is Nicky talking to?” he asked Angie.
Angie stood on her tiptoes to have a look. She squinted slightly and gasped, “Isn’t that Joy?”
“Joy? Remind me who she is again?” asked Kian, scratching his head.
“Joy! She was involved in the kids musical Mandy is doing!” smiled Angie, “She is the acting coach! I am sure that is her!”
“You’re right! It is! What is Nicky doing talking to her? And by the looks on his face and hers, the chit chat they are having is not all innocent!” he added, “I can see a lot of flirting going on!”
“I was thinking the exact same thing!” sighed Angie, “What is he up to? I thought he wanted Mandy back!”
Kian nodded, “You stay here and wait for the drinks. I’ll be right back!”
He walked around until he got to Nicky, dodging everyone along the way. Nicky stopped talking when he saw Kian standing there.
“Hey Kino!” he smiled, “You remember Joy, from the musical Mandy is doing, right?”
Kian smiled at her and nodded. Then he looked at Nicky, “Can I talk to you a sec alone, please?”
Nicky laughed, “God I am popular with you tonight. 2 words in one evening!”
Kian just looked at him. Joy smiled and got the hint, “I’ll just pop off to the loos!” she smiled, jumping off her stool. Nicky looked at her and smiled. Then he looked at Kian, “Ok Kino. What’s up. Make it quick, I am a very busy man!”
“I can see that!” sighed Kian.
Nicky looked at him, “Is there anything wrong?”
“Well, I was about to ask you the same thing!” answered Kian.
“Nothing wrong with me. I was just sitting here talking to Joy until you came along!” he shrugged.
“What are you doing, Nicky?” he sighed.
“As I said, I was just having a nice conversation with Joy!” answered Nicky, “Why?” “What about Mandy?”
“What about her?” shrugged Nicky, “She has made it clear enough that she doesn’t want me back. I am just getting on with my life, the way everyone is telling me to!”
“And you believe she doesn’t want you back, do you? You really believe that?” shrieked Kian, “What are you like? Just come and sit with us and try and get her back. Aren’t you at least gonna fight for her?”
“I am through with fighting, Kian. It is getting me nowhere except horny and lonely.” He sighed.
“But you do want her back!” checked Kian.
“You know I do, but it’s like fighting a losing battle. Her mind is made up, there is nothing I can do. So therefore I am just gonna enjoy my single life and flirt around and chat up anyone I want to. Joy is my target so thank you, but I’m ok. Really!” he smiled.
“Just listen to yourself, will you? Mandy needs convincing that you are reliable and serious enough to fight for her. She needs to see that you do really want her back and that you won’t just go running away when there are problems and that you would do anything to get her. You would go to great lengths just to have her back in your arms. That is not the message you are putting across to her, man! In fact, you are just proving her point, that you cannot be trusted!” he scolded.
Nicky looked at him in a hostile way, “What are you, my dating agent or something? First you ban me from being with Mandy and make my life hell in the process and now I give up on her and you still make my life hell. I cannot win!” he shrieked.
“You know why I made your life hell!” shouted Kian, “I have no problem with Mandy, and you know that. I do like her. I think she’s great. What I do have a problem with is seeing how crazy you both are about each other and you giving up on her, making you the biggest jerk in history! You are making the biggest mistake of your life, Nicky!”
“Maybe, but it is my life. My life! Not yours. MINE. Now, I like Joy. She’s great. If Mandy is too stubborn to take me back, then I am gonna be too stubborn to fight! I am gonna stick with Joy. She seems decent enough. Even if it is for one night. Now thanks for your advice Kian, but you are wasting your time…And Angie needs your help!!” he huffed.
Kian shook his head, “Don’t say I didn’t warn you!”
“I won’t!” sneered Nicky, “Believe me!”
Kian shrugged and walked away. He went to Angie and grabbed a few glasses, “There is just no talking him round.”

Joy sat back down on her seat.
“I’m sorry about him!” smiled Nicky, “He’s just got a bee in his bonnet!”
Joy smiled, “No problem. So is it REALLY over between you and Mandy?”
“Yes!” he sighed, tired of being asked the same question time and time again, “But that’s where you come to cheer me up!”
“She thinks the world of you, you know?” she smiled.
Nicky looked at her, “Are you here to tell me what a mistake I am making aswell? Coz if you are, tell me now so I can go and chat someone else up!”
Joy looked at him in shock, “Sorry. I was just telling you how she felt. I just think you’re cute!” she blushed.
Nicky smiled and tucked a stray strand of blond hair behind her ears, “And I think YOU are cute!” He was getting drunk now and losing control of what he was saying. Joy looked at him nervously, “I think you should go and talk to her, you know?”
“Nah, I’d rather stay here and kiss ya instead!” he winked.
“What?” she gasped.
“You heard!” he whispered, leaning closer to her.
Joy saw his lips getting nearer to hers and she knew she shouldn’t have done it, but the truth was, she needed his lips on hers. After all, Mandy did say she didn’t want him back. Since she broke up with her boyfriend 3 months ago, Joy needed to feel wanted again. She closed her eyes and let her lips meet with Nicky’s. They stayed locked in that kiss for what seemed like an eternity.

Mandy was bored. She took another sip of her drink and looked around. Suddenly, something grabbed her attention. She put her glass down and let her jaw drop, “Oh my god!” she gasped.
Anna looked at her, “What’s up, hun?”
“Is that Nicky there snogging someone?” she shrieked, not making out who the girl was.
Anna looked at sighed, “Oh god!”
Mandy shook her head, “Well, he sure did move on fast!” she sulked.
“He’s just drunk, hun!” smiled Tracee, “Don’t put too much thought into it! I am sure he isn’t!”
Mandy swallowed hard and tried not to let it show how much this was affecting her.
“I am not bothered. After all, we are not together anymore. He can snog whoever he wants to. I am just a bit shocked by how quickly he is moving on.”
She saw them breaking away from the kiss and squinted to get a closer look of the girl. Her face dropped when she saw her.
“Is that Joy?” she shrieked loudly. 

Chapter Text

Nicky looked at Joy and smiled as he held her hands. He was really drunk by now, and not thinking straight at all.
“I want you!” he whispered.
“I beg your pardon?” gasped Joy.
Nicky smiled and winked at her, as he rubbed her cheek, “I said I want you, right here, right now!”
Joy looked around her uncomfortably, “Nicky, you’re drunk and Mandy is around. Kissing you in front of her is bad enough, but….oh my god!”
Nicky shrugged, “So what about Mandy? It’s not like we’re together or anything!”
Joy sighed, “Look, I don’t think it is such a good idea. I am off to the loo. I won’t be long!”
Nicky grabbed her hand before she left, “I have scared you off, haven’t I?” he sighed. Joy shook her head, “No you haven’t. I just don’t think it is a good idea, that’s all!”
Nicky shrugged, “You’re probably right. What was I thinking?”
Joy smiled and then went to the toilets. Nicky looked around him for a while and stopped looking when he caught sight of Mandy. She didn’t look like she was having a good time. In fact, she looked upset and bored. He sighed and gulped down some more of his vodka and diet coke. Ten minutes later, he realised that Joy was not back. “Great, she ditches me too!” he sighed, “What a night this has turned out to be!”
He got up and realised he was bursting for the loo. He went there and then came back out feeling refreshed. At the same time, Joy walked out of the ladies. Nicky smiled and grabbed her hand, “There you are. I was beginning to think you had disappeared on me!”
Joy smiled, “Sorry, there was a bit of a queue!”
Nicky bit his lip and looked into her eyes, “Is there still a queue?”
Joy grinned and shook her head, “Nah. Everyone’s disappeared funnily enough!”
Nicky let out a naughty grin and pushed her inside.
“Nicky, what are you doing?” she asked, putting her hands on his chest and pushing him away.
“Giving us some privacy!” he grinned.
Joy shook her head, “Nicky…” she started.
Nicky put his finger on her lip to stop her from talking, “Just shhhh!”
He pressed his mouth onto hers as he walked her backwards into the toilet. He closed the door and locked it. Joy looked at him as he grinned.
“Please. I just really need you at this very moment!” he pleaded.
“No Nicky. You need Mandy, not me! She is the one you love!” she sighed.
“Maybe!” he shrugged, “But at this very moment she doesn’t want me, and I want you!” Joy tried really hard to stop herself. But truth of the matter was she wanted this as much as he did. She knew it was just a one-night thing and it wouldn’t happen again, but she needed his hands all over her body. She surrendered herself to him and kissed him passionately. Nicky’s lips rubbed against her neck, making her squirm. His lips trailed down her chest and then back up again. His hands roamed up her legs, pulling her skirt up in the process. He then sat on the toilet and looked up at her as she bent down to kiss him more. Joy fiddled around with his trousers, unbuttoning his jeans, one button by one, until they were all done. That’s when she decided on taking matters further and finally got the satisfaction they both hungered for. 

Meanwhile, back at the table, everyone continued chatting, except for Mandy who chewed on her lips distractedly. Tracee looked at her.
“Wanna go home?” she asked.
Mandy smiled and shook her head, “Nah. I just wanna drink until I pass out!”
Tracee smiled and hugged her, “You’re coping really well, you know?”
Mandy laughed, “Here I am saying I wanna drink till I am unconscious, and you say I am coping well? Far from it babe!”
Tracee giggled, slightly tipsy by now, “Well, I think you are coping brilliantly. You don’t need him. Not if he is gonna be like that!”
“I am not bothered Tracee. Not at all. He can do what he wants!” she shrugged.
“Awwww both you and me know that’s not true!” she pouted.
Mandy sighed and got up, “I don’t need to hear this. I am going for a drink!”
Tracee shook her head and grabbed her hand, “I’m sorry. I’ll stop!”
Mandy smiled and shook her head, “It’s ok, but I really want another drink.” 

Joy and Nicky walked out of the toilets, feeling much better.
“Well, that was an experience!” she giggled, “One I will never forget, I can tell ya!” “Glad to be of service!” grinned Nicky.
Joy giggled, “I do have to go home now though!”
Nicky pouted, “Awww do you have to?”
“’Fraid so!” she sighed, “Got an early start tomorrow!”
Nicky smiled and kissed her lips softly, “Ok, you take care then!”
Joy smiled and nodded as they both walked outside. He waited with her until she got a taxi and then he walked back in. He walked to the table with a huge grin on his face. 

“You look like you’ve won a million pounds mate. What’s going on?” laughed Shane. Nicky shrugged and grinned, “Oh nothing. Just had some brilliant sex in the ladies toilets!”
“You what?” gasped a voice behind him. Nicky looked back and saw Mandy there with her mouth wide open.
“I just had se…” he started but stopped when Kian nudged him. Nicky looked at him, “What was that for?”
Mandy rolled her eyes and sat down, “To shut you up maybe?” she growled.
Nicky then looked at her, “You got a problem with me scoring with someone?”
Mandy shook her head as she sipped her drink, “Oh I don’t have a problem with that. I do have a problem with you using my work mate like that. That is my problem!”
“Using? Who says I am using her?” asked Nicky, matter of factly.
“Oh, so you are gonna see her again, then?” challenged Mandy, knowing fully well he wasn’t.
“Maybe!” he shrugged, “What’s it to you?”
“Oh rubbish” she growled, “You know as well as I do you will never see her again!” Nicky sighed and decided on ignoring her. Mandy pulled a face at him and drank her drink quickly. The slow music started coming on.
“Oh great. Just what I need, Depressing music!” she moaned.
Nicky looked at her, “Do you ever stop moaning?”
Mandy looked at him, “Do you ever stop being a twat?”
Nicky looked at her in amazement. In the background he heard Brian snorting with laughter. Nicky looked at him.
“Sorry ,mate!” chuckled Brian, “But you did have that one coming!”
Nicky sighed and looked at Mandy again, “Why are you being like this?”
“Like what?” she asked, “I was having a good time sitting here, until you came along!”
“Like hell, you were!” he chuckled, “I was watching you, and the look of boredom on your face was unreal!”
Mandy shrugged, “Yeah well. Maybe I just don’t like the music!”
“And maybe you are having second thoughts about us and want us back together but realise it is a bit too late!” he smirked, grabbing her hand.
Mandy looked at him and pulled her hand away, not believing he had actually said that, “Oh get over yourself, Nicky. You’re not god’s gift to women you know. Far from it!”
Nicky folded his arms, “OK. What is THAT supposed to mean?”
Mandy looked at him and looked away again, “Just leave me alone, Nicky!”
When she went to look at the others, she realised that they had all disappeared. She looked for them and found them dancing at the dance floor in their couples.
“Oh great. Leave me all alone with monkey boy here, why don’t you?” she shouted. Anna looked at her and laughed.
“Who are you calling Monkey boy?” he growled.
“You. Why? You got a problem with that, Monkey boy?” she smirked.
Nicky put his glass down and stared at her, “You know what your problem is? You want me so much that you can taste it! Stop fighting your feelings hun!”
“The only thing I am fighting is me leg from kicking you in the crown jewels! Now quit hassling me and leave me alone!” she hissed.
Nicky shook his head and looked away, “She wants me!” he grinned.
Mandy decided it was best to ignore him, or else he would continue with his snide comments all night.
“Oooh silence. That’s quite promising!” he grinned.
“Just shut up, Nicky!” she sighed.
Nicky looked at her and smiled a lop sided grin, “Do you have any idea how amazingly sexy you look when you are angry?”
Mandy looked at him, “Do you have any idea how ridiculously stupid you look when you are being a drunken arsehole? I tell ya, I got away from this easily.”
Nicky sighed and shook his head, “I have had enough of this.”
“Oh good. Maybe you will leave me alone then!” she smirked.
Nicky just rested back against the seat and downed the rest of his drink.
Everyone came back after dancing and grabbed their stuff, “Ok, we’re going home now. You coming?”
Mandy shook her head, “Nah. I think I’ll stay till the end! I really wanna drink some more!”
Anna looked at her, “Take it easy Mandz.”
“I’ll stay here and look after her!” grinned Nicky.
Mandy looked at him and swallowed her drink before she spoke, “Like hell you are! I don’t want you anywhere near me!”
Anna rolled her eyes, “Just be careful, ok?”
Mandy smiled and nodded. She watched them leave and then stood up.
“Where are you going?” asked Nicky.
Mandy smiled and bent down, getting as near to him as she could, “As far away from you as I possibly can!”
With that, she flicked her hair back and walked off. Nicky shook his head and followed her with his eyes.
An hour later, Mandy decided she had had enough. She had lost Nicky already and went outside to get a taxi. After ringing for one, she was told there wasn’t any available for the next hour. Sighing to herself, she decided on walking home as it would be faster. She folded her arms tightly across her chest as she felt the icy cold air hitting her face like a thousand needles piercing her skin. She walked in a rapid pace down the dark dimly lit streets, nervous about being alone. She hated walking home alone at night but she had no choice. She heard some footsteps behind her so she quickened her pace even more and started panicking when she heard those footsteps getting closer and faster, and was now practically running. Her heart was beating loudly against her chest. That’s when she felt a pair of hands grabbing her arm. She let out a loud scream and was about to knee the person, when she saw Nicky’s face.
“What are you doing walking the streets alone? Don’t you know how dangerous that is?” he scolded.
Mandy shrugged her arm away, “For fuck’s sake Nicky, you scared the life out of me! I am going home and so should you!”
“I am walking you home first!” he insisted.
“No you’re not!” she hissed, “ I am perfectly capable!”
“I know you are, but I am not having some disturbed man attacking you!” he answered.
“I can look after myself!” she huffed.
“Well, I am walking you home all the same, whether you like it or not!” he added.
“Fine!” she surrendered, “Just don’t talk to me!”
Nicky grinned and walked quietly beside her until she got home.
“Ok, happy now? You can go back now!” she sighed, opening the front door.
“You are gonna make me walk all the way to the hotel on my own? What if someone attacks me!” he pouted.
“You can look after yourself, Nicky! You’re a big lad!” she sighed.
“After I made sure you got home safely, and everything!” he batted his eyes.
“Nicky, why won’t you just leave me alone!” she whined, “You know how I feel!” “Exactly why I won’t leave you alone. I know you still want me!” he grinned, “It’s all in your eyes!”
Mandy shook her head, “Why can’t you get it through your thick skull that we are not getting back together. Not now, not ever!”
“Coz I know that some day we will. Maybe not now, maybe not for a while, but we will, and do you know why?” he asked with a smile, toppling over every now and then.
“Why?” she sighed, rolling her eyes.
“Coz we belong together. It’s our density!” He pulled a face and shook his head, “Densitity!” He tried again and rolled his eyes, “Oh, you know what I mean. We were meant to be together and that is why fate will bring us back together some day!” he grinned.
Mandy shook her head, “God you talk a lot of crap when you’re drunk!”
Nicky let out a loud burp.
Mandy sighed and rolled her eyes, “That was attractive!” she sighed sarcastically.
“Oh, will you at least let me kip on your sofa tonight? Please don’t let me walk back to the hotel alone!” he pleaded.
Mandy sighed, “Fine! But this doesn’t mean anything!”
Nicky grinned, “Thanks!”
They both walked in and Nicky sat on the sofa as Mandy got dressed into her shorts and t-shirt.
“If you want a coffee or something get it!” she sighed, taking a seat.
“Thought you were going to bed!” he smiled.
“I am in a sec. Just need to sit until the room stops spinning!” she answered, leaning her head back and looking up.
“Oh thought that was just me!” he grinned.
Mandy shook her head and got up, “I need a glass of water. Want one?”
Nicky shook his head, “I’m good, thanks!”
Mandy went to the kitchen and poured herself a glass, gulping it down. She turned around to put the glass in the sink when she bumped into Nicky.
“I changed my mind!” he whispered.
Mandy was about to turn around to get him a glass of water, when he grabbed her wrists. Mandy looked up into his bloodshot eyes. They both said nothing. All of a sudden, she felt his arms wrapping around her waist. Mandy continued staring at him and saw his lips coming towards hers. She tried to resist, but her feelings got the better of her and she felt herself kissing him as soon as their lips touched. He pushed her back against the counter and lifted her up to sit her down on it. Mandy opened her legs and he rested between them.
“I decided I wanted some of you instead!” he finally whispered, before removing all her clothes and showing her how much he actually wanted her back in his life, right there in her kitchen. 

Chapter Text

Mandy was woken up in the morning by the sound of a mobile ringing. She moaned loudly and opened her eyes. Everything was a blur. She sat up in bed and squinted, letting out a loud yawn and looking around her.
“Where the hell is that coming from?” she asked herself. She then looked to the side and saw Nicky sprawled out on the bed, fast asleep. After their love making round in the kitchen, they both went up to bed for round two.

“Oh my god!” she whispered, waking up properly. She looked at herself from under the covers to realise she was naked. She then looked at Nicky and realised he was naked too.
“Oh for fuck’s sake!” she moaned.
She quickly got out of bed and shook Nicky to wake him up.
“Nicky, wake up!” she shouted.
Nicky lifted his head with his eyes still shut, “Eh?” he croaked.
“You have got to get up!” panicked Mandy, throwing his clothes at him, “Your phone is ringing and you shouldn’t even be here!”
Nicky finally opened his eyes and looked at her sleepily, quickly putting on her clothes, “What happened?”
“Just answer your phone, Nicky!” she sighed, throwing the phone at him.
Nicky picked it up, cleared his throat and finally answered.
“Nicky. Where are you, man? We are all waiting for you to go to the airport. Louis is going mental!” came Brian’s voice.
“What?” asked Nicky, scratching his head.
“Nicky, are you still drunk or what?” shouted Brian, “We have to go, man! Where the hell are you?”
“Well, I think I’m at Mandy’s” he said, sounding confused and looking around him. Mandy looked at him, rolled her eyes and ran to the bathroom.
“What are you doing there?” shrieked Brian, “Are you back together?”
“Erm, I’m not really sure!” he answered, still confused.
“Did you sleep with her?” smirked Brian.
“I think so!” he shrugged, looking at himself under the covers.
Brian shook his head, “Ok, enough about that, we’ll discuss that later. Get your butt down here before Louis pops a vein!”
“I don’t think I can make it on time, Bri!” he sighed.
“Oh shite!” whispered Brian, “Are you at least packed? Please tell me you are packed, mate!”
“Yeah yeah, don’t worry. I am packed!” he sighed.
“Right, ok, you get yourself to the airport, we’ll meet you there. I’ll think of something to tell Louis. We’ll take your cases!” sighed Brian.
“Ok, but how the hell am I supposed to get to the airport? It is miles away!” he whined.
“I’ll take you there!” sighed Mandy, coming back into the room.
Nicky looked at her and smiled, then he talked to Brian again, “Nevermind, See you there!”
He hang up and put his jeans back on. Mandy made the bed and quickly got out of the room, “If you want a ride there, you’d better hurry up. I’ve got places to go to!” she sighed.
Nicky nodded, quickly got dressed and met up with her down in the living room, “Ok, I’m ready!”
“Come on, let’s go!” she sighed, grabbing her keys. Before she left, Nicky grabbed her hand. Mandy could not look at him in the eyes.
“About last night…” he started.
Mandy shook her head, “Now is not the time to discuss this!”
“Then when? I am leaving in a couple of hours time, Mandy, in case it slipped your mind!” he complained.
“I do know that!” she said, looking away from his eyes, “But you’re gonna be late and it’s a long drive to the airport, so let’s go!”
“To be honest, I don’t even care if I miss this flight. We need to talk and we need to talk now!” he insisted.
“Well, I don’t wanna talk about it!” she sighed.
“But I do!” he continued.
“Look, you have to be at the airport in about half an hour, Nicky. It is an hour’s drive away. We can talk in the car, now let’s go!” she huffed.
Nicky sighed and closed the door behind him, “Fine!” he muttered. They got in the car and Mandy drove away.
“So…” he started.
Mandy sighed, knowing what he was going to say.
“What happened last night?” he sighed.
Mandy shrugged, “Looks like we slept together!”
“Nah, you think?” he shrieked sarcastically, “What does that mean?”
“It means we had sex, Nicky!” she shrugged.
Nicky sighed and looked at her, “You know what I mean!”
Mandy rolled her eyes, “Look Nicky. It doesn’t mean a thing. Things have not changed. I still don’t think we should get together, ok, now just drop it will you?”
“You slept with me, Mandy. Twice! It must mean something!” he smirked.
Mandy looked at him briefly and then at the road, “Ok, I do admit I still hold feelings for you. I am not denying it. I am just not prepared to be with you again, ok? Now can we please drop the subject?”
Nicky smiled, “I knew it!”
“Well, it ain’t exactly rocket science, is it? You think my feelings for you are just gonna disappear just like that?” she sighed.
“So what are you gonna do about it?” he shrugged.
“Not a lot. I am just gonna carry on with life and pretend those feelings aren’t there and nothing happened between us. It is really easy once you get used to it.” She shrugged, “Been doing that for the past god knows how many years! It’s not the first time I have been through this. I have pretty much got the hang of it!”
Nicky sighed, “So you’re just gonna pretend there is no history between us, is that right?”
“That’s right!” she sighed, “Best way to do it!”
Nicky shook his head and looked out the window, “Well, for what it’s worth, I am really gonna miss you!”
Mandy sighed. She knew she was gonna miss him too. Of all the times she had been let down by married men, this time was different. This time it had really affected her. The feelings were different, but she knew she had to stay strong, for her own sake. Soon enough, they had arrived at the airport. The lads were all already there. Louis walked over to him, “About time too, lad! Talk about cutting it fine!”
“Sorry Louis. I just overslept!” he smiled apologetically, “But I am here now and with time to spare, thanks to Schumacher here!”
Mandy smiled and joined the girls.
“So, you back together?” whispered Anna.
Mandy shook her head, “No. He just spent the night, that’s all, but it is definitely still off!”
Anna frowned, “Oh.”
“Ok people. Gather up. It’s time to go to the departure lounge. Flights boarding!” announced Louis, clapping his hands.
The girls nodded and turned around to look at Mandy, “You take care, ok?” smiled Tracee tearfully, “And keep in touch!”
“Will do!” answered Mandy, trying not to break down herself, “You got my number, call me anytime!”
Anna hugged her, “Are you gonna be ok?”
Mandy sniffed and nodded, finally letting the tears roll down, “I’ll be fine, don’t worry. And it will be a lot easier for me without Nicky around!”
Anna nodded, wiped her tears and pulled away, “Take care!”
Mandy looked at Abeth, “I cannot believe you and Brian are together. I still cannot believe it!”
Abeth smiled weakly, “And it’s all thanks to you. I owe you big time!”
“I’ll hold you to that!” smiled Mandy tearfully.
After a lot of hugs, the girls went to join Louis. Mandy hugged the guys and finally got to Nicky. They looked at each other awkwardly for a while.
“Well, can’t I at least get a last hug before I leave your life forever?” he asked, clearly upset.
Mandy smiled weakly through her tears and nodded. Nicky leaned forwards and gave her a gentle hug, gradually getting firmer.
“I can’t believe I have to go!” he mumbled against her neck, “I cannot believe I am not seeing you again!”
That’s when Mandy broke down, “I’m sorry!”
Nicky closed his eyes and continued hugging her, “Are you sure about this? I mean, we can still be together!”
Mandy shook her head, “I think this is the way it is meant to be, Nicky!” she whispered, still crying, “It’s for the best!”
Nicky nodded sadly and discretely wiped away his tears, “I am gonna miss you like you wouldn’t believe!”
“You’ll get over me!” she cried, “It will just take time!”
Nicky pulled away and wiped his visible tears, “Don’t think that will ever happen!” “Nicky, don’t make this harder for me, please!” she cried, “It is bad enough already!” “Sorry!” he shrugged, “I just don’t wanna go without you. It doesn’t feel right!”
Mandy nodded, “But it will be right for the future. You’ll find the one soon, Nicky. I promise!”
“Unless you come to Ireland, I don’t think that will happen!” he frowned.
Mandy bowed her head, “You have to go. Louis is waiting!” she whispered.
Nicky nodded and rubbed her back, “Take care, ok? You know where I am if you need me!”
Mandy frowned and nodded, occasionally wiping her eyes, “Ditto!”
Nicky kissed her lips gently one last time before he turned around and walked away. Mandy watched him leave as the tears rolled down her eyes. She could not believe she was letting him slip away. She could not believe she was letting it happen. Without thinking, she called him and he turned around, Hesitating for a while, she ran up to him and into his arms. She buried her head against his chest and hugged him tight, “I’ll always be thinking of you!”
Nicky closed his eyes and hugged her, “I love you, Mandy!”
Mandy did not return the reply. She just hugged him tightly as if her life depended on it. Nicky sighed and let go of her, “Are you gonna be ok?”
Mandy bit her lip and nodded. Nicky leaned forwards and kissed her lightly on her lips, “Take care of yourself!”
Again, Mandy nodded and again watched as he turned around and watched him get out of her life forever! 

Chapter Text

Three months had now passed, and Mandy was missing Nicky more and more by the day. She just moped around, hoping to get another job. But the demand for choreographers were now low, due to bands having completed tours. Despite the good reference Louis had put in for her, she was still not offered anything. She did welcome the break though and used it to her advantage to get some thinking done. Flicking through her weekly magazine, she came across an adverts page, advertising holidays. The picture of the beach, with golden shores and models with sun kissed tans caught her attention and got her thinking. She was really in the mood for a holiday and she felt like she really deserved one. Thinking about it for a few more minutes, she decided to get dressed and head off to town, to pay the travel agency a visit. She casually walked inside the office and picked up a brochure of the Seychelles. She imagined herself lying on one of those comfortable sun loungers, soaking up the sun, drinking some cocktails and having nothing to think about. She smiled at the thought when she was interrupted by the agent.
“May I help you?” she smiled.
Mandy woke up from her dreams and looked at her, “Oh hi. I don’t know. I am just looking for a nice holiday!”
The agent, known as Sam, looked at her and smiled, “Anything you have in mind?” “Well, I was sort of going for a beach kinda holiday. A nice relaxing one where I can put all my troubles away and think about nothing! I need some sun.” she smiled.
Sam smiled and led her to her desk, “Ok, madam, if you can take a seat, I can give you some ideas of where the best places would be this time of year!”
Mandy nodded and sat down. Sam proceeded in showing her some of the brochures. “Ok, where are your limits?” she asked.
“Well, I don’t want anywhere too far away!” she smiled, “Kinda have a fear of flying and don’t wanna be in one longer than is really necessary!”
Sam laughed and put the Caribbean brochures away, “Well, I can tell you that Spain is really popular this time of year!” she smiled, “With the temperatures well into their 30’s and the clubs booming at night. You’ll have a blast!”
Mandy smiled and scrunched her face up, “To be honest I am not really looking for clubs, I just really want to relax, but it’s nice to know!”
Sam grinned, “That’s fine. You don’t HAVE to go to the clubs. Anyway, where in Spain would you prefer?”
Mandy shrugged, “Well, I don’t really know. Never been there! Where would you suggest?”
“Well, I hear Majorca is good this time of year. Benidorm is nice too, and there is also the Costa del Sol, which is very popular too! Marbella in particular!” she smiled.
“Right, so that narrows it down then. I’ll have a look at the brochures for those places and I’ll let you know!” she smiled, flicking through the pages. All of a sudden, her mobile started ringing. She put the brochures down and answered it.
“Hey Mandz, it’s Anna!” came the cheerful voice.
“Hey Anna. How are you?” smiled Mandy.
“I am good, thanks. Enjoying having Mark to myself for the next month!” she smiled, “How are you keeping up?”
“Oh, I am fine!” smiled Mandy, “listen, have you ever been to Majorca, Benidorm or Marbella before?”
“Erm, well I have been to Benidorm and Marbella.” She shrugged, “Why do you ask?”
“Well, I am at the travel agency at the moment, considering a well deserved holiday and I am stuck for choice. They all look good, and I don’t know which to choose!” she sighed.
Anna raised her eyebrow and grinned, “Well, I preferred Marbella to Benidorm, but it’s a matter of opinion really. Benidorm is more for the singles, looking forward to scoring and having strings of one night stands!” she smiled, “You might wanna go for that…unless…”
“Hmmmm not too sure about that!” interrupted Mandy, “Anyway, unless what?”
“Well, unless you want a more quiet relaxing holiday, where I would choose Marbella!” she grinned.
Mandy nodded, her mind already made up, “Thanks, chick. That was a great help. Marbella it is!”
Anna had to stop herself from cheering. She just grinned big and punched the air. Lucky for her, Mandy could not see her so she would not start asking questions about why she was freaking out.
“So..is there a reason to this phone call or did you just wanna check up on me?” smiled Mandy, still flicking through the brochures.
“Well, I just wanted to see if you were alright. It’s been ages since we last spoke!” she shrugged.
“I know. I miss you guys. All of you!” she sighed.
“Even Nicky?” questioned Anna, raising a perfectly plucked eyebrow.
“Especially Nicky!” she sighed, “I cannot believe I am not over him yet. I miss him so much!” she frowned.
“Well, you know where he is hun!” she shrugged.
Mandy shook her head, “Nah, he probably has some other girl on his mind, and I’m still set on going for single men!”
Anna sighed, “When are you gonna stop being so stubborn?”
Mandy laughed, “What?”
“A few thousand miles away, and still you won’t give in to your feelings. We kinda had a bet going on over here that you would be here 2 weeks after we left. In fact, Shane bet on it being a few days!” she laughed, “You certainly proved us wrong!”
Mandy laughed, “A bet? Oh my god, you guys are mad!!!” she giggled, “And yeah, I proved to you that I am not gonna go back on my word. From now on, if the guy is not single then I don’t want him, no matter how much I fancy him or how much I miss him!”
“Well, Mark and Brian are still having bets going that you will return to Nicky one day. I hope Brian wins!” she giggled.
“Why, what does Brian say?” she asked, confused.
“Brian says you will go back to him. Mark says you won’t!” she explained.
“Well, it seems to me that Mark knows me a lot better than I thought he did!” she frowned, “You might as well tell Brian to cough up already!”
Anna laughed, “Yeah. Anyway hun, I’d better leave ya to it. I’ve got to go now. Have fun in Marbella!”
“Thanks!” smiled Mandy.
“And don’t do anything I wouldn’t do!” she winked.
“Like what?” laughed Mandy.
“Like tall sexy blondes, perhaps?” she giggled.
“What do you mean by that?” asked Mandy, confused.
“Well, nothing!” chuckled Anna, “Just telling you to have fun and if you cannot have Nicky, then I hope you meet someone who is just like him!”
Mandy laughed, “I think he is one of a kind, Anna. But thanks! I do hope that happens too. Anyway, speak to ya soon. Bye!”
She hang up and still giggled to herself at that conversation she just had. She looked at Sam and smiled, “OK, Mind made up. Marbella it is!”
“Good choice. When are you thinking of leaving?” she asked, fiddling around on the computer.
“As soon as possible!” she smiled to herself! 

Chapter Text

Two days later, Mandy had her bags packed, and her tickets ready. She was just waiting for the taxi to come and pick her up to take her to the airport. She was kind of dreading it, but at the same time excited about it. She finally heard the taxi hooting and walked out of the house with her cases. She put the cases in the boot and then took a walk around the house to make sure that everything was switched off and windows were all closed. When she was happy, she got inside and let the cab take her to the airport. Next thing she knew, she was in the plane, reading through a magazine. The sleeping tablet she had taken to take her mind off the flight were beginning to kick in, and before she knew it, she had fallen asleep. She woke up to the sound of the captain speaking on the loudspeaker, announcing that they had landed in sunny Spain and to have a nice holiday. Mandy sighed, groggily got up and picked up her bags from the overhead locker. She waited for everyone to exit the plane and then got out herself. The heat and humidity hit her straight away, making her stop for a while and wipe her forehead. 

“Wow, knew it was gonna be hot, but good god!” she said to herself. She picked up her luggage again and followed the crowd of obvious tourists. Once she had collected her suitcase, she walked outside and got into a taxi. She gave him the address of the hotel she was staying at and opened the windows to let in some fresh air. After an extremely difficult conversation with the Spanish speaking cabbie, she paid him, with an extra tip, and walked into the hotel. She put the cases down and admired it.
“Wow.” She smiled, “I feel like part of the royal family. How posh is this?”
She smiled, checked in at reception and walked into her room. The first thing she did was explore the room. She inspected the hotel and grinned to see there was a Jacuzzi, just like she had requested.
“Excellent!” she grinned, rubbing her hands. She opened the door to the balcony and looked over the banister at the beach ahead of her. It seemed to go on for miles and miles. She left the window open and then set about unpacking her stuff. When everything was done, she decided on taking a walk down the beach, to see what it was like. She smiled as she noticed some huts in the middle of the beach. As she passed by them, she could smell the gorgeous odours of fried fish.
“Mmm must go there to eat at some point!” she smiled, starting to get hungry now. She struggled to walk on the sand with her flip-flops on, so she took them off and held them as she walked. After walking for half an hour,  seeing how far away from the hotel she was, she decided to sit down and relax on the warm sand. That’s when she started thinking about Nicky. She wished he could have been there with her, enjoying this holiday together. She missed him and really wanted to see him again.
“Perhaps I should take a trip to Dublin and see the band again. They are my mates after all!” she told herself. She then shook her head.
“Don’t be so ridiculous, Mandy. He has probably forgotten all about you already!” she sighed, looking straight ahead at the inviting sea in front of her. Seeing it was getting dark, she got up and walked towards the hut in the beach. She took a seat and ordered some food. When she had finished, she decided on making a move back to the hotel and perhaps checking out the bar, to sip on a few cocktails. She smiled to herself and took her flip flops off to walk along the beach again. It was now dark, and the sand was now cold, but Mandy enjoyed the feeling of the sand between her toes. “Awww I could sleep here!” she smiled. As she walked past another hut, she saw a crowd getting rowdy. She smiled to herself and shook her head, “God, you can spot the English tourists a mile off!”
She giggled to herself and continued walking. She turned around to have one last look at them, and noticed someone walking far behind her. She turned to face the front again and continued walking, lifting up her long skirt a bit so she wouldn’t step on it. “Excuse me!” the voice called out from behind her. Mandy froze when she heard the voice. She then shook the thoughts from her head and continued walking.
“Hey, wait, please. You have dropped your sandal!” came the voice again.
She knew she wasn’t imagining it. The Irish accent. The husky voice. It had to be him. She laughed at her own ridiculous thoughts. Why on earth would he be in Marbella? The world could not be that small, surely. She turned around and looked at the silhouette running towards her. 

“Sorry, you just dropped your…” he smiled, looking up at her face. His smile soon disappeared when he saw who was standing opposite him.
“Oh my god!” she whispered, her jaw dropping.
“Mandy!” he softly gasped.
They both stood there, looking at each other, not knowing what to say or how to act. “What are you doing here?” they both asked each other at the same time.
They both laughed and decided to answer, “Holiday!” smiled Mandy.
“Needed a break!” answered Nicky simultaneously.
They both laughed again, “We should organise this conversation so we can take turns to speak!” he joked, slightly breaking the ice.
Mandy smiled.
“So, holiday huh?” he smiled, still holding onto her flip flop, “How come Marbella?” “Anna recommended th…Anna!!!!” she then laughed and shook her head, “She did this on purpose!” she gasped.
“Did what on purpose?” asked Nicky, confused.
Mandy shook her head, “Oh, nothing. She just insisted I come here. Did she know you were here?” She asked.
Nicky looked at her and nodded.
She smiled, “well, now I know why she was so keen on recommending Marbella then!”
Nicky smiled and shook his head, “Anyway where are you staying?”
“Marbella club hotel!” she smiled, “You?”
“Oh, I rented a villa!” he smiled, “Need my own space, to think and all that!”
Mandy frowned and nodded.
“Listen. Wanna come over and have a few drinks or something?” he smiled invitingly. Mandy scanned her eyes over his sun kissed face. She stared into his eyes, which seemed bluer than usual against his beautifully tanned face. His lips were just calling out to her, begging to be kissed. She shook her her thoughts from her head and looked at him again.
“No?” he asked.
“Er, sorry, no, was just thinking to myself!” she smiled.
“Well, yes or no, then? It’ll be nice and quiet, and I got a pool!” he smiled, then he nudged her, “And a Jacuzzi!”
Mandy laughed, “You know me far too well, Nicky. But I think I am gonna head off now. I am tired, and…”
“Mandz, please! I think we need to talk!” he pleaded.
Mandy looked into his eyes and frowned, “What about?”
“You know, what about! When I last saw you, I had woken up next to you. I think we kinda need to have a serious chat about that, coz since that happened, I have not been able to take my mind off it or off you!” he sighed.
Mandy bowed her head down and nodded, “Fine. But can we go to a bar instead? I don’t want a repeat of that night. I didn’t come here to have one nighters. If I wanted that I woulda gone to Benidorm!”
Nicky smiled, “Fine, ok. We’ll go to a quiet bar. What’s the bar like at your hotel?” he asked.
“Looks decent enough!” shrugged Mandy.
“Ok, we’ll go there then!” he smiled, finally handing her the flip-flop and following her.
“By the way, Mandz?” he smiled, trying to catch up with her pace.
“Yeah?” she asked, not looking at him.
“You’re looking as gorgeous as you did when I woke up next to you that morning!” he smiled complimentarily.
Mandy smiled and shook her head, “Thanks!”

Chapter Text

Mandy and Nicky sat at the table in the hotel bar and looked at each other.
“What are you having?” he finally asked.
“Vodka and diet coke, please!” she smiled, “As usual!”
Nicky smiled and walked up to the bar. He returned with the drinks, and then placed Mandy’s in front of her. Mandy thanked him and took a small sip.
Nicky sighed and looked at her, “What are you thinking about?” he asked, as he noticed her staring into space.
“Nothing much!” she shrugged.
Nicky smiled and nodded.
“Nicky, I am feeling slightly awkward sitting here. Now tell me what it is you need to say!” she sighed, taking another sip of her drink.
Nicky sighed and put his drink down, “ok, Here goes!”
Mandy took another sip of her drink and looked straight into Nicky’s eyes.
“Ok, I have one or two things to explain here!” he started.
Mandy nodded and licked her lips. Nicky saw her do that and frowned, “Oh god, I wish she would stop doing that. If only she knew how much effect that has on me!” he thought to himself.
Mandy continued staring at him, and got slightly impatient when he wouldn’t talk, “Well?”
Nicky shook his thoughts right off his head and looked at her, “Sorry. Got a bit side tracked in my head!”
Mandy smiled and nodded.
“Anyway, firstly, Joy…” he started.
Mandy shook her head, “Nicky, ….”
“No, Mandz. I need to explain!” he argued.
“No you don’t! We weren’t even together, so it really makes no difference!” she shrugged.
“Well, I still feel like I need to explain, all the same. You see, Mandz, when you told me there was no future for the both of us, I was hurt. I have never been so hurt in my life, and this coming from a man who put up with a lot of crap from his ex wife. But when you rejected me, my heart just broke into a zillion tiny pieces. I was devastated, Mandz, and then I got talking to Joy. She made me laugh. Fair enough, I was drunk, but still, she made me laugh. Trouble is, though, I still couldn’t get you off my mind, and I thought that maybe, if something happened between me and Joy, then it might give you the push to stop fighting your feelings and come back to me. Little did I know it would only make things worse!” he frowned.
“Nicky…” she whispered.
“No, Mandz, I am not done yet.” He interrupted, “anyway, yeah, I slept with her. I was thinking of you the whole time, though! I knew full well that it wouldn’t lead to anything, and she knew that from the start. I guess she needed to feel as needed as I did that night. Seeing you there, knowing you didn’t want me, or at least, pretending you didn’t want me, was just killing me.”
“Pretending? Who said anything about pretending?” she shrieked.
“Mandz!” he smiled, taking her hand, “Come on. This is me you are talking to. I know you wanted me then, just like I know you want me now!”
Mandy pulled her hand away and looked at him, “You arrogant little shite!”
Nicky smirked, “Why else would you have followed me all the way to Marbella?”
“Ok, first of all, I had no idea you were here. I came here to have a break and take my mind off things, which clearly, did not work out too well. Secondly, Anna suggested this place to me. So do not flatter yourself!” she hissed.
“Please don’t be angry with me, darling! I hate it when you’re angry with me!” he frowned.
“How dare you come here and tell me that I want you back. You have no idea how I feel, Nicky. No idea at all!” she snapped, getting up.
“Yes I do!” he snapped back, standing up also to maintain eye contact with her, “It is all over your eyes. I can see it. I know that look only too well, and even though you are too stubborn to admit it, you want me as much as I want you, which by the way, is a lot!!!”
“You carry on telling yourself that if it makes you feel better, Nico, but it really is getting you nowhere!” she smirked as she sat down again, taking a sip from her drink. Nicky sighed and looked at her, “I did not come here to have an argument, babe. I just wanted you to hear me out!”
“I think I have heard enough!” she retorted, “You come here and tell me that Joy was a mistake and you were only thinking of me, and that you just needed to feel wanted, and then you expect me to admit to you that I still love you? Well, guess what darling, it’s not gonna happen!”
“Why not?” he shouted, getting up and leaning his hands on the table, “Why won’t it? You love me and you know it!”
Mandy stared fiercely into his eyes and got up too, to be on the same eye level as him, “ok, maybe I do. But it means diddly squat!”
Nicky ran his fingers through his hair and sat back down, “but I love you so much!” he croaked, calming down.
“You cannot love me that much, Nicky. Coz if you did, then no matter what, you would have stayed with me instead of running back to your bloody wife!” she huffed, folding her arms.
“I cannot believe you are still bringing that up again. I have explained myself ten thousand times on that one, babe! Come on!” he sighed.
“Well, it bloody hurt, Nicky. You put yourself in my shoes, eh? You love someone so much, and you kid yourself that, this is it. This is the one. And then, boom. You get the bombshell dropped on you that that person is going back to the wife. OK, so she said she was pregnant. But even you must have had your doubts about it. Just like I did!” she shouted.
“But she showed me the scans and everything. How was I supposed to know it was fake? Honestly and truly, Mandz, what would you have done? If you were me and your ex wife comes and drops the bombshell on you that she is pregnant with your child, what would you have done?” he shouted back. “I couldn’t walk away, babe. I couldn’t. I didn’t love her and I didn’t want her, but when there is a baby involved…”
“But there was no baby, Nicky!” She whined.
“But I didn’t know that, babe. Come on, what would you have done differently?” He sighed.
“Even I had my suspicions, Nicky, and you knew her better than I did. I am just saying, you could have gone a different way about it, instead of just leaving me and going back to HER!!!” she sighed, getting tired of the stares they were getting from the people around them.
“How? What different way? There was no other way!” he shouted.
“Keep your voice down Nicky!” she muttered.
“No. I want to know what other tactic I could have used. When a woman comes up to you and tells you she is pregnant with your child, what are you supposed to think?”
“Well, firstly, instead of dropping the bombshell on me straight away, you should have gone to the docs with her and confirm the pregnancy!” she hissed.
“Oh yeah, coz that’s what men do when their wives tells them they are pregnant. Go and have it affirmed by the doctor to make sure they are not lying. That’s just ridiculous!”
“No, Nicky. Most men don’t do that because they have nice wives. You, however, had one hell of a bitch as a wife. You should have known better!” she frowned.
“Ok, fine. Fine! I should have made sure she was actually pregnant. But answer me this. If she had been pregnant and I had kept it from you for that long, would it have made any difference?” he scowled.
Mandy shook her head, “That is not the point, Nicky. The point is that she was not pregnant so you could have avoided the whole thing just by making sure.”
“But she could have been and then you would have been angry that I had kept it from you.” He shrugged.
Mandy shrugged, “I am sorry, Nicky, but it made me lose all my trust in you, and this thing with Joy finally convinced me that you will never change. Once a cheater, always a cheater, and all that! I cannot be with someone who runs and cheats at the first sign of trouble,” she ranted.
“Someone who runs? Bit hypocritical of you, don’t you think? You are the one who is running instead of dealing with your feelings just because it is easier for you,” he snarled.
Mandy shook her head, “Fine, can I go up to my room now, coz I am really quite tired!” she huffed, getting up and folding her arms. Nicky grabbed her arms and pulled her back down, “I am not finished yet!”
“Oh great!” she sighed sarcastically, rolling her eyes, “There’s more. I so cannot wait to hear the rest of it!”
“I don’t want to argue with you, Mandz. I don’t want to end it badly!” he sighed.
“Well, you’re the one who insisted that we couldn’t be friends!” she snarled.
“And I was wrong, babe. Look, fine. I’ll accept the fact that you don’t want me back, even though I know that secretly you do!” he smiled. He held his hands up when he saw that Mandy was about to snap, “BUT I do want us to be on speaking terms at least. Please babe! I want you in my life, even if it is just as friends! I really miss you.”
Mandy sighed and bowed her head down, “I don’t think that is such a good idea, Nicky!”
“Why not? Sweetheart, I promise you, I will not try anything on. I will not trick you into anything if that’s what you’re worried about. I just want to be able to have a decent conversation with you, as a friend. Please! I miss not being able to talk to you. Especially when I have a problem. You’re fantastic at the agony aunt thing!” he pleaded with a slight smile.
Mandy sighed and finally looked at him, “Do you honestly think that would work?”
“We could give it a try!” he shrugged, “No harm in trying, right?”
Mandy thought about this for a while.
“Well, am I right, or am I right?” he grinned.
“I suppose!” she shrugged.
“Great!” smiled Nicky, leaning back against his seat, “And to celebrate our new found friendship, I am gonna get some more drinks in. Same again?”
“Yeah,” sighed Mandy, brushing her hair back, “Same again!” 

When he returned with the drinks again, he took a sip and smiled at her as he sat down, “So, tell me. What have you been up to in the last 3 months?”
Mandy shrugged, “not a lot, really. Just been trying to get a job, but it is impossible!” “No-one will take you?” he gasped.
“Well, the demand for choreographers are really low at the moment, as everyone has already finished their tours and are not planning on anymore!” she shrugged.
“Oh, that’s too bad. You do know that Louis will take you back if you asked, don’t you?” he smiled.
Mandy shook her head, “Don’t even go there, Nicky!” she sighed.
“Well, the option is there, that is all I am saying!” he smiled.
Mandy nodded and sipped her drink.
“Well, have you been out with anyone since we…you know…or are you currently with anyone?” he asked, dreading what the answer would be.
“Yeah!” laughed Mandy, “Like I would be here in Spain on my own if I was involved with anyone. Get a grip, Nico!”
“Well, I thought that you would already have someone in your arms. It wouldn’t surprise me!” he smiled.
“What is THAT supposed to mean?” she asked in offence.
“Oh, nothing babe. But gorgeous babes like you are very rarely single!” he shrugged. Mandy shook her head, “I have been on a couple of dates, but they didn’t really amount to anything. I did not actually like them, and I would have much rather watch paint dry than spend another minute with them. They were that dull! How about you?”
Nicky pulled a face and shook his head, “Nah. The lads did try and set me up with a couple of girls, but I didn’t want to know. And I still don’t. I got divorced from Kris, so now she has no ties to me, and I am currently enjoying being single again!”
Mandy smiled and nodded. She tried to stifle a yawn, but in vain, as Nicky noticed. “You’re really tired, aren’t you?” he smiled.
Mandy nodded as her eyes watered from trying to suppress that yawn, “Yeah, sorry. I have just been travelling all day and I took a sleeping tablet for the plane and it is all getting to me now!”
“In that case, I won’t keep you any longer. What are your plans for tomorrow?” he asked.
Mandy shrugged, “I was thinking about going to town and look at the shops. I hear the marina here is very popular!”
“Oh yeah. It’s beautiful. Very touristy, but still beautiful. I can go with you, if you want!” he smiled.
Mandy stared at him and then laughed.
“What’s so funny?” he smiled, finishing off his beer.
“Well, you just cannot turn down a bit of shopping, can ya?” she giggled.
“Well, you know me!” he laughed, “And I don’t think it’s right for you to be on your own either. What kind of a holiday is that?”
Mandy shrugged, “I really don’t mind being on my own. I find it quite relaxing, but you are more than welcome to tag along if you so wish!”
Nicky smiled, “Great. I have got a hired car. I can pick you up if you want. What time were you thinking of heading over?”
“Well, I wanted to go early, so that when I got back I could relax in the beach. So probably about 10!” she shrugged.
“Very well. I shall meet you at the lobby at 10 o’clock.” He smiled, as they both got up, “I’ll see you then!”
“Yeah!” smiled Mandy, walking out of the bar with him, “Don’t be late!”
Nicky laughed, “I see you have not changed a bit with your punctuality!”
Mandy chuckled, “You know I hate tardiness. Anyway I am going up now. See you tomorrow!”
Nicky smiled and nodded, “See ya babe!”
He leaned over and kissed her cheek, “Thanks for hearing me out!”
Mandy nodded and then walked up to her room as Nicky made his way out of the hotel, and back to his villa, smiling at the thought of spending the day with her tomorrow. Even if it was just as friends! 

Chapter Text

Mandy got undressed and got into bed. She put her hands behind her head and bit her lip as she started thinking. It felt so nice to see Nicky again, as much as she hated to admit it to herself. She had missed him more than anything, and still held quite strong feelings for him. She found it really hard that night not to give in to his pleas and get back together with him. She should have been holding him in her arms right about now. That is how she felt. He should have been sharing her bed. But her stubbornness and lack of trust forbade her to do that. She thought back to the day she first laid eyes on him. How he had captured her heart the very first second he gave her a flash of his cheeky grin. She sighed and smiled at how they had met. 

****FLASHBACK**** 

[i]Mandy was waiting in the studio. She had got a call from Louis Walsh a couple of days before saying that he had heard about her from another band producer, and had offered her an incredible amount of money to get his boys into shape for the next tour. Mandy had heard about Westlife before. She wasn’t a fan. In fact, she didn’t even know what they looked like, but she did enjoy some of their music. She was sitting in the studio waiting for the boys to make their arrival. She looked at her watch and sighed. She hated this waiting business. They were already half an hour late and she was wondering if they were going to turn up at all. She got up to get her mobile phone to call Louis, when she heard voices coming from the door. She put her phone on the table, and saw some lads walking in. they stopped talking and all looked at her. Mandy looked at them and smiled, “Hi!” she greeted them, “You must be Westlife, am I right?”
They all nodded without saying anything and stayed on their spot.
“It’s ok, lads. I don’t bite. Do come closer!” she joked.
They smiled and walked to where she was. She introduced herself and then they introduced themselves to her. When Nicky started introducing himself, Mandy could not resist but look at his amazing blue eyes. She looked at his face and blushed at the hundreds of thoughts that flooded her mind. When he had finished introducing himself, he noticed her staring at him. She had not listened to a word he had said. Nicky looked at the lads and then at her, “Are you ok?”
Mandy shook her head and snapped back to reality, “Yeah. Sorry. Lost in my own world there. Sorry, what did you say your name was?”
“Nicky!” he laughed.
“Hi Nicky. Nice to meet you” she smiled. Her thoughts were side tracked when she saw something glistening on his finger, “Oh great. He’s married. Just my luck!”
The lads looked at each other uncomfortably, not knowing what to do, or what to say! “Erm, what do you want us to do?” asked Shane.
Mandy smiled and walked to the radio, “Ok, first thing I want you guys to do is dance. I am going to put a song on and I want you all to dance for me!”
The lads looked at each other with panic written on their faces.
“What style?” asked Nicky, finally.
“Well, just be yourselves!” smiled Mandy, “Dance as if you were at a club or something!”
“But I don’t dance at clubs!” fretted Mark, not one to make a fool out of himself.
“Well, then pretend that you do!” smiled Mandy. She put her finger on the play button, and music filled the room. She sat down and watched the guys shuffle around uncomfortably. They looked at each other, not wanting to dance, feeling totally ridiculous.
“Come on, lads. Dance then!” persisted Mandy, “move your feet. Shake your bootie!”
Still the lads just stood there, looking at each other and shrugging. They hung their heads and glanced sheepishly at her, frozen rigid on the spot.
“Oh come on. Just do what comes naturally to you!” she roared, encouraging them on.
They still just stood there, not complying. Mandy sighed and stopped the cd.
“Listen, guys. You need to dance. It’s what the music is for!” she sighed.
“Excuse me a sec, but what is the point of this? I thought the reason for us being here was for you to show us some dance moves for the tour, not for you to watch us make idiots out of ourselves!” said Nicky. The lads looked at him and nodded.
Mandy looked at him, not liking his attitude at all.
“The point to this, Nicky, is so I can see what your style is!” she replied with a smile.
“Erm, style? What the fuck???” shrieked Kian.
“We all have different styles. Now, most choreographers force their own style onto others, but I am not like that. I observe each individual’s style and work my moves around that. It makes it easier for all of us. Now if you don’t dance for me, it is gonna be very difficult coming up with dance routines for you guys.” She explained.
“I don’t get it!” sighed Shane, scratching his head.
“It means, Shane, that we have to make prats out of ourselves, just so that this lady can teach us how to dance professionally!” sighed Nicky, rolling his eyes.
Mandy did not like his tone at all, but decided on ignoring him, “So now, I am gonna put the music on again, and you’re all gonna dance, ok?”
The lads just looked at her.
“I said, ok?” she asked louder.
The guys mumbled and groaned loudly, making Mandy laugh. She put the music on and sat on the table, watching them. They did not move from the spot. She looked at Nicky who busily chewed on his nails. Mark looked at the others lads. Kian just tapped his feet on the floor. Brian swang his arms to and fro nervously and Shane chewed on his lip, wondering how the hell to get out of doing this. Mandy rolled her eyes and jumped off the table.
“Come on, guys. We are gonna be here all day at this rate!” she shouted above the music.
“It’s ok for you!” shouted Nicky back, “You’re not the one who’s gonna look like a right tit!”
Mandy sighed and walked up to them, “You want me to dance? Fine, if it makes you feel better, I’ll dance too. I’ll show you how it’s done.”
She started swaying her hips to the music, and soon got into a rhythmic movement. She shook her butt and twirled around, moving her arms in time to the music. The guys looked at each other, shrugged, and then gradually joined in with her, one by one. Mandy smiled. “Now that’s more like it. Yeeeeeeah now we’re REALLY going places!” she smiled as she continued dancing. When she saw them all dancing, she went back to the table, and sat on it, observing each one of them individually. They each had their own different style, and she liked that. Nicky had this disco dance kinda thing going on, and Shane was more like a grease lightning kind of mover. Brian moved to the beat and Kian was more or less the same. Mark was very self- conscious of what he was doing and appeared to seem tense and rigid.
“Just relax, Mark, and let all the tension come out!” she shouted.
“I can’t!” he muttered.
Mandy smiled, “Don’t worry Mark. It will come. It will come out of you.”
Mark nodded and continued walking around the studio. Much to his relief, the music stopped. They all looked at Mandy, wondering what she was going to make them do next.
“Feels like I am in school again!” muttered Kian.
“Yeah!” laughed Nicky, “I suppose she’ll keep us in detention if we don’t get our moves right. I can just see it, ‘Nicky! 100 lines on how you should move!’” he laughed, mimicking her.
Mandy could already see that these lads were going to be a handful.
“Damn right!” she shouted, slightly frowning at them, jokingly, but giving them a look to let them know she was actually serious.
“So, what happens now?” asked Nicky.
“Well, we show you the routine to when you’re looking like that. Now I have seen how you move and I have more or less an idea about what moves to use. I am going to put the music on, but without the words, and I want you to dance for me, in your own individual style, and see what I can come up with, ok?” she smiled.
“Feels like I am in a porn movie or something!” chuckled Nicky. This made Shane snort loudly. Mandy heard him and gave him a disapproving look.
“Oh, again?” whined Mark, “I can’t do this!”
“Yes you can, Mark. I have every bit of faith in you. Now stop moaning and shake that arse!”
Mark sighed and nodded. Mandy put the music on and watched as the lads danced. She nodded her head in satisfaction and smiled when the song ended.
“That was great, lads. Really great. Now I want you to sit down and look at me. I have got all the moves worked out in my head, thanks to some of your ideas!” she smiled. She looked at Nicky and smiled at him. Nicky smiled back, as he took a seat. That smile captured her heart immediately. Even though his attitude was a bit off, she couldn’t help but fall for him. She smiled and turned the music on and danced the moves, she had previously imagined in her head. When the song was over, she turned the cd off and looked at them, “Think you can do that?” she panted.
The lads just looked at her with open mouths, “I think you are being a bit too ambitious there, Mandy!” gasped Kian, “No way you are getting us to move like that. My god, I cannot even do the locomotion without screwing it up!”
Mandy laughed loudly at that comment, “You can all do it, Kian. You’re all great dancers. I’ll go over the steps with you, one bit at a time. We shall concentrate on this song today. And remember, we are not leaving until you all master it; so the more you cooperate with me, the better for you. I don’t like the feeling that I am wasting my time, ok? So let’s do this, and concentrate!”
“Who does she think she is, my mother?” mumbled Nicky to Brian. Brian just snorted and shrugged.
“I heard that, Nicky. I know I am not your mother. I am someone who your boss signed up to teach you lads these dance moves so your fans will go crazy over you. I take my job very seriously and I don’t want Louis on my back because you guys won’t cooperate. I also want your fans to watch you and be impressed by your moves. Problem with that?” she confronted.
Nicky blushed slightly and looked at the others, who just grinned at him, “Erm, no. No problem!” he smiled, backing down a bit.
“Good! Now let's get the show on the road!” she grinned, turning around, acting as their mirror. 

Mandy smiled at that thought. She then looked at the photo of Nicky and smiled. She carried that photo everywhere she went. She smiled at it and placed it close to her heart, “God I miss you! If only you used your brains a bit more!” she sighed. She kissed it goodnight, turned around, falling asleep almost immediately. 

Chapter Text

The following morning, Mandy woke up and ate her breakfast. She then got ready to go out to the marina. When she walked down the stairs, she saw Nicky sitting on the sofa in the lobby.
“Nicky!” she sighed, “You came!”
“You didn’t think I was going to leave you stranded, did ya?” he winked, “I told you I would take you to the marina, and I meant it!”
“Why are you doing this, Nico?” she sighed with a frown.
“I don’t follow you, babe. What do you mean?” he asked, scratching his forehead.
“Well, back in London you told me you couldn’t be friends with me, that it was all or nothing, and you opted for nothing as I said we couldn’t be together. What’s changed?” she sighed.
“I guess I grew up and moved on, I suppose!” he shrugged with a smile, “We always were good together, even as friends. I don’t see why we should continue squabbling!”
“You know that’s a lie!” she giggled, “We used to fight like cat and dog, remember? Apparently I drove you mad.”
Nicky let out a little laugh and nodded as they walked out of the rotating doors, “Yeah, I remember. But that was coz I was crazy about you. And I think you were crazy about me too! Nothing has changed babe. The only thing that is different is that we don’t hold hands or kiss anymore!”
Mandy thought about it and shrugged, knowing he was right. They got into his rented car and then Nicky drove them to the Marina, where Mandy did loads of shopping. After walking around for what seemed like ages, they decided they were feeling peckish and needed to eat. Mandy decided she wanted fried fish, so they went to the typical Spanish tapas bar by the beach, which the Spanish called chiringuitos. Mandy slummed herself down on the chair, and dropped her bags on the floor. “God, my feet ache!” she moaned, taking her sandals off and rubbing her foot.
“I’m surprised your arms don’t hurt!” snorted Nicky, eyeing up all the bags she had. Mandy grinned and shrugged, “Shopping is my life. I cannot help it. It’s an obsession!”
“I can see that!” he laughed.
Soon, the food they had ordered had arrived and been devoured. Nicky looked at Mandy in shock.
“My god, girl. I have never seen anyone eating as much fish as you have!!!” he gasped, staring at her plate in amazement.
“I love fish!” she grinned, wiping her hands with a wipe and putting it on the table. “Geez, you don’t say!” he laughed.
Mandy giggled, “You had a fair share too, you know?”
Nicky nodded, “Aye, I do know that. But…wow! It looked like you hadn’t eaten in months!”
Mandy frowned and bowed her head down. Nicky flinched and grabbed her hand. “Come to think of it, you have lost a lot of weight. You have not been eating properly, have you?”
“Nicky. Leave it, yeah?” she sighed, looking away from him.
“No. You can make yourself ill, darling!” he argued.
“Well, I have eaten now, haven’t I?” she snapped.
Nicky nodded and sighed, “I just don’t want to see you making yourself ill, that’s all!”
“I am not making myself ill!” she mumbled.
“Mandz, you have not been eating. You have just admitted that! It WILL make you sick babe!” he argued.
Mandy stood up in a temper, “Look. I have been eating, just not as much as I used to. My appetite just vanished since…since…well it just vanished, ok? I have been eating, and you are no-one to tell me off for it!”
Nicky stood up annoyed by her comment and looked into her eyes, “I am a friend, Mandy, and I don’t want to see you waste away. Geez, sorry for caring!”
Mandy looked at him as she breathed heavily. She then sat down and put her head on her hands, “Sorry!”
“It’s ok!” whispered Nicky, taking his seat, “I just care about you, that’s all!”
“My appetite will come back, ok? I have just proven that today. But please just don’t go on about it!” she croaked.
“Fine!” he sighed, “I’ll stop!”
Mandy nodded and looked at the empty plates, “Shall we get the bill then?”
Nicky nodded and called the waiter over, “Garçon?”
Mandy giggled. Nicky smiled and looked at her, “What’s so funny?”
“We’re not in France, Nicky. That is what you call a waiter in France, not in Spain!” she chortled.
“Ok, miss smarty pants, what’s waiter in Spanish?” he questioned, grinning at her. Mandy shrugged, “How am I supposed to know? I am not Spanish!”
Nicky laughed and shook his head. He then looked at the waiter, raised his hand to grab his attention and looked back at Mandy, after signalling to him that he wanted the bill.
“Who needs a Spanish translator when you have your hands?” he smirked.
Mandy laughed and leaned back against the seat. Nicky offered to pay for lunch and soon they set off again.
“I quite fancy going back to the hotel now!” she smiled, picking up her bags, “I think I have done enough shopping for today and I really want to relax at the beach!”
“Thank god for that!” laughed Nicky, “Thought you were gonna take me round all the shops again!”
“Nah!” grinned Mandy, “I’ll do that another time. I need to work on my tan now! Let’s go!” 

Chapter Text

Mandy finally got to the beach. She put her beach bag down and opened up the towel, laying it on the warm yellow sand. She got rid of her sarong and finally lay down on the towel. It was a really hot day, and she was already sweating, but she did not want to go in the water yet, as she really wanted to get her tan. She sat up on the towel, and got the suncream from inside her bag. As she opened the lid, she heard a familiar voice behind her.
“Need any help with that?” came the voice.
Mandy laughed lightly and looked back, “Are you gonna follow me around for the rest of the holiday?”
Nicky was surprised by that comment and stepped back, “Oh sorry. If..if you want, I can go and I’ll leave you alone. I just thought it would be nice to have some company!”
Mandy laughed and shook her head, “I was kidding Nicky! God, since when did you start taking things so seriously?”
Nicky smirked slightly and sat down on his towel, “I just don’t want to annoy you or pester you.”
Mandy shook her head, “Don’t worry. If I feel you are pestering me, you’ll be the first to know!” she grinned as she rubbed the cream over her untanned legs. Nicky couldn’t help but stare as she did that. The shine to her skin from the greasy cream made it impossible for him to look away. Mandy looked at him briefly and then smiled, looking back at what she was doing, “Enjoying this are you?”
Nicky averted his eyes to her face and blushed slightly, “Sorry.”
Mandy laughed again, “Will you just stop apologising?”
Nicky laughed and bowed his head down, “Sorry!”
Mandy stopped what she was doing and looked at him, making him laugh. Mandy smiled and continued rubbing cream, over her stomach now. Nicky blew out slightly. He looked away, as looking at her rubbing cream all over her body was making his body respond in ways which would have been far too embarrassing in a public beach. “So…are you enjoying yourself so far?”  he asked, leaning back on his towel and crossing one foot over the other.
Mandy smiled and then rested her hands behind her, “Well, I have only been here for one day, but yeah, it has been good.” She smiled.
“Your back is gonna get burnt if you don’t put any cream there!” he smiled, nudging his head towards her back.
“Yeah I know, but unfortunately I was not born as a contortionist and I cannot reach that far!” she smiled, as she put her sunglasses back on.
“Well, I could always give you a hand you know?” he grinned, hoping and praying that she would agree to this.
Mandy gave him an uncomfortable smile and shifted slightly in her seat. Nicky noticed her uncomfortable stare.
“Hey, I don’t have to if you don’t want to. It is just your back I am thinking about. Trust me, it hurts. First day here I got toasted. I did not get a wink of sleep that night. My back was on fire!” he laughed.
“It’s ok. Go on!” she smiled, as she felt those butterflies in her stomach. She turned her back towards him and lifted up her hair, putting up into a bun.
Nicky rubbed the cream in his hands and then massaged them all over Mandy’s back. The touch of his hands all over her back made her body tingle. She had to bite her lip hard to stop herself from letting out moans of satisfaction. Nicky had the same reaction, and he was very glad that she could not see his face at all, as it gave away all the feelings he had. He stayed there a bit longer than he was meant to, and eventually stopped. “All done!” he smiled, after clearing his throat.
Mandy turned around and flashed him one of her grins, “Thanks!” Her cheeks were flushed and this did not go unnoticed by Nicky.
“Why are you blushing?” he asked with a smirk.
“I’m not!” she answered, looking away from him.
“Yeah you are. Your cheeks are all red!” he grinned, pointing to her cheek.
Mandy shook her head, “Nah it is probably coz of the sun!” she shrugged, finally laying face down on the towel. Nicky eyed up her slim body on the towel and smiled, licking his lips.
“Aren’t you gonna put any cream on my back? I don’t wanna burn!” he pouted.
Mandy gulped and raised her head to look at him. Nicky noticed her worried look and smiled, “I won’t bite. I promise!” he winked.
Mandy smiled uncomfortably and sat back down on her towel.
“Turn around then!” she blushed, “And hold this for me!” she added as she gave him the bottle. She had been dreading him asking her to do that, even though she knew it was on the cards. Nicky turned around and grinned. Mandy put the cream on her hands, rubbed them together and spread her hands all over his broad warm back. She made sure she rubbed it evenly all over his back. Nicky tilted his head back, enjoying every single touch. Mandy enjoyed this moment, and wished it could go on forever, but now she had finished.
“Ok, you’re done!” she said softly.
Nicky turned around and smiled at her. He handed her the bottle and their fingers touched.
“Thanks!” he whispered, as his fingers remained on her fingers. Mandy looked deep into his blue eyes, which seemed even bluer with the blue background of the sea. She kept staring into his eyes and he at hers. Their stares remained locked with each other until Mandy decided to look away. She screwed the top back on the bottle and placed it inside her bag. She then lay down again, unfastening the clip of the bikini top so she would not get any tan lines. Nicky’s eyes almost popped out when he saw this and quickly turned around and lay on his towel. They remained like that, just sunbathing quietly for a while, when Mandy put her bikini clip back on and sat up. She then got up and dusted the sand off her stomach. Realising she had gotten up, Nicky lifted his head and looked at her shielding his eyes from the sun.
“Where are you going?” he asked, almost sleepily.
“Oh, I just need a swim. Cannot take this heat much longer!” she smiled.
“Yeah good idea!” he smiled, getting up energetically, “I think I’ll join you!”
Mandy smiled and walked off to the shore. Nicky followed behind her. When she got there, she dipped her toe in the water and pulled it back out quickly.
“My god, that is freezing!” she shivered.
Nicky laughed, “Oh don’t be a wuss and just get in!”
Mandy stared at him, “Wuss? Did you just call me a wuss?”
Nicky smirked and folded his arms, “Yeah. So what are you gonna do about it, wuss?”
Mandy bit her lip and got closer to the water. She very discretely walked around in it before she splashed water all over him, soaking him to the bone. Nicky screamed loudly and ran away, leaving Mandy doubled up in laughter, “That’ll teach you not to call me a wuss again!”
Nicky just stared at her with revenge written all over his eyes, “You’re gonna pay for that!” he laughed, walking towards her.
Mandy looked into his eyes and started backing away, noticing the look of defiance in them.
“Nicky, now calm down. It was only a little bit of water!” she said, laughing at the same time.
“Oh, I am calm, sweetheart!” he grinned, “But you must get punished for that!”
“Nicky, now don’t go doing anything stupid!” she giggled.
“Oh it won’t be stupid, believe me!” he said, gaining up speed.
Mandy saw that he was going faster and turned around to run. She screamed the place down as Nicky chased after her. Soon enough, she tripped over and fell flat on her face. Nicky laughed and slowed down, standing up beside her.
“You will never get away from me!” he grinned, picking her up. Mandy squirmed in his arms, trying to break free.
“No point trying to get away babe. I have got a firm hold of you, and you shall never get away from me!” he grinned, and then turned his most serious look, “Ever!” he whispered, staring into her eyes. Mandy looked back at him when he said that, noting his double meaning, and loosened her grip on him. She watched his mouth turning into a wicked grin, “but now, m’love, it’s time to introduce you to the water!” Mandy soon regained her senses and started kicking her feet, “Nicky no!”
Before she could protest anymore, Nicky took her to a deep part of the water and dropped her in. When she surfaced, she rubbed her eyes and stared at him.
“This is freezing. Nicky, you asshole!” she screamed, hitting him.
Nicky laughed and grabbed her arms, holding them tightly against him, “Mandy, calm down love. It’s only a little bit of water!” he grinned.
Mandy stared at him, and loosened up. Nicky smiled and placed her hands on his chest.
“I hate you!” she muttered.
Nicky grinned, “No you don’t. You love me really!”
Mandy looked into his eyes again, and then looked away, “I am getting out!” she huffed, “This is too cold and I wanna get dry!”
“Oh come on. It’s nice when you are inside for a while. Stay for a bit!” he pouted.
“Give me two reasons why I should!” she huffed, folding her arms.
“Coz you care about me and don’t wanna leave me here on my own, and coz you don’t wanna go back to London and tell all your mates that you only went swimming for two seconds, and that’s coz the love of your life threw you inside!” he grinned, answering quickly.
Mandy stared at him when he said the second reason, and opened her mouth to reply, but Nicky soon interrupted, “You know you wanna!”
Mandy looked at him and couldn’t help but let out a little laugh at his cheekiness, “Oh ok. It is starting to get bearable now!”
“See? Told ya!” he grinned. 

After half an hour of swimming, they both decided that they were now cold and went back to the sand to get dry. As they rubbed their towels over their body, Nicky turned to Mandy.
“Mandz, I want to ask you something!” he said, as he placed the towel back on the sand and sat down on it.
“Go ahead!” she smiled, rubbing her hair with the towel.
“Well, seeing as we get along so well now and we are friends, I wanted to invite you over to my villa for dinner tonight!” he finally asked, playing with the corner of his towel.
Mandy stared at him, “Nicky…”
“Oh please don’t say no.” he pleaded, looking deep into her eyes.
“I dunno Nico. I don’t think it is such a good idea!” she sighed.
“Oh please? I am gonna cook. Aren’t you even remotely curious to find out what I am like as a cook?” he grinned cheekily.
Mandy laughed, “Well, yes I am, but I just don’t wanna lead you on!”
“Hey! You won’t be leading me on. I am inviting you over as a friend, Mandz. I understand how you are feeling and I am not gonna make you do anything you don’t wanna do. I like the fact we are mates, Mandz, and I don’t wanna spoil that, so no. I will not try anything on. I promise!” he smiled.
Mandy looked at him for a while before she sighed, “Oh very well then. But you’d better be a good cook, if not I’ll go back to the lovely restaurant in my hotel!” she cheekily answered.
“Oh trust me, my cooking is by far better than that restaurant!” he answered conceitedly, “After you eat at mine, you’ll be wanting to come back for more!” Mandy looked at him and laughed, “I think I’ll be the judge of that. Anyway, think we’d better leave. I need to go and get ready and you need to impress me with your cooking!”
Nicky smiled and got up, “Ok, let’s go then!”
They picked up their stuff, took the sand off their feet and made their way back to their own places, in preparation for tonight! 

Chapter Text

Mandy finally finished getting ready and gave herself a once over in the mirror. She pulled a face and took off her clothes.
“Pah! Too boring. This will never do!” she moaned, throwing her clothes on the bed. She then got a navy blue studded camisole, which was really low cut along the cleavage and draped loosely down her stomach, and had an uneven hem. She put it on and decided on accompanying that with her studded tight fitting skinny jeans. To give her a more elegant look, she picked out her crystal wire necklace and earring set and put them on. She then stood in front of the mirror and sighed, looking at the jeans and tight vest she had just thrown on the bed.
“What is your problem, woman? It’s not like you are trying to impress him!” she scolded herself.
She looked at herself once more and then looked at the time.
“Shite!” she mumbled, quickly putting on her high thin heeled black stilettos and grabbed her bag. Checking her make up once more, she decided on leaving the house, taking with her a cake she had bought from the supermarket, so as not to go empty handed. She walked through the promenade and 5 minutes later she was outside Nicky’s Villa. She could see the lights on all around the house. She felt those butterflies in her stomach and closed her eyes.
“God, will you just relax, woman? It’s just a friendly dinner, as mates. And it’s only Nicky!” she told herself.
She opened her eyes, smoothed back her hair, checked herself one more time and finally knocked on the door. It opened and Mandy looked at Nicky. She silently chuckled when she saw him dressed quite casually and wearing an apron. She soon erupted into a cackling laugh.
“Oh, hello to you too!” he grinned.
“Sorry, it’s just seeing you with an apron on. It’s too funny!” she giggled.
Nicky sniggered and stepped to the side, “Please, do come in. And stop laughing at me! You have no idea how messy I am when it comes to cooking!”
Mandy grinned and walked in with the cake on her hands.
“So, what’s on the menu?” she asked, waiting on the landing for him to close the door. Nicky looked at her and winked, “It would be really rude of me to tell you what I have made, so I am gonna keep that a secret!”
Mandy smiled and nodded, “I’d better like it!”
Nicky looked at her shocked, “What way is that to treat someone who is making you dinner?”
Mandy smirked, slightly embarrassed, realising her rudeness, “Sorry. I didn’t mean it like that!” she blushed.
Nicky grinned, “No worries. I was only messing!” He then eyed up the cake, “What’s that?”
Mandy looked at the cake and then at him, “Oh, I just thought I’d bring this for dessert!”
“Did you think I was not making dessert? I know how much you love your sweets after dinner, babe, you honestly thought I was gonna let you go without any?” he winked.
Again, Mandy blushed, “Sorry. I just thought I couldn’t come empty handed, and as we don’t drink any wine, I brought this round!”
“You coulda brought some beers!” he smirked.
Mandy gave him a shocked look, “Now who is being rude!”
Nicky chuckled, “Again, only kidding babe. It was very nice of you to bring something, though you shouldn’t have brought anything!”
Mandy shrugged, and looked around her, “Nice villa!”
“I know!” he smiled, grabbing the cake and taking it to the kitchen, “I could so easily live here!”
“I am sure you could afford it!” winked Mandy, “Why don’t you get yourself a holiday home here or something?”
Nicky thought about this and smiled, “I have been thinking about it, but I dunno. We’ll see what happens!”
Mandy nodded and sat on the kitchen chair. Nicky looked back at her as he tended to the oven, “Why don’t you go to the living room and put the telly on. It will be more comfortable. We have cable!” he winked.
Mandy smiled and got up. She picked up her bag and headed towards the door.
“Oh, and by the way?” called out Nicky, as he opened the oven door and took out the baking tray with the garlic bread on it, “May I comment on how incredibly sexy you look tonight!”
Mandy smiled and looked at him, “What, this? Well, nah, not really. I just put any old thing on!” she shrugged, lying through her teeth.
Nicky smiled and inspected the garlic bread to see if it was done, knowing that was not entirely true. He knew Mandy, and he knew she always wanted to look her best. Mandy was sitting on the sofa for about ten minutes, when Nicky went in.
Mandy looked at him, “I like the way you have set the table. But, I thought it was just a friendly dinner?”
“It is!” answered Nicky.
“So what’s with all the candles and flowers on it?” she asked, nudging her head towards the beautifully set table.
Nicky stared at her, “If you thought it was just a friendly dinner, what’s with the sexy appearance?”
Mandy shrugged, “That was not my intention. I just wanted to look nice.”
“Well, I just wanted the table to look nice!” he shrugged back.
Mandy gave him a knowing look.
“What? I just wanted to make a good impression. We might just be mates, but I don’t want this to seem like I have not put any thought into it!” he answered defensively.
“Ok Nicky!” she laughed.
Nicky smiled, “Anyway, take a seat at the table. I am serving dinner now!”
Mandy did as she was told and put her napkin across her lap, waiting for her food. Soon Nicky appeared, holding onto two plates. He put the garlic bread in the middle of the table, and then went back to get the food. Mandy licked her lips. She had to admit, there was a beautiful aroma coming out from the kitchen. Again, Nicky walked in, holding onto two plates. He put one in front of Mandy and one opposite her. Mandy gazed down at her food.
“Lasagne? You made lasagne?” she smiled.
“I knew it was your favourite!” he smiled, taking a seat and putting his napkin across his lap, “and it was pretty easy to make!”
“Pretty easy as in unwrapping it from the box and bunging it in the oven?” she giggled.
Nicky put his utensils down and stared at her, “I resent that!” he said in all seriousness, “I have been slaving around in the kitchen all evening, and that is what you have to say!”
Mandy shook her head, “I was kidding Nico. God, you are not the only one who can make jokes, you know?”
Nicky let out a weak smile, “Yeah. Sorry!” he shrugged.
“Seriously, Nicky, what has happened to you? You used to be able to laugh at anything and never in your life have you ever taken anything seriously.”
“Well, it just matters to me what you think of me, that’s all, and I just don’t want you to think the worst of me!” he shrugged.
Mandy looked at him uncomfortably and nodded, then taking a bite of her food. Nicky stared at her, “How is it?”
Mandy chewed on the lasagne and nodded vigorously, “Wow. This is really good Nicky. I never knew you were such a great cook!”
Nicky grinned, “Good old recipe books!” he grinned, “Cannot live without them!”
Mandy laughed, “Really. This is divine. You should cook for me more often!”
“That could be arranged!” he winked.
Mandy stared at him and then looked at her plate uncomfortably. She continued eating. Noticing her discomfort, Nicky decided on changing the subject.
“So, what are your plans for tomorrow?” he asked.
“Well, you have been here longer than I have. What is there to do round here?” she asked.
“There is a water park nearby. And a wild life safari, zoo kinda thing. There is of course the beach, the hotel pool and the marina, which you went to today.” He smiled.
Mandy smiled and nodded, “I really don’t know!”
“Well, I have been wanting to go to that water park since I got here. How about we both go?” he suggested.
“Another day spent together?” she questioned.
Nicky raised a brow, “Does that bother you?”
Mandy stared at him, sighed and then looked at her food.
“You don’t have to, babe. Just say the word and I’ll leave you on your own!” he sighed.
Mandy looked at him, “No. I don’t mind!” she shrugged, “I guess we could go to the water park!”
“Gee don’t sound too excited about it!” he rolled his eyes.
Mandy smiled, “No, really. I wanna go. Let’s do it!”
“Great!” grinned Nicky, putting another forkful into his mouth, “I’ll pick you up in the morning then and we’ll go there. It is about an hours drive from here!”
Mandy smiled and nodded.
Soon they had both finished dinner and went to dessert. Nicky walked in with two strawberry cheesecakes. Mandy laughed when she saw him.
“Oi! That’s cheating!” she roared with laughter.
“One step at a time, eh? I made dinner. You surely could forgive me about the ready made cheesecakes!” he smiled.
Mandy laughed and nodded, “Course I can!”
Nicky smiled and handed her the tub of cheesecake. Mandy hungrily ate it and then sat back on the chair.
“Well, I have to say, that was divine, Nicky!” she smiled.
“Thanks. I’ll call to give the supermarket your approval!” he winked cheekily.
Mandy laughed, “I didn’t mean just the cheesecake, Nico. I meant the whole thing. Dinner was lovely!” she smiled.
Nicky smiled and nodded, taking the compliment well, “thanks!”
“No, thank you!” she grinned.
“Ok love, you go and make yourself comfy on the sofa or something and I’ll go and clear the table!” he winked, getting up.
“No, I’ll help you!” she smiled, grabbing hold of some plates.
“I won’t have it. You are my guest and my guests do not lift a finger to help me. Now go and sit down!” he ordered, holding onto a pile of dirty dishes and walking back into the kitchen.
Mandy smiled and went to the sofa. As she went to sit down, she changed her mind and stood back up. She noticed the balcony and went to check it out. She opened the balcony doors and went outside, welcoming the cool breeze. She leaned against the banister and looked at the greenery in front of her, admiring its beauty. Not long after, Nicky appeared behind her.
“Beautiful isn’t it?” he smiled, standing beside her.
Mandy looked at him and flashed him one of her grins, which made him tingle inside, “It really is!”
Mandy looked back at the greenery and smiled. Nicky remained staring at her.
“You really look incredible tonight!” he smiled.
Mandy looked at him and then looked away uncomfortably, “Nicky, don’t!” she whispered.
“What? I mean it. You look amazing!” he smiled, “Really amazing!”
“You said you weren’t gonna try anything on, remember?” she reminded him.
“I’m not trying anything on. I am just paying a compliment! God woman, when are you gonna learn to take all these compliments?” he laughed.
Mandy blushed, and looked away.
Nicky looked back at the house, “I need some music. Hang on, I’ll be back in a sec!” Mandy nodded and soon heard the introduction of Bryan Adams, “Everything I do!” She closed her eyes and bowed her head down. She loved this song, and she just knew that Nicky would be singing along to it any second now, which she knew she wouldn’t be able to resist. True to her thoughts, she soon heard Nicky singing. She looked back at him and laughed at his melodramatic actions to the song. Nicky smiled as he sang. Mandy giggled.
“You nutter!” she chortled.
“Look into my eyes, you will see, what you mean tooooo meeeeee!” he sang!
Mandy grinned as Nicky went on one knee in a really dramatic way and held his hands to his chest.
“Search your heart, search your soul, and when you find me there, you’ll search no mooooooore!”
Mandy shook her head and continued staring at him.
“Don’t teeeeelll me, it’s not worth trying for…you can’t teeeellll me it’s not worth dying for” he put his arms stretched out as he stood on one knee. He then stood up and stood directly opposite Mandy, “You know it’s true…”
He looked straight into her eyes and smiled genuinely, “Everything I do….”
Mandy felt her head leaning towards him, seeing his lips getting nearer and nearer, “I do it for you!” he finally mumbled before pressing his lips softly against hers. Mandy let out a soft moan as soon as she felt the contact of his lips on hers. She flung her arms around his neck and gave him the kiss she had been dying to give him since she saw him off at the airport that day. 

Chapter Text

Mandy and Nicky pulled away and remained looking into each other’s eyes. Mandy brought her fingers to her lips and rubbed them, almost in disbelief that she had kissed him. Her lips were quite sore from the passion they shared in that kiss. Nicky stayed looking at her, trying to work out what was going on in her head.
“What are you thinking about?” he whispered, brushing back her hair, which was now messed up.
Mandy remained silent, totally speechless by what had happened. She opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out.
Nicky let out a little laugh, “I know. I kinda feel like that too!”
“Nicky…” she started.
Nicky shook his head and put his finger on her lip to keep her quiet, “I know what you are going to say. Please don’t say it, Mandz. Please!”
Mandy bowed her head down and bit her lip, “I’m sorry!”
She covered her mouth, let out a little whimper and ran back inside. Nicky sighed, bowed his head down as he put his hands on his hips and bit his lip gently. After a few seconds, he let out a deep sigh and followed her in. He saw her there sitting on the sofa, rocking back and forth, with her mouth covered and her eyes glazed with unshed tears. He walked into the kitchen and poured two diet cokes. He went back to the living room and gave a glass to Mandy.
Mandy looked up at him and thanked him. Then Nicky sat beside her and looked at her.
“I know you really regret what has just happened out there, but please let me just say that I thought it was amazing.” He finally said, breaking the awkward silence.
Mandy looked down at the ground and took a sip from her drink as she shook her head. “I don’t—”
Nicky sighed and continued talking, “There is no denying how much I love you babe. And I really did not mean for this to happen either, but the fact that it did just proves how much we are meant to be.”
Mandy looked at him as her lips quivered, “I just don’t wanna hurt you Nicky! I don’t wanna give you any false hope!”
“What false hope? Why do you keep fighting those feelings?” he said exasperatedly, getting up and pacing around the room.
“Coz I cannot let myself get involved with you again, Nicky. Not after last time. I made a promise to myself that I would not put myself in that situation again, and this time I intend on keeping that promise!” she cried.
Nicky put his drink on the table and knelt down in front of her, grabbing both her hands.
“Babe. You would not be in that situation anymore. I have already told you. Kris and me are divorced now. We are no longer married. We have nothing to do with each other anymore. As far as I am concerned, we are ancient history. I want nothing to do with her. I only want you!” he explained.
Mandy shook her head, “You have a history with her, Nico and…”
“Exactly!” he interrupted her, “That’s what it is. A history. Old news. She’s in the past. I wanna think about my future now. My future with you!”
“There is no future for us, babe!” she whispered in a sigh, “Can’t you see that?”
“NO!” he shouted, “I cannot. I refuse to believe that you and me are never gonna be together again. I cannot accept that!”
“Well, you’d better come to terms with it, babe, coz that’s what’s on offer!” she shrugged.
“Dammit Mandy!” he shouted, getting up angrily, “Why can’t you just let the past go?”
Mandy looked at him and got up, just as angrily, “because, Nicky, that day that you told me you were going back to Kris was, without a shadow of a doubt, the worst day of my life. I have had partners leaving me to go back to their ex wives, Nicky, and it has never hurt this bad. I cannot put myself through that again. I WILL NOT put myself through that again!” she shouted.
They remained close to each other. Nicky watched her panting, slightly out of breath. He sighed and put his hand on her cheek, “I will never put you through that again, babe. You have got to believe me!”
Mandy put her hand on his hand and removed it away from her cheek, “but I only have your words to go by. That is not enough!” she whispered.
“Then tell me what it is I can do to convince you!” he whispered back, leaning his forehead on hers, “What do I have to do?”
Mandy looked up into his eyes and shrugged, “I dunno!”
“Just give me a chance to prove it to you. please!” he whispered, with tears showing in his eyes, “I love you more than anything in the world, and I would do just about anything to have you back into my life. There is no-one else I want, and if I cannot have you, then I am gonna be lonely for the rest of my life!”
“No you won’t!” she whispered.
“Yes I will!” he argued, “Coz there is no comparison babe. All I ever want is you and no-one else will do for me!”
Mandy looked at him for a while, sighed and then walked away, back outside to the balcony. Nicky looked at her and then let himself drop on the sofa, leaning his head back and looking up at the ceiling. Mandy rested her body against the veranda and looked ahead of her, deep in thought. She was so lost in her own world that she did not notice Nicky walking behind her. He decided to brave it and wrapped his arms around her waist.
“Are you ok?” he mumbled against her neck.
Mandy tried to fight him, but to no avail. His mere touch just sent her to heaven. She leaned her head forwards and closed her eyes. Nicky’s hands wandered up and down her waist, and then wrapped themselves up on her stomach, entwining his fingers together.
“I do love you, babe, and no matter how many times you reject me, I am gonna keep on trying, coz that’s how much I love you!” he whispered, as his tongue trailed along her neck.
Mandy let out a soft moan and moved her head to the side to give him better access.
“I know you say you don’t want me, but your eyes tell me otherwise. You can deny it as much as you want, love, but you just cannot convince me that it is how you genuinely feel!” he continued nuzzling, much to Mandy’s moans.
“I have always been able to read you like a book, and today is no different, babe!” he continued.
He then stepped back and turned her around so she was facing him. He wrapped his hands around her waist again and rested them on the small of her back.
“Look at me!” he whispered, seeing her head bowed down.
Mandy was adamant at first, knowing that as soon as she caught a glimpse of his eyes she would be putty in his hands.
“Please!” he begged.
Mandy slowly averted her eyes to his face. First thing she noticed was his gingery stubble on his chin. She gulped, as that alone sent shivers up her spine. Finally she looked up into his clear blue eyes and they stayed locked in that gaze. Nicky let out a little smile and brushed her hair back, which was blowing forward with the welcomed nightly breeze.
“I know you only have my words to go by, babe, but I would be a fool to ever do anything to hurt you again. I love you like you wouldn’t believe, and nothing in this world will ever EVER make me wanna hurt you again…” he smiled, getting closer to her, “EVER!” he whispered again.
“That day you told me you were going back to Kris, Nicky, was one of the worst days of my life…” she sighed.
Nicky bowed his head down, “I know. I made a huge monumental mistake there and I am sorry…” he shook his head.
“I don’t think I have ever felt pain like that before…” she continued.
Nicky just nodded, “Yeah.”
“I was crazy about you, Nicky,” she sniffed and paused for a while as he bowed his head down and nodded. “I still am.”
Nicky looked quickly at her.
She looked into his eyes and blinked, “I am trusting you with my life here, Nicky.” She finally said.
“I know!” he whispered, with a hopeful tone in his voice.
“I don’t know if I am gonna regret this…” she started, sighing deeply.
“Does that mean…” he asked, pulling away slightly.
Mandy slowly nodded, “Yes. That’s what it means.”
Nicky let out a victorious grin as his eyes flickered with excitement. “Oh thank god! Thank you!!” He held her face with both hands and gave her a huge grin before leaning in to kiss her.
“BUT!!!” she finally said before their lips touched. Nicky stopped and looked at her again, curious to know what she was about to say.
“You ever hurt me like that again, Nicky, and I mean it. There will be no coming back. I will leave you and not even think about getting back together. This is the last time I am ever gonna put myself through this, Nicky. I am gonna take this one last risk. Hurt me, and so help me god, I will make you regret it for the rest of your life!” she warned him.
“Absolutely!” he grinned. He felt elated. He couldn’t believe he had finally got through to her.
“So, are you gonna spend the night with me?” he whispered, rubbing his nose against hers.
Mandy stared at him and shook her head, “I don’t think that’s quite a good idea, Nicky. If we are gonna get back together, then I wanna take things slowly!”
“Fine. Whatever you want! I can handle that. As long as we are back together, that is all that matters to me, but…” he started with a cheeky glint in his eye.
Mandy looked up at him quickly, “but what?”
“But do you mind if I kiss you again, coz that last kiss totally blew me away, and I wanna do that again!” he grinned.
Mandy finally smiled and leaned her head forwards, to repeat the actions that actually convinced her that she wanted him as much as he wanted her! 

Chapter Text

After arguing about who was going to sleep on the sofa, Nicky did the gentlemanly thing and let Mandy sleep on his bed while he took the sofa. Mandy lay on bed, wide awake, thinking about what had just happened. She had kissed Nicky. They had kissed, and not only that, they had got back together. She tossed and turned before finally deciding to lay on her back and stare at the ceiling, wondering if she had done the right thing. So many thoughts entered her head. She loved him like she had never loved anyone before, yet she had all these doubts and fears in her mind. She knew he was the one. She realised that there was no-one else but him, but still those fears would get in the way. She let out a deep sigh and rolled onto her side. She bit her nails as she continued thinking about Nicky. He was downstairs, she thought. She really wanted a cuddle from Nicky and for him to tell her that everything was going to be ok. Not being able to handle all the tossing and turning anymore, she decided to go down to the kitchen to get herself a glass of hot milk, to help her sleep. She lazily got out of bed and stumbled downstairs in the dark, slowly and quietly opening the living room door so as not to wake Nicky and creeping into the kitchen. She turned the light on and carefully closed the door, cursing at every single creak it made. She went to the fridge and got the milk out, pouring some in the pan and putting it on the stove to heat up. As she waited for it to get warm, she leaned on the counter, flicking through one of Nicky’s men magazines. Every so often she would check on the milk, not wanting it to burn. A sudden loud beeping noise made her jump. She threw the magazine down and looked at the cloud of steam gathered up in the kitchen which had turned on the fire alarm.
“Oh crap!” she cursed, getting a dishcloth and waving at the fire alarm with it in order to get rid of the steam. Still the loud beeping noise continued.
“Oh shut up you fucking loud piece of shite!” she hissed at it, jumping and waving the dishcloth around.
This was enough to wake Nicky up. As soon as he saw her jumping around in his t- shirt, he laughed softly, and leaned against the door frame, one leg crossed over the other and his arms folded loosely against his chest. Mandy jumped around the room, chasing the steam away, until the beeping finally stopped.
“Thank fuck for that!” she hissed, getting back to the pan with milk, and tossing it in the sink. She winced at the foul smell of burnt milk and grabbed the magazine from the floor as she slammed it on the counter, finally relaxing after the eventful five minutes she had just had. She sat down on the chair and rested her head against the table.
“Nothing sexier than waking up to the sight of you jumping around in my t-shirt and your lacy knickers!” laughed Nicky, still leaning against the door frame.
Mandy quickly lifted her head and looked back at him, with this huge grin spread across his face.
“Nicky!” she gasped, “How long have you been standing there?”
“Long enough to experience that little show you put up for me just now!” he laughed, slowly walking up to her and taking a seat next to her. He grabbed her hand and kissed it, “Tell me, do you always have this much energy at four o’clock in the morning?” he grinned, still holding onto her hand.
Mandy let out a sheepish smile and shook her head, “I couldn’t sleep!”
“Anything I could do to help?” he smiled, raising his eyebrows suggestively.
Mandy gave him a knowing look, “I thought we agreed!”
Nicky smiled, let go of her hand and kissed her forehead, “I was only messing babe! What’s up? Why couldn’t you sleep?”
“I just keep thinking about us. I am still scared, Nico!” she sighed.
“Don’t be!” he shook his head, with this really sincere look on his face, “We deserve to be together and I am really thankful for having you in my life again babe. Everything I told you tonight, I meant every single word and nothing is gonna change that. You’re my sweetheart. You’re my princess. I love you forever, and not one person is gonna change my mind! Got that?”
Mandy nodded and bowed her head down. She stifled a little yawn, which Nicky immediately noticed.
“Go back to bed, love! You’ll be knackered in the morning. That water park is very tiring!” he smiled.
“Actually, mind if we give that a miss and go the day after? After the night I am having tonight, I doubt I’ll have much energy to do anything. Maybe after I get the rest I am craving so much, we could head to the beach and relax there!” she yawned.
“We can do anything you want, darling. Anything you want at all. All I want is for you to be happy!” he smiled, kissing her lips gently.
Mandy smiled and got up, “Very well. I’ll go to bed now. I am actually quite tired!” Nicky looked at her walking away and smiled. He stayed looking when he saw her turn around by the door, “I am sorry for waking you up, Nicky!”
Nicky laughed and shook his head, “Don’t worry about it, love. Just the sight of you, even at this time of night makes me smile! Especially when you’re wearing my t- shirt and those knickers,” he winked.
Mandy pressed her lips together and smiled before she slowly walked away. Nicky smiled, got up, turned the lights off and walked into the living room. He lay on the sofa and felt someone was watching him. He raised his head and saw a shadow behind the door.
“Mandz?” he called, “is that you?”
Mandy sheepishly walked into the doorway.
“What’s wrong babe?” he asked, sitting down again and turning the lamp on again. “Look, erm, I cannot really sleep, but could you…now this doesn’t mean anything, ok? I still wanna take things slowly!” she warned him.
Nicky nodded.
“I mean, it is not any kind of invitation for anything, but…” she started before getting cut off by Nicky. She stopped when she saw him getting up and walking towards her. “Come on! Let’s go up!” he smiled, taking her hand and leading the way up.
Mandy stayed on the spot and looked at him, “But how did you…”
“As I said earlier babe. I can read you like a book. Now you need a cuddle to help you get to sleep and that is exactly what you are getting. Don’t worry, I am not trying anything on…unless you want me to. You want to feel safe in my arms and I am here to make you happy. Now come on. It is half past four and I need my beauty sleep!” he smiled, finally managing to pull her up.
Mandy smiled as he led the way. They both got into bed and Nicky held her closely in his arms.
“This is nice!” he smiled, pulling her closer towards him, “I have missed this so much!”
Mandy did not respond. Nicky looked at her to see that she had fallen fast asleep. He smiled and kissed her lightly on her forehead, “Good night darling. And sleep well!”

Chapter Text

The week had gone by very very quickly for Mandy and Nicky, and now it was time for them to go back home. Nicky had stayed a few extra days just to be with Mandy for a bit longer. Mandy was due to go back to London and Nicky was due to go back to Dublin.
“Mandz!” said Nicky, as he messily packed his case.
“Mmmhmmm!” hummed Mandy, as she walked back and forth from the wardrobe to the bed, where the suitcase was, packing hers very neatly.
“I was wondering…” he started.
“Wondering what?” asked Mandy, not really paying much attention.
“Well, why don’t you come to Dublin with me?” he quickly said.
Mandy stopped what she was doing and looked at him, “What?”
“Well, it’s a bit silly you going to London and me to Dublin. Come with me!” he smiled.
Mandy bowed her head down and fidgeted with her fingers, “Nicky…”
Nicky sighed and walked towards her, grabbing both her hands and holding them in his, “Come on. Please. I don’t think I could be more than a few minutes without you!”
“I thought we agreed this was gonna be a slow and casual relationship!” she mumbled without looking at him.
“It can still be slow and casual with you in Dublin! It’s pretty non existent if you are in London and me in Dublin,” he laughed, tugging onto her hands gently, “And I really want you there!”
“I dunno Nicky…” she sighed.
“Oh come on. Your friends are there. Don’t you wanna see the girls? They sure as hell want to see you. Please Mandz. Just think of it as an extended holiday!”
“But I have to go home. I have a job to do, you know?” she argued.
“A job! You very recently told me yourself things were slow and there was no demand for a choreographer just yet!” he shot back.
“Yeah, but I have my house which…” she started.
“Which will still be there when you get back. Stop thinking of excuses Mandz. Please come with me. I have enjoyed myself so much with you around. Before you came I was pondering on the thought of going back home and shortening my holiday. Please.” He pleaded.
“I have enjoyed myself too!” she smirked.
“See? Come on. Please. Don’t make me get on my knees Mandz. Could get ugly!” he grinned.
Mandy let out a soft snort and looked up into his eyes, “Oh, ok! But only for a few days, ok?” she surrendered.
Nicky demonstrated a huge grin and jumped up, picking her up, “Yay! Thank you!”
Mandy laughed and begged him to be put down so she could get on with her packing. She froze when she thought of something.
“What’s wrong?” he asked.
“Well, I have only just realised, my return flight is for London!” she frowned.
“Are you still thinking of excuses, woman? Don’t worry, you can just change the location for an extra fee!” he shrugged.
“But it is a different airline!” She answered.
“Well, then just rip them up and get new ones! Easy,” he laughed.
Mandy’s eyes popped open, “Nicky, in case you didn’t know, I don’t earn as much as you and I am not working at the moment. I cannot afford to get new tickets just like that!”
Nicky grinned, “Which is why I am getting them for you. Now come on! Stop worrying so much and pack. We have to get to the airport in an hour!”
Mandy smiled and quickly finished her packing. 

Four hours later, Mandy found herself stretching on the plane seat, after the plane had landed, “Thank god for that!” she moaned.
“Your fear of flying is not getting any better I see!” he grinned, “How did you manage it on your own on the way to Spain? Whose hand did you grab then?”
Mandy smirked, “Some hot Spanish bloke next to me!” she teased.
“You’d better be joking!” he warned, raising his brow.
Mandy giggled, “Yeah, like I would be so lucky!”
“You know, you are getting really cheeky lately!” he laughed, liking her cheekiness and seeing her old self coming back.
“It must be rubbing off from you then!” she shrugged, “After a week with you, it is bound to happen!”
Nicky laughed loudly, “You cheeky mare! Are you saying I am cheeky?”
Mandy stared at him and nodded, “Well, yeah. I am, as it goes!”
Nicky looked at her and shrugged, “You might have a point there. Ok then, let’s get off this plane!”
Once they were in the terminal, they grabbed their cases and got out. They hailed a taxi, which then took them home. Mandy had not met Nicky’s parents yet. After all the time working with Westlife, she had never had that opportunity. Nicky opened the door and walked in.
“Mother! I’m home!” he yelled.
Mandy stayed on the spot, looking around uncomfortably. She then heard footsteps heading towards them.
“Nicky! Oh so glad to have you back, sweetheart! How was Spain?” she squeaked, jumping into his arms for a hug.
“Was all good mum!” he laughed, letting go of her.
Yvonne looked to the side and looked at Mandy, “Oh hello dear!”
Mandy smiled politely and shook her hand.
“Mum. I want you to meet Mandy!” grinned Nicky proudly, as he put his arm around her shoulders and pulling her towards him gently.
“Oh, this is the famous Mandy then!” smiled Nikki, standing behind Yvonne, “Nice to finally meet you love!”
Mandy smiled and looked at Nicky, who just grinned and nodded.
“Well come on in. Welcome to my home. Please, put your bags down, and relax, you must be very tired from your journey!” smiled Yvonne hospitably.
“Mum, Mandy will be staying with us for a few days!” smiled Nicky, putting his bag down.
“No, it’s ok. I can book into a hotel or something!” smiled Mandy, clearly embarrassed.
“You will do no such thing!” protested Yvonne, “We have enough rooms here. Nicky has a double bed too if you want to stay with him. We are not strict about that!”
“Mother!” warned Nicky. Mandy blushed slightly.
“It’s ok. I am strict about that and I shall sleep in a separate room!” she smiled.
Nicky looked at her and smiled, though deep down, he really wanted to be with her at night.
“Ok then. That’s sorted!” smiled Yvonne, clapping her hands together.
“Thanks!” smiled Mandy, still blushing.
“No problem, dear. Do you want a cup of tea or something?” she offered.
Mandy shook her head, “No thanks, but a nice cold drink will be nice, if you’re offering!”
“Ok then. I have some apple juice in the fridge!” she smiled.
“That would be lovely. Thanks!” she smiled.
“OK then. You both go and make yourself comfortable in the living room, and I’ll be in with the drinks in a wee while!” she smiled.
Mandy and Nicky proceeded to the living room. Mandy sighed as she sat down.
“See? Told you they would love you!” smiled Nicky, nudging her slightly.
Mandy smiled and nodded.
“Though what is there not to love?” he seriously said, grabbing her hand, “I mean, look at you. You are gorgeous, friendly, you have a smokin’ hot body and the kindest heart I have ever seen!”
“Nicky!” she laughed.
“What? It’s true?” he smiled, rubbing her hand with his thumb.
“Ok, fair enough, but do you realise how corny you sound?” she giggled.
“And there was me thinking I was being romantic!” he sighed, letting go of her hand. Mandy smiled and grabbed his hand this time, “It was. Corny, yet romantic. Thank you!”
Nicky smiled and leaned in closer to her, “I meant every single word. And thank you!!!”
“For what?” she asked, confused.
“For allowing me to do this!” he smiled, before he leaned in and gave her the most sensual kiss Mandy had every experienced. 

Chapter Text

It was now the following day and Mandy opened her eyes. At first she was a bit confused as to where she was, but then she remembered she was in Dublin in Nicky’s parent’s house. She stretched in the bed and then got out. Just as she was putting her slippers on, she heard a knock on the door.
“Hi babe. Are you ok?” came Nicky’s voice.
“Yeah!” she answered groggily, “I am fine!”
“Can I come in?” he grinned, pressing his ear against the door.
Mandy yawned and opened the door, and was welcomed with his lips.
“Good morning sweetheart! Did you sleep well?” he smiled, holding onto her waist. “Mmmhmmm!” she answered, still feeling quite sleepy, “What time is it?”
“Half past 8!” he grinned.
“Is that all?” she sighed, falling back into bed, “I thought it was….hang on a sec, what are you doing up at half past 8 in the morning? Isn’t it against your religion to wake up before noon?”
Nicky laughed and sat beside her, “I couldn’t wait to see you!” He leant to the side and kissed her lips gently.
Mandy smiled and got up, “I need a shower!”
“Yeah you do!” he said, waving his hand in front of his nose, “And straight away too!”
Mandy gave him an evil look and pushed him hard to the side, “None of your cheek this time of the morning thank you!”
Nicky smiled, “I was only kidding! Hey I was thinking!” he smiled, running his finger up and down her arm, “I am in need of a shower too. How about we save water?” Mandy gave him a look, “Nicky….”
Nicky smiled and shook his head, “Hey, I was only kidding. I know you still wanna take things slow. But hey, it was worth a shot!” he winked.
Mandy smiled and got up. She walked to her suitcase and brought out some clothes, “Does your mum have an iron? These are seriously creased!” she asked, showing him her white long sleeved top and light blue trousers.
Nicky smiled and took them from her, “Sure. I’ll give them to her and she can iron them for you. no problem!”
“Nicky no! I can do it myself. I don’t want your mum slaving away over me!” she protested.
“Nah, it’s ok babe. She won’t mind!” he insisted.
“Nicky, I can do…” she started.
“Listen go and have your shower and I’ll put these in here when mum is finished ok? They will be ready by the time you are done!” he interrupted.
“But…” she argued.
“See you in a bit babe!” he winked before he gave her a kiss.
Mandy stayed there on the spot with her arms by her side, not believing he had just done that to her. She sighed, shook her head and grabbed her stuff for the shower. When she was done, she went back to her room, and as promised, her clothes were neatly spread out on the neatly made bed.
“Wow!” she whispered to herself, “Bed has been made too?”
She got ready and made her way down to the living room. There she saw Nicky, sat on the sofa.
“Oh morning dear!” smiled Yvonne, “Sleep well?”
“Yeah. Slept very well, thank you.” she smiled, “by the way, thanks for ironing those clothes for me. You really shouldn’t have. I could’ve done that myself!”
“Oh, it’s no bother, love. Don’t worry! I had some to do anyway. Nicky needed some stuff ironing!” she smiled, still folding some clothes.
Mandy looked at Nicky, who just smiled, “Don’t you do your own ironing?”
Nicky smiled sheepishly, “Only if I have to!” he mumbled.
Mandy gasped loudly, “Nicky, your mum ain’t your skivvy!!!”
Yvonne laughed, “The day Nicky irons his own clothes I’ll throw a party!”
Mandy giggled, “Really though. Nicky you should give your mum a break!”
Nicky sighed and got up, “I do my own stuff. I made your bed, didn’t I?”
Mandy looked at him, “You did that?”
“Well, yeah. What did you think it was my mum?” he grinned.
“Well, yeah!” she laughed.
“No, I made it when I took your clothes to your room, so there you go. In your face!” he snorted.
Mandy giggled, “Anyway what time are we gonna go and see the girls? I am dying to see them!”
“You’re going all the way up to Sligo?” gasped Yvonne, looking up from the pile of clothes.
“Yeah!” smiled Nicky, “I’ll drive there!”
“Ok!” smiled Yvonne, “Give my love to Marie if you see her, will you? And tell her I’ll give her a ring about that recipe she wanted!”
“Ok mum!” smiled Nicky getting up, “Come on then babe. We’d better go if we want to make it there by noon!”
Just as they were getting in the car, Nicky got a call on his mobile. He answered it. “Mark, hey, we were just about to drive up…to Sligo, where do you think?” he laughed. Mandy looked at him. Nicky looked at Mandy, grinned and then got back to the conversation, “Oh really? Why?…Ok where are you?…right ok mate, see you in a sec! Bye!”
He hang up and looked at Mandy, “That was Mark!”
“No, really?” mocked Mandy.
Nicky pulled a face and shook his head, “Looks like we are not going to Sligo after all.”
“Oh? How come?” asked Mandy, confused.
“Well, everyone is here in Dublin. Apparently, Louis wants to meet up with us today, so we are staying put. We are gonna go to his office now.” He smiled, turning on the engine.
“Oh!” frowned Mandy, clearly upset.
“What’s wrong babe?” he asked, putting his hand on hers.
“Well, I really wanted to see the girls, and I really wanted to see Sligo! Everyone goes on about how beautiful it is, and I wanted to check it out!” she mumbled.
Nicky smiled and kissed her forehead, “Don’t worry babe. The girls are with the lads and I shall take you up to see Sligo another time. I promise!”
Mandy smiled and nodded as Nicky took off. When they got there, they got out of the car and walked up to the posh building.
“God this takes me back!” smiled Mandy, looking up at the building, “I remember the day I got here coz Louis called me to sign me up to be your choreographer!”
Nicky smiled and squeezed her hand, “I wish you were still our choreographer. You were gooooood!”
Mandy snorted, “Don’t even go there Nicky!”
Nicky smiled as they got into the lift and up to the floor. When they got out of the lift, they saw everyone sat there waiting.
“Oh my god, Mandy!” screeched Anna, running up to her and hugging her tight, “So good to see you again!”
Mandy smiled and hugged her back, “You too babe. How have you been?”
“Nevermind me!” laughed Anna, slapping her arm playfully, “What about you? Looks like things between you and Nicky are good huh? I saw the way you were holding hands!”
Mandy smiled, “Yeah, we need to have words about that!”
“What?” asked Anna innocently, playing with her fingers.
“You knew he was in Spain all along and you made me go there!” laughed Mandy.
“Well, you needed a holiday!” grinned Anna sheepishly.
Mandy gave her a look, “You told me to go to Spain on purpose, hoping me and Nicky would run into each other and get back together again!”
“Well, it worked didn’t it?” she grinned.
“You cheeky mare!” laughed Mandy, “but yeah, it did!”
“I knew it!” cackled Anna, “I knew that with a lot of encouragement, you would be back in each other’s arms.”
Mandy smiled, “Don’t get your hopes too high though!”
“What do you mean? You are together, right? I mean, I did see you!” asked Anna.
“Yes, we are but we have agreed to take things slowly. That’s the way I want it and that’s the way it is gonna be until I feel comfortable again!” continued Mandy.
“Right, so you’ll be properly together by the end of the week then!” she smirked.
Mandy looked at her, totally shocked, “What?”
“I know you Mandz, and I know that is not what you want! You’ll be together properly by the end of the week. In fact, I would make a bet on it!” she grinned.
“Anna, I am serious! I wanna take things slow, after everything that has happened. I am not kidding!” she argued.
“Yeah, yeah ok! We’ll see eh?” smiled Anna.
Mandy looked at Nicky, who was busily talking to the lads about his holiday in Spain. She bit her lip and looked away. Trouble is, she knew Anna was right. She knew she would give in very quickly, and that is what scared her! 

Chapter Text

When the lads finished talking to Louis, they went back out with the girls.
“What was that all about?” asked Angie, flinging her arms around Kian’s neck.
“Oh, it was all about the next tour!” he smiled, rubbing her arms up and down.
“What, already?” gasped Anna, “but you have only just finished the last tour.”
“Yeah, but there is a lot of preparation to be done. He knows what songs we are singing on the next album, and he knows when we are gonna record it. He is in the process of making a decision about what songs we are singing and then he will run it by us to see if we agree! Then he needs to find a good choreographer!” smiled Shane, looking at Mandy, who was, at that moment, re-applying her lipstick. Everyone fell quiet and looked at her. Mandy stopped applying her lipstick and put it back in her bag. Only then was she aware that everyone was looking at her. She had remembered the last thing they had said about Louis wanting to find a good choreographer and she shook her head and stood up, “Oh no! Don’t even think about it, guys! Not gonna happen!” she laughed.
“Oh come on Mandz. Please?” begged Nicky, taking a seat next to her and placing an arm around her, “You are the best one we have had yet!”
“And a better one will come along, you’ll see!” smiled Mandy, taking his arm off and getting up. “I don’t think us working together is the best idea.”
“I highly doubt that hun!” smiled Abeth, “You worked miracles on these guys!”
“Ahem!” coughed Nicky, “I was already very good thank you so much!”
Abeth looked at him, “Do you want Mandy to be choreographer or not!” she tutted. Nicky smiled sheepishly and put his arm around Mandy, “Look guys, I want her to be choreographer as much as you all do, but I also respect the fact that she doesn’t want to! She is right, it is not a great idea, what with us being together and everything. Look how that ended last time.”
“Yeah, you’re just sucking up to her coz you ain’t getting any and you are desperate for some!” sniggered Kian.
“Kian!” gasped Angie, slapping his arm.
Kian looked at her and laughed, “Well, it’s true!” he laughed.
“What would you know?” answered Nicky offended, “Besides, what happens in my sex life has squat to do with you!”
Kian snorted, “Sex life? What sex life?”
Mandy gave Nicky a look and Nicky gave the same kind of look to Kian.
“Guys, come on. Don’t fight!” sighed Mandy.
Kian and Nicky looked at her, “We are not fighting. I am just stating a point!” shrugged Kian.
“And I am telling you to shut up!” growled Nicky.
“What? Cannot handle the truth, Nico?” cackled Kian.
“Kian, come on man. Stop that!” intervened Shane.
“No, bring it on. I’ll bring him a few home truths!” answered Nicky, quite annoyed by this stage.
Kian looked at him and walked closer to Nicky, “Alright then. Come on! Bring it on!” Nicky stared at him and walked towards Kian with his chest puffed out and his arms hanging loosely down, making Kian take a few steps back, until he reached the wall.
“Guys, cut it out!” sighed Mandy, who was now believing they were being serious.
“No, Mandz. This asshole here thinks he can interfere in our private life, and he has no right to talk about us like that!” argued Nicky.
“Come on, Nicky, quit it. He was only kidding!” sighed Mandy, trying to pull him back. “Yeah. You listen to your woman, Nico. At least one of you is making sense!” smirked Kian.
“I’d shut it if I were you!” growled Nicky, getting redder and redder by now.
“Oh yeah? Make me!” laughed Kian, pushing him back.
“Nicky, come here!” sighed Mandy, trying to pull him back. Nicky shrugged his arms from her and broke loose, “You’re gonna live to regret the day you ever made that comment!” snarled Nicky.
“I seriously doubt that mate!” laughed Kian.
“Someone should get Louis. I mean, seriously!” said Brian in a panic, “They are seriously gonna hurt each other, and we cannot afford a fight over something so petty!”
Nicky heard this and turned towards Brian, now walking towards him, “You find what this asshole just said, petty? Huh?”
“Hey, woah. This has nothing to do with me. It’s yours and Kian’s argument!” said Brian, holding his arms up.
“You made it your business just now when you said this was petty. So what’s so petty about this, huh?” asked Nicky, in a cool manner, pushing Brian back.
“Hey, get your hands off me man!” shot back Brian, now getting annoyed.
“Nicky, come on. Please stop this!” begged Mandy. All the girls just looked at each other in shock, not knowing what to do.
“No. He started it, so now he finishes it!” hissed Nicky, looking and walking back to Kian.
“Yeah, I finish it by kicking your sodding teeth in!” hissed Kian back.
“Oh I have had enough. I am going home!” moaned Mandy, grabbing her bag and starting to walk away. Before she got to the exiting door, she heard someone calling her. She stopped and looked back, to see Louis popping his head through the door. “Yes?” she asked.
“Can I see you for a second please?” he asked with a smile.
Mandy sighed, looked at the ground and finally walked towards his office. Everyone stopped fighting and talking and looked at Mandy walking in. Mandy gave Nicky a slight glance before she walked into the office and then she closed the door.
“OK, so do you think she bought all this?” asked Kian, while Nicky still grabbed his collar and had him pushed to the door.
“What?” shrieked Anna, “You mean, you made this fight up?”
Nicky smiled, “You honestly think I would fight over something as petty as this? By the way Brian, good move intervening!”
“Ok Nicky, you can let go of me now!” choked Kian, pushing his hands away.
“So you mean to tell me that this squabbling was all about manipulating Mandy into being your choreographer? You’re seriously disturbed!” giggled Tracee.
“Yeah, well!” smiled Shane.
“You must be really desperate!” cackled Abeth, “And I mean seriously!”
“I know we are!” smiled Nicky, “But she is the best one we have had and we are not gonna let her go that easily!”
“That’s quite sweet!” smiled Abeth.
Mandy walked into the office and sat on the chair. She looked at Louis, curious to know what he wanted.
“Ok, right. I was just talking to the lads about next year’s tour. I am in the process of choosing the songs for the tour. All we need now is a choreographer!” he smiled, putting his hands together and looking straight at her.
“Oh god, not you aswell!” moaned Mandy, “I gave up all that, remember? Louis, I cannot do it! When Nicky and I broke up, it was awful. We are together again. I don’t want to go back to that again.”
“I know you did, but hear me out!” he smiled.
Mandy sighed, “Go on then!”
“Ok, how about we give you a pay rise?” he smiled, rubbing his chin.
“Louis, this is not about the money—” she sighed, shaking her head.
“I was thinking about another £500 per session, per hour!” he smiled.
Mandy’s eyes grew wide, “Are you kidding me?” she shrieked.
“Not at all, sweetheart. What do you say?” he laughed.
“Oh, I dunno Louis. I don’t think I can do it! This is not about the money. It’s just…” she frowned.
“Oh come on. You have made up with Nicky already, there really is no reason why you shouldn’t!” he interrupted.
“Yes there is, Louis. When Nicky and me split up, it was very difficult for me to give those lessons, knowing that he was there. I couldn’t handle it. It really was awful. What if we break up again? I cannot go through all that again, Louis. It tore me apart!” she moaned, getting up and pacing around the room.
“Ok, I’ll make a deal with you. If you and Nicky do break up, which I doubt, by the way… the lad is totally smitten with you…anyway if you do break up, I give you my promise that you can go, and we’ll get someone else on the spot! How about that?” he asked.
Mandy stared at him and sat back down, “Wow! You really want me back, don’t you?”
Louis nodded, “Absolutely! You have been the best these lads have ever had, Mandy, and I am not prepared to let you go without a fight!”
Mandy thought about how the lads were fighting outside, and it was all because of her. She scratched her head, “I suppose this would stop the lads from killing each other outside!”
“Is that a yes?” asked Louis, with a hopeful glint in his eye.
Mandy inhaled deeply and exhaled again, “Ok. But only on that condition. That I go if me and Nicky break up!”
“And the pay rise!” cackled Louis.
“And the pay rise. Ok Louis, you’re on!” she smiled weakly.
“Great. Fantastic. I’ll just draw up a contract and I’ll give you a call sometime this week so you can sign it. Then we can go over the songs together and you can make a start then, ok?” he smiled.
“Ok. Is that all then?” she asked, standing up.
“Yeah, that would be all. Thanks a million Mandy.” He smiled, picking up his phone to get to his lawyer.
Mandy smiled and walked outside. She looked at everyone, who was at this stage, sitting separately from each other, looking miserable.
“Woah!” she gasped, “Who died?”
“Well, Kian almost did!” grumbled Nicky.
“Don’t start again, Nicky!” hissed Kian, “I am not in the mood!”
“Oh, too bad!” mumbled Nicky, “coz I am!”
“Look guys, not now eh? I have some news for you which might cheer you up!” she sighed.
All the lads looked at each other and gave each other a smirky grin, “What?” asked Shane.
“Well, looks like I am gonna be your choreographer after all!” she said, taking a seat. Everyone looked up at her and grinned, “Are you kidding?”
“No. Louis is very good at talking people round, isn’t he? And I did it for you guys. I am sick and tired of listening to your squabbling! Hope this manages to stop you. Well, that and the pay rise that I am getting, of course!” she grinned.
“Wow. That’s great Mandz!” cheered Anna, “Good to have you back on board!”
Mandy smiled and nodded. She then looked at Nicky, “Well?”
Nicky smiled and got up. He wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her gently on the lips, “Thank you, love!”
“Yeah well. Anything to stop you lads from arguing!” she smiled.
Nicky and Kian gave each other a look and burst out laughing.
“What?” asked Mandy.
“Oh nothing!” laughed Nicky, holding her tighter. Mandy pulled away and looked at Kian and the rest of the lads, unable to suppress their laughter. She looked at them confused for a while before she caught on to what had been going on.
“Oh my god! Are you kidding me?” she shrieked.
“What?” asked Nicky, laughing even more now.
“That was all a show to get me to agree, wasn’t it? You and Louis were all in on this. Oh how could I be such an idiot?” she cursed herself.
Nicky laughed and held her again, “I am sorry love. But this only goes to show how much we want you to work with us.”
Mandy looked back and up at him, “You’re all evil, you know that?” she then started laughing herself.
“Evil and desperate!” smirked Kian, giving her a kiss, “Thanks for being such a good sport, sweetie!”
“Hey. Hands off my woman!” growled Nicky playfully.
“Yeah, we’ll see about that!” winked Kian at Mandy. Mandy just laughed.
“Wanna take me on, Ki?” challenged Nicky, rolling his sleeves up again.
“Oh god, not again!” moaned Mandy, watching the lads horsing around.
Anna shook her head and looked at the girls, “Come on then, girls. Let’s leave them all to it, and let’s go and get something to eat. I am famished!”
The girls just laughed and walked out of the office, leaving the lads to their pranks. Nicky watched them as they walked away. He stopped play fighting and stared at Mandy, with his hands on his hips. He finally got her again. He was finally happy again. She was back in his life, and back working with him. He felt like he was succeeding again, and he couldn’t be happier. No more complications. From now on, it would all be plain sailing. 

Chapter Text

Two weeks later, Mandy had returned back to London. The lads were still in Ireland, as they had to record their album. Louis had given Mandy the demos of the songs that were going to be in the album as they would be played in the concerts so she could start thinking of some dance routines for the lads. Mandy and Nicky kept in contact every day. Every break Nicky had was spent speaking to Mandy on the phone. They were still taking things very slowly, but gradually they were getting to where they both wanted to be. Mandy realised exactly how much she loved Nicky now that she was away with him, and now she was pondering on the thought of whether it really was such a good idea to tell him that she wanted to take things slowly. Sitting in her living room one Saturday afternoon, after taking a break from the dance routines, she picked up a photo of Nicky and stared at it with a frown.
“Oh god. What if he finds someone else? What if he decides that he is sick of taking things slow and finds someone who is willing to give him what he wants!” she told herself. Not being able to take it anymore, she decided to call him. Of course, his phone was switched off.
“I knew it!” she frowned, “He’s got someone already!”
She sighed heavily, and decided on ringing Anna instead. She immediately picked up the phone.
“Mandz. Hi, what’s up, girlfriend?” she cheered in a joking kind of way.
Mandy giggled at how she answered her phone, “nothing. Just wanted to see how you were!”
“Meaning that you could not get hold of Nicky and wanted to keep tabs on him, right?” chuckled Anna.
Mandy gasped, “What?”
“Come on, Mandz!” grinned Anna.
“Where is he?” she surrendered.
“Mandz, you don’t have to worry about him, you know? He’s crazy about you!” sighed Anna.
Mandy sighed again, “But I do worry. I mean, since we got back together, we haven’t even…you know…”
“Slept together?” she asked.
“Yes.” Sighed Mandy, “And he’s a bloke. Surely, he cannot go for that long without any!”
“Mandz, you listen to me. He loves you to bits. There is no-one else he wants but you. Sex isn’t everything, dear! And he knows that!” she smiled.
“I know, but I am starting to think it was a really bad idea to tell him that I wanted to take things slowly. What if I made the wrong decision on that one?” she panicked.
“You did what you thought was for the best. You shouldn’t feel pressurised and he understands that, which is why he is not pressurising you. You don’t have to worry babe. He has been going from his house to the studio and back home again. Trust me, he won’t even come out with us at night!” explained Anna.
“Oh god. What if he has someone else and he is telling you that he is not going out, when he secretly is” she panicked even more.
Anna shook her head and sighed, “You worry too much, you know that?”
“Why has he not got his phone switched on then?” she asked.
Anna laughed, “Because he is right here, in my hotel room having sex with me and the receptionist!” she joked.
Mandy stayed silent, “That is not funny, Anna!”
“I know it is not. She’s minging!” she further joked.
“ANNA!!!” whined Mandy.
“Look. Will you relax? He has his phone off coz he is in the recording booth, and right at this very moment, as we speak, he is recording his song, so chill, woman! Oooh looks like he has finished. He has taken his headphones off and is now heading for the door.” She smiled.
Mark came out and wrapped his arms around Anna’s waist, gently kissing her lips. “Hey babe. How did it go?” she smiled.
“Went quite well. Five songs down. Another seven to go!” he laughed.
“Hello? I am still here you know?” shouted Mandy down the phone as she heard them kissing.
Mark looked at the phone and grinned, “Hey Mandz!”
Hearing her name, Nicky immediately looked at them and saw Anna grinning. He marched up to Anna and looked at her, “Is that my woman on the phone?” he asked, pointing at the phone.
Anna bit her lip and grinned, laughing a bit. She handed her phone to Nicky and walked to the vending machine with Mark, as he wanted a coke.
“Hello babe!” chirped Nicky, “How are you?”
“I am ok Nicky. You finished for today then?” she asked.
“Yeah, I wish. Louis has got us here until ten at night. We’ve been here since six this morning. I am knackered!” he moaned.
“Awwww. It’ll all be worth it in the end!” she soothed.
“Yeah it will be when I finally see you again. I miss you babe. You should come back!” he pouted.
“You know I can’t, Nico!” she sighed, wishing that she could too.
“Why not?” he whined, “I need you here with me. I miss you so much!”
“Coz I have to stay here and look for a venue we could use to rehearse!” she answered.
“What’s wrong with where we rehearsed last year?” he argued.
“That’s already booked for Robbie Williams, hun. I need to find somewhere else!” she comforted.
“Pah. Stoke idiot. Why doesn’t he just go to his home town and rehearse there?” he moaned. Mandy couldn’t help but laugh, “Same reason you can’t!” she giggled. “His choreographer is from London and she needs to stay there!”
“Well, why can’t we stay here and rehearse?” he pouted again.
“Nicky, you know we can’t. We need to base ourselves here in London.” She sighed.
“I just miss you so much!” he frowned.
“I know. You’ve already mentioned it about twenty times!” she smirked.
“Don’t you miss me at all?” he shrieked.
“You know I do!” she frowned.
“Then why do you never tell me?” he moaned.
“I do tell you!” she frowned, knowing it was not true.
“No you don’t!” he argued.
“Ok. I miss you too. There, I said it. Happy now?” she sighed.
“Not really, coz it doesn’t sound as if you mean it!” he argued.
“Nicky, you know I do, now stop being such a baby and talk to me!” she sighed, losing patience. Truth was she was scared of admitting her feelings to him, just in case he let her down again.
“Baby? I am not the one being a baby!” he answered, offended by that, “I cannot help it if I miss my girlfriend!”
“And I cannot help it if I am too busy. At least I ring you every day!” she argued.
“Yeah well, don’t do me any favours, ok?” he snarled, hanging up the phone on her. He tossed it to Anna and stormed out of the room. Anna looked at her phone and then at Nicky walking away, “What happened there?” she gasped.
“Looks like they have had a tiff!” laughed Mark.
“Ya think?” Anna shrieked.
“Oh god, not again!” moaned Abeth, “They have only just made up!”
“I’ll ring Mandy!” sighed Anna, dialling the number.
“Yeah, and I’ll go and look for Nicky!” sighed Mark, walking out of the door. 

Chapter Text

Mandy picked up the phone which was ringing. Anna could tell she was in tears. “What was that all about?” she asked straight away.
“I dunno!” cried Mandy, “He got annoyed coz I never tell him I miss him!”
“And do you?” she asked.
“You know I do!” she frowned, “More than ever!”
“Then tell him! Sometimes it is nice to hear that, believe it or not!” she advised. Mandy remained quiet, knowing she was right.
“Listen Mandz, Mark has gone to talk to him. It’ll be ok. It’s just hard for him being so far away from you!” she sighed.
“It is hard for me too, you know?” she sniffed.
“I know that, but you are not showing him that, and at the moment I wouldn’t blame him if he thought that he felt a lot more for you than you feel for him!” she said, not sure how she was going to take that.
“That’s rubbish!” answered Mandy defensively.
“Yeah, I know that, but does he?” she asked, “Maybe you should tell him how you really feel!”
“What? I can’t do that.” She shrieked, “You know what I am like at expressing my feelings!”
“You’re gonna have to, hun, coz if you don’t, I fear that you might lose him again. Is that what you want?” she soothed.
“Course not!” mumbled Mandy.
“Well then. Sort it out, coz it would be a shame if things didn’t work out between the both of you, knowing how you feel about each other!” she smiled.
Anna heard Mandy sigh, and she could almost picture Mandy nodding, “I’ll give him a call now!” she sighed.
“Good. Anyway I’ll let you go now, ok?” she smiled.
“Ok hun. See you soon!” she said before she hang up.
She went to get herself a drink before she called Nicky. Knowing what she was about to say made her stomach do somersaults. She finally got her drink and sat down.

Mark was running out of breath as he chased Nicky, who finally sat down on the park bench.
“Woah!” panted Mark, as he bent over to catch his breath, “You sure are fast.”
“I am not in the mood Mark!” he mumbled.
“What was that all about?” he questioned, taking a seat next to him.
“I just get the feeling that I want more from this relationship than Mandy does, and quite frankly, I don’t wanna waste my time, which is what I feel I am doing right now!” he moaned.
“You know that’s not true!” smiled Mark.
“Do I?” snapped Nicky, “She never tells me she loves me and it doesn’t seem like she misses me at all. What am I supposed to think?”
“Maybe she is just scared?” questioned Mark.
“Scared of what? It’s not like we have never been together before!” he moaned.
“I dunno. Maybe she doesn’t wanna get in too deep in case Kris comes running back. I dunno!” he shrugged.
“But I have reassured her over and over again that is never gonna happen, and if it does, there is no hope in hell that I would take her back!” he argued, “I dunno how else to convince her!” he sighed, throwing a small stone carelessly onto the grass.
“Well, you’re gonna have to think of something, mate, if you wanna keep her!” he smiled, patting his back.
“You know how they say absence makes the heart grow fonder? I don’t think that saying applies for you both,” he laughed.
Nicky was about to say something when he felt his phone vibrate in his pocket. He picked it out and looked at the display, “It’s Mandy!”
“Ok then mate, I’ll leave you both to it. Good luck!” he smiled, squeezing his shoulder and walking off. Nicky nodded and answered his phone.
“Nicky!” said Mandy weakly.
“What?” he answered coldly, pulling at the grass beneath him.
“We need to talk!” she whispered.
“You reckon?” he answered icily.
“Nicky, please!” she sighed.
“What? Please what? It is clear to me that you’re not serious enough about us!” he snapped as he got up and walked to the nearest bench, taking a seat on it.
“What? How can you think that?” she shrieked.
“Gee. Let me think!” he answered with a lot of sarcasm showing in his voice.
“Look, I rang you back to make up ok, not to fight!” she huffed.
Nicky remained quiet and let out a little sigh.
“I am sorry ok?” she said weakly, “I know you think that I don’t have any feelings for you, but you’re wrong!”
“Go on!” he answered, playing with a small rock on the bench.
“I am a person who finds it very hard to express her feelings Nicky. I dunno why. But…” she sighed.
“Do you love me?” he interrupted her.
“You know I do!” she sighed.
“Oh, do I?” he asked with a smirk.
“I hope you do!” she answered softly.
“It would be nice to hear every now and then though!” he frowned.
“I know!” she sighed, “I am trying, Nicky!” she cried.
Nicky noticed the sad tone in her voice, “Don’t cry darling!” he sighed.
“I do love you, Nicky!” she broke down, “And I do miss you…a lot!”
Nicky smiled when he heard that, “I love you too sweetheart, and miss you like mad!” “It’s just I…I can’t….I need to be with you babe!” she sniffed, “I love you so much!” “It’s ok, baby. We’re ok!” he smiled.
“I get so scared you are going to go off me!” she wiped her tears, “I cannot bear the thought of being without you again! I worry that you are going to find someone when we are not together and you will go completely off me.”
“Wow you’re doing well for someone who cannot express her feelings!” he laughed. Mandy let out a little laugh, “Yeah well, the floodgates have opened now. Your fault!” she shrugged.
“Well, you have nothing to worry about darling. I am patient enough. You’re definitely worth the wait!” he smiled reassuringly.
“Thank you!” she whispered.
“When are we gonna see each other again babe! I cannot go on without you. It’s tearing me apart!” he frowned.
“Not long babe. You’re all coming to London next week aren’t you?” she asked.
“Yeah!” he sighed, “A week is so far away though!”
“I know!” she frowned, “But it will give you something to look forward to!”
“I know!” he sighed, “I just need to see you quick. Even if we don’t do anything but kiss and cuddle. I need you!”
“I love you Nicky. I want you to never forget that. I know I wanna take things slowly and I am not ready for anything yet, but I do love you. So much you wouldn’t believe!” she seriously said.
“I love you too, princess.” He smiled. He looked at Kian who was running his way.
“I think I have to go now babe. Kian is coming to get me. Think Louis wants me back in the studio!” he smiled.
“Ok babe. I’ll speak to you later ok?” she smiled.
“Yeah!” he smiled, “Love you!”
“I love you too!” she quickly said, “Now go before he kills you!”

Chapter Text

A week later, everyone was in London. Mandy waited eagerly at the airport for them to arrive. She searched among the herd of people walking out of the arrivals lounge, hoping that she would catch a glimpse of them soon. She smiled and bit her lip as she thought about seeing Nicky again. Soon, the crowd had cleared and she was left there on her own when everyone had gone through. She was starting to worry as no-one seemed to be coming out. It was just her and a few excited fans beside her. She leaned over the railings to see if she could see them coming, but there was no sign. After a while, she saw the door opening and heard the fans beside her starting to scream. She looked at them and saw them jumping, wondering what on earth was wrong with them. It’s only when she looked in the direction she was looking at that she realised Westlife were coming out of the arrivals lounge with their cases. She let out a huge grin and searched for Nicky, who did not seem to be there. She let out a small frown and waited for the girls to join her.
“Mandz!” grinned Anna, “So nice to see you again” she smiled as she hugged her.
“You too hun. And all of you!” she smiled hugging all the girls, while the lads went to have photos taken with the fans and signing autographs.
“London ain’t changed much I see!” joked Abeth.
“Question is, how do they know where and when the lads are arriving?” wondered Tracee.
“They have their sources!” laughed Mandy as she finished hugging all of them.
“It’s always the same fans though!” laughed Angie, “Makes me wonder where they get their money from!”
“They have their means!” grinned Mandy, “Anyway how are you all and where the hell is Nicky?”
The girls looked at each other and then at Mandy. Anna broke the news, “He ain’t coming, hunny!”
Mandy’s face dropped, “What? What do you mean he ain’t coming? We have to rehearse. Thought you were all here for a one off gig tomorrow!” she shrieked.
“He wasn’t feeling too well and couldn’t fly. I am sorry hun. I know you were really looking forward to seeing and being with him again!” frowned Abeth.
Mandy could feel the tears starting to form, but she was not going to embarrass herself by crying there in front of everyone, “Oh. Why didn’t he tell me?”
“Coz he didn’t wanna worry you babe!” smiled Anna sympathetically, “I am sorry!” Mandy nodded, “Now when will I see him again?” she moaned, “So I take it he is not performing tomorrow!”
Anna shook her head, “Sorry hun.”
“I’m gutted. But poor Nicky!” she mumbled.
“What about Nicky?” asked Shane, joining them and kissing Tracee.
“We were talking about how Nicky couldn’t make it!” filled in Tracee.
“Oh yeah. He’s sick!” shrugged Shane, “But we’ll manage without him!”
Mandy nodded and turned to walk, “Well, I suppose we’d better leave then!”
Anna stopped her, “Please don’t let this ruin your birthday, hun!”
Mandy bowed her head down, “I was really looking forward to spending my birthday with Nicky, and now all that’s gone out the window!”
“How has it been so far? Had a nice day so far?” asked Abeth.
Mandy just shrugged, “Until now, it has been fine. What a crap birthday!” she moaned.
“I am sure he will make it up to you hun. Don’t worry!” she winked.
Mandy shrugged and continued walking.
“We’ll all go out tonight for a meal and a drink and we’ll take your mind off him. We’ll get totally wasted and we’ll make sure you have a nice day ok?” smiled Anna.
Mandy let out an appreciative smile and continued walking till they all got to their car.
The lads and girls had their transport, and Mandy went in her car back to her house. The lads were staying at the Marriott with the girls. Mandy had the chance to stay at the hotel, but since Nicky was not there, she decided against it. She went home, unlocked the door and went inside. She went to the living room to check her machine for messages. She frowned when she saw none, and then threw herself on the sofa. “Well, what a crap day this has turned out to be!” she moaned to herself. She sighed heavily and got up from the sofa. She grabbed her coat to take it up to her room and walked up the stairs. She dumped the coat and bag on her bed and walked back downstairs. As she walked down the last step, she heard something in the living room. Starting to get scared now, she slowly crept to the door and poked her head in. She didn’t see anything, so she walked in. She thought she was imagining things when the room suddenly smelt different. Thinking it was all in her head, she shrugged and made her way to the kitchen, when something on the coffee table caught her eye. She walked towards it and saw a present on there. She looked around, totally confused. She could have sworn that was not there before. She picked it up and inspected it. There was no note, no card, no nothing. No way of knowing who it was from. She slowly opened it and saw a square box. Opening her eyes wide, she opened the box, to see a small piece of paper laying inside. There was something written on it. Mandy looked closer and read it.
“Take 7 steps towards the kitchen!” it said. She looked around her, unsure of whether to take that note seriously. Nonetheless, she did it. She was face to face with the kitchen door and saw there was a note there too. She read it.
“Quarter turn to your right and take 6 steps forward.” 

Shrugging, she did as it said, taking this as a bit of fun. She was now by the living room window. Another note followed.
“Quarter turn left and walk 3 steps back!” it read. Mandy smirked and took those 3 steps back. She suddenly felt herself crashing against the wall. There was another note there. 

“Take 4 steps out the door, and walk up the stairs, very very slowly!”
She did just that until she was at the top. On the handrail, was one more note.
“Quarter turn left, walk 5 steps forward, turn left, go through the door and then close it!” Laughing slightly to herself, she followed the instructions, until she was in her room again. As soon as she opened the door, she came face to face with her present. Nicky with a huge bow tied around his waist.
“Nicky!!!” she gasped.
“Happy birthday darling!” he smiled, opening his arms to welcome her in them.
“But I thought you were back in Ireland. Anna said that you were not well and couldn’t make it!” she continued gasping.
“I am so glad she could keep that secret to herself!” he chuckled, “I just wanted to surprise you!”
Mandy let out a huge grin and ran to his arms. “How the hell did you get in?"
Nicky laughed as he held her lovingly against him, “I know you always have a spare key by the plant pot.”
Mandy smiled and hugged him tighter, “you have no idea how happy I am right now."
“Oooooooh I have missed you so much!” he smiled, closing his eyes and hugging her tightly.
Mandy pulled back and looked up into his eyes, “I have missed you too.”
Nicky smiled and leaned his face down towards hers. He gently placed his lips on hers and brushed them softly against her lips. Soon, that had turned into a full blown kiss. Mandy kissed him with equal passion as she let her hand glide up under his Tshirt, feeling his warm chest. Nicky let out a small moan as he felt the smoothness of her skin against his chest. He pulled away and looked at her.
“Babe, don’t do that!” he whispered hoarsely.
“Why not?” she asked, looking seriously into his eyes.
“Coz you are doing things to me and you are making me wanna do things to you that you don’t wanna do yet!” he growled, biting her lower lip.
“Maybe I do want to!” she mischievously grinned, running her finger up and down his chest.
“What? But I thought….” He started.
Mandy shook her head and placed her finger against his lip, “Not anymore babe. I think we cannot afford to go slowly. I am too impatient and all I want is you right now, and when I want something…when I really want something, patience is not one of my virtues!” she smiled naughtily.
Nicky let out a cheeky grin and picked her up, taking her to the bed, “Are you sure about this?”
Mandy bit her lip with a smile and nodded, “Positive. Let’s make up for lost time, babe!” 

Chapter Text

Mandy and Nicky lay side by side, looking into each other’s eyes. Nicky smiled and brushed the loose hair she had in front of her eyes back and let out a content sigh, “I love you so much, babe!”
Mandy smiled and closed her eyes, enjoying his touch, “I love you too!”
Nicky smiled and put his arm around her waist, pulling her closer towards him, “Do you mean that?”
Mandy smiled and nodded, “You know I wouldn’t have said it if I didn’t mean it!”
“Do you realise this is the first time you have actually told me you loved me?” he grinned.
Mandy shook her head, “No it isn’t!”
“Yes it is!” he argued, pulling his head up, and resting it on his hand.
Mandy shook her head and insisted, “No Nicky. I told you I loved you yesterday on the phone!”
“You lie!” he laughed.
“I do not!” she laughed back, “When we were about to hang up, you said, “I love you” and I said “I love you too!” remember? And then again when we had that argument over the phone.”
Nicky thought about this and then smiled, “Ah yeah!”
“Yeah, see? So I don’t lie! I feel I need an apology!” she pouted.
Nicky let out a naughty grin, “Do ya, now?”
Mandy hummed and nodded, “I do!”
“Well, in that case, let me do it in style!” he winked, pulling her on top of him. Mandy smiled and leaned down to kiss him. As they got passionate, they heard the phone ringing. Nicky sighed and threw his head back on the pillow.
“Always!” he moaned, “We always get interrupted by the phone. I am sure we are being spied on!”
Mandy smiled and picked up the phone beside her.
“Brian, hi! What’s up?” smiled Mandy.
“Tell him to sod off. We’re busy!” shouted Nicky.
Mandy laughed and slapped him.
“Sorry, I didn’t interrupt anything, did I?” gasped Brian apologetically.
Mandy chuckled, “Don’t worry about it Bri!”
“Yeah, you’ll be sorry McFadden. I am gonna ring you up next time you and Abeth are at it!” retaliated Nicky.
Mandy slapped him again, hearing Brian laugh.
“Anyway, I rang to ask what time rehearsals are?” he wondered.
“Oooh four o’clock, we agreed!” smiled Mandy, checking the time, “So that gives you two hours to yourself!”
Brian smiled, “Ok thanks, Mandz. Have fun!”
Mandy giggled, “Moment’s gone now Bri, but thanks!”
She hang up and looked at Nicky, who was giving her a look, “What do you mean moment’s gone?”
“Well, that romantic passionate moment has gone thanks to Brian!” she shrugged.
“So you mean we are not carrying on where we left off?” he pouted.
Mandy gave him a sympathetic look, “Awwwwww babe! We’ll only knacker ourselves before rehearsals!”
“Who cares?” he whined, “I want you!”
Mandy laughed climbed on top of him again, “Well, I suppose I do need an apology from you for calling me a liar!”
Nicky grinned and kissed her passionately again. When their moment of passion was over they stayed looking at each other again.
“Mandz! Can I ask you a question?” distractedly running his hand up and down her silky skin on her waist
“Only if I can answer it!” she shrugged with a smile.
Nicky smiled and licked his lips, “Well, what made you realise you wanted things to speed up with us. I mean, not long ago, you were still determined on keeping things slow!”
Mandy smiled and lay on her back, “Well, I missed you so much, and after that argument we had on the phone, I realised there is no-one else for me but you. I kept trying to picture myself with some other guy and I just couldn’t see it happening. I only saw you in my future, so I thought, well, why waste valuable time!”
Nicky smiled, “I love you!”
“Well, it was that, and the fact that I was as horny as hell!” she smirked.
This made Nicky shoot up to a sitting position, “You cheeky mare!”
Mandy giggled loudly, “Oh your face was priceless there!”
“I feel so used!” he joked.
Mandy stuck her tongue out and got out of bed, “I suppose we’d better get ready for rehearsals now babe, or we’ll be late!”
“What? But we still have an hour left!” he shrieked.
“Yes, but I need to set up the equipment and everything. We cannot play without music, now, can we?” she winked.
“Awwww do we have to go to rehearsals? I would much rather spend the day here in bed with you!” he pouted, holding her closely.
“Sorry babe, but Louis will fire my sorry arse if I don’t show up!” she smiled, kissing his nose and getting up, “Now get up and get ready. We need to go soon!” Nicky sighed and got dressed, finally content about how his relationship with Mandy was going.

Chapter Text

Mandy and Nicky finally arrived at the studios. They went in and walked to the room to find a load of people dancing. Mandy looked at the time and sighed.
“I guess we are too early!” she huffed, taking a seat.
“See? I told ya!” smirked Nicky, “We could’ve had another half an hour in bed!”
“Yeah well, I like being prepared!” she sighed, looking at the time again, “I was reassured that this place was not going to be used by anyone!”
Nicky smiled and put his arm around her, pulling her close to his chest, “Just relax babe. You worry too much. It’s not good for you!”
Mandy smiled and rested her head comfortably against his chest. They were there for ten minutes when one of the employees at the studio saw them. He walked towards them and coughed to get their attention. Mandy pulled away from Nicky and looked at him. 

“May I help you?” he asked.
“Well, we are here for the dance rehearsals. Westlife are here this afternoon!” explained Mandy.
The man looked at his file and scanned through the appointments, “Westlife?”
Mandy nodded, and looked at Nicky.
“I am sorry madam, but we don’t have that anywhere on our records!” he apologised, still looking at his list.
“What? But I booked this studio two weeks ago. I was reassured that it was available!” she shrieked, starting to fret.
“Well, there is no record of that here. Sorry!” he shrugged, closing his file.
Mandy looked at Nicky, who pulled a puzzled face and then she looked at the man, “Are you sure? Can you check again please?” she sighed.
“Sorry madam, but there is no booking for Westlife here! I’m afraid you’ve had a wasted journey!” he insisted.
“Well, try Mandy!” she suddenly thought out loud, “Mandy Adams. Try that. I might have booked it under my name!”
The man sighed and looked again. He closed his file hard and looked at her again, “Sorry. No Mandy Adams either!”
Mandy was going red with anger by this point. She stood up and placed her hands on her hips, “This is ridiculous. I demand to see the manager of this place. NOW!”
The man looked at her and then at Nicky, totally bemused by someone so small making such a big fuss. Nicky looked at him and then at Mandy. She was biting her lips furiously. He shook his head and put his arm around her. Mandy shrugged him off in a rage.
“Sorry but the manager is away on vacation. I am the next in line!” he smirked.
“Oh how convenient!” she mumbled, “I cannot believe this is happening. What am I gonna do now? I am never gonna find a hall at such short notice!”
“Don’t worry babe. We’ll think of something!” smiled Nicky optimistically.
“Yeah? Where?” she shrieked.
Nicky stepped back “Well, I dunno…”
“Exactly, and neither do I. This is a nightmare. Louis is gonna freak out and I am gonna lose my job!” she panicked.
Nicky laughed, “Louis will do no such thing. He knows how good you are. He would be a fool to do that. Besides, I wouldn’t let him!”
Mandy gave him a knowing look, “But he will freak!”
Nicky pulled a face, “Well, maybe a little.”
Mandy rolled her eyes and grabbed her bag. She looked deep into the man’s eyes menacingly and bit her lip, “Thanks for nothing!” she hissed.
She flicked her hair and walked off, mumbling inaudible things to the man. Nicky let out a little laugh and walked off, trying to catch up with her.
“Hey, slow down will you?” he smiled, “It’s not a race!”
“Don’t even try to make me feel better Nicky. I am too angry!” she hissed.
Nicky sighed and grabbed her arms when they had got outside, “Babe. Calm down, please!”
“It’s not on, Nicky. I booked that place and I was told there was no-one else in there for the next two weeks!” she moaned, “What am I gonna do now?”
“Look relax. Let’s go and sit down, think about this rationally and see what we can come up with. The hotel the lads are staying at have a studio. Maybe that is free and we can use it!” he smiled.
Mandy looked at him and calmed down, “OK. Let’s give them a call!”
Nicky shook his head, “I’ll call one of the lads to let him know what’s happened and he can check ok? Now stop worrying.” 

Mandy smiled and bit her nails nervously as Nicky called Mark.
“Hey Mark. Listen, pass the word round will ya? Rehearsals are cancelled for the time being. The studio is unavailable, but we are looking for somewhere. Could you do us a favour and check with the hotel and see if their studio is available?…nice one, cheers Mark. Give us a ring when you know ok? Cheers mate! See ya later!” he smiled and hang up. He looked at Mandy and hugged her, “He will ring me in five minutes ok?”
Mandy sighed and nodded.
“Now why don’t we go to that nice little café in there, have a cup of coffee and relax eh?” he smiled, holding her hand tenderly.
Mandy smiled and they both made their way to the café. Five minutes later, Nicky’s phone rang. He answered it and smiled.
“Hey Mark….What’s the verdict?” he paused and looked at Mandy, flashing her a huge smile, “Oh nice one. Cheers mate. Be there in ten, ok?”
He hang up and looked at her with a smile.
“Well?” she almost screamed out.
“It’s available now!” he grinned, “Now let’s go!”
Mandy smiled and kissed him hard before they left the café and got into her car, driving off to the hotel.
When they got there, they walked into the hotel and looked for the studio.
“Are you sure it is available? I mean, at such short notice?” she asked.
Nicky squeezed her hand and told her not to worry so much. Mandy shrugged and followed him, still holding his hand. He opened the door and saw darkness.
“I thought you told them to be here. Where are th….” She started before the lights switched themselves on and she heard a loud roar.
“Happy birthday!!!” came the screams.
Mandy looked at everyone in the room, totally bewildered. She blinked rapidly and then looked at Nicky.
“What’s going on?” she asked.
“It’s your surprise party!” he smiled, ushering her inside.
“At 4 o’clock in the afternoon?” she shrieked.
Nicky laughed, “Well, I want you all to myself tonight. I am sharing you with no-one on your birthday, and everyone else here wanted to celebrate your birthday too, so we decided to go for the afternoon. Surprised?”
Mandy covered her mouth, “I’d say!” she gasped, “So totally unexpected. But what about…”
“Rehearsals?” smiled Nicky, “Yeah, all that’s out the window. We are not really rehearsing. Not till next year anyway!”
“Eh? Then why did you come over here? All of you?” she gasped.
“Did you honestly think we’d let you celebrate your birthday on your own? It was Anna’s idea by the way. She insisted on all of us coming over for your birthday. I mean, I was coming anyway, but then she decided on surprising you!” he smiled. Mandy laughed and looked at Anna, “Well, you certainly had me fooled!”
They all came over and hugged her.
“I am sorry for all the aggro with the studio!” giggled Abeth, “But it had to be done. I told the guy to play along!”
“That was you?” shrieked Mandy, “You told them that I wanted to cancel the booking?”
Abeth bit her lip and grinned, “Again, sorry for the aggro. But we had to fool you somehow!”
“I cannot believe you!” laughed Mandy, “I coulda killed the guy. I gave him a right earful!”
Anna laughed, “Typical Mandy!” she giggled, “guess you’d better ring him to apologise!”
“Guess I should!” laughed Mandy, “I called him every name under the sun, and I made a point of him hearing me!”
Anna chuckled, “You never change!”
Mandy smiled and then looked at Nicky, “And you let me go ahead with it? You coulda stopped me!”
“What? That was well funny. Good bit of entertainment if you ask me!” he answered cheekily, “I love it when you get all worked up. Makes you look so sexy!”
“Well everyone! What are you waiting for? Let’s get the drinks flowing, and let's hand the presents out!” shouted Shane.
“There are presents?” shrieked Mandy, wide eyed.
“Well duh!” Kian rolled his eyes, “It is your birthday after all!”
Mandy smiled. After some drinking and opening of presents, she had calmed down slightly and swayed in Nicky’s arms, “I never thought you’d be able to keep things secret, but you certainly had me fooled!”
“I just love surprising you, baby!” he smiled, resting his head on top of her head.
“Well you certainly did that!” smiled Mandy, “And I love you for it!”
Nicky looked down into her eyes and smiled, “There is something I have been meaning to ask you babe, and I want you to answer me as honest as you can!”
“Go on!” whispered Mandy.
“Well, if I were to ask you to marry me, would you accept?” he asked.
Mandy looked up quickly at him again, “You what? Are you proposing to me?” she gasped.
Nicky laughed and shook his head, “No. Not yet. I was only asking. Just a general wondering.”
Mandy smiled, though part of her was disappointed, “Well, I dunno!” she finally answered, “I suppose I would have to see myself in that situation to know really.” Nicky smiled and brushed her soft wispy hair back, “Ok babe. That’s all I needed to know! I love you so much!”
Mandy smiled and rested her head against his chest.
“I need to ask you something very important though!” he sighed.
Mandy slowly looked at him, “Go on!”
Nicky shook his head, “No. Not now. I need to ask you when we are alone! With no-one else around!”
Mandy was totally intrigued, but with the question he had just asked her, she wondered if he really was going to propose. He answered not yet. Maybe he meant that, as in later. She smiled and closed her eyes, dreaming of the moment, wondering what she would say. 

Chapter Text

Mandy swayed along to the music as she drank her drink. She looked over at Nicky, who was casually talking to the lads but she stayed with the girls.
“So Mandz. Were you really surprised?” smiled Angie.
“Yeah!” giggled Mandy, “I so did not expect this. I was really expecting a gig. In fact I am quite gutted that there won’t be a gig. I mean, I miss my job. If I don’t get anything soon, I think I might freak!”
Anna smiled, “Something will turn up soon, and you know for certain that next year the lads are touring so you will be involved in rehearsals quite soon I expect!”
Mandy smiled and shrugged, “Girls I need to ask you something!”
“Go on!” smiled Abeth, getting closer.
“Well, between you and me, I think Nicky is gonna ask me to marry him!” she whispered.
“What?” shrieked Anna out loud, jumping off the table she was sat on, “You are kidding, right?”
Mandy looked at her, totally bewildered, “Well, I might be wrong, but he did tell me he needed to ask me something very important, and that was right after he asked me if I would say yes if he proposed!”
“Oh my god!” gasped Angie, “And what are you going to say?”
Mandy just shrugged, “That’s the thing. I really do love him, but to marry him? I just feel it is too soon. I mean, I know I wanna marry him one day and I can see my future with him, but I think it is a bit too soon for marriage!”
“But you love him. If you can see yourselves together in the future, then just go for it!” smiled Anna, “I know I would if Mark asked me!”
She let out a sigh and looked the other way. Mandy gave her a look.
“So if he asked you right now, you would say yes?” she asked.
Anna bit her lip, smiled and nodded.
“But it is different for you. You have been together for much longer than me and Nicky have. I mean, we have only just got back together. I don’t wanna ruin things! Plus he has the whole divorce thing with Kris. What if the same happens to us? What if he gets sick of me and wants someone else?” she whined, taking a seat.
“Oh come on, you cannot compare yourself to Kris. Mandz, them two were wrong for each other from the start. You two have got a lot of chemistry, something that he and Kris never had. Nicky and you are so right for each other,” Anna smiled.
Mandy sighed and stared at Nicky, who gave her a brief look and a smile before turning his head to talk to Shane again. She smiled and nodded.
“Well, all I am gonna say is that you have to think about it really hard. It is a big commitment.” Smiled Abeth.
“Yeah, but I don’t wanna upset him and I know that if I say no he is gonna take it personally, and I so don’t want him to be upset! Oh god, this is so hard!” she frowned. “Just relax hun. He might not even ask that. He might want to tell you something else!” smiled Angie.
“Oh yeah? Like what?” asked Mandy, devouring her nails.
“Like, I dunno. Maybe he wants to go on holiday with you!” she shrugged.
“I have just come back recently from a holiday with him. I doubt it is that!” smiled Mandy.
“Then I dunno. Maybe he…” continued Angie.
“What if he wants to dump me again?” she panicked.
“I doubt that very much, chick! We have just been over this. He is not going to dump you,” laughed Anna.
“But you don’t know for sure, do you?” argued Mandy, “Maybe he has regretted us getting back together and wants to let me down gently. Oh my god, I cannot go through that again. I just can’t!”
“Will you relax woman? He is not gonna dump you!” sighed Anna.
“And what makes you so sure?” shrieked Mandy.
“Well, do you honestly think he would go to all this trouble, surprising you twice in the same day with his surprise appearance and this party? Do you really think he would do all this if he wanted to dump you?” she laughed.
“Well, no, not really but…” sighed Mandy, feeling slightly better.
“But nothing! Just don’t worry, and wait until tonight. It might even be something good.” Smiled Anna.
Mandy nodded and looked at Nicky again. He glanced over at her, gave her a wink and a smile and continued talking to the lads. Mandy smiled and went for a drink. When she got it, she went over to Nicky. He looked at her, smiled and put his arm around her waist, “You ok, baby?”
Mandy smiled and nodded, resting her head against his chest.
“Are you having fun?” he mumbled closely against her ear.
Mandy again nodded and swallowed the drink, “The best!”
“Good. I am glad!” he smiled, kissing her lips gently. The lads all rolled their eyes. “Guys, please. You are putting me off my beer here!” sighed Shane, walking off. Mandy gave him odd looks as he walked away, “What’s wrong with him?”
Nicky shrugged, “I think him and Tracee are having problems!”
“Really? Tracee hasn’t said anything!” she gasped.
“No. She doesn’t really like going into it, but there are problems. They have been arguing a lot lately!” sighed Nicky.
“Oh!” mumbled Mandy, looking over at Tracee, who was in fits of laughter with the girls, “You’d never have thought by looking at her!”
“Yeah well. To be honest, I think she wants to end it with Shane.” Frowned Mark. Mandy looked at Mark, then back at Tracee and then at Shane, who was in the corner of the room, knocking back his beer.
Two hours later, everyone was now clearing up and getting ready to go. When they had finished, they found themselves in the lobby of the hotel.
“So, we’d better go and get ready for tonight then. I booked the table for eight!” smiled Nicky.
Mandy smiled and nodded as she said goodbye to everyone.
Once they got gotten ready, Mandy and Nicky made their way to the restaurant. Nicky looked very smart in his navy blue suit, and Mandy looked really elegant in her red satin long dress. She had a matching scarf made from the same material wrapped around her neck loosely. They took a seat and after a while started eating.
“So!” smiled Mandy, as she placed her knife and fork on the plate when she had finished, “What is this important question you have to ask me?”
Nicky looked at her, smiled, wiped his mouth with his napkin and reached out for her hand.
“You know how much I love you, right?” he smiled, rubbing his thumb on her smooth silky skin.
“I think I do, yes!” she smiled, feeling those butterflies in her stomach.
Nicky grinned and looked at her intently, “And I never want to let you go. I want to be with you for the rest of my life. I never want to be without you again. Those months we were apart was pure torture!”
“I know!” she whispered, looking deep into his clear blue eyes. She gazed at his lips for a moment and then looked back into his eyes.
“Well, I was just wondering…” he started, before he got interrupted by her mobile.
He looked at her, sighed and leaned back on his chair, “Go on. Answer it!”
“No. You were saying something, now continue!” she smiled as she was about to press the end call button. Nicky reached out for her hand and stopped her, “No. It’s ok. I can wait. Answer it. It might be important!”
Mandy sighed and held the phone close to her ear.
“I’m sorry, who is this?” she asked. She waited and looked at Nicky, who played around with his knife and fork.
“Sorry I dunno any Nigel Martin Smith!” she answered.
When he heard that name, Nicky quickly looked up.
Mandy listened to what Nigel was saying, before she looked at Nicky, totally shocked. “What?” she shrieked, “But I thought they had all gone their own ways! Back together? Is that even gonna work? It has been ten years!”
“Who is back together?” whispered Nicky.
Mandy put out her hand to let her know she was listening to what Nigel was saying. “Look, I’m sorry Nigel, but I am already choreographing a band…” she smiled and looked at Nicky, “A band who does actually have a chance of making it. Yes they are very successful. I don’t wanna take my chances on a band who might not even make it, and besides, Westlife will be touring at the same time as Take that, so I don’t think I’ll be able to…What? Louis referred me? When? This morning? Is he mad? I cannot do both bands, that’s unrealistic!” She paused for a while before she sighed, “Look, I am in the middle of a really romantic evening with my man here and you are interrupting. Can I at least please think about it and I shall get back to you tomorrow? OK fine. No I don’t have your number but I’ll give Louis a ring tomorrow and ask him for it. Ok. No problem. Goodbye!”
She placed the phone back in her bag and looked at Nicky.
“What did Nigel want?” he asked.
“To choreograph Take that!” she shrugged.
“But they are not even around anymore!” he gasped.
“Apparently they are getting back together for a one time tour, and they might get back together. Ridiculous idea if you ask me, but oh well!” she shrugged.
“And he wants you to choreograph those bunch of lycra loving idiots?” he groaned.
Mandy giggled when she heard him say, “Not jealous, are you?” she purred.
Nicky looked totally offended, “Me? Jealous? Come on. You know I am right!” he laughed, “So, are you gonna do it? You’d better not ditch us for them!”
Mandy giggled, “Don’t worry. Westlife are my first priority but if I can work something around you guys, then I might. I mean, it’s more money, innit?”
“Oh!” he frowned.
“Why, what’s up babe?” she asked, grabbing his hand, “You’re not worried they might sweep me off my feet, are you?”
Nicky frowned and shook his head, “I trust you babe, and I know they could never sweep you off your feet. You are female after all!”
“Miiiiiiiiaow!” joked Mandy, “Anyway forget them. What was it you were gonna tell me?”
“It don’t matter now!” he moaned, throwing the napkin on the table.
“Why not?” she asked, furrowing her eyebrows, “Just tell me.”
“Nah! It doesn’t matter anymore!” he shrugged.
“Course it does! Why ever not?” she questioned.
Nicky looked up into her eyes and bit his lip. He grabbed her hands and held them tenderly, “Coz I was gonna ask you to come to Dublin with me to live!”

Chapter Text

Mandy just blinked and stared at him without saying anything. Feeling totally uneasy, Nicky released his hands from hers and moved back on his chair, “But it doesn’t matter now, coz you obviously want to take these people on!”
“I have not agreed to anything yet!” she answered, not quite believing he had just said that. He had asked her before to move in with him, but not quite with that look in his eyes, and she had really expected him to pop the question, not ask her to move in with him.
“But it is very clear to me that you want to!” he shrugged.
Mandy sighed and looked at him, “Want me to be honest?”
“I always want you to be honest babe!” he sighed, brushing his hair back and resting his elbow on the table.
“I am not gonna lie to you babe. I am tempted. I am very very tempted. But I don’t know if it is gonna work out, seeing as I am choreographing you guys too. I don’t think it is very realistic.” She sighed.
“So you have to choose who you want to do and you are gonna choose them aren’t you?” he frowned.
Mandy looked quickly up at him, “Is that what you really think? That I would ignore Westlife and go for Take That? Have you actually gone insane?”
“Well, wouldn’t you?” he mumbled in a boyish manner.
“Of course I wouldn’t!” she answered, quite offended that he had assumed that, “Not in a million years. You’re my lads. I have taught you everything I know. I am not gonna let another twinkletoes manipulate you lot and make you suck at your concerts. You’re my number one boys,” she added.
Nicky then smiled and grabbed her hands, “Do you mean that?”
Mandy smiled and kissed both his hands, “You bet I do!”
“So what are you gonna do now?” he asked.
“Well, first I am gonna have a chat with Louis, seeing as he is the one who referred me. Dunno what the hell he was playing at, but anyway. I’ll see what he has in mind. Then I will come to some decision!” she shrugged.
“What about my little proposal?” he smiled.
Mandy looked up quickly as she heard the word ‘proposal’. She looked into his blue twinkling eyes, “What proposal?” she asked quietly.
“You know. The one about coming with me to Dublin and moving in with me. What do you say to that?” he asked, with a recognisable hopeful glint in his eye.
Mandy bit her lip, looked down and then looked up at him again, “I dunno babe!”
Nicky frowned, “Oh!”
“It’s not that I don’t love you…oh god please don’t take this the wrong way. Please!” she begged.
Nicky just stared at her without saying anything. Mandy cleared her throat and looked at her hands playing with her own fingers.
“I don’t think that it is such a good idea. We have only just got back together Nicky. We are getting along brilliantly. I don’t wanna spoil things!” she sighed.
“I understand!” he sighed, visibly hurt by that remark.
Mandy looked into his sad eyes, “Oh please babe. Don’t be like that. I just don’t want things to change between us!”
“It’s ok babe. I said I understand!” he insisted.
“No, look at you. You are miserable. I have made you miserable! Please!” she whined.
“I am fine, darling. Honestly!” he sighed.
“No you are not. It is nothing personal babe. Really it isn’t.” she sighed.
“It’s just that I cannot bear thinking about having to be without you again. That’s all!” he shrugged.
“And we don’t have to be apart for that long again babe. Not now that we are working together again!” she smiled, trying to make him feel better.
“I suppose!” he shrugged.
“You are still not convinced, are you?” she grimaced.
Nicky just shrugged, “I just thought you would’ve jumped at the chance! I never expected you to say no.”
“Babe. If I wasn’t in this profession, then yes I woulda gone straight for it. But this job means I have to travel everywhere, so we wouldn’t be together anyway. But we can still see each other loads. You can come over on your free time, I go over on my free time. So really it will be like we have moved in together!” she smiled.
Nicky shook his head, “It won’t be the same!”
“So what do you want me to do then? Quit my job? Is that what you want?” she asked. “Well, no. I just want us to be together. Not much to ask, is it?” he asked moodily.
“Please Nicky. Let’s not argue ok? Haven’t we had enough of that recently?” she frowned.
Nicky nodded, “I suppose!”
“I just don’t see the point of moving together yet, babe. Not when we are both travelling all the time!” she sighed.
“Right!” he answered.
Mandy sighed, knowing that she would never get through to him, so she decided to change the subject, “To be honest, I thought you were gonna ask me to marry you!” she giggled.
Nicky quickly looked up at her, “Would you have said yes to that?”
Mandy quickly looked down, making her answer quite clear.
“Oh!” he sighed, “I guess not!”
“Nicky…” she started.
“No it’s ok. It is too soon for marriage I suppose, and I suppose you don’t want things to turn out as badly as they did for me and Kris. Not that they ever would, but hey whatever!” he then got up and went to the gents, leaving Mandy sitting there, not too happy at all. She sighed and tapped her fingers on the table. She had no idea how she was going to get through this, so she got her phone and called Anna.
“Hey Mandz. Has he popped the big question then?” she giggled.
“No. He asked me to move in with him in Dublin though!” she frowned.
“Oh my god, what did you say?” she shrieked, jumping on her bed.
“I said no!” she sniffed sadly, “I cannot do that yet. I mean, I got my job and everything and I will be travelling quite a lot, plus I don’t think I am ready yet. I love my independence!”
“Oh dear. How did he take it?” she grimaced.
“Not well at all. Then I tried to lighten up the mood and told him I thought he was gonna ask me to marry him, so he asked what I woulda said and I said no. Now he has gone to the gents and has been in there for ten minutes and I am starting to panic. What if I have ruined everything Anna?” she wailed.
“Awww don’t worry hun. If you are not ready for that kind of commitment, he should understand.” She consoled.
“Yeah he says he understands, but I saw that hurt look in his eyes, and now I feel so bad!” she whined.
“Mandz. You have always put others first before yourself. You need to think about yourself for once in your life. This is not the situation where you can agree just to make others happy even if it means being unhappy yourself. If you are not ready, then you are not ready. End of! He should understand and take it like a man!” she explained.
“I have crushed him though!” she whined, “I cannot bear that thought!”
Anna sighed, “Think of it this way hun. Will you be able to live with yourself when two maybe three years down the line you cannot stand the thought of being together anymore, just coz you wanted to please him?”
“Well, no. Of course not!” she answered.
“Well then. Then you have to live with your choice, whether he likes it or not. He is a grown man…or so he has led us to believe!” she joked with a giggle, “He should take it like a man!”
Mandy smiled and nodded, “You’re right. I’ll talk to him again. Oohhh he is coming now. Better go hun! Speak to ya later!”
Nicky sat back down on his seat as Mandy was putting the phone away in her bag, “Ringing your mates to tell them what a prat I have made out of myself, have you?” he snarled.
Mandy looked at him, “Eh?”
Nicky shook his head and played with his knife and fork.
“Nicky, talk to me!” she pleaded.
“What about?” he shrugged, “About how much I repulse you that you don’t even want to be with me?”
“You know that’s not true!” she argued with a hurt expression in her voice, “I love you to bits. You know that!”
“Yeah, whatever!” he mumbled, throwing his serviette back on the table.
“Nicky, just because I have not agreed to moving in with you does not mean I love you any less!” she sniffed. She then thought about what Anna said, and used her reasoning to explain to him, “It’s not that I don’t love you babe, coz you know I do, but I must think about myself and my feelings!”
“Yeah, if you wanna be selfish!” he shrugged.
Mandy decided not to take notice of what he was saying, and continued explaining, “You know how I feel about you, and you know there is nothing more I want on earth than to make you the happiest man in this planet. But sometimes, you need to sacrifice things just to do that.” She explained.
“I have absolutely no idea what you are on about!” he sighed.
“Listen to me babe. What if I agree to your proposal? I move in with you, even if I am not ready. Two years down the line, I am gonna be fed up. I am gonna be tearing my hair out and so will you, and you know it. You know there is nothing more I want than for you to be happy and I do wanna make you happy, but I cannot move in with you just to make you happy when I am not ready for that yet. I don’t wanna get to that stage when we are bickering all the time, and all because I didn’t want to upset you and said yes to something I was unsure about. I am not saying I will never live with you. I am not saying I never want to marry you. All I am saying is that I need more time because I am not ready yet!” she frowned.
Nicky listened to her and for some reason, all that made sense to him, “You’re right!” he sighed, “You’re absolutely right!”
Mandy smiled and grabbed his hands, rubbing them gently with her thumb, “I just don’t want things to go sour between us babe. Not now that we are getting along so well. I will still go over to Dublin on my days off and I am hoping you will come over to London on yours!”
Nicky’s frown turned into a grin, “You just try and stop me!”
Mandy smiled and kissed his hands, “Good!”
“I’m sorry I got so ratty babe. I was just being a big baby. But I understand where you are coming from, and I am gonna give you all the time in the world. But I just want you to promise me one thing!” he smiled.
“Anything!” she grinned.
“Whenever you are ready to move in with me, whenever you are ready for that commitment, I want to be the first to know. Is that a deal?” he smiled warmly.
Mandy grinned and nodded, “You have yourself a deal, Mr Byrne. Now how about we have some dessert and then go off for a few drinks?”
“I would say that is the best idea that has ever been talked about today. I love you darling!”
“I love you too babe!” she smiled, getting up and leaning forwards on her chair to kiss his lips. 

Chapter Text

“Woooooo this is great!” shouted Mandy, in a drunken manner as she got up on the table and danced. She looked at Nicky and gave him a daft grin, “I reckon you should try it Byrne!”
Nicky looked up at her and stumbled with laughter, “And I reckon you’re gonna fall any second now, so get down from there and give me a great big snog!”
“I’ll do more than that in a minute!” she cackled a bit too loud.
“Oh please. Spare us the details!” moaned a girl beside her.
Mandy stared at her, “You jealous, just coz I got the most gorgeous guy on earth to give me some good feeling?”
“Pur-leeeeeeeease! As if. Westlife are all a bunch of idiots. They cannot sing to save their lives!” she rolled her eyes at her. This caused Mandy to get angry.
“You come here and tell that to my face!” she hissed, gritting her teeth.
The girl just looked at her and laughed, “Er…I just did!”
Mandy bit her lip and looked at Nicky, who just shook his head. She then looked at the girl again, “You wanna get smacked?”
The girl just looked at her in disbelief, “by you? Yeah, I gotta see this!” she laughed. Mandy got nearer to her and stared into her eyes. She pushed her slightly, causing her to stumble.
“Hey! Get your mitts of me!” squeaked the girl, pushing her back. Nicky saw her lunging towards her and grabbed her waist and pulled her down. Mandy looked back at him, “You put me back up there. I need to teach that girl some manners!”
Nicky smiled and hugged her, “Do you remember what happened last time you got into a fight with someone else? She ended up falling down the stairs and you felt incredibly guilty. Do you want that to happen again?”
“I just wanna teach that girl a lesson.” She snarled.
“Meh, just forget about her. So she doesn’t like us. Big deal! No great loss to me darling! I already have the girl I love. A girl who is a million times sexier than she ever could be,” he smiled, squeezing her bum slightly, “And with a much better arse too.”
“She called you an idiot.” she shrieked loudly, “that bothers me!”
“Babe, it only bothers you coz you are drunk. Now how about we go somewhere else and make out for a bit!” he winked.
Mandy smiled and rubbed her hand on his chest, “Great idea. Come on. I know a great spot!”
Mandy took Nicky to a secluded spot in the club and sat on his lap, “Any idea how much I love you?” she slurred, running her finger down his face.
Nicky just chuckled, “Only half as much as I love you!”
Mandy leaned forwards and softly kissed his lips. She pulled away and Nicky got up, “I need another drink. Want one more?”
“Does a bear shit in the woods?” she grinned.
Nicky laughed, shook his head and headed towards the bar. He got the drinks and came walking back to Mandy, only to see she was involved in another argument.
“Well tough, coz I am sitting here now!” she spat at the girl.
Nicky stared at her, “What’s going on now?”
“This shithead claimed she was sitting here first when we were here way before her!” snapped Mandy, pointing at the girl.
“Oooh you’d better get that finger away from me!” menaced the girl.
Mandy looked at her, “Or what?”
Nicky looked around the area and chuckled softly.
“Or you won’t be able to write a letter to lover boy here again in your life!” she threatened.
“Mandy, honey? What are you doing here? We were sitting on that seat earlier?” said Nicky.
The girl gave Mandy a smug look, “Who’s the shithead now?” she sneered.
Mandy stared at Nicky, “You are wrong. We were here before you went to the bar. I remember the column beside us!”
“Yeah, I remember the column too. It is over there!” chuckled Nicky.
Mandy looked to where Nicky was pointing and saw she was wrong. But of course, she was not going to admit this. She looked at the girl and huffed. She got up and grabbed Nicky’s drink from his hand, “Well, I suppose we’d better go then. This is a stupid place anyway. Everyone just walks in front of you!”
The girl smiled and sat back down on her seat. Mandy walked over to their place and sat down. Nicky sat beside her and smiled.
“You’re wrecked!” he chuckled.
Mandy stared at him and sipped her drink, “Yeah, well. You’re not!”
Nicky roared with laughter. Mandy jumped back when some man who was passing in front of her stepped on her foot accidentally.
“Oi. Watch it bigfoot!” she shouted, rubbing her foot.
“Sorry mate!” mumbled the man walking on.
“Yeah you will be, you arsehole!” she said loud enough for him to hear.
The man looked back at her throwing her and Nicky a dirty look. Nicky gave him an apologetic smile and then looked at Mandy, “You’d better calm yourself down honey, before you get me into trouble! I don’t wanna end up fighting!”
“Awww wouldn’t you fight for me?” she pouted, batting her eyelids at him.
Nicky laughed and shook his head, “I think I’d better get you home!”
Mandy finished her drink and placed her glass hard on the table, “I LOVE MY MAAAAAAAAAN!” she screamed out loud.
Nicky shook his head, slightly embarrassed and picked her up, “Yep. Think we should go home now.”
“I don’t wanna go home!” she slurred, “I wanna stay here and make love to you on the dance floor!”
She weakly threw her head back and leaned against Nicky’s chest. Nicky laughed, “Think we’d get caught if we did that!”
“So? Let them watch. They would probably learn a few good moves from us!” she giggled, stumbling over. Nicky caught her before she fell.
“Come on you. Off home!” he smiled, wrapping his arms around her waist to support her. 

They got outside and phoned for a taxi, but it being a Saturday night made it impossible to get one.
“Oh great. What now?” slurred Mandy, shivering with cold.
“Well, the hotel the lads are staying at ain’t that far. We could walk there and I could book a room!” he suggested.
“What? But I have no clothes!” she shrieked.
Nicky grinned and winked at her, “honey. For what I have planned, you won’t need any clothes!”
Mandy grinned daftly and kissed his lips, “Sounds good. Hey, I have just realised something!” she randomly remembered, “You have not give me a present yet!”
Nicky laughed, “Isn’t that fact that I am here for your birthday a good enough present?”
Mandy mumbled, “Well yeah, but…”
“You know what, you are really cheeky when you are drunk!” he laughed.
Mandy grinned and placed her little finger on his lips, “And do you know what? You have the most kissable lips ever!”
Nicky chuckled loudly, “Ok, let’s go to the hotel. You are getting outta hand. I can tell. Every time you are drunk you mention my lips. Come on!”
“What? They are sexy! You ask anyone, they will tell you the same thing! They have the most sexiest natural pout to them,” she grinned, swaying to and fro. Nicky held onto her to support her again, “Come on!”
“Do we seriously need to walk? I cannot walk all the way to the hotel!” she moaned. Nicky sighed, turned around to look at her and picked her up, “Then I’ll carry you there, now come on coz I am freezing my arse off!”
“And what a fantastic arse it is too!” she grinned, reaching down to give it a hard pinch, making Nicky almost topple over.
“Stop that!” he laughed.
They finally made it to the hotel, where Nicky booked a room. On the way to the lifts, they bumped into Brian and Abeth.
“Hey. Looks like you had a good night!” grinned Abeth, linking hands with Brian.
“Had a fantastic night!” slurred Mandy, “Is this man the sexiest or what?”
“Yeah Nico. I think you should take her to bed, mate!” chuckled Brian.
“Yeah Nico. Take me to bed!” winked Mandy, “Coz you owe me that present!”
Abeth laughed, “How much has she had?”
“Far too many!” laughed Nicky.
“I WANT YOUR BABIES!” shouted Mandy loudly.
Nicky roared with laughter, “Ok babe. Let’s go!”
“Take care of her Nix. She is absolutely hammered!” giggled Abeth.
“Don’t worry. She is going straight up to bed!” he laughed.
“Yeah and we are gonna make babies. Lots of them!” she grinned.
“Mandz? Hun? I don’t think everyone wants to know that, you know?” laughed Nicky. “Meh! Only coz they won’t be having as much fun as we will,” she smirked.
Nicky laughed as he placed her inside the lift. They were in the lift and unable to take their hands off each other.
“I want you right here, right now!” she mumbled as she feverishly kissed his lips.
“Mmm I want you too!” he mumbled, tugging at her top. The doors opened and still kissing passionately they walked to their room. Nicky struggled to open the door, as he was still kissing Mandy very passionately. He managed to get it open and they both stumbled inside. They walked backwards still kissing and removing each others clothes when they fell on the bed. Nicky pushed her back and lifted his head to look at her, “Honey. Get ready for the best birthday present you will ever get!”
“Honey?” she mumbled, “Just shut up and kiss me!”
Nicky grinned, kissed her hard and finally gave her what he had been waiting to give her all night. A night of passion and lust mixed together with love and devotion.

Chapter Text

Mandy rolled over in bed, and opened her eyes slightly. The light coming from the crack through the curtains made her squint heavily.
“Urrrgh!” she moaned, rolling around again.
Nicky stirred and prised his eyes open. He shut them tightly again, to get rid of his blurred vision and then rubbed his eyes, “What time is it?” he croaked.
“Mhvjmhm!” mumbled Mandy, covering her eyes.
Nicky opened his eyes again, looked at her and grinned, “Hangover, dear?”
Mandy turned around, not wanting to be disturbed.
“Hey, don’t turn your back on me!” he laughed, grabbing her and turning her around again to face him, “Don’t be so rude!”
“I feel so ill!” she moaned, curling her legs up to her chest, in a foetal position, “And the room is spinning!”
“Yeah, I am not surprised!” he laughed, “Considering how much you actually drank last night!”
“How much did I drink?” she moaned, turning on her back and placing her arm over her eyes.
“Well, let’s just say that you put the bar out of business and they had to shut early due to them having no more drinks left!” he joked.
“Nicky!” she whined, “No jokes. Please!”
Nicky chuckled, “Well, I dunno exactly, but I stopped counting after your eighth drink, love!”
“That many?” she croaked, “No wonder I…”
She did not get to finish her sentence as the nausea kicked in. She covered her mouth quickly and sped to the bathroom. Nicky sighed and shook his head as he grinned. He saw her return and he sat up in bed.
“Better now?” he grinned, licking his lips.
“I just wanna curl up in bed and stay there all day!” she moaned, as she pulled the covers back, got back into bed and tucked the duvet over her.
Nicky smirked and got into bed with her, “Now that sounds like a plan! You were wild in bed last night. I really liked it!”
He licked his lips and ran his hand down her smooth silky legs, and then back up to her stomach, rubbing over her smooth delicate skin. “I wouldn’t mind doing all that again."
Mandy moaned, “Not now, Nicky. I seriously don’t feel too good!”
Nicky looked at her and pouted, “Meh! All self inflicted. No sympathy from me!”
“Gee, thanks!” she moodily answered, “What use are you?”
“Oooh this coming from the woman who claimed to the whole hotel last night that she wanted my babies!” he laughed, “You’ve changed your tune fast! And I was a lot of use to you last night. Your never-ending moaning was proof of that!”
“Do what?” she shrieked, wincing as the sound of her own voice made her head pound even harder.
“You don’t remember? You declared your undying love for me and told the whole staff at the hotel that you wanted my babies!” he chortled.
“Nah. Stop with your jokes Nicky. Seriously, not in the mood!” she moaned.
“You don’t believe me? I am not joking hun. Ask Abeth and Brian. They were there when you made that little announcement!” he laughed.
Mandy gave him worried looks, which made Nicky laugh even louder.
“Don’t worry babe. I did not take you seriously at all!” he giggled.
Mandy smiled with relief and closed her eyes, “I have to talk to Louis today!” she moaned.
“Oh, about the Take That thing!” he sighed, “Yeah, I suppose!”
The way he answered caused Mandy to open her eyes and stare at him, “You’re still not happy that I am considering it, are you?” she frowned.
“Babe. I am not gonna stop you. I am just worried that…that…” he frowned.
Mandy knew straight away what he was gonna say and shook her head slightly, “You have nothing to worry about babe. Those guys do nothing for me. Nothing at all. I love you and only you, darling. No one else will do for me babe. I don’t want anyone else!”
Nicky looked at her with a serious look on his face. He cupped her face with his hands and brought it gently towards him. His lips met hers and he kissed her gently. When he pulled away, he looked into her eyes, “I believe you and I trust you totally babe. I am just being silly.”
Mandy smiled and turned around to face him again, “Thanks babe. That means a lot to me. But nothing is definite yet, so don’t worry!”
Nicky smiled and looked at her, “Want any breakfast? Shall I call for room service?” Mandy pulled a face. She covered her mouth again, and ran to the bathroom again. Nicky laughed and shook his head, “Obviously still not the time to ask!” he smiled to himself.
Mandy came back, looking the worst for wear.
“Hey, Mandz!” called Nicky.
Mandy stopped and looked at him. She saw the evil grin on his face.
“Sausages, baked beans, bacon, fried egg, greasy food, mmmhmmm” he grinned.
“Nickyyyyyy!” she whined, as she covered her mouth and made a dash to the bathroom again, causing Nicky to fall back in laughter. 5 minutes later, she emerged from the bathroom, “That was not funny!” she hissed.
Nicky pouted, “I know. Sorry sweetheart. I’ll stop now! But seriously, I am famished!” “Yeah well you get yourself something to eat then. I’ll just stay as far away from the food as possible. Seriously, the thought of it is making me ill!” she huffed, sitting up in bed, with her knees up to her chest.
“Awwww well I tell you what. You stay here and sleep it off a bit more, and I’ll go down ok?” he smiled, kissing her forehead.
Mandy shrugged, “I need to call Louis and I don’t feel like sleeping. I’ll just watch telly!” 

Nicky nodded, got up and got washed and dressed. When he was ready, he looked at Mandy, “You sure you don’t want anything?”
Mandy rolled her eyes and tossed his pillow at him, “Just go before I hurl again!” Nicky grinned and walked out. Mandy got comfortable in bed and grabbed her phone at the same time as switching on the telly. The news was on, but she was not paying much attention to it. After talking to Louis, it was settled that she would be choreographing Take That for their upcoming tour. Louis had thought of a way around being able to choreograph both Westlife and Take That, by Liasing with their manager and getting both bands to perform at the same places at more or less the same time. When that was done, she slouched down in bed and watched the news. She was drifting in and out of sleep when something made her stand to attention. There was Kris on the screen. She widened her eyes and swallowed hard, digesting what she was actually seeing and what the news reporter was actually saying.
“Oh my god!” she gasped, “She cannot do that!” 

Chapter Text

Mandy stayed staring at the screen with her mouth wide open, worried about Nicky. The door opened and he came in.
“Well, that was a lovely breakfast!” he grinned, rubbing his stomach warmly, “Shame you had to miss that!”
He looked at Mandy when he saw she did not respond. He saw the horrified look on her face and rushed to her side, throwing his arms around her.
“What’s wrong babe? It looks like you have seen a ghost!” he said more seriously, rubbing her arm.
Mandy just stared at the TV with her mouth still wide open.
“Erm, babe? Are you ok?” he asked, pulling away from her and staring intently at her. “Kris has just been on the news!” she whispered.
“What? On the news? What’s she gone and done now?” he asked.
Mandy shook her head, “Nicky, you need to sit down!” she sighed.
Nicky sat down beside her and grabbed her hand, “What is it, babe? You are starting to get me worried!”
“So you should be! You should also get the hell out of here, rush to London bridge and stop your ex wife from throwing herself down!” she quickly said.
“What?” he shrieked, “Don’t be ridiculous! What would she be doing in London?” he laughed.
“Nicky, she has just been on the news. Breaking news. She is in London Bridge right now, on the edge and threatening to throw herself off unless you go to her!” she insisted.
“Babe, you must be more hangovered than I thought!” he laughed.
“Nicky, I am not making this up!” she shrieked, “Go get my car and speed off and stop your ex wife from killing herself. I am not joking babe. It’s true. She has just been on the news!”
Nicky grabbed the remote and turned the telly on teletext. He pressed the number for news and saw it there in black and white!
“Oh my god!” he gasped, bringing his hand to his mouth, “What is she doing?”
“Just go Nicky, before you are too late. She may have done what she did, but she does not deserve to kill herself over it. Just hurry!” she pleaded.
“Will you…” he started.
Mandy shook her head and pushed him away, “I’ll be fine babe. I understand. Just please hurry!”
Nicky got up, put his jacket on quickly and kissed her, “I’ll try not to be too long ok?” “Take as long as you need. Just go!”
Nicky grabbed Mandy’s keys and got a taxi to her house to get her car. He then sped off to London Bridge.
Mandy walked out of her hotel room. She now decided she needed breakfast, and went to the diner. She saw Anna and Mark in there, who had still not finished their breakfast.
“Mandz. Hey, how are you feeling?” laughed Anna.
Mandy shook her head and sat down. The waiter came, took her order and then left. “Mandz? What’s wrong?” asked Anna.
“Kris is in London Bridge at the moment, threatening to top herself unless Nicky gets there!” she said in shock.
Mark laughed and shook his head, “That woman will do anything just to get Nicky back in her life!”
“I dunno Mark. She looked pretty serious.” She argued, “Nicky has just rushed off to stop her!”
“Oh my god!” whispered Anna, “Hope he gets there on time!”
“Me too!” sighed Mandy.
“What the fuck is she doing in London anyway?” Shrieked Anna.
“Probably followed him here! Fuck knows,” Mandy sighed.
“Are you ok about all this?” asked Mark, still munching on his bacon.
“I’ll be fine!” she smiled weakly, trying to put on a brave face, trying to conceal how worried she was that Nicky might feel sorry for her and take her back, “I’ll have to be!”
“Don’t worry Mandz. Nicky will stay with you. He is not going back to her. It’s all over between them now!” smiled Anna.
“Oh, I know!” squeaked Mandy.
“Do you, though?” she asked, rubbing her arm.
“Look, whatever happens, happens. I just don’t want her to kill herself because Nicky chose me, coz if that does happen, I don’t think I’ll be able to live with myself!” she gloomily replied.
“It’s not gonna happen babe. Nicky will stop her and she will be taken to a clinic to treat whatever it is she has!” smiled Mark comfortingly.
Mandy smiled and nodded. She then got her breakfast and munched on it slowly. 

Nicky parked his car quickly in the parking space, got out of the car and rushed to the scene. A policeman tried to stop him, when he told him who he was. The policeman quickly let him in and he sprinted to where Kris was.
“Kris!” he shouted, “Stay right there!”

When Mandy finished breakfast she sped upstairs to watch the news for any new updates. She put the TV on and saw Nicky and Kris, from afar. She held onto the remote tightly, and rocked back and forth, “Go on. Do your best, Nicky!” 

Kris looked back at Nicky, “Stand back Nicky, or I really will throw myself off!”
“You cannot throw yourself off, Kris. Don’t be stupid. You have too much to live for!”
“Oh yeah? I used to have a lot to live for, before you went and left me for that tramp. Now just stand back!” she yelled, as the tears streamed down her face.
“Babe. Just tell me what you want, and I’ll do my best!” he shouted back.
“I want you, Nicky. I want you back in my life. I cannot live without you. I need you!” she cried.
Nicky just froze on the spot, wondering how to react to that. The police approached him.
“Just tell her you’ll take her back!” he advised.
“What? I cannot do that!” he shrieked, “I don’t wanna go back to her. I do love her as a friend, and I care for her a lot, but I have my girlfriend now, who I am very happy with. I don’t want her back!” he shrieked.
“Just tell her what she wants to hear just to get her away from the edge. We’ll deal with things when she is here. She needs some serious psychiatric help!” argued the police.
“But that will give her false hope!” he shrieked.
“Would you prefer she threw herself then?” he huffed.
Nicky swallowed hard and looked at Kris, “If I told you I would come back to you, would you get away? Would you stop all this?”
Kris looked at him and cried, “We both know you are not going to do that, Nicky!”
Nicky shook his head, “I would if it meant you being safe. I want you to be safe, darling. Come on.”
Kris cried and nodded, “You come back to me and I will move away from the edge, Nicky!”
Nicky sighed and looked back at Kris, “You’ve got yourself a deal. I’ll come back to you. I’ll do anything, just get off the edge babe!”
“What?” shrieked Mandy, springing forwards on the bed, “He is taking her back?”
At that moment, there was a knock on the door. Mandy quickly opened it and was joined by the whole gang.
“Hey. We heard what’s happening. Are you ok?” asked Angie.
“I dunno!” answered Mandy shocked, “Kris has just told Nicky that she will not leave the edge unless he takes her back and Nicky has agreed to it!”
“Oh hun, he is probably just telling her that to get her off the edge. He doesn’t mean it. He is crazy about you!” soothed Abeth.
“I dunno!” frowned Mandy, “I don’t know what to think anymore. Maybe it is better for her sake that he goes back to her!”
“Won’t you be miserable though?” asked Shane. Tracee sighed which made Shane looked at her , “What? What have I said now?” he yelled.
“Isn’t that a bit obvious?” huffed Tracee.
“Tracee, now is not the time to have an argument, ok?” he hissed.
“Guys, cut it out, eh? There are much bigger problems in life, this being one of them. And yes, Shane, I will be miserable, but at least it would save her life!” sighed Mandy.
“So you mean to tell me you would rather be miserable and let Nicky and Kris back together, than keep your man over all this?” gasped Brian.
“I just don’t want her to die, Bri.” She sighed.
“You’re unbelievable. But it’s not gonna happen. Nicky will not leave you and I know that for a fact!” smiled Kian.
“We’ll see!” smiled Mandy weakly. 

“No. You are just saying that to stop me from jumping! You don’t mean it!” shouted Kris tearfully.
“I do mean it babe. Just you and me. We’ll get back together. We’ll live in a wonderful big house. I’ll leave the band. We’ll have lots of kids. It will be perfect. We’ll be the perfect family!” he smiled trying to sound enthusiastic. He then looked at the policeman, “She is gonna kill me when she finds out this is not true!”
The policeman just smiled and patted his back, “You are doing well. Keep it up!” 

“What? He is gonna leave the band?” shrieked Kian, “Is he insane? Over one woman?”
“That woman’s your cousin, Kino!” laughed Brian.
“Yeah, but still!” gasped Kian, “He cannot leave the band.”
“And he probably won’t. It’s just what she wants to hear!” smiled Shane, folding his arms.
“Wow, this is better than any reality TV show ever!” grinned Mark.
Everyone stopped watching the telly and stared at Mark. Mark was conscious of this and stepped back, “What?”
“Mark, how about you just keep your mouth shut eh?” smiled Anna, rubbing his back. Mandy smiled and nodded as his attention turned back to the TV. 

Kris looked at Nicky, “Are you sure?” she sniffed.
“Positive babe. Now come here. I have missed you so much!” he smiled, holding his arms out.
“You are not lying to me, are you, Nicky? Coz if you are….” She wept.
“No babe. I am serious. Now come on!” he smiled, taking a step closer.
Kris hesitantly got off the edge and slowly made her way towards Nicky. When she was just feet away from him, she ran to him straight into his arms.
Mandy stared at the TV, with her heart beating faster and faster, “Why is he still hugging her? Why is he not telling her that he did not mean it?”
“He will in a second babe. Don’t worry!” smiled Anna.
Just then, the newsflash stopped and the reporter was back on telly giving everyone a verbal update. 

“Did you really mean what you said?” sniffed Kris, smiling up at Nicky.
Nicky smiled and kissed her forehead, “Kris, you need to go to hospital now!”
“What? But I am ok. I am not hurt!” she argued.
“Maybe not physically, but in here!” he smiled, pointing to his head, “You need to sort yourself out!”
“I knew it!” she screamed, “I knew you were just tricking me!”
“I was not tricking you babe. You need to get some help from professionals. You cannot carry on like this. Depression is an illness. Now you go and get yourself sorted and then we’ll talk, ok?” he smiled.
“OK!” she hesitantly said, “Just promise me you’ll be there when I get out!”
“As I said, we’ll talk when you get yourself sorted.”

Chapter Text

Mandy sniffed and skulked around in her room, waiting for Nicky to get back. He was taking ages and Mandy was now starting to think the worst. She let out a deep sigh and grabbed her bag. She looked around the room and then walked out. On the way to the lift, she bumped into Angela.
“Hey. What are you up to?” she smiled, “And is Nicky back?”
Mandy frowned and shook her head, “No. And I am going home!”
“Home? But what about Nicky?” she shrieked.
“It has been 3 hours since Nicky convinced Kris to get away from the bridge and he still ain’t here. I think it is pretty obvious what he wants now!” she sighed, pressing the button on the lift.
“What? That’s crazy. You don’t know. Maybe he is just still consoling her. Or maybe he has gone for a bite to eat. You cannot leave without telling him.” She gasped.
Mandy shook her head, “He knows where I am if he wants me. I am not waiting around. I am thinking the worst here and I am just preparing myself in case he gives me news I don’t wanna hear. Last time he went back to her coz she needed him, and he might do the same thing again!”
“Yeah, but look what happened last time? She lied through her back teeth!” she tried to convince her.
“Yeah, but we all know she is not lying now. I just cannot face all this again, Angie. If he asks, tell him I am at home!” she frowned. She got in the lift once it opened and looked at Angela one last time, “I’ll see you around hun!”
Angela shook her head and went running to Kian’s room, explaining to him what had happened.

Mandy got into a taxi which took her home. Half an hour later, Nicky had finally arrived at the hotel. He went up to his room and saw that Mandy was not there. Because none of them had any luggage as they had only checked in that night after their night out, he did not notice that she had left. There were no clues. He shrugged and walked out of his room again and down to the diner. There he saw Anna and Mark. He smiled and walked towards them.
“Hey!” he smiled, taking a seat next to them.
“Nicky, hi. We saw you on the news. How are you?” asked Anna.
“Well, glad it is all over and glad she listened to me!” he shrugged, taking a chip from her plate.
“That was a good thing you did there, Nicky!” smiled Mark, “anyone else would have not bothered, and especially with what she did to you last time. Very noble of you!”
“Yeah, well. She is still my ex wife, and I still care for her in a way. I don’t really want anything like that to happen to her. To be honest, if it wasn’t for Mandy, I wouldn’t have known about it!” he smiled, taking another chip from Anna’s plate.
Anna stared at him, “Hungry?” she questioned.
“Little bit!” he grinned.
Anna laughed and shook her head, “So, where’s Mandy now?”
“I dunno. I was about to ask you guys if you had seen her.” He shrugged.
“No, sorry mate. Have not seen her since breakfast, when she just went up to the room to check the news!” shrugged Mark.
“Oh!” sighed Nicky, “I suppose I’ll carry on looking!”
He got up and said goodbye to them, and then walked out. As he walked into the lobby he crashed against Angela and Kian.
“Hey Nicky. Is everything ok now?” smiled Kian
“Yeah. Kris has been taken to a psychiatric hospital and she is gonna be observed and treated. Have you guys seen Mandy?” he questioned. Angela gulped and nudged Kian.
“She’s gone!” he answered quickly.
“Gone? Where?” he shrieked.
“Sorry Nicky. She thought the worst. She thought you had taken Kris back. She heard you on the telly and she said she went home, coz she couldn’t face getting hurt again. She told me to tell you that if you want her, she’ll be at home!” she sighed.
“Take Kris back? That is crazy. I only told her that to get her off the damn edge. Oh God!” he muttered, running up to his room. He checked himself out of the hotel and rushed to Mandy’s house in her car. When he got there, he just parked the car in any old way and ran to her front door. He furiously knocked on it until Mandy answered. “Nicky!” she gasped, holding her hand to her chest. He could tell she had been crying.
Nicky didn’t say anything. He just leaned forwards, grabbed her in his arms and pressed his lips tightly against her lips. When he pulled back, Mandy just stared at him.
“Did you honestly think I was gonna just leave you and go back to Kris?” he panted, still holding her face in his hands.
“Well, you said you would take her back!” she sheepishly answered with tears in her eyes.
“That was just to get her off the edge, you dozy mare!” he laughed.
“But you took ages coming back when it was all over!” she sniffed.
Nicky smiled and kissed her once more, “Mind if I come in? I am freezing!”
Mandy laughed amongst her tears and stepped to the side to let him in. Nicky closed the door and walked to the living room. He sat down and held out his arms towards her, to make her sit on his lap. Mandy did just that and wrapped her arms around his neck, “What took you so long?” she whispered, wiping her eyes.
“Well, first I had to admit Kris to a hospital, as it took her a lot of convincing to get her into one. Then I had to have a chat with her!” he said, pressing his lips together.
“Oh!” she said.
“Well, I couldn’t let her get her hopes up about us getting back together again, so I really had to let her down gently. She did not take it well at all, but I did not want her to get better, and then think that she was in with a chance!” he explained.
“How is she?” she grimaced.
“Not good at all, to be honest. It is gonna take her a while to get better, but she is in one of the best hospitals in the UK, so she should get better. I just wanted to make sure that something like this would never happen again babe!” he smiled.
“I know!” she smiled, leaning against his chest, “You did the right thing!”
Nicky smiled and nodded, “I just want you to know one thing!”
“What?” she asked, looking worried.
“I want you to know exactly how precious you are to me, and nothing, and I mean NOTHING will ever keep me away from you. I lost you once. I am never gonna let it happen again.” He smiled.
Mandy smiled and looked down.
“I mean it, babe. I love you so much! You mean the world to know. I am only happy when you are around! You’re everything to me!” he seriously said.
Mandy looked up at him and smiled, “And I love you too, babe. And I never wanna lose you again.” She smiled, “never!” she added with a whisper.
Nicky smiled and leaned in for a kiss. He then lifted her up, carrying her up with him. Mandy flung her arms around his neck as he took her upstairs to her room, where he kicked the door shut and expressed his love for her in the only way he could think of! 

Chapter Text

Mandy and Nicky lay in each other’s arms, just silent and smiling. Nicky was due to go back to Dublin the next day to start recording for Westlife’s next album.
“I wish you didn’t have to go tomorrow!” sighed Mandy, snuggling up closer to him.
“I wish you could come with me!” he frowned, “Remind me why you can’t again?”
“Nicky, we have been over this. I just cannot leave just like that!” she sighed, “Besides, you’ll be coming back soon to go over rehearsals!”
“Yeah, but that’s like forever! Christmas is coming soon and so is new year. I so cannot be without you on those days!” he frowned.
Mandy frowned and bowed her head, “Look. We both knew that it would be hard, given our jobs. We knew we wouldn’t be able to spend all our time together!”
“I know!” he sighed, rubbing her arm up and down, “It’s just hard, that’s all!”
Mandy turned around and rested her head against his chest, “I know it is, but it will get easier.”
Nicky nodded and planted a kiss on her forehead, “So what do you want to do now?” Mandy shrugged, “How about we go back to the hotel and we all hang out?”
“Don’t you want to spend time alone with me?” he pouted.
Mandy looked at him, “Oh Nicky. You know I do. But I am gonna miss the girls too. They are my friends after all!”
“I know, love!” he laughed, “I was only messing!”
Mandy looked at him, “Are you sure?” she winced.
“Course I am sure babe!” he grinned, kissing her lips gently.
“It’s just that…I do miss them too!” she frowned.
“Babe. It’s ok. I don’t mind. We always have a laugh, all of us together!” he smiled. Mandy smiled and ran her fingers up his chest, “I promise that once we get back home, you will have my undivided attention, even if it means staying awake all night!” she winked.
This brought huge grin to Nicky’s face, “Oooh I do like the sound of that!” he smirked.
Mandy laughed and kissed him hard on the lips. She then got up and got dressed, “Well, come on and get dressed then. The sooner we are there, the sooner we can come back!” she winked.
Soon enough, they were all at the hotel bar, having a few drinks. Nicky saw Mandy’s glass was empty and walked to her, “Want a refill babe?”
Mandy smiled and shook her head, “No thanks Nico. I am taking it easy tonight!”
Nicky laughed, “You? Taking it easy? Are you on something?”
“No, I just don’t wanna get in the same situation as last time. I want to remember tonight, and not wake up like a wreck. I am still suffering from last night!” she laughed.
Nicky smiled and went to talk to Shane.
“So, what’s up with you and Tracee then?” he asked, taking a seat next to him.
“I dunno!” he shrugged, pushing a beer mat away, “We are just not getting on at all. She has changed so much!”
“Well, people change, Shay. They don’t stay the same forever!” shrugged Kian.
“Yeah, but it is too much. All she wants to do is party, and everything I seem to say is the wrong thing. I dunno what’s the matter with her. It’s like I get on her nerves or something!” he argued.
“Well, I cannot blame her for that!” joked Brian, “You get on all our nerves!”
Shane looked at him disapprovingly.
“Ok, no mood for jokes. Point taken!” he backed away and gulped his drink down, “Time for a refill!”
Nicky looked back at Shane, “Have you tried talking to her?”
“I have tried over and over again, but she just won’t listen. She says it is my fault, that I never wanna do anything. It’s like she doesn’t understand how demanding our job is!” he sighed.
“So you both want different things!” sighed Kian.
Shane nodded sadly.
“Well, I know what I think!” shrugged Nicky, taking a sip from his vodka and coke. “What?” asked Shane.
“That’s what happened with me and Kris. And look how we ended just coz I kept trying to save our marriage. You’re gonna have to think about whether you want to stay with her. Whether you wanna change the way she has, and if you don’t want to… If you want to stay the way you are, then you should do something about it, like take a break from each other!” he advised.
“I dunno. I still love her!” he sighed, scratching his head.
“Yeah, but does she love you in the same way you love her?” questioned Kian.
“I dunno!” sighed Shane, hunching his shoulders.
“If you want to end things, you have to do it now, before it gets to the point where you both end up hating each other, mate!” shrugged Nicky.
“Well, he is making a lot of sense, for once!” chuckled Mark.
“Speaking from experience, Mark!” sighed Nicky, “I went through that already, remember? And all that happened was that I made things worse by having an affair with Mandy, and look how wrong things went. It’s best to end it now!”
“Yeah!” sighed Shane. 

“I dunno girls. I guess we don’t want the same things anymore! All he wants to do is stay in and watch movies. I wanna go out and have fun!” sighed Tracee.
“But you never were like that. What’s changed?” asked Anna.
“I dunno. I have suddenly realised that there is more to life than just sitting down in front of the telly watching movies over and over again. I am only 24 for God’s sake. Too young to be spending my life indoors. Most women my age are out there living it up!” she explained.
“Tracee, the only thing I can suggest is for you to have a serious talk with him and see where it gets you. Do you love him?” asked Mandy.
“I love him, yes. I really, really do, but just not in that way anymore. I hate saying this, but him just being near me simply irritates me. I don’t know why and I hate myself for feeling that way, but, it’s like we’re brother and sister rather than boyfriend and girlfriend!” she sighed.
“Then I think that’s a sign that you should cool things down and maybe perhaps even call it a day!” sighed Mandy.
“I suppose you’re right!” frowned Tracee, “But I really don’t wanna break his heart!” “Well, if you are going to do it, you should do it soon before it all goes pear shaped and you end up hating each other’s guts!” suggested Anna.
“I know!” huffed Tracee, “It’s just so hard. I don’t wanna see the look on his face when I tell him!”
“Try and end it on good terms hun. Let him down very, very gently.” Smiled Mandy. Tracee sighed and nodded and then went to get herself a very strong drink.
“I so don’t envy her!” sighed Mandy, “What a horrible situation to be in!”
“She needs to do something about it though. They have been at each other’s throats for ages now and it’s about time they did something about it!” sighed Abeth. 

Tracee grabbed her drink and walked towards Shane. She tapped him on the shoulder and stared at him, “Shane. Can we go somewhere and talk for a minute, please?” she sadly said.
Shane sighed and guessed more or less what it was she wanted to discuss, “Yes. I think we really need to have a chat!”
Tracee nodded and led the way to the lobby. There was no-one there, except the receptionists, who seemed to be busy sorting out hotel clients’ things.
“Shane, I just…” she started, when she heard Shane say exactly the same thing, using her name instead. They both laughed.
“You first!” smiled Shane.
“What’s going on with us, Shane?” she questioned.
“I dunno!” he shrugged, “We never used to be like this, yet, lately, all we seem to do is get on each other’s nerves!”
“Things have changed for us, haven’t they?” she frowned.
Shane shrugged, “I guess so!”
“We just don’t want the same things anymore!” she sighed.
“I know!” he mumbled, playing with his fingers, “What do you think we should do?” Tracee took a deep breath, closed her eyes and prepared herself to see that look on his face that she was so dreading to see, “I think we should take a break from each other!”
Shane stared at her, “A break? As in split up and see what it is like, and then get back together again, kind of break?”
Tracee shrugged, “Well, I dunno. I was thinking of something more permanent, like just breaking up. We are not getting along Shane. I just don’t want us to get to that stage where we hate each other’s guts, just for the sake of trying to stay together coz it is what everyone expects from us!”
“I know!” he sighed, looking down.
“Oh god, this is so hard!” she squeaked, as the tears fell down her cheeks.
“Hey! Come on!” he sighed, holding her in his arms, “We’ll still be friends, right? It’s not like we’ll never see each other again!”
Tracee sniffed and looked at him, “Why are you being so nice about all this?”
“Coz I know it is for the best. Tracee, all we seem to do is argue, and you’re right. If we keep this up, pretending that everything is fine, we are just gonna end up hating each other and having affairs, and I really do not want that!” he smiled, brushing back her hair. Tracee just nodded.
“So you’re ok with this?” she gasped.
“Absolutely!” smiled Shane, “I think the day has come where we have to admit that things just aren’t working out and that we are doing this for the best!”
“Thanks for not giving me a hard time about this, Shane!” she cried, flinging her arms around his neck, “I was so dreading this!”
“It’s ok babe!” smiled Shane, hugging her closely. He frowned, as he really did not want to lose her, but he understood that he had to let her go. He knew it would take him ages to get over her, but he also knew that no matter what, she would be there if she needed him. Even if it was only as a friend!

Chapter Text

Shane walked back into the bar with a face like thunder. He kicked the first table leg he saw and folded his arms tightly across his chest. Nicky looked at him.
“Now what has that table ever done to you?” he laughed.
“Me and Tracee have just broken up!” he huffed loudly.
“Oh. Sorry to hear that mate!” he winced, “Are you ok?”
“Yeah, I am sure I will be fine. We split up amicably, but don’t think it is what I wanted!” he moaned.
“Well, you were arguing an awful lot. Maybe it’s for the best!” soothed Nicky.
“Maybe. Dunno!” he shrugged, “All I know is that I am going to go up to that bar and get totally shit faced!”
With that, he pushed himself off the wall and walked rapidly to the bar. Nicky looked at him, shook his head and then looked across the bar at Mandy, who was chatting to the girls. He smiled, and then gulped the last bit from his pint glass. He joined Mandy at the girls at the bar and wrapped his arm around her waist.
“Hello, you!” he purred against her neck.
Mandy smiled and leaned her head towards him.
“Are you ok, love?” he asked.
“I am fine, thanks Nico. Could do with another drink, though!” she cheekily answered. Nicky grinned and turned towards the bar, “Any of you ladies need a refill?”
“No thanks Nicky!” smiled Abeth. Anna and Angie rejected his offer too.
“Where’s Tracee?” asked Angie.
“Oh, her and Shane have just split up. My guess is she is feeling like crap and needs time on her own!” informed Nicky.
“Oh, so she did it then!” sighed Anna, “Suppose it’s for their own good!”
“Don’t think Shane sees it that way though!” answered Nicky, nudging his head towards Shane, who was busily gulping down the drinks in seconds.
“Not doing too well, is he?” frowned Abeth.
“Not at all, hun. Not at all!” sighed Nicky, as he paid for the drinks.
The party was in full swing, when Shane stumbled across the room, almost falling flat on his face.
“I would like to announce to this whole bar, filled with all you lovely lot and sickening loved up couples, that as from now, I am officially a single man. I have no woman by my side, coz all I seem to do is repel them. I would like to congratulate all you loved up fools, and may you all be happy forever. That’s it!” he burped loudly, and stumbled to the side, tripping over and luckily landing on the chair. The lads rushed over to him, to see how he was.
“Poor guy!” whispered Mandy, “He must be devastated.
Anna nodded, “He’ll get over her in time. I am just gonna go up and see how Tracee is. She must be upset too. I mean, even though she wanted this, she must be just as devastated as Shane is. I’ll be down in a bit!”
The girls nodded and looked at the lads trying to talk some sense into Shane.
“Shane, mate. You’re gonna be ok. You’re a free agent. You can do what you want now and have no-one to tie you down. You’ll meet someone else.” Soothed Kian.
“I don’t want anyone sodding else. I want my Tracee back!” he shouted, pushing Kian back, making him land on his bum.
“I know you do, but these things happen mate. And probably for the best!” sympathised Nicky, patting his back.
Shane just looked at him, “Oh, what do you know? You left your pregnant wife to be with the woman you work everyday with. You are a player, Nicky. I ain’t taking advice from you!”
Nicky just looked at him and blinked, “Kris wasn’t pregnant, Shane. She just pretended!”
“Well, whatever. You still cheated on her!” he snarled.
Nicky shrugged, knowing how upset he was and stood back up.
“I think the best thing to do would be to take him up to his room and sleep it off!” whispered Nicky.
Shane heard this and squinted up at him, “I am not going anywhere. I need some more drinks!” he shouted.
“You don’t!” answered Mark, “You need to sleep this off!”
“Fuck you. I am staying put!” shouted Shane, quickly rising to his feet and stumbling back down on the chair again.
The lads all looked at each other and nodded. Before Shane could do anything else, Nicky scooped him up, threw him over his shoulder and carried him upstairs.
“Put me down Byrne!” shouted Shane. He wanted to bang his fists against his back, but he lacked the energy he needed to do so.
“You are going to bed, mate!” winced Nicky, “And there is fuck all you can do about it!”
Shane did not have the energy to argue, so he just let himself be carried up.
Anna knocked on Tracee’s door. Tracee answered, all teary eyed.
“Hey. I heard about you and Shane. Are you ok?” she grimaced.
Tracee bit her lip, wiped her eyes and nodded, stepping to the side to let Anna in.
“So, it’s really over then!” sighed Anna, after a long silence.
Tracee nodded and sniffed into a tissue, “I had to do it. We just weren’t getting along anymore. I don’t feel that way about him no more!”
“Well, then it’s for the best!” shrugged Anna.
Tracee nodded, “How is he?” she whimpered.
“The truth? Not too good. He has just been forced to go up to his room to sleep off his drunkenness.” Anna sighed.
“Really? I knew it was all an act!” she huffed as she folded her arms.
“Eh?” questioned Anna.
“Well, he was acting all cool and calm when I told him I wanted to break up. He acted like it was what he wanted too!” she sighed.
“That’s men for you. They have their pride!” smiled Anna.
“I just don’t want him to hate me!” pouted Tracee.
“Aww hun!” soothed Anna, placing a protective arm around her, “I am sure he doesn’t hate you. He will realise eventually that it is for the best.”
Tracee sniffed and nodded.
“Are you ok, though?” checked Anna.
Tracee nodded again, “Yeah, I’ll be alright. I mean, even though I was the one who broke it off, it is still hard. I just wanna go to sleep now. I am quite tired!”
“Ok, cue for me to leave then!” smiled Anna, getting up.
“Oh god, I didn’t mean it like that. I’m so…” she started.
Anna laughed and shook her head, “It’s ok hun. I knew what you meant, and it’s ok. I’ll just leave you to it. See you in the morning yeah?”
Tracee pressed her lips together in a smile and nodded, “Goodnight and thanks for coming to check on me!”
“It’s ok. Have a good rest and try not to think about it!” she smiled.
Tracee nodded and closed the door when Anna left. She went straight to her room to see Mark there.
“Is she ok?” he asked.
“She’ll be fine!” smiled Anna, “She just needs to get used to the idea. How’s Shane?” “Well, he went up to his room, kicking and screaming, but soon knocked himself out as soon as his head hit the pillow. This has hit him quite hard!” she shrugged.
“I know. And Tracee isn’t feeling much better about it either. They’ll be ok though. They just need time!” she smiled.
Mark nodded, and looked deep into Anna’s eyes. Anna looked at him and smiled, “Are you ok?”
Mark smiled and nodded, “Yes, I am fine. But this thing tonight, with Shane and Tracee? Well, I have been sitting on this bed for the past half hour thinking about us a lot!”
“Oh god, you are not gonna break up with me aswell, are you?” she panicked.
Mark laughed and shook his head, “That is the last thing on my mind, m’love. But I have been thinking a lot about us and about our future. How would you feel if…” he started and then paused.
“If what?” asked Anna, hoping he was gonna ask what she wanted him to ask.
“Well, we have been together for almost 3 years now. What would you say if I were to ask you to…” he paused again, looked down and let out a little laugh, blushing at the same time.
“Mark? Just ask me!” said Anna, all seriously.
“What would you say if I were to ask you to marry me?” he finally blurted out.
Anna broke into a huge grin, “I would ask if you were serious!”
“What if I was deadly serious?” he asked, grabbing her hand.
“Then I would ask to see the ring just to believe you were being serious!” she cheekily answered.
Mark couldn’t help but laugh, “But what if I said I had only just thought about this now, and did not have the chance in the past half hour to look for a ring. Especially at night. What if I asked if you would wait until we got back to Ireland and did it properly!”
“Then I would say I would look forward to that!” smiled Anna.
“Fantastic!” cheered Mark, getting up and jumping. Anna laughed, making him sit back down beside her on the bed.
“Are you sure about this?” he further checked.
“Positive!” grinned Anna.
“Well, that’s settled then. We’ll get engaged!” he smiled.
Anna grinned and looked deep into his aqua blue eyes.
“I love you!” he whispered, as he got closer to her.
Before she could say it back, he pressed his lips against her lips and both of them fell sideways on the bed, celebrating with passion. 

Chapter Text

It was now morning, and also the day that the lads had to return back to Ireland. Mandy opened her eyes and looked at the time on her alarm clock. It was 9 o’clock. She only had 3 more hours left with Nicky, before he had to get back on that dreaded plane. She turned to her side and looked at her sleeping boyfriend. She sighed and got up, deciding to let him sleep for another 10 minutes while she made him his breakfast. She knew this was something she had to get used to, but she couldn’t help being upset that she was not going to see him for another month. She sniffed softly as she put the bread in the toaster and switched the kettle on. She sat on the counter as she waited for the bread to toast and water to boil. She covered her face with her hands and wept silently for a while. She jumped when the toaster ejected the bread out and then made the coffees. She placed them on the table, wiped her eyes and then went upstairs to wake Nicky up. She knelt down beside the bed and brushed her hand over his forehead. 

“Nicky!” she whispered, gently nudging him.
Nicky did not move, so she tried again, “Babe.”
“Mmm!” he mumbled sleepily.
“It’s time to get up, baby.” She smiled, rubbing her thumb over his warm, stubbly cheek.
“5 more minutes!” he mumbled.
“Breakfast is ready sweetie.” She insisted, “Come on!”
Nicky stretched in bed, rubbed his eyes and then opened them. He looked straight into Mandy’s eyes and let out a faint smile, “Morning!”
“Morning!” she sniffed. She didn’t want to cry in front of him, but her red eyes gave her away.
“Hey, you’ve been crying,” he croaked, raising his head from the pillow.
Mandy bit her lip and looked in another direction, “No. I am ok!” she tried to answer as normal as possible.
“Babe. I know you have been crying! Your eyes are red, your nose is blocked and your mouth is drooping,” he argued.
Mandy’s lips wobbled and soon tears spilled out of her eyes.
“Aww babe!” he soothed, holding her in his arms and cuddling her gently, “Don’t cry. Please!”
“I hate it when you have to go,” she wept against his chest, “I don’t want you to leave!”
“I wish you could come with me!” he frowned.
Mandy shook her head and then pulled away, “Sorry. I didn’t mean to cry. I just hate saying goodbye!” she whispered.
Nicky smiled as he stroked her hair, “We’ll see each other again soon!”
Mandy nodded and then got up, “Breakfast is on the table babe. Coffee and toast. Come down when you are ready!”
Nicky smiled and pushed the covers away from him. He rubbed his hand over his face and then got out of bed. He stumbled down the stairs and sat at the kitchen table. “Smells nice!” he croaked, taking a sip from his coffee.
Mandy just sat and watched him.
“Aren’t you having anything?” he queried.
Mandy shook her head, “I am not hungry.”
When he had finished, he hopped into the shower. Mandy heard the shower running and went into the bathroom. She took her pyjamas off and hopped in with him.
“Hey. What are you doing in here?” he smiled, turning around to face her.
“Just thought I’d make our last few hours memorable!” she smiled.
Nicky smiled and pressed his lips against hers. Pretty soon, they were saying their proper goodbyes under the warm running water. 

Two hours later, They were both in Mandy’s car, about to head off to the airport. She sadly started the engines and drove away. When they got there, they both sadly got out of the car and into the departures. Everyone was there already. Anna went up to her and noticed her sullen look on her face.
“Are you ok?” she soothed, patting her back.
Mandy frowned and nodded, “I will be. I am trying my hardest not to break down. I have already done it twice. It’s just so hard saying goodbye!”
“You know, there is an answer to that!” she smiled.
“Oh, don’t you start!” she rolled her eyes, “I have heard enough about it from Nicky. There is no way I can move over there.”
“Give me two good reasons why you can’t!” she smiled.
“Well, there is my job and my house!” she sighed.
“I said GOOD reasons, not just reasons. Your job, well it would be easier for you and everyone if you were over there, seeing as this is the band that you are choreographing, and as for the house, you could always sell it and buy one in Dublin!” she smiled.
“I cannot leave London. I love this place!” she frowned.
“More than you love Nicky?” she questioned.
Mandy rolled her eyes and sat down, “Don’t you ever give up?”
“Nope. Not when I am seeing two of my mates this miserable!” she grinned.
“Of course I don’t love London more than Nicky. Nicky is always on the top of my list. It’s just hard, ok? It’s scary. What if I don’t like it over there?” she questioned.
“You have been there before!” she shrugged.
“Well, yeah knowing that I am coming back. What if I break up with Nicky? What then? I would be there on my own!” she huffed.
“You’ll be here on your own too. At least over there you have us. And who’s to say you and Nicky are gonna break up?” she smiled.
“Oh I dunno. I just cannot see myself doing it at the moment!” she huffed, getting up again.
“Look, just think about it ok? I know it is a big decision and not an easy one either. Give it some thought ok?” she smiled.
“Yeah!” sighed Mandy.
“Anyway I got great news. Mark and I are getting engaged!” she beamed.
Mandy looked at her quickly, “What? Are you serious?”
Anna grinned and nodded.
“Well, that’s great!” she smiled, genuinely happy for them both, “It’s about time he popped the question. Show me the ring then!”
Anna shook her head, “We are getting engaged. We are not engaged yet. He’s gonna buy me the ring in Dublin when we get there.”
“Too bad I am gonna miss the celebration!” Mandy frowned, “But I am really chuffed for the both of you. Nice one!”
“Thanks. And you don’t have to miss the celebration you know?” she winked.
“Not again, Anna. Please!” she sighed.
“Ok, don’t worry. I will not speak about it again. Now go to Nicky, coz it looks like he really needs you right now!” laughed Anna.
Mandy nodded and walked up to Nicky, wrapping her arms around his waist, “I really wish you didn’t have to go!”
“Same here babe!” he answered sadly, “I am gonna miss you so much!”
“Ditto!” she frowned. 

They stayed in a long embrace for a while, until their boarding announcement was heard.
“Well, I guess that’s us then!” he whispered, pulling back slightly.
Mandy bit her lip and nodded, “I’ll speak to you tonight then. Ring me when you get there ok?”
Nicky nodded and kissed her lips gently, “I’ll call as soon as I set foot out of the plane. I love you babe!”
“I love you too!” she squeaked, “Now off you go before you miss your flight.”
Nicky got closer to her again, and gave her a long lingering kiss. He then pulled away, threw his bag over his shoulder and walked away without looking back. As he walked away, Mandy hugged the others and then walked away from the airport in tears. She made her way back home, where she just sat on the sofa, thinking about how much she missed Nicky already. After a while of moping around, she got up, and started thinking of the dance routines she would use with Take that, who she was supposed to be choreographing the following month! 

Chapter Text

A month had passed and Mandy was due to fly to Dublin. She could not contain her excitement. She would see Nicky again, after not being with him for a whole month and she would also choreograph Take that, a band she had liked in her late teenage years. When she had all her stuff together, she got into the taxi, which was waiting for her outside, and not long after she found herself at the airport. After she had checked herself in, she went into the departures lounge and sat herself on the nearest vacant seat, waiting for her boarding gate to be announced. She flicked through her magazine and read on the latest cosmetic tips. She then heard her phone ringing. She got it out of her bag and smiled when she saw Nicky’s name on the screen. 

“Hello babe!” she answered chirpily, “What’s up?”
“Just ringing to check if everything is ok!” he smiled, “I cannot wait to see you again!”
“Me too sweetie!” she grinned, “Only a matter of hours now!”
“You at the airport now?” he asked.
Mandy nodded, “Yep. In the departures lounge, just waiting for my gate to be opened. I can tell you, time is dragging by!”
“Well, I am counting the hours, just like I have been counting the days this past month!” he smiled.
Mandy paused as she heard her boarding gate number being announced, “Gotta go babe. My gate has just been announced. I’ll see you very very soon ok?”
“Can’t wait. See you soon love. I love you loads!” he smiled.
“Love you too. Bye!” she kissed him down the phone and then hang up.
She was about to turn her phone off, getting ready to go on the plane, when she saw she had just received a message. She smiled and opened it. She laughed when she read it. 

[i]got the Jacuzzi ready for when you get here. Don’t make any plans. We’ve got a date with bubbling water. Can’t wait. Love you…N xxx[/i] 

She smiled and then turned her phone off. Before too long, she was inside that plane, tapping on the armrest with nerves and closing her eyes. When she opened them again, she had realised that the plane had already landed in Dublin.
“Wow, that was quick!” she told herself, as she unbuckled her seatbelt and stood up to get her hand luggage from the overhead lockers. She vacated the plane and got to the baggage claim. When she got her 2 huge suitcases, she bunged them on the trolley and made her way to the arrivals. She looked around for Nicky, but he was nowhere in sight. She continued walking, not knowing what to do. Maybe he had been caught up in traffic. She got away from the crowd and continued to look around. She then decided to go and sit on one of the seats and wait for him there. She was so caught up in her thoughts, that she did not see a figure walking up to her. 

“Madam?” came the voice. 

Mandy looked up to see an official looking man, staring back at her.
“Can I help you?” she asked confused.
“I have been told to come and pick you up!” he explained.
“Where’s Nicky?” she questioned, not happy that he was not there.
“He has been held up by his boss and couldn’t make it here. He sends his deepest apologies, but says he will make it up to you!” he explained in a posh Irish accent. Mandy frowned and got up, “Well, let’s get going then!”
She followed him outside, where she saw a huge black Limo. The man walked up to it and opened the back door. Mandy just stared at him.
“Your carriage awaits m’lady!” came a voice from inside.
Mandy bent down and looked inside. There was Nicky, in a suit, sitting on the seat, holding a bouquet of tulips and lilies.
“Nicky!” she gasped, “I thought you were with Louis!”
“And miss out on the chance to come to pick my baby up? Not a chance in hell!” he grinned, “Now are you gonna get in or what? It’s pretty cold out there and I am dying to taste those sweet lips of yours!”
Mandy smiled and quickly got in, while the chauffeur put her luggage in the boot of the limo.
“Well, you have certainly surprised me!” she smiled, getting closer to him.
“I’m glad. Those were my intentions!” he smiled, shuffling closer to her.
Mandy looked into his eyes and smiled, “God I have missed you so much!”
“Not as much as I have missed you baby!” he whispered, as his face got closer to hers. Mandy wrapped her hands around the back of his neck and pressed her lips hungrily against his. They stayed locked in that passionate embrace, until the car came to a sudden stop.
“Everything alright, Cecil?” asked Nicky, pulling away.
“Yeah. Just some idiots outside causing trouble, but everything’s clear now!” he explained.
Nicky smiled and looked at Mandy, “Meh. Kids eh?”
Mandy bit her lip as she grinned and nodded.
“Don’t ever be away from me for that long again babe. It has been unbearable!” he smiled, looking deep into her eyes.
“We need to talk about that actually!” she nervously commented.
“Oh?” he questioned.
“Yeah, but not now. All I wanna do now is wrap you in my arms and take as much of you as I possibly can until we get home!” she grinned.
Nicky dutifully obliged and locked his lips against hers one more time, glad to finally have her back in his life. 

Chapter Text

[b]Chapter 77[/b] 

Things started getting pretty steamed up inside that limo. If it wasn’t for the fact that Cecil had stopped the car to announce their arrival, they would have pretty much got down to it there and then.
“Wow!” panted Nicky, taking his lips away from her as he did up his jeans buttons again, “I really cannot wait to get you inside and ravish you!”
Mandy giggled and tidied herself up, “Good job we didn’t get up to that in here!” she giggled, pulling her hair back into a ponytail. Nicky stopped her and took her hands away from her hair, “Don’t. I prefer your hair hanging loosely down your shoulders!” he smiled, “It’s much sexier. You look so beautiful.”
Mandy smiled at him and then got out of the car. She looked at Nicky’s house and then looked back at him, “Wow! Is this a house or a palace?” she grinned.
Nicky laughed and carried her cases to the front door as she followed him, “I like my things big!” he winked.
Mandy giggled and followed him inside. She looked around the house in awe, “This must have set you back a bit!”
“Nah. I can afford it. Wouldn’t have got it if I couldn’t!” he shrugged modestly. Mandy smiled and carried on walking in, “How long have you had this place?”
“I bought it just before me and Kris split up. It was under my name though so that was one of the things she could not get her claws on!” he smirked.
Nicky put the cases down and looked at her, “and I have a surprise for you upstairs!” he whispered, rubbing her hips gently.
“Oooh another surprise!” she beamed, “What is it?”
“Just wait here, and come up when I call you ok?” he winked.
Mandy bit her lip and nodded as Nicky ran upstairs. She walked into the living room, still looking around her and then sat down, taking all its beauty. She could not believe the size of the house. After 5 minutes, she heard Nicky call her. Mandy looked up and then got up. She made her way upstairs and looked around.
“Where are you?” she shouted, still looking around.
“In here!” he shouted back, taking his arm out of the door. Mandy saw him and smiled as she walked towards where he was. She went inside and gasped with delight. “Oh my god. Nicky!” she gasped, taking everything in. Inside the bathroom was the biggest Jacuzzi she had ever seen in her life. This Jacuzzi was surrounded by thousands of little candles. She breathed in the delicate lavender smells coming from inside and looked around.
“I know how much you love your Jacuzzis, and I also know how tired you must be from travelling, so I thought, what a perfect way to relax!” he smiled sweetly.
Mandy smiled timidly and slowly walked towards him, “Will you be joining me? You know I cannot relax until I get my massage!” she growled, running her finger up and down his chest.
“Only if you want me to!” he winked.
Mandy smiled and pressed her lips against his. She slowly removed his jacket and then started undoing his buttons on his shirt.
“Are you sure you want me to get in with you?” he mumbled against her lips, “Don’t you want me to start unpacking for you?”
With her lips still on his, she shook her head as she slid his shirt off his shoulders and then started on his jeans, “You are going nowhere. I need you right now, and you always said you will be there for me!” she mumbled back.
“Sorry, I forgot!” he continued mumbling, now fidgeting with her clothes, “Didn’t know you needed me this much now!”
“Well now you do!” she mumbled back, “but just in case you don’t quite get it, I will show you!”
She quickly removed his black jeans along with his boxers, and Nicky freed her from all her clothes. They tumbled inside the Jacuzzi where they reminded each other exactly how much they were needed.
Their love making had been fiery and energetic. After a long while, they managed to come out of the Jacuzzi. By this stage, their hands and feet were all wrinkled and the candles had now ran out. Mandy got her towel and wrapped it around herself.
“Well, I can honestly say, it was well worth the wait!” grinned Nicky, starting to climb out of the tub, “That was fantastic!”
Mandy grinned and agreed, “Lets not leave it for so long next time though, eh?” she winked.
“Me? It’s you. You should get this sexy arse over here and stay here permanently!!” he winked, giving her arse a slap.
Mandy looked at him with her most serious look and sighed, “We need to talk about that actually!”
Nicky gave her confused looks and then led her to his bedroom. He made her sit down on the bed and grabbed her hands, “What is it, love?”
“I have made a decision, Nix!” she gulped.
Nicky’s heart beat twenty times to the dozen. He swallowed hard, half with fear and half with anxiety and continued staring at her, “And?”
“This past month has been a living hell for me. Not being able to see you everyday. Just hearing your voice on the phone. Being alone in bed with no-one to cuddle. It’s been dreadful!” she explained.
“I know. Tell me about it!” he laughed nervously.
“I cannot carry on living like this, Nix. I just can’t. Long distance relationships? It is just too hard!” she sighed with a frown.
“Babe, I hope you are not asking me to move to London, coz you know I can’t, darling!” he uttered.
Mandy shook her head, “That is not what I am asking at all!”
“Well, then? What is it?” he asked, shuffling closer to the edge of the bed.
Mandy held his hands, “Nicky—” she started.
He shook his head, “Oh god, no. Don’t tell me. I don’t want to know!” he panicked, getting up and pacing around the room, “I don’t think I could handle it!”
Mandy got up and followed him, “Nicky, just listen—”
“No, I would rather not hear it, ok? Coz then that would mean that it is true!” he shouted, getting agitated.
“So you don’t want to hear about me moving over here…permanently?” she questioned with a smile.
“No, I don’t wanna hear about how you wanna…” he then paused and turned around to look at her, after just having registered what she had said, “What did you say?”
Mandy smiled and walked towards him, “I have been giving it a lot of thought. I have decided to move over.”
Nicky didn’t know if she was serious or not, so he just stared at her. “Is this a joke?”
“I cannot be apart from you, Nicky. I have missed you like crazy this past month. It is not something I can get accustomed to. It is not possible. I wanna be near you, all the time. Even if we are not together all the time, just knowing that at the end of the day I am gonna be with you, I need that. I need you!” she explained.
Nicky took a seat on the bed again, shortly followed by Mandy, “You are serious, aren’t you?” he then smiled and grabbed her hands, “Please tell me you are serious. Please tell me this is not one of your sick twisted jokes, where you are gonna leap up at me and say, Ha! Got’cha!” he checked, still not believing she had said that.
Mandy sighed, looked at him straight in the eyes and smiled, “I am deadly serious, Nicky. I am living in Dublin, as from today!”
“Oh my god!” he laughed in disbelief, “That’s great news!” he shouted.
“But…” she started.
Nicky just looked at her, ready for his world to come crashing down with that ‘but’.
“I do not feel ready to move in together yet!” she hastened to add, “I will live in Dublin, coz I wanna be closer to you, but I am not at that stage yet where we can live together. I mean, I will stay here with you until I find my own place, but when I do, I shall be moving out. Is that alright?” she grimaced, not knowing how he was going to react to that.
“Alright? Is that alright?” he shouted. Mandy looked at him cautiously, “That is more than alright, darling!” he laughed, “That is perfect.”
“Well, that’s settled then!” she smiled, “No more ‘I miss you’s down the phone!” Nicky grinned and quickly pushed her back on the bed, “This is unbelievable!” he beamed climbing on top of her, “I cannot believe you are doing this. It’s gonna be so great! Hang on a minute, what about your house in London?”
Mandy smiled and looked into his eyes, “It’s on the market. I have a friend keeping an eye on it and my agent is keeping me up to date with the offers people are making. She said that it shouldn’t be on the market for too long. It’ll get snapped up straight away.”
Nicky smiled and leaned his head down, placing his lips onto hers and doing a repetition of what went on in the Jacuzzi earlier. 

Chapter Text

Mandy woke up that morning with a thousand butterflies in her stomach. Today was the day she would be meeting up with Take That to go over their dance routines. She sat on the sofa and fidgeted with her fingers, rocking back at forth. Nicky looked at her as he passed by her.
“Hey, why aren’t you in bed? I was gonna cuddle up to you and you weren’t there? I was beginning to think you had changed your mind about moving over and had done a runner!” he joked.
“I am too nervous, Nico!” she shivered.
“Nervous? What have you got to be nervous about?” he laughed, sitting beside her and taking her trembling hand.
“Well, I am meeting up with Take That today, aren’t I? What if it all goes wrong? What if they don’t like me?” she panicked.
“Woah, relax and rewind. You are nervous coz you are meeting Take That? Are you serious?” he chuckled.
Mandy just stared at him, “Well, they are pretty big. At least, they used to be!” she mumbled.
Nicky laughed and shook his head, “Sweetheart, we were way bigger than they were when you first joined us, and you coped fine!”
“I was nervous then and all.” She sighed.
Nicky smiled and hugged her, “But the fact is you did really well, and you’re gonna do well for them too. You’ll see!”
Mandy smiled and nodded, resting her head against his chest. Nicky heard a knock on the door and went to answer it. When he opened it, he saw Shane there, with the others behind him.
“Hey Nico. Good morning!” he smiled.
“What are you all doing here at this time of the morning?” he asked, stepping aside to let them in.
“Sorry. We didn’t want to come, but the girls demanded to come and see Mandy. How is she?” smiled Brian, taking his jacket off.
“She’s inside the living room, nervous as hell!” he laughed, “Go on in!”
They all went in and saw Mandy sitting down, still rocking and biting her nails. She looked their way and got up, “Hello!” she smiled.
“Hey. Welcome back!” smiled Anna, running over to hug her, “How are you feeling?” “Nervous, but coping…well, just about, anyway!” she grinned.
“Oh right, it’s the Take That thing today, isn’t it?” she smiled.
Mandy pulled a scared face and nodded.
“Ah, you’ll be fine. If you could put up with this lot, you could just about put up with anybody!” giggled Abeth, now hugging her.
Mandy shrugged and sat down, “I should be going in a sec! I am just gonna go up and get ready!”
She walked upstairs, and half an hour later came back down, “How do I look?”
“Why are you so worried about the way you look? You trying to impress them or something?” joked Nicky.
“No!” answered Mandy defensively, “Not in the way you are insinuating, anyway!”
“You look fine, hun!” laughed Angie, “And you’ll do fine!”
Mandy smiled and put her jacket on, “Sorry I cannot stay longer, guys, but I really do need to go!”
Nicky smiled and put his jacket on, “come on then. Let’s go.” He then turned to the guys and smiled, “You lot stay here if you want. I won’t be long!”
When they got to the studios, Nicky stopped the car and got out with Mandy.
“I’ll walk there with you, make sure you get in alright!” he smiled, taking her small hand in his.
“Make sure you let them know I am not single, more like! Marking your territory,” she smiled.
Nicky stared at her, “What?” he gasped.
“I was only kidding babe!” she laughed, “Must be the nerves, I dunno!”
Nicky smiled and walked up the stairs with her, hand in hand. When they got in, everyone from the band was there, along with their manager.
“Hi!” she smiled shyly, “I am Mandy…Your choreographer!”
Nigel Martin Smith came instantly and shook her hand, “So glad you could make it Miss Adams. Are you ok?”
Mandy smiled and nodded, “Not bad thanks! Please call me Mandy.”
Nicky looked at her and smiled, “Ok babe. You call me when it’s over and I’ll come and pick you up, alright?”
Mandy nodded and kissed him gently. Nicky pressed his hands behind her neck and deepened the kiss. Mandy was highly paranoid about everyone who was in the room watching them snogging. She pulled away and stared at him.
“Love ya darling!” he smiled before he walked off, leaving Mandy wondering about what was the deal with that behaviour. 

Chapter Text

When the rehearsals were over, Mandy rang Nicky so he could go and pick her up. She waited outside in the freezing cold, when she felt someone standing behind her. “Bit nippy, ain’t it?” came the Stoke accent.
Mandy looked back and smiled. It was Robbie. One of the members from the group, “Hi Robbie!”
“Oh, you’re good at remembering names!” he smiled, digging his hands deep into his pocket.
Mandy grinned and nodded, “I used to be a fan in my teens!”
“Your teens. Now that makes me feel old. How old are you, if you don’t mind me asking?” he laughed.
“Slightly younger than you. I’m 29!” she smiled.
Robbie pressed his lips together and nodded.
“What are you doing out here in the cold?” she asked.
“Fag break!” he smirked, “We have to carry on inside, practising those steps you have just shown us!”
Mandy smiled and bounced on the spot, shivering with cold. She looked at Robbie as he lit his cigarette and then looked away.
“You’re a great dancer. Where did you learn moves like that?” he smiled, taking a drag from his cig.
“I went to dance school when I finished school. I have always been into dancing. Joined loads of dancing clubs at school and all that. You lads are not too bad yourself!” she smiled.
Robbie chuckled, “We never used to be good at all. Only Howard and Jason, coz well, between me and you, I think they are swots and never do anything wrong.”
“And you don’t?” she chortled.
“Me? Nah, I like to live my life. I don’t swot over anything. I just pray that I get my moves right on the day” he laughed.
Mandy gave him a disapproving look, “I have to warn you. I am pretty strict with the bands I work with. Ask Westlife. They learnt their lesson, I can tell you!”
“Hmmm I wouldn’t mind you getting strict on me. I need a good woman to keep me on me toes” he flirted.
Mandy laughed at his comment, “Don’t think my boyfriend would appreciate that at all!” She thought she would let him know that she was unavailable before he started getting any ideas.
“Shame!” he shrugged, “But yet typical. All the good ones are taken. I wrote a song with lines to that effect once.”
“All the best women are married, all the handsome men are gay…yeah I know the one.” She laughed.
Robbie just stared at her.
“You were better as a solo act. What the hell possessed you to rejoin take that?” She laughed.
“It’s a one off. I am glad I did. Wouldn’t have met you otherwise.” He grinned and nudged her.
Mandy just smiled and blushed. They then started talking about why the band had reformed, with Robbie emphasising that it was a one off tour and after that he would go to do his solo thing again. He chatted about how unhappy he was when he was with Take That all those years ago, and how he clashed with the other members.
“Mark was the only one I really got on with out of all of them, and even we squabbled quite a lot!” he sighed.
“Awww!” pouted Mandy, resting her head against his shoulder in sympathy for a second, “Then leaving was the best thing you did! And like I said, you are miles better as a solo act.”
Robbie smiled and nodded. At that point, Nicky pulled up in the car. He saw Mandy’s head on Robbie’s shoulder and did not like that one bit.
“What the hell?” he mumbled, as he turned off the ignition. He did not want to jump to conclusions, so he just smiled as he got out of the car and looked at Mandy. “Hello baby!” he smiled, as he pulled her up into his arms, and kissed her hard on the lips, “How did it go?”
“Oh it went fine!” she smiled, pulling away, “No problems. They’re a good bunch of lads!”
Nicky just smiled and nodded. Mandy then decided to introduce them both.
“Nicky, I want you to meet Robbie. Rob this is Nicky!”
“Her boyfriend!” smiled Nicky, shaking his hand. Mandy looked at him in disbelief. That was the second time today that he had made sure everyone knew that they were together. She did not like it, but decided to not say anything.
“Ok, shall we get going?” he asked, looking at Mandy.
Mandy smiled, nodded and then looked at Robbie, “See you tomorrow ok? And keep practising. Remember I don’t take well to poor performances!”
“Take it from me!” laughed Nicky, opening her car door, “She’s really strict, this one!” He patted her bum hard as he walked round to his door. Mandy jumped slightly and then got in the car. She waved goodbye to Robbie, and then took off.
“So, was it ok then?” he asked, stopping at the traffic lights.
“Mmmhmmm!” smiled Mandy, “As I said, they are a good bunch of lads!”
“Good, good!” he smiled, as he sped off when the lights went green.
Before long, they were back home. Everyone was there waiting for her.
“Heeeeeeeey. How did it go?” cheered Anna, running towards her.
“Yeah, not bad. Went quite well actually!” she grinned.
“See? We told ya so!” smiled Abeth, now joining them.
Mandy smiled and nodded, “We got a lot of work done. They are quite talented, those lads!”
Nicky heard this, sighed and walked to the lads.
“What’s wrong with you?” laughed Kian.
“Nothing!” he growled, “I’m ok!”
“Yeah, coulda fooled me!” chuckled Shane, “What is your problem!”
“You did not see how that Robbie guy was staring at Mandz. He wants her. He had this look about him,” he snarled.
“Awww you’re not jealous, are you, Nicky?” chuckled Brian, “Surely you cannot be jealous of them!”
“I ain’t jealous!” he snapped, “Just don’t like that guy, that’s all! He was looking at her the way I used to look at her when she started with us. I fancied the pants off her then.”
“Relax, mate. Don’t think Mandy would do anything stupid. She loves you too much. After all, she is moving here to be with you!” smiled Mark.
Nicky sighed and nodded, “I suppose!”

“So Mandz!” smiled Angie, on the other side of the room, “Are they really as hot as they look on telly?”
Mandy rolled her eyes, “I dunno. I don’t really look at them that way. I am with Nicky. I don’t look to see how cute guys are anymore. I ain’t interested!”
“Oh come oooooon!” laughed Anna, “You must’ve noticed if they were cute or not!”
“They were cute I suppose, but they have aged loads. Jason more than the others. Robbie’s still quite fit, though. But as I said, not interested, so wasn’t really that observant. They are friendly, and as I said, talented, but that’s it! Not a patch next to my Nicky,” she smiled.
Mandy looked at Nicky and smiled. He smiled back at her and then carried on talking to the lads.
“There is just one thing, though!” she sighed. The girls looked on at her.
“Nicky really made a point of letting them know that I was unavailable!” she frowned. “Oh, that’s just Nicky for you! He’s just marking his territory. That’s his protective side.” laughed Angie, “He gets intimidated by cute men. Don’t worry about it. I would take that as a compliment. It’s only coz he loves you!”
“I suppose!” sighed Mandy, still not liking it.
Just then, Mark joined them. He wrapped his arms around Anna and rested his head on her shoulders, “You ready to get a move, babe? I am shattered!”
Anna looked at him and smiled, “You say that now. When we get home, it’s a different story though!”
“Can I help it if I get this uncontrollable urge to show you how much I love you?” he grinned.
“Ewwww too much information there!” said Abeth, pulling a disgusted face.
“Oh yeah. Like you don’t do things like that with Brian!”
“Do what with me?” asked  Brian, now joining them.
“Stuff!” shrugged Mark, “Like demonstrating your love for her!”
“You kidding? We’re at it all the time!” grinned Brian.
“Bri!” gasped Abeth, slapping his arm, “Jesus Christ!”
“What? You don’t seriously think that these lot think we just kiss and cuddle, do you?” he laughed.
“Well no, but you don’t have to be so vulgar about it!” she gasped again.
“Lighten up babe!” laughed Brian, “It is common knowledge that people who love each other show each other all the time!”
“Now that is true!” smiled Nicky, holding Mandy in his arms, “There is nothing like showing your woman exactly how much love you have to give her. Speaking of which, isn’t it time you all sodded off and left me and my woman alone? I have got a lot of love to show her still.”
Mandy looked back at him disapprovingly and then looked away. Nicky noticed her look on her face and flinched slightly. He decided to ask her about it later.
“OK then. Hint taken. Come on babe!” smiled Mark, grabbing Anna’s hand, “Let’s get home and let’s make it fast!”
“What happened to you being tired?” she laughed.
“Meh. My batteries have recharged, I suppose!” he grinned, “Now come on, woman!” After they had all left, Mandy and Nicky remained in the living room.
“What was that look all about, earlier?” he finally asked her.
“What look?” she questioned.
“That look after I told everyone to leave earlier?” he asked.
Mandy sighed and looked at the floor, “I just don’t like being treated as if I am some object that you own, that’s all!”
“Oh darling!” he smiled, kneeling down on the floor opposite her and taking her hand, “You know that’s not how I think of you!”
Mandy pressed her lips together and nodded.
“You do believe me, don’t you?” he asked.
“Yeah!” she sighed.
“Now why does that not sound convincing?” he asked, raising a brow.
“Nicky, you treat me like you own me all the time. Like earlier, for example, when you dropped me off at the studio. You sure made it a point to let those lads know that I was yours, by kissing me hard in front of everyone!” she moaned.
“Can I not let you know how much I was gonna miss you now?” he answered, taking a seat, knowing she was right, but not wanting to admit it.
“Oh come on Nicky. We both know why you did that. Just like we both know why you mentioned you were my boyfriend to Robbie, when I introduced you both!” she sighed.
“I do not trust that guy with my life!” he snarled, “I have read about the things he gets up to, and his string of women.”
Mandy gave him a look, “See? You treat me like you own me. I don’t like that! Don’t you trust me or something?”
“Well, excuuuuse me for loving you that much,” he snapped, getting up and storming off. Before he got to the stairs, he turned around, “I cannot help how much I love you!”
He then turned around and marched up the stairs, taking two steps at a time, leaving Mandy still sitting on the sofa, totally gob smacked. 

Chapter Text

Mandy sighed. She turned all the lights off and went upstairs. There she saw Nicky sat on the bed heavily frowning.
“Hey!” she mumbled walking in slowly.
Nicky looked at her and then looked down again. Mandy sighed and sat next to him. “Nicky, I am sorry for what I said. But it does get to me!” she sighed.
“What, so next time I’ll just stand there and let them all leer at you, yeah?” he huffed. “Stop it, Nicky. You are acting like a 15 year old child!” she scolded him.
“So now I am jealous and childish, is that right?” he sneered.
Mandy had enough of this and stood up, “Yes. That’s right. That’s exactly what you are. Childish and jealous!” she hissed, walking out of the room.
Nicky had not expected her to answer him like that. He expected her to deny it and cuddle him warmly.
“Well, that’s just charming!” he mumbled to himself, “Bloody charming!”
Mandy stormed downstairs and went to the kitchen to get herself a drink, leaving Nicky in his room thinking about his actions and words. It didn’t take him long to realise she was right. He sighed, got up and started making his way downstairs. He stopped when he saw her sitting at the kitchen table with her drink.
“I’m sorry!” he sighed, walking in.
Mandy stopped drinking and looked behind her. She continued staring at him.
“Maybe you were right. Maybe I am being quite protective, but it is only coz I love you so much, and I am so scared of losing you! I don’t want to lose you, Mandz,” he reasoned.
“Don’t you trust me at all, Nicky?” she sighed.
“Course I do, honey. I trust you with everything I have. But it’s hard, seeing you with all these blokes, knowing the look one of them was giving you! It reminded me of how I looked at you when you first joined us, and I was head over heels in love with you that moment you walked in. The moment you walked in, I told myself you were mine. Robbie had that look too.” he sighed.
“I can handle them, Nicky. Believe me, I even let Robbie know that I was unavailable after I saw how flirty he was getting. You have nothing to worry about. I know what I am doing!” she sighed.
“I know that, love. I know! I’m sorry, ok?” he smiled, crouching down in front of her. Mandy smiled and placed her hand on his cheek, “I love you too much to even think about hurting you, and no one and I mean NO-ONE is gonna take your place, ok?” Nicky smiled, grabbed her hand from his cheek and brought it over to his lips where he kissed it gently. He then smiled and looked at her, “I love you too sweetheart!” Mandy smiled and then leaned forwards, locking her lips onto his. The kiss grew more passionate before they pulled away, both panting.
“How about a game of pool in the games room?” he smiled.
Mandy just laughed, “Very romantic, Nicky!”
“Huh?” he asked confused.
“Well, after sharing a huge passionate kiss, you expect to be asked whether you would like to continue this in the bedroom. You, on the other hand, ask if I fancy a game of pool!” she giggled.
Nicky chuckled, “I have plenty of romantic plans for later!” he winked.
Mandy smiled at him, “That’s what I love about you. Your spontaneity!” she smiled. He grabbed her hand and pulled her up, “Come on!”
He led her to the games room, where the pool table was carefully set. He grabbed a cue and handed it to Mandy. He then grabbed the other cue and chalked it.
“You break if you want!” he smiled.
“NO!” she smiled.
“NO? You want me to break?” he smiled.
“No.” she smirked, placing the cue back on its stand, “What I want is for you to put that cue down and fuck me, right here, right now!”
Nicky stared at her, put the cue down and walked towards her, “In that case...”
He picked her up and placed her down on the table, after rolling all the balls into the pockets. He pressed his lips hard on hers and gently lay her down on the table. He climbed on top of her, gently peeling off every item of clothing she had, while she did the same to him. 

Nicky lay on top of her, kissing her lips tenderly. He then slowly trailed his lips down her neck, chest and finally on her stomach. Mandy arched her back with pleasure, moaning softly, as Nicky kissed all the right spots. He trailed his lips back up, finally stopping at her breasts. He took one of the fleshy mounds into his mouth, gently flicking his tongue over her erect nipple. Mandy panted softly, biting her lip as she felt the strong sensation in the pit of her stomach. With one nipple in his mouth, he gently massaged her other breast with his hand. Mandy writhed on the pool table, mumbling how much she loved him. Nicky let out a moan, and slowly moved down her body. He crawled off the table, and bent down, spreading her legs open. He kissed each thigh in turn, letting his tongue slide against her silky skin. He finally got to her centre and gently inserted his finger inside, moving it inside her gently at first, but gradually gaining speed. When he heard her moaning louder, he bent down again, and decided to relieve his fingers, and let his tongue do the work. He gently flicked his tongue over her clitoris, sending Mandy into ecstasy. Occasionally he inserted his tongue inside, feeling its wetness, and tasting her juices. When he felt Mandy couldn’t take it anymore, he climbed on top of her. Mandy sat up, pushed him to the side and jumped off the table. Nicky looked at her, “What are you doing?”
“Shhhh!” smiled Mandy, pushing him back against the table. She kneeled down and grabbed his manhood and let her hands slide up and down it. Nicky moaned softly, grabbing her hair into his fists. He leaned his head back and breathed heavily. Mandy smiled as her lips got closer to his hard member. Mandy felt his pre-come on her fingers as she rubbed it softly. She opened her mouth and wrapped her lips around his tip, tasting his juices as she gently licked it. Nicky banged his hands on the side of the pool table, trying to grab the first thing he could reach, which happened to be her head. He wanted her to start sucking. He couldn’t wait anymore, so he pushed her head towards him, making her take his full length in her mouth. Mandy smiled and gently sucked on it, following his desires. Nicky’s breathing started getting even heavier now, letting a little moan escape his mouth every now and then. He suddenly stopped her and pulled out of her mouth. Mandy just looked at him. 

“Sorry babe!” he panted, “Don’t think I could hold it anymore!”
Mandy smirked and climbed on top of him as he sat back on the table. Nicky went to turn her around to lay her on the table when she stopped him.
“I am gonna be on top now!” she grinned naughtily, “My turn to take the lead!”
“God I love a dominant woman!” he sighed, getting up and sucking on her breasts again. Mandy threw her head back, as she straddled him letting his hard member enter her centre. She got up and then slowly lowered herself on it. Nicky held onto her waist with both hands, as he helped her straddle on top of him. Mandy moaned softly, as she writhed on top of him, making him feel like he was going to explode. Her rhythmic movements started getting faster, and more frantic. At this point, she was screaming out in pleasure.
Nicky felt she was losing her rhythm, so again, he helped her by placing his hands on her hips. Mandy felt the waves of pleasure in her stomach, and soon released it all. At the same time, Nicky felt his balls tightening. He closed his eyes and finally released himself into her. 

They both collapsed soon after, laying on top of each other, trying to catch their breath back. Their bodies locked together, slippery from the sweat they had worked up.
“Oh wow!” he panted, “That was amazing!”
Mandy panted on top of him, while he was still inside of her and nodded, “Best game of pool I have ever had!”
Nicky laughed and rolled her over to her side. He pulled away from her and got comfortable, “Hole in one, eh?”
Mandy giggled at his joke and nodded. She then looked at him and smiled, brushing his sweaty hair back. She then leaned forwards and kissed him softly on the lips, “I love you so much!”
“I love you too babe!” he smiled.
“I need a drink!” she smiled, still slightly panting.
“I am glad you said that first, coz I didn’t wanna get accused of not being romantic, again!” he smirked.
Mandy laughed and got up, “Come on. Let’s go and get a drink. Then we can go back to bed!” she winked. 

Chapter Text

The following morning, Nicky and Mandy got up bright and early. Mandy was due to go back to the studio for another rehearsal day with Take That. Nicky looked at Mandy and grabbed her hand, “I don’t want you to go back to those lads!” he pouted. Mandy sighed, “Please Nicky. Let’s not go over all that again, ok? We have discussed it already!”
“I know, I know, but I hate it when you are with them. They make me feel really uncomfortable, that’s all!” he frowned.
“Nicky! Come on! Stop this!” she scolded, “It’s just my job. Westlife are not the only band I can work with! And anyway, I could say the same about you, and all the females you work with!”
“Yeah, but you know I won’t try anything with any of them!” he smiled.
“Just like you know I won’t try anything with any of these lads. Besides, between me and you, I think Robbie is the only straight one there!” she giggled.
“That’s the one who worries me!” he sighed, grabbing his keys.
Mandy sighed and grabbed his hands. She closed her eyes, then opened them, looking straight into his own eyes, “Nicky, you have nothing to worry about darling! I can promise you that. I am not interested in him, or anyone else for that matter. All that matters to me is you. You’re all I want!”
Nicky smiled and squeezed her hands slightly, “I know babe. And I trust you. I just have to get used to it, that’s all!”
Mandy’s lips curled up into a little smile, “So what are you doing today?”
“We have a meeting with Walshy and then to record some more songs for our new album. It’s half done now!” he smiled.
Mandy nodded and smiled, “Busy day today then. What time will you be finished?” “Dunno. Might be quite late. Walsh is determined on getting this album completed by next week, so it is gonna be tough!” he sighed.
Mandy nodded, “So I shall meet you here then!”
“How are you gonna get back?” he asked, putting his hands on her waist.
“I’ll think of something. Don’t worry. I’ll get a cab or something!” she shrugged. Nicky shook his head, “You ring me when you’re finished, and I’ll come and get you!”
Mandy shook her head, “You’ll be working babe. You won’t be able to!”
“I will make time for you honey. Don’t you worry about that. We’re all entitled to breaks every now and then!” he smiled.
Mandy gave him a look, “Louis? Give you a break? You do know Louis, right?”
Nicky laughed, “Louis will understand ok? Don’t worry. You just ring me, and if I don’t pick up, then ring Louis!”
“I am not ringing Louis!” she gasped, “He’ll eat me alive for disrupting the routine!” Nicky laughed, “OK then ring Paul. He will pass on the message ok?”
Mandy smiled and nodded. Nicky kissed her lips gently and grabbed his jacket, “Come on then. Let’s go!”
Nicky took her to her venue and looked at her when he stopped the car, “Have a good day babe!” he smiled.
Mandy smiled and leaned over to kiss him. Nicky placed both his hands on her cheeks and kissed her gently on the lips.
“I love you,” she smiled, patting his leg.
“I love you too babe. Now come on. Off you go before they tell you off for being late!” he winked.
Mandy smiled and got out of the car. She stood on the pavement until Nicky drove off and was out of sight. She let out a soft sigh and then looked at the building in front of her. She sighed again and went in. Everyone was there waiting for her. 

“Hey, she finally arrives!” came a voice from the other end of the room. Mandy looked to see Robbie there.
“Hi!” she smiled, “Come on, let’s get the show on the road!”

Nicky got to the recording studio and took his jacket off.
“Hey Nix!” smiled Anna, crunching on an apple, “No Mandy today?”
“Nah, she is at rehearsals with them lot!” he sighed, taking a seat.
“Oh!” smiled Anna raising her brows. She noticed the look on his face and sat down next to him, “What’s the problem?”
“Problem? What problem?” he asked.
“The look on your face, Nicky!” she laughed, “There’s something wrong. Now come on. Tell Aunty Anna!”
Nicky laughed, “I ain’t got a problem!”
“You should stop worrying about those guys, you know? Mandy knows better than that!” she smiled.
“Hey! Who says I am worrying?” he asked defensively.
“Your face!” she laughed, “I can read you like a book, Byrne!”
“Nah, we had a good chat about that last night. I trust her!” he smiled, “There’s just one of them who really bugs me, but it’s ok. Mandy knows what she’s doing!”
“Good answer!” she smiled, “And let me guess. Robbie?”
Nicky looked at her, “See? I do have a reason to be concerned!”
Anna shook her head, “No you don’t! You have nothing to worry about. I am sure Mandy can handle Robbie. He’s not that cute!” she winked.
“Not as cute as me, you mean?” he grinned cheekily.
Anna laughed and was about to answer when Mark walked in.
“Nah. He’s way cuter, mate!” he chuckled.
Nicky shot him an evil look. Before he could answer, Louis came in, ordering them to start.

Six long hours later, the lads were still at the studio and Mandy had just finished.
“See you next week, lads! Good work today. Keep that up!” she smiled.
“Will we get a reward if we do?” chuckled Robbie cheekily, making the others laugh. Mandy sighed and looked at him, “You remind me of my boyfriend. He was exactly the same as you when I started rehearsals with Westlife. Same comments and all!” she laughed.
Robbie winked at her and walked to the table to get his bottle of water.
“Anyway, see you next week! Bye!” she smiled as she walked out. Robbie stayed staring at her as she walked away, letting out a little sigh.
Mandy grabbed her phone and called Nicky. She sighed when he didn’t pick it up and called Paul.
“Hey Paul. Nicky told me to ring you if I couldn’t get through to him.” She sighed. “Yeah, he has told me about it. I’ll let him know you are ready as soon as he comes out of the booth ok? Shouldn’t be too long now!” he answered.
Mandy nodded and hang up. She sat on the ledge of the shop window and waited there. Half an hour later, Nicky turned up.
“I was about to give up on you!” she sighed, getting in.
“Sorry babe. I just couldn’t get my words right!” he sighed, giving her a greeting kiss. Mandy smiled and put her seatbelt on, “Let’s go then!”
“Wanna come and see us at the studio? The girls are there!” he smiled, “Or do you wanna go home!”
“I’ll go and see you!” she smiled, “I always loved seeing you guys recording!”
Nicky grinned and drove away.
“So, completed any songs today?” she asked.
“Just one. We are in the middle of doing another one before I demanded a break!” laughed Nicky, “And you wouldn’t believe what song it is!”
“Why? What is it?” she asked.
“Well, normally, I would kick up a fuss over having to do anymore covers, but this time it’s special. You’ll see when we get there!” he winked.
“Aww tell me, Nix!” she pouted.
“Nope! You’ll just have to wait and see!” he smirked.
Mandy shrugged and smiled. When they got there, the girls greeted her with hugs, while Nicky rushed in to let Louis know he was back. Louis demanded the lads to get back into the booth to continue.
“What are they singing?” asked Mandy, “Nicky is being very secretive about it!”
Anna giggled, “Just you wait!”
“Great! You are starting to sound like him now!” she moaned. 

Chapter Text

Mandy sat on the chair, waiting for the song. She could see Nicky through the window and she laughed at the faces he was pulling at her.
“He’s such a show off!” laughed Abeth.
Mandy grinned and nodded, “loves being in the limelight, that one!”
Suddenly, she heard Mark singing the second verse of the song. The first verse and chorus had already been recorded prior to her getting there. Mandy opened her eyes wide, making Nicky laugh. “They are recording Mandy?” she shrieked.
Anna laughed and nodded, “I think you inspired Simon!”
“They cannot record this song. It’s awful!” she gasped.
The girls just laughed and watched Mark sing. Louis stopped them when Mark’s voice cracked a bit, much to the lads moans.
“Louis, why on earth are they recording this song? Do you want to put all westlife fans off them or something?” she protested.
Louis looked at her and shook his head, “They will love it. Especially the fans who share the name with the song!” he winked.
“That’s so lame!” she laughed, “Clearly it will be a flop!”
“We’ll see!” he smiled, making Mark start again.
“Correct me if I am wrong, though, but have they not done this song already? I remember doing dance routines for this one!” she asked with a puzzled look on her face.
Louis shook his head, “No. That was just an extra song they sang at the concert, just to see the response. That is why they are recording it. The response was quite good!” Mandy nodded and looked at the lads, “Well, I hate it!”
Louis laughed and shook his head, turning his attention back to the lads. He picked up the mic and looked at Mark, “Ok Mark. Whenever you are ready!”
Mark nodded and coughed a bit to clear his throat. He then started singing the verse again. Mandy leaned back on her chair and watched Nicky, as he swayed to the music with his headphones on. When Louis was satisfied with the performance, he stopped him and looked at the lads.
“Nicky, your turn now. You ready?” he said down the mic.
“As I’ll ever be!” he grinned, getting closer to the mic. Mark took a step back and let Nicky in his place. Nicky looked at Mandy, winked at her and cleared his throat. Soon enough he started singing. Louis shook his head and stopped him.
“What’s wrong with you today, lad. Get your words right. It’s crying on the breeze, not crying in the wind! Get it right, man!” he scolded.
Nicky looked at him apologetically and nodded. He started again, before Louis huffed and stopped him.
“Your key is all wrong. And again please!” he sighed.
Nicky huffed loudly, and turned around on the spot. After being stopped about 5 times, he took his headphones off and went to join Louis.
“What is the matter with you? I sang that right!” he argued.
“Nicky, you are singing it all wrong. You are not in time to the music and it just sounds wrong. Now come on. This is costing us money here!” he argued back, audibly annoyed. Nicky sighed, looked at Mandy and then went back to the booth. He cleared his throat again, and licked his lips. He closed his eyes, and started again. This time, he did it right. He sighed with relief when it was over, but dreaded his next bit. Shane took over the next bit, and Nicky exercised his voice in the background.
Louis looked at Nicky, “You ready for the next bit?”
“I can give it a try!” he mumbled with a worried tone to his voice.
“And I need yoooooooooooooooou!” he sang, with his eyes tightly closed and his arms tensed up in front of him. Louis covered his eyes and stopped him.
“Ok, that was totally out of tune. And again!” he sighed, losing patience now.
Nicky tried again, and failed miserably, when his voice jumped in the middle.
“Christ. What is wrong with you today, man! If you are not up to it, I shall get one of the others to sing it for you. Concentrate!” he scolded.
“Hey! I am trying my best here! Gimme a break!” shouted Nicky back, not one to take Louis abuse.
“You are holding us back, Nicky. Now do it right!” he argued.
“You think I am not trying? You think I am doing this on purpose? I wanna go home too, Louis. It’s not like I enjoy being here all the hours god sends me!” he retorted.
“Then try harder. You are obviously not trying hard enough!” he yelled.
This wound up Nicky, quite a bit. He looked at Louis, grabbed his headphones and stormed out of the booth.
“Where are you going? Go back in there. You are not leaving until this song is finished!” he shouted.
Mandy just stared at them both, totally bewildered.
“Great!” moaned Louis with a big sigh, “Just what we needed. One of his childish meltdowns! Someone go and get him, please!” 

“I’ll go!” mumbled Mandy, walking away, not quite pleased with the way Louis was treating him. Mandy walked downstairs and saw him leaning against the wall.
“Hey babe!” she smiled, standing opposite him.
“The guy’s a loser!” he hissed, “God I hate him!”
Mandy smiled at him sympathetically and placed a hand on his chest, “He is so adamant to finish this song today, that he is totally losing the plot. You have been singing all day. It is understandable. Your voice gets tired too!”
“Did I really sound that bad?” he questioned.
“Well, I have heard you sing better. But as I said, your voice needs a break!” she smiled, picking her words carefully.
Nicky smiled and nodded.
“You need something soothing. Something sweet!” She smiled.
Nicky wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer to him, “Now you’re talking!” With that, he pressed his lips against hers and kissed her deeply. Mandy pulled away and looked at him, “What is that going to achieve?” she laughed.
“Well, it calms me down!” he winked, “And you did say something sweet!”
“I was thinking more along the lines of honey and lemon!” she laughed.
“Oh well. At least it calmed me down!” he shrugged with a smile, “Where am I gonna get honey and lemon from?”
Mandy thought about this and smiled, “Hang on. Won’t be long!”
She kissed him quickly on the lips and ran off, “Where are you going?” he shouted after.
“Won’t be long babe. Gimme me a few minutes!” he shouted, running away.
He shook his head and smiled as he watched her run away. 2 minutes later, she returned with a box on her hand.
“What’s that?” he asked, eyeing the box.
“Strepsils. Always soothes your throat, and it is honey and lemon. Take one!” she smiled.
Nicky looked at her and grinned, “You’re a genius, you know that?”
Mandy grinned and nodded, taking his hand after he put the Lozenge in his mouth. He sucked on it and let himself be pulled back up to the studio by Mandy. Louis looked at him on his arrival.
“Any behaviour like that again, Nicky, and you’re out of the song.” He snarled.
“Yeah, like that’s a threat!” he mumbled to himself, making Mandy giggle softly to herself.
“You cannot just leave in the middle of a song!” he continued.
Having heard enough, Nicky turned to face him, “I went to get something soothing for my throat, ok? That’s all!”
This shut Louis up. Nicky smiled smugly to himself, knowing he had the final word and made his way back to the studio. Louis sighed and looked at the lads tiredly.
“Ok, Nicky, whenever you are ready!” he sighed.
“I can’t believe you shut him up!” chuckled Kian, “That must be a first for him!”
Nicky looked at him and grinned, “Think I should record this in my book of miracles!”
Kian grinned and went back to his place.
“Lads, you can chit chat after we finish. Now come on. I wanna go home!” Louis reprimanded.
“He’s not the only one!” mumbled Shane, walking to his spot. Nicky chuckled and went to the mic. He held up his thumb, letting them know he was ready. Louis nodded and stared at him. Nicky sang his words again, using up a lot of effort, and putting all his energy into that one line. He stopped and opened his eyes, looking at Louis.
“Much better Nicky. Well done!” clapped Louis. Nicky sighed with relief and took his headphones off.
“Last bit lads. Come on. You can do this.” He encouraged.
Mandy sat on the chair, totally exhausted. Anna noticed the tired look on her face, “You had a hard day too?”
“Yeah. The lads would not get their moves right, and we didn’t get as much done as I had planned!” she sighed.
“Must be something in the air!” chuckled Anna, “with our lads not getting it right, and them too!”
Mandy giggled and leaned back against the chair, “Can I tell you something?”
“Always!” smiled Anna, crossing one leg over the other.
“Robbie. He is giving me the come ons!” she sighed, rubbing her eyes.
“He’s what? Are you kidding?” shrieked Anna.
Mandy shook her head, “He knows I am unavailable, but he is giving me these looks, and I do not feel comfortable at all. I don’t know what to do. And I don’t wanna tell Nicky, coz he hates the idea of me working with those lads, for that same reason!”
“I know. He was talking about that before. I mean, he didn’t wanna talk about it, but I kinda made him. He does not feel comfortable with you being around him either!” she smiled sympathetically, “Have you tried talking to Robbie?”
“Well, he knows I am unavailable. And I am not encouraging him at all!” she shrugged.
“Just keep out of his way, and don’t pay too much attention to him. That’s all I can suggest. Either that, or give up with them altogether!” she smiled.
Mandy sighed and nodded, looking at Nicky. He saw her staring at him and smiled a tired smile at her. Mandy smiled back.
“I cannot lose him over this!” she said to herself. Anna heard her and looked at her, “Huh?”
“I cannot do this to Nicky” she sighed.
“Do what?” she questioned.
“Well, he ain’t happy about me choreographing Take That. And I can now understand why. I might quit altogether!” she sighed, “Not what I want, but I cannot carry on like this!” 

Chapter Text

The lads had finally finished recording ‘Mandy’ and they all stood at the entrance of the studio.
“Who’s up for a few drinks at the pub?” asked Shane, grinning and rubbing his hands. Mandy and Nicky looked at each other.
“S’up to you babe!” he smiled, “What do you fancy?”
“I am pretty shattered, but ok. I’ll go! I am not drinking though. Don’t fancy going to work tomorrow hangovered!” she smiled.
Nicky smiled and kissed her lips quickly as he placed his arm around her waist, “What are we waiting for then. Let’s go!”
Ten minutes later, they found themselves at the pub, all sitting by one table, chatting and gossiping about Louis.
“I tell ya, his ears must be burning by now!” chuckled Kian.
“I hope they are!” growled Nicky, “Both of them!”
He then looked at Mandy and smiled, “Come on babe. Have a real drink!”
“No, Nicky. I know myself and one drink will lead to two, which will lead to four and I cannot handle going into work with a bad head and nausea!” she sighed.
“Oh come on, please.” He begged.
“Why is it so important to you for me to have alcohol?” she shrieked.
“Well, it’s not!” he shrugged.
Mandy giggled and finished her coke, “ My answer is still no, Nicky!” she then got up and grabbed her empty glass, “Anyone up for another one?” she questioned, looking at her empty glass. Everyone still had their drink, so she got up to get herself another one. As she stood by the bar, she felt someone squeezing her shoulder. She looked to the side and saw no-one there. She looked to the other side and saw Robbie grinning at her, “Hiya!”
“Robbie! Hi!” she grinned, “What are you doing here?”
“Same as you. Enjoying a few drinks after a hard day’s work!” he smiled, “Best pub going this one!”
“Yeah!” grinned Mandy, “It is Nicky’s local. He comes here all the time!”
“And you don’t?” he questioned, raising an eyebrow.
“Well, I have only just moved over here so this is my first time here. But I suppose I’ll be coming here more regularly!” she grinned.
The barmaid came to take Robbie’s orders. He looked at Mandy and smiled, “What are you having?”
“Just a coke for me, please!” she grinned.
“Coke? Oh come on. Have something stronger. Come on, be a devil!” he winked.
“Nah, really. I just want a coke. Don’t wanna be wrecked for work tomorrow!” she argued.
“Why not? We will be!” he grinned cheekily.
Mandy sighed, “I hate working with a hangover!”
“Nah just drink some water before you go to bed and you’ll be as fit as a fiddle in the morning. Trust me, it has been tried and tested!” he winked.
“But I really don’t wanna go to work and not give it my all, you know?” she sighed. “Why not? We are!” he grinned cheekily again.
Mandy stared at him, “I’ll pretend I didn’t hear that!”
“Come on. Just the one, eh?” he smiled, shaking her slightly.
“I really shouldn’t!” she answered.
“Come on, one isn’t exactly gonna have you on the floor, is it?” he smiled convincingly.
Mandy smiled and nodded, “I suppose not. Alright then!”
Robbie grinned and ordered their drinks. Nicky looked her way and saw him laughing with her.
“Why is that prat there?” he growled.
“Nicky, come on. They work together.” Sighed Mark, “Just leave it, eh?”
Nicky sighed and gave him an evil look. He saw Mandy returning to the table after thanking Robbie and moved up.
“Alright babe?” he asked.
Mandy grinned and nodded. She took a sip of her drink, and pulled a face.
“What’s that face for?” laughed Nicky.
“Too strong!” she managed to say, after taking another sip.
Nicky looked at her suspiciously, and then grabbed her drink. He took a small sip and then looked at her, “You’re having vodka?”
Mandy looked at him and nodded, “Through no choice of my own, might I add!” she laughed.
“So let me get this straight. I beg you to have a proper drink, and you turn me down, going on about not wanting to go to work tomorrow hangovered, then that loser offers you a drink, and you accept?” he shrieked.
“Oh boy!” mumbled Brian, placing his arm around Abeth.
“What’s the big deal, Nicky?” she questioned, not liking his tone.
“The big deal is, that I, your boyfriend, ask you and you say no, while big shot over there just asks and flirts with you, batting his eyes at you all innocently, and you consent to a drink...a double, at that!” he shouted.
“Take it easy, Nicky. Is it really important?” sighed Kian.
Nicky looked at him, “Yes, it is bloody important! She pays attention to what he is saying, and not caring what I ask!”
“That’s enough, Nicky!” she hissed, clearly embarrassed.
Nicky stared at her, “So what is it about him that you cannot say no to?”
“What?” she shrieked, standing up and staring at him.
“I said, what is it about him...” he started.
“I heard what you said, Nicky, and I don’t like the way you are acting, or even what you are insinuating. Now just drop it. It is just one drink I am having!” she snapped.
“Don’t like it, do you? Maybe you should just go off with him, eh?” he snarled.
Mandy shot him an evil look and put her drink back on the table, “Here you go. You drink it then!” she screamed.
Nicky just stared at her, “Might as well just go right up to him and snog him. I know you want to!” he shouted.
Mandy grabbed her drink and splashed it all over his face. With that, she slammed the glass on the table and flicked her hair back, “Call me when you have grown up a bit, Nix!” she screamed, walking off. 

Everyone stayed on their seats, not knowing what to say or do, as Nicky cleaned his face up. They stared at each other and fidgeted uncomfortably.
“Where did she go?” he shouted.
“She went that way!” mumbled Angie, pointing to the bathroom.
Nicky looked at the door, “Meh. I’ll let her stew for a while. Clearly, she is not interested in anything I ask. Why should I be interested in her?”
Ten minutes later, Mandy came back in. Nicky eyed her up, and noticed Robbie walking to her. He fumed as he watched him place an arm around her, as if he was consoling her. “What the feck is he doing now?” he shrieked loudly, “His arms are all over her!”
“It’s probably all innocent, Nico. Don’t go jumping to any conclusions!” soothed Anna.
“Innocent, my arse. Look at him. He has just kissed her. Oh he won’t get away with it!” he growled.
Shane grabbed his hand, “Leave it. It looks like he is just consoling her! And it was only a peck on the cheek, mate!”
“I am not leaving it. Look at him, all over my woman! I’ll teach him a thing or two about messing with me!” he snarled, getting up and marching towards them. He grabbed Robbie and punched him right in the eye, leaving Mandy open mouthed.
“Nicky, what are you doing?” she screamed, as she crouched down next to Robbie, helping him up.
“Letting him know that he shouldn’t mess with me, that’s what!” he shouted, placing his hands on his hips.
“Have you gone mad?” she shrieked.
“Not yet, but I will when he does that again!” he hissed, looking at Robbie. Robbie was still on the ground, in shock.
“Are you ok?” she asked Robbie.
“Yeah!” he answered, still baffled by all this. He gave Nicky an evil look and then walked away. Mandy turned to face Nicky.
“What did you think you were playing at?” she screamed at him.
“He was all over you!” he shouted back, “like a fucking leech!”
“He was just being nice, Nicky! You had no right to punch him!” she yelled.
“I had every right!” he argued back, “And being nice? Is that what you call it?”
Mandy huffed and went back to the table, after giving Robbie an apologetic look, as Nicky followed her. She sat down and folded her arms across her chest.
“You ok, Mand?” asked Anna.
Mandy bit her lip and nodded. She then looked at Nicky, and sighed, “I wanna go home now!”
Nicky looked at her angrily, “You are starting to sound exactly like Kris now. What’s next, you’ll be asking me for kids?”
She flinched slightly as she heard that and stormed off, grabbing her jacket in the process. Nicky stayed on the spot, shell-shocked for a while, before he ran after her. When he got to the car, he found Mandy sitting inside, not looking at all amused.
“Babe! I’m sorry about what I said. I was out of order there!” he frowned.
“Just take me home, Nicky!” she answered coldly.
When they got home, after a silent journey in the car, Mandy marched inside, and went upstairs, “Goodnight Nicky!” she coldly said.
Nicky followed her upstairs and saw Mandy going into the spare room, slamming the door after her. Nicky sighed and pounded on the door, “Mandz, come on. Let’s talk about this!”
Mandy ignored him as she got undressed. She rolled her eyes when she continued hearing the pounding on the door, “Let me in!” he yelled.
Having heard enough, she stormed to the door and opened it violently, “There is nothing more I have to say to you, and you have said enough. GOODNIGHT!” she slammed the door again, and switched the lights off, before she threw herself on the bed and tried to calm down. 

Chapter Text

Nicky woke up in the morning, and stumbled out of his room, scratching his head. He walked past the spare bedroom and noticed the door was open. He looked inside and
Mandy was not in. He slowly walked downstairs, yawning loudly and noticed Mandy, sitting at the kitchen table, having her breakfast.
“Morning!” he yawned again, kissing the top of her head. Mandy ignored him and continued eating her toast. She was still furious with him. Nicky made his way to the kettle and poured himself a cup of coffee. He briefly looked at Mandy, “Want another one?”
“No thanks!” she answered coldly.
Nicky sighed and sat down opposite her. She was reading the paper, showing no interest to his presence.
“Mandz, about last night...” he started.
“Cannot talk now!” she answered, still bitterly, “Need to go to work!”
Nicky stared at her, “Let me give you a lift there then!”
“No need. I can take the bus!” she answered, putting the paper down, and getting up without looking at him.
Nicky sighed and looked at her walking away. He shook his head and grabbed the paper, looking at the first page. Unable to read because of everything in his mind, he got up and walked after Mandy, “We need to talk, baby. Please!” he insisted.
“I said I am late, and I have to go. See you later!” she answered, slightly raising her tone.
“Will you pop by the studio later?” he asked.
“Doubt it!” she shrugged, still not looking at him and walking away. Nicky sighed as he watched her leave. He quickly got dressed and left. As he passed by the bus stop, he noticed Mandy standing there, checking the time and huffing with impatience. He stopped the car and rolled down his window. Mandy saw him and rolled her eyes.
“Get in the car babe. I’ll drive you there!” he smiled nervously.
“What part of no do you not understand, Nicky?” she raised her voice, “I am taking the fucking bus!”
“You’ll be late!” he smiled.
His smile, as if nothing had ever happened, wound up Mandy, and she shook her head, “I still have time. The bus will be here shortly!”
Nicky sighed loudly, “Suit yourself!” he mumbled, rolling up the windows. He rolled them down again and looked at her, “I only wanted to apologise for last night, but obviously, that means nothing to you. See you at home later!” he sighed, rolling them back up again.
Mandy looked away and sighed.
Nicky got to the studios in a rotten mood.
“Good morning Nicky!” smiled Abeth.
“Is it?” he growled, walking away. He went to where the lads where, talking to Louis and listened.
“You’re late, Byrne!” he sternly said.
“Don’t start on me today, Louis. I am not in the mood!” he growled, picking up the agenda sheet. He studied it carefully and sighed.
“Great. Looks like it is gonna be a late one again!” he moaned, throwing the agenda down, and walking off to get himself a drink.
The lads all looked at each other, giving each other knowing looks.
“What was that all about?” asked Louis, confused.
“Looks like he is in the dog house!” snorted Kian, “I take it he and Mandy had a big row!”
“Great. So he is gonna put on a poor performance today. Think I am gonna scrap those songs today and go for the ones he does not lead in today!” sighed Louis, going back to the guys to have some changes done.
An hour later, Louis returned and gathered the guys up.
“Ok, so today we are doing, turnaround, lost in you and I wanna thank you!” he ordered. He turned around and yelled for Nicky, who turned up a minute later, not looking at all happy. They all got into the recording booth and put their headphones on. The tune started, making Nicky take his phones off, “What is this? This ain’t obvious!” he protested.
“We have changed the songs, Nicky! You cannot do any today in the mood you’re in!” said Louis calmly.
“What?” he shrieked, “So why the bloody hell am I here then?”
“You’re in no shape to sing anything today. You’ll just do backings. I don’t wanna stay here until 3 in the morning!” he sighed.
“Louis, I can do it, ok? I am always at my best when I am not happy. I put all my efforts in it just to put what it is I have on my mind to the back of my mind, and it always works!” he argued.
“Now he tells me. Wish you would’ve told me that years ago. Would’ve had earlier nights then!” he smirked.
“Don’t even go there, ok Louis? Do not wind me up!” he snarled, “Now are we singing those songs or not?”
Louis sighed and walked back to the sound engineers. After some more arranging, they were back to their original schedule.
“God I so don’t wanna be here right now!” mumbled Nicky, putting his headphones back on. First song was obvious. Shane sang his bit and then Nicky stepped in, after a bit of a break.

Back at the other side of town, Mandy stepped in the hall and looked at the lads. First thing she noticed was Robbie and the shiner he had on his eye. Mandy frowned and put her bag on the bench. Robbie walked up to her.
“Hey!” he smiled.
Mandy looked at him and frowned, “Hi Rob. Listen, I am sorry about Nicky last night, and what he did. He really had no excuse.”
“Don’t apologise babe. It’s ok.” He smiled, shaking his head.
Mandy sighed and shook her head, “No it’s not ok. He acted like a right jerk!”
“He is only looking out for you. I would’ve done the same!” he smiled.
Mandy sighed even more, “Typical!”
With that, she walked off to the stereo and tiredly told the lads to get in position.

After a lot of takes, the lads finally finished their second song, and Louis decided, seeing Nicky’s mood, to call it a day and continue tomorrow, much to the guy’s approvals.
Nicky walked out of the booth and gulped his drink.
“How’s Mandz?” asked Anna, walking up to him.
“Feck knows!” he grumbled, putting his can of coke down, “She won’t even talk to me!”
“Not surprising!” she mumbled.
“Oh don’t you start too, ok?” he snapped, “I don’t need it!”
“No. What you need is to chill and realise that not everyone is after ‘your woman’ as you like to put it.” She snapped back.
“Pfff, what do you know?” he moaned, walking away.
“I know that only yesterday she said she was uncomfortable about the way Robbie kept looking at her and that she was going to quit today. She was gonna tell their manager that she couldn’t do it anymore!” she shouted at him.
“What?” he gasped.
“Yeah, exactly. Doubt she is gonna do that now, though. Not when you have such little faith in her and she so didn’t want to quit either!” she growled before she walked off. Nicky sighed and took a seat, shaking his head.

Mandy had just finished rehearsals and was walking down the steps, when she heard Robbie calling after her. She stopped and looked back.
“What are you doing now?” he asked, panting.
“Going back home, I suppose!” she shrugged.
“Oh. The lads and I were gonna go to the pub to chill out a bit. Fancy coming?” he smiled.
Mandy smiled and shook her head, “Sorry. I really need to go home!”
“That’s a shame!” he frowned, “I quite liked the idea of you being around!”
“Sorry, Rob. Maybe another day, eh?” she smiled, walking down. Robbie grabbed her hand, and pulled her back.
“You promise?” he whispered getting closer to her.
Mandy did not like the way he was edging nearer her, “Erm, dunno!”
Robbie smiled as his lips neared hers. Realising what he was doing, Mandy pulled back, “What are you doing?”
“What does it look like?” he grinned, getting closer again.
Mandy put her hands on his chest and pushed him away, “I have a boyfriend, in case it had slipped your mind!” she shrieked.
“I thought you had broken up!” he asked, puzzled.
“No! We had a row. We did not break up. Two totally different things. I still love him, despite him being a jealous idiot! He is my Nicky. Just coz we rowed doesn’t mean it’s over!” she gasped.
“Oh!” was all he said.
Mandy looked at him, “I gotta go home!” she whispered before running off.
She decided she needed to walk home, to sort her head out. She needed to talk to Nicky, and she needed to do it now. She was in tears all the way home, wondering how she was going to say anything to him. She then decided against telling him. He had no reason why he should know. It would only make things worse. Her heart raced as she got nearer to his house. She finally arrived and let herself in. She saw Nicky inside, sitting on the sofa, staring at nothing. Hearing the door, he looked at her. He got up and grabbed her hand, pulling her inside.
“I know you don’t wanna talk to me, but I got plenty to say to you!” he said.
Mandy sighed and sat down. He stood up and paced the room.
“Anna told me you were gonna quit with take that. Is that right?” he questioned. Mandy sighed, “I was considering it, yes!”
“And have you?” he asked.
Mandy shook her head, “No!”
“Oh?” he asked, surprised, “How come?”
Mandy was about to answer, when she just broke down in tears. Seeing her in that state, he ran over to her and put his arm around her, “Babe. What’s wrong?”
Mandy sniffed and looked away from him as she explained what had happened.
“He what???” he shrieked. 

Chapter Text

Mandy sighed and got up to talk to him, “Nicky, calm down, please!”
“Calm down? He tried to snog you and you want me to calm down? I’ll tell you what I am gonna do. I am gonna march right down there and finish off what I started last night!” he shouted, grabbing his jacket.
“And what is that gonna achieve?” she screamed at him, “Apart from the press grabbing hold of this and making it tomorrow’s headlines, jeopardizing your career!”
“I am not letting him get away with it, Mandy,” he growled. Mandy saw the look of anger in his eyes and shook her head. She then grabbed his hand and made him sit down.
“I pushed him away, Nicky. He didn’t even manage to touch my lips!” she sighed.
“That is not the point! The intention was there!” he growled. He then got up and paced around the room.
“I knew you choreographing them would be a bad idea. I told you that!” he shouted, looking back and pointing at her, “I knew one of them would try it on sooner or later!”
“Don’t be angry at me, Nicky!” she scowled.
Nicky sighed and sat back down beside her, “I am not angry at you, darling! I am angry at him!”
“I will quit tomorrow, Nicky. I was gonna do it today, but I thought I would stick it out!” she frowned, “But I’ll quit!”
“You don’t have to quit for me, babe. If you wanna continue with it, just do it!” he sighed, massaging his temples.
“I am quitting coz I feel uncomfortable, Nicky. I cannot work like that, and you of all people know it” she sighed.
Nicky looked at her and nodded, “It’s up to you!”
“Now, Nicky, about last night!” she started.
“I know!” he frowned, looking down, “I am sorry ok? But he wound me up!”
“He wasn’t doing anything though!” she sighed.
“He was flirting babe. Anyone could see it. But I am sorry for embarrassing you. I won’t apologise for hitting him though. He kinda had it coming and he was doing I too get a rise from me!” he growled.
Mandy sighed and nodded. “And you gave in and gave him what he wanted."
“What got to me most was the fact that I asked you to have a drink, and you said no, and then he asked and you agreed straight away!” he sighed, starting to wind himself up again.
“I did not agree straight away, Nicky. He convinced me!” she sighed.
“But still...looks like you pay more attention to him than to me!” he sulked.
Mandy shook her head, “Oh Nicky...You know that’s not true. I didn’t wanna drink coz I did not fancy going to work in the morning with a hangover. He managed to convince me to have the one!”
“You still listened to him and not to me though, didn’t you?” he snarled, “That’s what annoys me the most!”
“Nicky, I don’t wanna fight again, ok?” she sighed, “Please!”
Nicky sighed and stood up, walking to the window, folding his arms loosely, “It’s like you care more for him than you do for me!”
“How can you say that?” she shrieked, “You know how much I love you!”
“Yeah, well...” he sighed.
Mandy let out a little smile, “Stop it, Nico. The jealous act doesn’t suit you at all!”
Nicky looked back slowly at her and then looked back out the window.
He just shrugged and stayed silent. Mandy sighed and walked up to him. She stood behind him and placed her hands on his arms, “Nicky, please. Don’t be like this!”
“Why not, huh? Tell me why not?” he snapped, still looking out the window, “This has just shown me that you are not at all serious about me!”
“Not at all serious about you?" she screamed at him, “The fact that I have left London, sold my home and came here to be with you does not qualify as being serious about you?”
Nicky just stared at her briefly and then looked away.
Mandy just stared at him, as her lips trembled, “How could you even say that?” she squeaked.
Nicky inhaled deeply, and exhaled again. Mandy let a few tears roll down her cheek, and quickly dried them off. Nicky heard her sniffing.
“Why are you crying?” he sighed, still not looking at her. When she remained silent, Nicky slowly turned around and looked at her. He immediately felt bad for her.
“I’m sorry baby!” he whispered, pulling her in for a hug, “The guy just winds me up. I don’t mean to take it out on you!”
Mandy rested her head against his chest, and played with the soft fabric of his t-shirt. “Hey!” he said, pulling back slightly and raising her chin. Mandy looked up into his blue eyes, full of love and saw his mouth slowly curling up into a smile. She finally managed a weak smile.
“I love you! Never forget that!” he whispered in a smile, leaning his head down and gently kissing her lips.
“I love you too!” she whispered back, finally giving into the kiss. She wrapped her arms around his neck as he picked her up. Mandy wrapped her legs around his waist, as he carried her upstairs.
“Think we have got some making up to do!” he smiled against her lips, as he took her into his bedroom, “And no more sleeping in the spare bedroom. No girlfriend of mine is ever gonna sleep separately to me again!”

The next morning, Nicky and Mandy were in the car, each going to their studios. When he got to Mandy’s building, he stopped the car and turned off the engine.
“Are you sure you wanna do this?” he checked one last time, “Coz I just want to let you know, again, that I am not asking you to do this. This is your job and you don’t have to quit for me!”
Mandy shrugged and looked at him, “It is something I have to do, Nicky. I cannot work with a tense atmosphere. I will choreograph with them today, and if I feel it is too tense, I’ll quit when we finish!”
Nicky smiled, and rubbed his thumb over her lips, “I love you babe!”
Mandy smiled and held his hand, pressing it against her cheek, “I love you too, Nicky! I’ll see you later, ok?”
Nicky nodded and leaned forwards, placing a gentle kiss on her cheek. When they pulled apart, they both stayed in the car, just staring, each not wanting to leave. They both looked at each other and laughed, “We cannot stay here all day!” grinned Nicky.
“I know!” she smiled with a sigh, “I am just not looking forward to this!”
“Want me to come by later, and be with you when you tell them?” he offered, holding her hand and weaving his fingers with hers.
Mandy shook her head, “No, I’ll be ok, Nicky. It is something I have to do alone! But thanks for offering!”
Nicky nodded and smiled, “I’ll leave you to it!”
Mandy smiled and kissed him one last time before she went to open the car door. She looked out of the windscreen and saw Robbie walking towards the door. He noticed her and Nicky in the car and then turned to go into the door, hastily. The door was closed, as no-one had turned up yet, so he just stood there, uncomfortably, with his hands in his pocket, looking everywhere except their direction. Nicky had noticed this too and pulled a face.
“Yeah, you’d better look away!” he growled, “Coz once I get hold of you...”
“Nicky. Stop!” whispered Mandy, grabbing his hand to calm him down, “It’s history now, ok?”
“Sorry babe! Just the sight of him winds me up!” he sighed. He looked at Robbie once more and saw he was looking at them. He shot him a look and then turned to face Mandy. She noticed the look on his face.
“Nicky, nothing is gonna happen babe.” She sighed.
“I don’t want you there alone with him!” he snarled, “I know what lads like him are capable of!”
“I am a big girl, and I can look after myself, ok? Besides, he will probably feel very uncomfortable after I pushed him away yesterday!” she smiled.
Nicky managed a smile and nodded, “OK babe. I’ll leave you to it then. Have a good day, alright?”
Mandy smiled and pressed her lips against his. When she was about to pull away, Nicky quickly put his hand behind her neck and made the kiss deeper. Mandy obliged and made the kiss more passionate. When they pulled away, Nicky still had his hand behind her neck and smiled at her, “I’ll miss you!” he pouted.
Mandy laughed, “I’ll see you later babe. Are you finishing early today?”
“I doubt it!” he sighed, resting back on his seat, “Louis wants us to finish recording today. Got 4 more songs left.”
“Ok!” she smiled, “I’ll see you at home then, ok? I’ll get a taxi back later!”
“Ring Paul and he can take you home!” he smiled.
Mandy shook her head, “NO, I will get a taxi, Nicky. Poor Paul is not there to be my chauffeur.”
Nicky laughed and kissed her once more, “I’ll see you at home then! Love you!”
“Love you too. See ya later!” she grinned, finally getting out of the car.
Nicky watched her walk to the door, waiting there with Robbie and then he drove off. 

Chapter Text

“Well, that was quite a performance!” said Robbie, as Mandy neared towards him. He took a drag of his cigarette and then threw it on the floor, stubbing it out with his foot. Mandy stared at him, “You think that was for your benefit?”
“Well, why else would you snog like that in the car?” he smirked, folding his arms. “Maybe coz we love each other? Maybe coz we are gonna miss each other? Did that never enter your mind?” she asked, angry at his arrogance.
“Yeah, right!” he laughed, “After just having had a blazing row, you’re gonna be that loving again!”
Mandy tilted her head to the side and looked at him as she folded her arms, “Goes to show how little you know about relationships!”
“Oh come on. You were kissing him like that to prove a point. Well, point taken, Mandy. I get it. You love him. Big deal!” he shrugged.
“Oh, get over yourself, Robbie.” She hissed, looking away, and sitting on the step. Robbie shrugged and got out another cigarette. Mandy looked at him and then looked away.
“Want one of these?” he offered her his packet of cigarettes.
Mandy looked at him for a second. She really could have done with one after this tense atmosphere, but she wanted nothing for him.
“Oh, go on!” he sighed, shaking the packet a little bit, “It doesn’t mean I wanna shag you!”
Mandy shot him an evil glance and finally took one. He held the lighter out for her as she lit it, and then lit his own. Mandy felt slightly more relaxed now, as she took in a big drag. Much to Mandy’s relief, the others turned up and looked at them both. “You’re both a bit eager, aren’t you?” grinned Jason.
Mandy got up and huffed, “Nigel is late!” she growled, walking away and pacing up and down the street, checking on her watch.
“What’s wrong with her?” whispered Mark.
“Probably hormonal!” shrugged Robbie in a huff.
“What’s wrong with you?” laughed Mark.
“Just leave it, yeah Mark?” he growled, stubbing out his cigarette.
Once Nigel had come and they had gone over all the dances, Mandy sighed and sat by the table. This was the time where she would tell them that she was giving up. Truth was, she felt really uncomfortable around Robbie now. Even though she had no feelings for him at all, she couldn’t handle the fact that she knew that he had made a move on her, and the way he was acting before, all jealous, he still wanted something with her. She twirled her hair, and jumped off the table, walking towards Nigel, who at this point, was having a conversation with Gary and Howard.
“Erm, Nigel, may I speak to you in private, please?” she asked hesitantly.
Gary and Howard walked away, giving Nigel and Mandy some space to talk. After Mandy had explained everything, Nigel just stared at her, “So let me get this straight. You are giving up on us? You cannot do that. And all because one of the lads made a move on you? That’s not good enough reason to quit!”
“I cannot carry on anymore, Nigel. I cannot work with such a tense atmosphere. I have tried it before and it is impossible. Sorry, but my mind is made up!” she sighed.
“And where the hell are we gonna find a replacement at such short notice?” he shrieked.
Mandy looked at the lads, who seemed to be coping very well by themselves, “Your lads are talented dancers, Nigel. I am sure that Jason and Howard can choreograph themselves. They seem to be quite into it!”
“The lads have not got time to eat, let alone come up with dance moves.” He growled. “Sorry Nigel, but I really am quitting. I wish things could be different, but it is too late for that now!” she sighed.
Nigel sighed loudly and gathered everyone together, “Ok lads. Important announcement. Seems to be that Mandy here is not happy working with you guys, coz apparently she cannot work in a tense atmosphere. She is quitting!”
“WHAT?” shrieked Jason, “Why?”
“Sorry lads, but it’s true. I am giving up. You’re all great dancers. I am sure you can manage, and you know all the moves more or less!” she frowned. She looked at Robbie, who just stared at her.
“Is there a reason for your sudden decision?” gasped Mark.
Mandy looked at Robbie, feeling herself getting annoyed again, and then looked back at her, “Yeah, I do. But I would much rather keep them to myself!” She looked at Robbie again, and then down at the ground.
The lads all turned their heads and looked at Robbie, who answered with a defensive, “What?”
“We told you to stay away!” growled Jason, “We told you not to get involved. Did you listen? No. Of course not. Robbie doesn’t ever listen. Thanks a lot, mate. Cheers!” He growled, walking away. The others gave him a look of disgust, and sat down.
“Well, sod you all. I never wanted to do this reunion anyway. Consider me gone, Nigel. You’ll be happy to know that!” he huffed, grabbing his stuff, “I was better off solo anyway!”
“You cannot go, Robbie. You are under a contract!” snarled Nigel.
“And Mandy isn’t?” he gasped.
“No, she isn’t!” he sighed, “I was gonna get her to sign the contract today. Seems like I am too late!”
“Well, that’s just great!” he sulked, “I guess I am stuck in here then!”
Nigel sighed and turned to Mandy, “Is there anything I can do to convince you?”
“Sorry Nigel. My mind is made up. My boyfriend comes before any job I get! Look don’t be angry at Robbie ok, guys? It’s not really his fault. This is my issue, not his.” she sighed.
“Yeah, knew it was him who put you up to this!” moaned Robbie.
Mandy shot him a look, “He did not put me up to this. He encouraged me to stay, if you must know. This was all my decision, Robbie. Like I said, it is my issue, not anyone else’s.  I don’t let any man tell me what to do, you got that?” Robbie sighed and looked away. Mandy picked up her stuff and finally left, feeling like she was the cruellest person in the world. 

Chapter Text

Mandy heard Nicky’s car pulling into the driveway and smiled. She checked the time. Ten o’clock. She got up and walked to the window to check if it was him. She smiled when she saw her tall slim boyfriend walking towards the front door. She almost jumped with excitement when she heard the keys on the door.
“Honeeey! I’m hooooooome!” he sang in a deep voice.
Mandy stood by the door and smiled when she saw him enter.
“Hello baby. Sorry I am so...” he didn’t get time to finish his sentence, as Mandy jumped into his arms, giving him the biggest hug ever to his knowledge. He laughed and pulled her away, “What was that all about?” he grinned, letting his arms hang loosely around her waist.
Mandy shrugged, “Do I need a reason to hug my boyfriend?”
Nicky laughed, “Well, no. In fact I quite welcome it...and more!” he winked, “You just got me by surprise!”
“Well, it was to show how much I love you!” she smiled, resting her hands on his chest.
“Hmmm maybe you could show me in some other way!” he grinned, starting to kiss her neck. Mandy tilted her head to the side to give him better access and smiled, “Would love to. But first, go and wash your hands and sit down. Dinner is ready!”
“Ooh you cooked?” he gasped.
Mandy raised an elegantly plucked eyebrow, “You’re shocked?”
Nicky laughed, “Well, I didn’t expect dinner at ten o’clock at night. Was gonna suggest ordering a pizza!”
“Want me to throw the dinner away then?” she grinned.
“Not in this lifetime. I love your cooking!” he laughed, letting go of her, and walking up to the bathroom to wash his hands. In the meantime, Mandy went to dish out dinner and placed them on the romantically set out table in the kitchen. Nicky walked in and stopped on his tracks, admiring the candlelit table.
“Wow. Someone has been very busy. Got something on your mind?” he grinned cheekily.
Mandy looked at him and furrowed her eyebrows, “No. I just thought I’d treat you, that’s all!”
Nicky laughed and shook his head, “I was only messing babe. You should’ve known that. Now I definitely know something is up. Come on, tell me!”
Mandy sighed and sat down, “Let’s eat first, yeah?”
Nicky nodded and sat down. He looked at the plate opposite him and smiled, “You know? I was only thinking this afternoon how I fancied one of your pies and mash today!”
Mandy smiled, “Must’ve read your mind then!”
“Seriously. I had a huge craving for this today. Thanks babe!” he smiled. Starting to tuck into it.
Mandy smiled and tucked in too.
“So...what happened at rehearsals?” he questioned.
Mandy looked at him and frowned.
“You didn’t do it, did you?” he smiled, “I knew you wouldn’t! It’s ok babe. I understand it is something you have to do. Just as long as HE keeps his hands off you!”
“I told them, Nicky. I told them I was quitting!” she frowned.
Nicky stopped his fork midair and stared at her, “Really? Wow, I seriously didn’t expect you to go through with it!”
“As I said, I cannot work under a tense atmosphere.” She sighed.
“And how did they take it?” he asked softly, starting to eat again.
“Not too good!” she shrugged, “They tried to convince me to stay!”
“And what did HE say?” he continued.
Mandy shrugged, “What could he say? He was not impressed!”
“I’ll bet!” he grumbled.
“But I told them I had made my mind and was sticking to my decision. Luckily I had not signed a contract yet, so I was not forced to stay!” she shrugged.
Nicky looked at her and grinned, “That’s my girl!”
“Trouble is, I feel really bad about it, Nicky. I feel like I have let them down. And you know how much I hate letting people down!” she sighed, playing around with her food.
Nicky placed his knife and fork on his plate and grabbed her hands, “You shouldn’t feel bad about it, darling. It was your decision, and you did it for a reason. If you wanna go back, then go back, but you shouldn’t feel bad about it. Do you wanna go back?”
Mandy slowly shook her head, “Not really!”
Nicky smiled inside, “Well then. You have to look after number one, babe, and not care about anyone else...well...except me of course” he added cheekily.
Mandy laughed and stared at him, “Have I made the right choice?”
Nicky shrugged, “Only you know that, babe. But I think you have!”
“You would!” she sniggered.
Nicky shook his head, “NO, not because of him. Because of what I am about to say!” Mandy looked at him curiously, making Nicky laugh.
“I wasn’t actually gonna tell you. I was gonna surprise you, but I can hardly keep it inside of me anymore!” he laughed.
“Well?” she questioned impatiently.
“We’re off to Spain tomorrow!” he grinned, continuing eating his pie.
“What?” she shrieked.
Nicky grinned and nodded, “Spain. You know, that country beside France, where they all talk funny? We’re going there!”
“Why?” she gasped, “I mean, how come?”
“We’re doing promo over there!” he smiled, “So we are staying for a few days! Just think, if you would still be choreographing take that, you wouldn’t have been able to come and we would’ve been apart, yet again. So really, when you think about it, it was for the best!”
Mandy let a smile slowly creep on her face, “So we’re going to Spain then!”
Nicky smiled and nodded as he placed his knife and fork back on the plate when he finished, “Yep. And we’re gonna make a little holiday out of it too!”
Mandy smiled and then remembered something, “But what about recording?”
“We managed to finish it today. We were meant to finish tomorrow, but this came up, so we did it. That’s why I was so late back!” he smiled.
“Great. So I’d better go up and pack then!” she grinned, getting up. Nicky grabbed her wrist, and pulled her back, making her sit on his lap, “Not until you show me exactly how much you missed me, first!”
Mandy smiled and pressed her lips firmly against his lips, before Nicky took her to the sofa, where she demonstrated how much he was missed. 

Chapter Text

Everyone was at the airport, killing time until their flight was announced.
“Oh, I so cannot wait to get there!” smiled Mandy, as she flung her arms around Nicky’s neck, “Sand, sun, sea and...”
“Sex?” grinned Nicky, raising an eyebrow cheekily.
“Trust you to think that!” mumbled Shane, walking away. Everyone looked at him, wondering what was wrong. Nicky shrugged and looked back at Mandy.
“I actually was going for Sangria, till I realised that I cannot stand the stuff!” she giggled, “But sex sounds good!”
Nicky grinned again and pressed his lips firmly against hers.
“Oh please!” commented Shane, when he got back, “Do you two ever stop?”
Nicky let go of Mandy sighed and put his hands on his hips as he stared at Shane, “What is your problem, man?”
“Yeah, mate. What’s up with you?” agreed Brian, holding onto Abeth’s hand.
Shane sighed and looked away, grumbling something to himself.
“You know what? You have been miserable for a few weeks, and all we get is backchat and negative comments from you!” sighed Nicky, “What’s up with you?”
“Nothing is up with me!” he grunted, “Just leave me alone!”
“Then stop bringing us down.” Huffed Nicky, “it is not our fault you and Tracee did not work out!”
“Nicky!” hissed Mandy, nudging him slightly.
“Who said anything about Tracee?” he grunted, looking away.
Nicky sighed and sat beside him, “Listen, mate. There are plenty of fish in the sea. You’ll find someone else!”
“Stay out of my business, yeah, Byrne? And then I’ll stay out of yours!” he hissed, getting up and walking away.
Everyone stood there shocked by Shane’s sudden little outburst.
“This Tracee thing has really got to him, hasn’t it?” sighed Anna.
“He cannot move on. He’s gonna have to though!” commented Kian.
“Well, this is gonna be a good holiday, isn’t it?” moaned Nicky, taking a seat and pulling Mandy on his lap.
Mandy wrapped her arms around his neck, “Only if we make it good!” she smiled. Nicky smiled at her and rubbed his nose onto hers.
“Guys, come on. He has lost his girlfriend. Give the guy a break, huh?” defended Mark.
“How long ago was that? About a month and a half? Move on, man!” whined Nicky. Mark looked at him sternly, “How would you feel if Mandy left you, huh?”
Nicky looked at Mandy and held onto her tightly, “She ain’t going nowhere!”
“No, but imagine if you lost her. You would feel the same.” He sighed, “Or have you forgotten when you two broke up, huh? Who was moping around then?”
“So what do we do? He is the one who snapped at me just for kissing Mandy. It is not my fault! I never snapped at anyone when Mandy and I broke up,” he answered defensively.
Mark sighed, “I know. I am just saying that we should try to be a little bit more sensitive and try to keep our hands off each other for a while when he is around. It cannot be easy for him!”
“You’re right!” sighed Nicky, “It is just so hard keeping my hands to myself when she is around!” he grinned, squeezing Mandy tight, making her grin, “But we’ll make an effort!”
“Good!” smiled Mark, “And while we are in Spain, we’re gonna take him out, get him leathered and set him up with someone, to make him realise that Tracee is not the only woman in this planet, deal?”
“I am up for that!” grinned Nicky.
“Looks like their lads night out has been sorted out already girls!” smiled Anna, “So we organise a ladies night, eh?”
“Sounds good to me!” winked Mandy, “I am always up for it!”
“Eh?” shrieked Nicky, “Who said anything about lads night out. We meant you girls could come too!”
“And look for girls for Shane? Oh please! I would rather stay in!” giggled Mandy, “That’s a guys thing. You’ll have fun looking for possible future girlfriends for him, but we won’t.”
Nicky looked at Mandy, “So you’ll be out looking for possible lovers?”
Mandy laughed and gave him a look, deciding to play along, “Yeah, that’s right!” she grinned, “thought I’d keep one in reserve in case you and me don’t work out!”
The other girls giggled.
“You little minx!” he laughed, biting her shoulder gently, “I’ll get you back for that!” “Looking forward to it, Byrne!” she winked.
They had finally announced that they had to board the plane and they went inside. They took their seats, when Shane realised he was sitting next to Mandy and Nicky. “Oh great. I’ll be sat next to Romeo and Juliette for the next 2 hours then!” he moaned, rolling his eyes.
Nicky leaned forwards to look at him, “What did you say?”
“Oh nothing!” he sighed.
Nicky looked at Mandy, who shook her head and leaned back down.
“Shane?” said Mandy.
“What!” he answered impatiently, resting his head back on the seat.
“Please don’t take it out on us!” she answered softly, “We are not to blame for what happened. I am very sorry for everything that has happened, and I do know how you feel. I know it is not nice, but this is the time where you need your friends. You shouldn’t push them away!”
Shane did not answer. Knowing she was right, he just closed his eyes for a brief moment and opened them again.
“Look, all I am saying is that if you need to talk and get a load off your mind, we are all here, ok? There’s eight of us, so you can take your pick. We will promise to behave and not letch over each other all the time, but you cannot expect us to be cold towards each other either. Though we will cool off, ok?” she added.
Shane now looked at her and smiled softly, “I am sorry, ok? It is just all getting to me, and seeing you all loved up, well, the green-eyed monster is surfacing. I am sorry. I know you’re couples, and I don’t expect you to just talk, if you know what I mean. I am just fed up of being lonely!” he sighed.
Mandy nodded, “I completely know how you feel, hun. Trust me, I do!”
Shane grabbed Mandy’s hand and smiled, “I know you do. And thanks!”
Mandy smiled and rested her head back on the chair. Nicky leaned over to her.
“You’re amazing!” he whispered, “How on earth did you talk him round?”
Mandy shrugged and smiled, “I know how he feels, Nicky!”
Nicky knew she was talking about the time he had left her to go back to Kris. He simply nodded and closed his eyes.
They arrived safely at Malaga airport, much to Mandy’s relief and they all got out. When they claimed their luggage, they walked out of the airport, shielding their eyes from the sun.
“Jayzus Christ, it is hot over here!” moaned Nicky, fanning himself with his passport, “Must be in it’s 40’s easily!”
Mandy grinned, “Ah, I love it!” she chirped, “I never realised how much I missed this weather until now!”
Nicky grinned, “I keep forgetting you’re from around here!”
Mandy gave him a stern look, “I am NOT from around here, Nicky.”
“Same thing!” he grinned.
Mandy looked at him bewildered, “Oh, you so did not say that!”
Nicky smiled, knowing how much she hated her country being referred to as Spanish, “Only teasing ya babe!”
Mandy shoved him playfully, trying to look annoyed, but not quite managing it.
“Ok, so what now?” asked Shane, looking lost.
“Louis said that some people will pick us up and take us to the hotel. He will meet us there!” shrugged Mark, placing his sunglasses on.
Everyone looked around and saw some men walking towards them.
“Why does Louis never travel with you guys?” questioned Anna.
The lads just laughed, along with Mandy, knowing full well why. Mark smiled and placed an arm around her, “Because, sweetie, he doesn’t like to be seen with the likes of us!”
“Oh, that’s not true!” she giggled, “Really, why?”
“He is used to the high life. The good life, like, and likes to travel in his own plane, with no-one to bother him and a hundred stewardesses to be at his beck and call.” Answered Nicky, “We get the burgers, while he gets the full steak with all the relish!”
Mandy rolled her eyes, “Trust you to use food as a metaphor!” she laughed.
Nicky grinned and at her, “Speaking of which, I am starving!”
The lads all looked at the guys in front of them, who introduced themselves and took them to their cars. They all finally made it to the hotel and got to their rooms. 

Chapter Text

The first thing they all did when they got to the hotel was to drop their bags in their room and check the room out.
“Wow, this is nice!” smiled Abeth, still getting used to the life of luxury that she was living. Five months ago, she was just a fan, travelling around England to see her idols. Now she was the girlfriend of one of her idols and travelling around the world. Life couldn’t get any better. She sat on the bed and smiled at the view of her boyfriend, checking the place for dirt.
“Brian, it is a 5 star hotel babe. Doubt very much you will find anything wrong with it!” she grinned, crossing one leg over the other.
Brian looked back at her and continued inspecting the place, “You can never be too sure in these foreign countries. What is 5 star to us might mean diddly squat to others!”
Abeth rolled her eyes and looked at her bag on the floor, “In that case, while you do that, I’ll unpack!”
She got up and started taking all her clothes out of the bag, placing them neatly in the wardrobe.
“Ok, I am all done!” she smiled, an hour later.
“Wow, and that only took you an hour!” he grinned, watching her as he lay down in bed with his hands behind his head.
Abeth shot him a look, “Would’ve taken me less time if you would have helped!” Brian got up and crawled to the end of the bed, where she was, “Awww you know how much I hate unpacking!” he pouted, “And I know how organised you love to be. I would only end up doing it all wrong and you would tell me off for it and have had to do it yourself again anyway. I am saving you time by just sitting back and watching!”
Abeth couldn’t help but laugh at his pathetic excuse of an excuse, “I shouldn’t be so soft on you, you know that?”
Brian grinned and held her round the waist, “Yeah but I am too irresistible for you to resist!”
Abeth grinned as she placed her arms around his neck, “You got that right!”
They placed little kisses on each others lips, before Brian grabbed her and threw her down on the bed.
“Brian McFadden! What are you doing?” she giggled, pushing herself back on the bed to where the pillows were, with her legs.
“Well, thought we could have a bit of fun, seeing as Shane is not around. Next thing you know, he is around and we cannot even look at each other!” he grinned, as he glided his warm hand over the soft skin on her belly.
“That is a really mean thing to say Brian!” she scolded, hitting him gently on his arm.
“I know, I know! I’m sorry!” he chuckled, “But it’s true. We’d better make the most of the time we have together, coz tomorrow we’ll be out promoting and you will be here on your own. Plus I am a man with needs!”
Abeth rolled her eyes, “Yeah, the needs to calm himself down!” she grinned.
Brian looked at her with a pout and batted his eyes at her.
“OH well. If you are gonna pull that face, who am I to resist!” she grinned, before she surrendered herself to his arms and kissed passionately. 

“So, what do you wanna do now we are here?” smiled Mark, as he placed his last item of clothing into the wardrobe. He smiled and sat on the bed, watching her as she placed her bathroom accessories on the bathroom sink. Anna came back and slapped her hands on her thighs, “Well, it’s really hot. How about we get dressed and go to the pool or the beach or something?”
“Pool sounds nice!” smiled Mark.
“Pool it is then!” smiled Anna, as she brought out her new bikini and sarong, “Glad I am finally gonna get to wear this!”
“And I cannot wait to see it on you!” he smiled, as he got up and wrapped his arms around her waist from behind, nuzzling on her neck.
“Don’t you think you’d better get ready?” she grinned, enjoying his kisses and tilting her head to the side.
“No. I would much rather do this!” he smiled against her neck, sending pleasurable shivers down her back.
Anna grinned and turned around in his arms, wrapping her arms around his neck, “Later. I promise!” she whispered, “I really wanna get some of this sun and try and get a tan!”
Mark chuckled and let go of her, “You take it easy with that sun. It is really strong over here and you don’t wanna end up sore and looking like a lobster. Or else that little promise won’t happen!” he winked.
Anna giggled and brought out her sun cream, factor 50, “It’s why I have this!”
Mark inspected it, “Still. Be careful!”
Anna nodded and went to get ready, as Mark pulled his swimming shorts out of the drawer. When they were finally ready, they got out of their room and headed towards the lift. As they passed Nicky and Mandy’s room, they saw the door open and out jumped a really excited and hyper Mandy.
“Wooohooooo never thought I would feel this heat again!” she jumped around. Anna and Mark gave her funny looks and then looked at Nicky for an explanation. Nicky just shrugged and smiled, “Think she’s got too much sun in her head!”
Anna giggled and stared at Mandy who by this point was doing a little jig, “Oooh the sun is gonna have a feast of me! Tan, here I come, baby!”
“Yeah, like you need one!” snorted Mark.
Mandy stopped and looked at him, “I DO need one!”
“Mandy, you get any darker, we’re not gonna see you in the dark!” giggled Anna.
“Are you kidding me?” shrieked Mandy loudly, “This is not dark. You ain’t seen nothing yet!”
“Oh god!” mumbled Nicky, “Is this what the rest of our visit to Spain is gonna be like? Her going mental and me apologising for it? You weren’t this bad last time we were here babe.”
“Last time I was heartbroken!” she reminded him.
Mark chuckled and looked at Nicky, “Good luck mate!”
Mandy grinned and quickly grabbed Nicky’s hand, “Come on baby. I can virtually hear the sun calling out to me!”
Nicky gave Mark and Anna a look as he got dragged away, “I am sorry guys! She was never like this last time we were in Spain.”
“As Mark said before, good luck!” laughed Anna loudly, walking behind them at their own pace.
“So, beach or pool!” giggled Mandy, jumping on the spot.
Nicky sighed and held her arms, keeping her still, “First of all, calm down!”
Mandy looked into his eyes, still wriggling under his grip and grinned big.
“Secondly, I am not deaf, no need to shout!” he grinned, getting closer to her.
Mandy nodded and still wriggled.
“And thirdly...” he paused before he kissed her in a bid to get her to calm down. The kiss lasted a few seconds when Nicky pulled away. Mandy stared at him dreamily, causing Nicky to sigh with relief now that he had calmed her down. But his hopes were crushed when she jumped up and down again, and sped out of the lift, dragging him out with her.
“So much for trying to calm down!” he mumbled, as he grinned and deciding to give up trying to make her calm down.

Chapter Text

Mandy finally calmed down when she got to the beach and lay down on the warm sand. Nicky on the other hand was in the water, splashing around with Kian and Angie. Mark and Anna had decided on staying at the pool, just relaxing, and both laying on sun loungers hand in hand. Nicky looked at Mandy, who just seemed to soak up the sun.
“Is it even possible that she has been only laying there for half an hour and already has a tan?” he asked aloud.
Kian laughed, “She is used to it, remember? It’s in her blood,” he splashed water at his friend.
“How can she just lay there in the heat though?” questioned Angie, “It’s absolutely baking out there!”
Nicky grinned, “Oh, she is coming in the water now!” he smirked.
“No she ain’t!” said Angie confused, “She is still laying there!”
Nicky winked at her and got out. He quietly walked up to Mandy, and gently lay himself on top of her. Mandy let out a loud scream, causing Nicky to laugh and get up.
“You’re freezing!” she shrieked, sitting up on her towel.
Nicky grinned and stared at her, “Aren’t you done yet? I am sure I heard a pinging sound!”
“Pinging sound?” she asked, confused, drying herself with the towel.
“Yeah, to say you are done!” he grinned as he made the pinging sound, then shaking his hair, wetting Mandy in the process.
“Argh, Nicky stop that!” she screeched.
“Oh come on babe. Come into the water with me. I am so lonely!” he pouted.
“What? No way. That is freezing!” she shrieked.
“Freezing? You should be used to it babe!” he grinned, “Come on, Pleeeeeeeeeeeease!”
“But I wanna get a tan!” she pouted.
“You’re already tanned.” He rolled his eyes, “Come on. Do it for me!” He batted his eyes at her, knowing she could not resist that.
Mandy laughed and rolled her eyes. “Oh, alright!” she sighed, holding out her arms for him to help her up. Nicky pulled her up a bit too hard, making her crash against his chest.
“Oooh if I would’ve known you were that eager to have me, I would have suggested a trip to the hotel room!” he wiggled his eyebrows suggestively.
“Shut up!” she laughed, placing her arm around his waist, “And come on!”
Nicky grinned as they both walked towards the shore. Mandy dipped her toe in the water and shivered, “There is no way I am getting in there!” she said, running back away from the water. She stood there and looked at Nicky. Nicky put his hands on his hips and shook his head, staring at her.
“What?” she asked defensively.
“You’re a wuss!” he laughed.
“Oi! I am not a wuss. You take that back!” she giggled.
“No I will not. I will stand my ground. You are a wuss! Now get in there!” he smiled.
“Uh uh. You have more chance of me stripping than getting in that water!” she laughed.
“Just get in there, wuss!” he repeated before he stopped and looked at her, “Stripping, you said?”
Mandy giggled and nodded.
Nicky grinned and sat down on the sand, staring at her.
“What are you doing?” she laughed, looking at him.
“Waiting for you to strip, of course!” he grinned.
“I am not stripping!” she laughed.
“You said you have more chance of stripping than getting in the water, so I am waiting!” he chuckled.
“Stop it. I am not stripping and I am not getting in that water. End of!” she giggled.
“I have had enough of this!” he mumbled, getting up. He walked towards her and Mandy noticed the crazy look in his eye, “Nicky?” she questioned.
Before she realised what he was up to, she turned to run, but Nicky caught her just in time, picking her up over his shoulder.
“Nicky, let go of me!” she screamed, punching his back and kicking her legs up in the air.
“No chance. You didn’t wanna strip, so now you get in the water!” he grinned, dropping her down.
Mandy splashed around and surfaced. She rubbed her eyes and looked at him.
“I’m gonna kill you for that. In fact, you know what? I am gonna kill you, clone you and then I am gonna kill all your clones!” she spluttered.
Nicky stood there laughing, “Don’t make any promises you cannot keep babe!”
Kian and Angie stared at her laughing, “Finally decided on coming in then?”
“No, I was forced!” she sulked.
Nicky pouted at her and put his arms around her waist, “Awww come on baby. You have to admit. It’s not that bad!”
Mandy let out a grin, “Must say, it is getting warmer around here!”
“Is it coz I am around?” he whispered in her ear, chewing lightly on her earlobe.
“No, It’s because nature has called!” she grinned big.
It took a few seconds for Nicky to realise what she had just said, “You mean...” Mandy nodded.
“Ewwww Mandz, that’s just gross!” he shouted, getting away from her fast and splashing the water away from him, leaving Mandy creased up in laughter.
“An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth babe!” she winked.
“Or a pee for a pee!” laughed Kian. 

Shane was taking a walk on the beach. He was invited to spend the day with the others, but somehow he was not in the mood to be around all these loved up couples. He took his shoes off, loving the feel of the dry warm sand on his feet. He let out a sigh and looked ahead of him. Everyone was either sunbathing or splashing around in the sea. He smiled when he saw Nicky pick Mandy up and throwing her over his shoulder, much to her protests. He continued walking, smiling as he saw all the kiddies making sandcastles and playing with their bats and balls. When he got to a bit in the beach where there was no-one, he sighed and sat down, bending his knees up and resting his arms on them. He looked onto the glistening sea and thought. He was tired of being alone. He was sick to death of being the only one without a love in his life. He then started thinking about Tracee. Sure, he knew they had problems and it was probably for the best that they had split up, but he wanted someone in his life so badly, he could practically taste it. He looked around him and picked up a pebble. Squinting his hazel eyes as he looked out to the sea, he threw his hand back and threw the pebble as far as he could, making it splash into the water. He saw the sea rippling from where it had landed and rested his arms on his knees again. While he was deep in thought, he jumped when he felt something land on his head. He quickly lifted his hands to his head and felt the grains of sand on it. Shaking it away, he angrily turned his head around to check who had interrupted his thoughts and who was responsible for messing his hair up. He saw a slim blonde woman looking petrified at the look on his face, along with regret that she was ever having a sand fight in the first place. She looked like she wanted the ground to swallow her up, and fast. Shane just looked at her. She was visibly uncomfortable and suddenly turned very apologetic as she blushed profusely.
“Oh my god, I am so sorry!” she quickly said, walking towards him, “My aim was totally wrong, I was aiming at my mates over there, and somehow it got to you. I am so, so sorry. It won’t happen again, I pro...”
She stopped talking when she realised who she had pelted the sand ball at. She gave him confused looks and tilted her head.
“You ok?” he asked, equally confused.
“I’m... I’m sorry but for a moment there you looked exactly like....nah!” she laughed, “I am just being silly in assuming you were Shane Filan from Westlife!”
“So what if I am?” he shrugged, “What’s it to you?”
Her face totally changed, “You mean you are?”
Shane nodded and turned his head around again to look at the sea.
“Oh my god!” she gasped with a slight laugh, “I have pelted Shane Filan with a sand ball!”
Shane could hear her mates roaring with laughter, “Don’t see what’s so funny about it!” he mumbled.
The girl shook her head and run up to him, “No, it is not funny at all!” she said, giving her friends an angry glare, “I am really sorry about that! I really am. I didn’t mean to get you...”
“So you keep saying!” he interrupted with a sigh.
The girl looked at him, “Please don’t be angry!”
“Why, coz you don’t want to be in your pop idol’s bad books?” he smirked.
“Erm...” she answered nervously.
“Look, apology accepted ok? I actually came here for some peace and quiet, so if you don’t mind!” he sighed.
The girl looked at him, and then looked at her friends, “Yeah. Ok, sure. I’m sorry. And sorry about the sand ball.”
“Sam, come on!” she heard one of her mates say, “Let’s go and get an ice cream or something!”
“Yeah, coming!” she sighed, starting to walk away.
Shane closed his eyes and turned around to look at her, “Sam?”
Sam turned and looked at him. She saw him getting up and walking to her, “I am sorry for being rude ok? I just have a lot on my mind at the moment. Don’t mean to take it out on you!”
Sam let out a smile and nodded, “It is understandable, after being hit with a huge ball of sand. As long as you know I didn’t do it on purpose!”
Shane nodded and looked at the sand, “Anyway, I am gonna go back to my hotel now and enjoy a quiet drink. See you later!”
Sam smiled and ran up to her friends, “Oh my god, he is gorgeous!” she shrieked. 

Chapter Text

Shane decided to make his way back. He was getting kinda hungry and was a bit tired from the sun. He picked up his shoes and started the long trek back. He was almost there, when he bumped into Nicky.
“Shane! I didn’t know you were here, man. Where were you sat and please don’t tell me you were alone!” he said.
Shane nodded, “Just fancied a walk and a bit of a think!” he shrugged, “Needed to be on my own!”
Nicky nodded, “How are you feeling?”
Shane sighed, “Like shit, but what can you expect?”
Nicky looked at him and patted his back, not knowing what to say. But then a smile crept upon his face, “How about a lads night out tonight?”
“Oh, I am not in the mood Nico, but thanks!” he smiled weakly, flattered that his friend was trying to cheer him up.
“Oh come on. We can hit the clubs, I have heard there are a few strip joints around here!” he whispered, so Mandy wouldn’t hear. “OW!” he said a while later, rubbing the back of his head.
“You are not going to any strip clubs, Byrne and that is an order!” scolded Mandy.
“What have you got some kind of supersonic hearing or something, woman?” he gasped, still rubbing his head.
Mandy grinned and looked at Angie and Kian, who were packing their stuff away. “Seriously Shane, it will do you the world of good. Come on. We have not had a lads night out in ages. I miss them!” he pouted.
“I am kinda insulted by that comment!” interrupted Mandy.
“Who asked you?” joked Nicky, looking at her now. Mandy pulled a face at him and rolled her towel up. Nicky laughed and looked back at Shane, “Come on. What do you say? We need to have one of our old Westlife parties again!”
“With the westwives there!” grinned Mandy.
“Shut up!” hissed Nicky jokingly, “This is just us lads! You girls go and find something girly to do!”
Mandy tapped the back of his head again and continued packing up.
“You wanna go in that water again?” he shrieked, putting his hands on his hips, “Coz that’s where you’re heading!”
Mandy stuck her tongue out at him and continued packing.
Shane seemed to be a bit amused by their behaviour and nodded, “Ok Byrne. If it means that much to you, I’ll go out ok? No girls allowed though!” he added, giving Mandy a smug look. Mandy stayed there open mouthed, “You want a beating too, Filan?”
“Sorry, but us chicos have to stick together. We just want to have a lads night out. Doesn’t hurt to have one, once in a while.” He grinned.
“Whatever. I cannot be bothered to be in a place packed full of male testosterone anyway!” she shrugged.
“Nice one. That’s settled then. A night with the lads, no girls allowed!” beamed Kian. Now it was Angie’s turn to stare at Kian and smack him round the head, “You seem a bit too excited about that Egan. Something you are not telling us?” grinned Mandy.
“Yeah!” he smiled, placing an arm around Nicky, “I am secretly madly in love with Nicky. Didn’t you know that?”
Mandy smirked, “I had a faint idea, yes!”
Kian looked at Nicky and Nicky looked at Kian. Nicky placed his hand over Kian’s mouth and pretended to snog him, kissing his own hand. Mandy and Angie giggled at the sight of them and the reaction they were getting from the people surrounding them.
“I will laugh so hard if the paparazzi got a hold of this and you were in tomorrow’s front page of the paper!” giggled Mandy.
Angie looked at Mandy, “I suppose we could have a girly night in!”
“Or out!” snorted Mandy.
“Well, I am pretty tired to go out tonight, after all the travelling and all the sun. How about we arrange to go to one of our rooms and watch a film on one of those pay movie thingies on TV?” she smiled.
“Oooh you gonna watch porn then?” grinned Nicky.
Mandy smirked and raised a brow, “Maybe we will!”
Nicky grinned and looked at Shane, “Sorry mate. I have changed my mind. I am staying with the girls!” he joked, patting his back.
Shane laughed and shook his head.
“No boys allowed. Sorry!” retaliated Mandy.
“Spoilsport!” mumbled Nicky.
“We can get some pizza too!” suggested Angie.
“Sounds good!” smiled Mandy, “We could have our girly night out another time!”
“Cool. That means we can have another lads night out!” grinned Nicky, “It all works out for the best!”
Mandy looked at him, “No, coz when we go for our girly night out, you have to stay in. It’s only fair!”
“Yeah, like he is gonna listen to what you say!” snorted Shane.
Mandy looked over Nicky’s shoulder at him, “You wanna go out on your own tonight, Filan?”
Shane just smiled and turned to walk away, “I’ll see you guys later.”
Nicky smiled and placed his arms around Mandy, “You can be one quick thinking little cow sometimes, you know that?”
Mandy grinned and placed her arms around his neck, “I learned from the master!” Nicky smiled at her before he placed his lips onto hers. Angie and Kian had disappeared to the hotel by this stage.
“Come on. Let’s go back!” whispered Nicky, patting her bum slightly.
When they got to their floor at the hotel, the bumped into Mark and Anna who had just come out of the other lifts. They looked back and smiled, “Finally got her to calm down, Nicky?” laughed Anna.
“No. The sun did!” he grinned, “Soon as she got there, she lay her towel down and collapsed on it. The sun took great pleasure on feeding off her as you can see!”
Anna smiled and nodded, “How do you do it?”
“Well some people have it and some people don’t!” she grinned.
“Not fair. I have been under that sun for 3 hours and look at me. I am as red as a lobster. I don’t wanna be red. I wanna be brown. As brown as you!” she moaned.
“Well, it took me 28 years hun!” laughed Mandy.
“By the way, Mark. We are having our lads night out tonight. Filan has agreed to it!” ordered Nicky.
“What? But I was intending on having him for the whole night tonight!” moaned
Anna.
“Careful with your choice of words there, Anna!” giggled Mandy, “Anybody who would have been listening to what you just said might get the wrong impression of you...or your job!”
Anna got this and laughed, “Seriously though. We have discussed it. We are having ‘us’ time!”
“Too bad Slater. Mark’s coming with us!” grinned Nicky, “We’re on a mission to cheer Shane up!”
Anna sighed and looked at Mandy, “I suppose we’re having a girls night out then?”
Mandy shook her head, “Girls night in I’m afraid. Angie’s pretty tired from the sun and the travelling and all that, and to be honest, so am I!”
“Oh good!” sighed Anna with relief, “I didn’t wanna be the one to suggest it!”
Mandy grinned, “We are meeting in my room at around 10 o’clock to watch a movie! We have bought popcorn, and lots of alcohol and we are ordering Pizza.”
“And they are watching porn!” joked Nicky.
Mandy laughed and slapped him when she saw the look on Anna’s face, which later turned to a grin.
“Excellent! I’ll see you then!” cheered Anna, opening her door. 

Sam and her friends were walking into the hotel. They went to reception to ask for their keys, when Sam saw Shane walking into the hotel.
“Oh my god!” she gasped, “There he is again.”
Her friend turned around to look at her and grinned, “Go and talk to him!”
Sam shook her head, “No. I can’t! Not after what happened at the beach!”
“Oh nonsense. He wasn’t upset about that. My guess is he is hung up about a woman or something and he needs some cheering up. I say you go and work that magic on him!” she winked.
Sam shook her head, “I think I’ll give him the privacy he wants!”
She turned around when she saw Shane heading towards her, “God, he’s coming over!”
“Maybe he wants to ask you out!” giggled her friend.
“Or maybe he wants his keys!” came a voice from beside them.
They all looked to the other side to see Kian standing there.
“Oh my god, that’s Kian!” hissed Sam softly. The girls all just grinned at him.
“Alright girls?” he grinned big, “Sorry didn’t mean to startle you, but when you were talking about my mate like that, I had to intervene!”
Sam blushed, wondering how much of that conversation he had heard. Kian looked over at her, “So you fancy him huh?”
Sam blushed even more and bowed her head down, making Kian chuckle, “Sorry. Didn’t mean to embarrass you, but like you all said, he needs some cheering up and to realise that there are plenty more women out there. I can put in a good word for you!”
Sam’s mate gently nudged her, making Sam nudge her back, “Oh no, it’s ok, really. He’s obviously not over whatever it is that is wrong with him, and we are all here on holiday to have a good time.”
Kian looked at her. He was not expecting that reply. Normally, any girl would jump at the chance of getting to meet Shane Filan. Sam laughed, “Don’t be so shocked. Even fans know that stars need time off from the fans!”
Kian smiled and shook his head, “He is here now!” he whispered, “I would stop this conversation now!”
Sam smiled. She had the feeling this was going to be one holiday she would never ever forget! 

Chapter Text

Mandy and Nicky got into their room, and threw their towels on the floor. Nicky sighed and threw himself on the bed. Mandy looked at him and pouted.
“What’s wrong?” he smiled, putting his hands behind his head.
“I am gonna miss you tonight!” she mumbled, crawling on the bed and laying next to him.
“Awww babe!” he pouted back, wrapping his arm around her waist, “I promise tomorrow it will be just you and me, and I will take you to a fancy restaurant and a good club!”
Mandy smiled and drew circles on his bare chest, “But what about tonight?”
“Well, tonight, you gather up with the girls and tell them all good stuff about me!” he grinned boastfully.
“Like what?” she laughed, slapping his chest.
“Well, like, how good I am to you, and what a good lover I am, and how big my...” he grinned cheekily.
“Nicky!” she gasped, laughing out loud.
“What? I was gonna say how big my head is!” he grinned, trying to look innocent.
“Sure you were!” she giggled.
Nicky smiled and kissed her nose, “Well, alternatively, you can have a good moan about me!”
“Moan about what?” she laughed.
“Well, about how incredibly competitive I am, and how I always get my way, and how I get on your nerves!” he grinned.
“You? Get on my nerves? Never!” she rolled her eyes so he would see.
“Oi! I saw that!” he chuckled.
“Seriously, though. I am gonna miss you so much!” she pouted.
“Well, maybe we can have some quality time together now before I go!” he grinned, “You’ve had the sun, the sea and the sand. There is only one thing left!” he winked. “You’re right. Let’s order some sangria!” she teased, starting to get up.
Nicky laughed and pulled her down, grabbing onto her wrist, “Not so fast, missy. It’s not the sangria I want. You know I was talking about sex.”
Mandy smiled and climbed on top of him, “Are you gonna miss me tonight?”
“You know I will!” he smiled, bringing his hands to her face and brushing her hair back, “How could I not?”
“Even with all those strippers around?” she pouted.
Nicky laughed and kept her hair back with his hands, “I would rather have you any day!”
Mandy giggled and shook her head, “You liar!”
“Hey!” he seriously said, “Why would I have burger, if I have a steak right here!”
Mandy smiled and let out a little giggle, “There you are, using food as a metaphor again. You’re obsessed!”
“Yeah! Obsessed with you!” he smiled.
Mandy grinned and lowered her head, brushing her lips against his, “What was it you were saying about quality time?” she mumbled with a smile.
Nicky grinned and flipped her over, this time him being on top of her, “Here. Let me show you!”
He kissed her passionately, before peeling off her bathing suit, followed by a lot of rolling around, spending the best quality time with her he could ever hope for. 

Sam and the girls were in their room they all shared, looking at each other.
“So, when are you gonna try and pull Shane then?” teased Rachel.
Sam gave her a knowing look, “Yeah, like he would ever be interested in me!” she rolled her eyes.
“And why not?” smiled Rachel, “You’ve got the looks and the personality. He would be mad not to fall for you!”
Sam giggled and tossed the pillow over at her, “Give over!”
Rachel laughed and shook her head, “You’ll be sorry!” she sang.
“Rachel. He is a popstar. Those kind of fairytale romances don’t exist. It’s not like he is gonna look at me and say, “woah. Where have you been all my life, baby”, and then whisk me off my feet!”
Rachel shrugged, “Could happen!”
“Yeah, and pigs could fly. Anyway, what are we doing tonight? You girls fancy a night out?” she suggested.
“Sounds good!” smiled Livvy, “What do you fancy doing?”
“Well, hows about that Irish pub in the Marina? That looks good!” suggested Rachel. “Yeah, and maybe a certain short hazel eyed brunette might turn up!” winked Livvy. “Will you girls give it a rest?” gasped Sam in laughter.
“Never!” grinned Livvy, “We know how much you fancy him!”
“So anyway, we going there or what?” smiled Rachel.
“Yeah we’ll do that!” sighed Sam, “then we can hit one of those clubs or something!” “OK then. That’s sorted. I call the bathroom first!” grinned Livvy, running straight to the bathroom. 

Chapter Text

Sam and her friends finally made it to an Irish pub at the marina. They sat themselves down in one of the booths, after they got their drinks.
“Wow. Bit noisy in here, isn’t it?” smiled Rachel.
“What do you expect? It is probably full of drunk Irish louts!” laughed Sam loudly, “It’ll be fun!”
Shane opened the door to the pub and looked around, “Well, it certainly is packed!” he smiled, “Shall we go and stand by the bar until a table becomes available...IF it becomes available?”
Nicky looked around and pointed at a table, “Look, those people are leaving. Quick, go and grab it, I’ll get the drinks. Usual for everyone?”
Everyone nodded as they went to get their drinks. Nicky stayed behind to help Brian with the drinks.
“You think this night out is gonna work? Make him forget all about Tracee, like?” questioned Nicky.
“Don’t think anything will make him forget about Tracee, Nico. But it might cheer him up a bit and give him the urge to look for someone else!” smiled Brian, as he ordered the drinks.
Nicky nodded. When Brian got the drinks, Nicky helped him carry them to the table. “Ok, here we go lads. I say we propose a toast. To Shane and his many girlfriends to come!” smiled Nicky, winking at him and raising his pint glass. The others did that too and finally got round to drinking.
“So. See anyone you fancy?” smirked Mark.
“Gimme a chance, man. I only just got here!” laughed Shane in disbelief.

Meanwhile, back to the girls, they decided to taunt Sam about Shane.
“What do you think he is like as a lover?” smiled Rachel.
“What?” shrieked Sam, “Oh my God, What are you on about now?”
“Shane. What do you think he is like as a lover? To me, he seems like the gentle type, but can be a bit of an animal at times!” she grinned.
“Rachel!” she gasped, “I cannot believe you are even having this conversation!”
“What? Everyone thinks about that from time to time, I bet!” she winked.
“Well, I am not even gonna ponder on that thought!” she laughed.
“Yeah, like you haven’t thought about it already!” snorted Livvy, “Do you think we are a bunch of mugs or something?”
Sam sighed, “Listen girls. I am gonna say this for the last time. He is a celebrity. I am just one of the little people outside his celebrity world. He can have any girl he wants. Why on earth would he go for me?”
“You never know!” giggled Livvy, “He might just!”
Sam rolled her eyes, “I give up!”
“He may be a celeb, Sam, but he still is a hot blooded male, and eager to get into anyone’s pants. I say you go and flirt with him!” giggled Rachel.
“I cannot even believe you have said that!” sighed Sam, “Is that all you think about? Sex?”
“No, but he does!” giggled Livvy, “I agree with Rach. Go flirt with the guy and get yourself some action!”
Sam shook her head, “What are you like? Shane is not like that. He does not sleep around!”
“And you know that for a fact, do you?” snorted Rachel.
Before Sam had the chance to answer, Livvy cut in, “From what I have heard, or read, rather, he is a bit of a Casanova with the chicks!” she winked, “Had more one night stands that I have had hot dinners!”
“He is not like that. That’s Kian!” giggled Sam. 

“What the hell?” gasped Kian, “Why was my name mentioned?”
“I dunno, but they are talking about one night stands!” chuckled Nicky, “And with your name being mentioned, I am guessing that they are talking about your old days, when you used to really go for it with the chicas!”
Kian shot him a look and then tried to concentrate on the girls conversation.
“Who are...” started Mark.
“Shhhh!” hushed Kian, trying to pay attention.

“Whatever. Kian. Mark, Shane Nicky, Brian…They are all the same!” chortled Livvy, “the bottom line is they can have any girl they want, and they will!”
“Nah!” denied Sam, shaking her head.
“Now Nicky. He is the worst of the lot!” smirked Livvy.

Nicky looked at the lads, snorted softly and then continued listening.

“What? How do you figure that?” shrieked Sam.
“Well, he has an affair with his choreographer, leaving his pregnant wife!” she laughed, “Now that is a man whore!”
“Erm, how?” asked Sam confused.
“Well, he can have any woman he wants and he knows it. It’s his poor wife I feel sorry for, having to cope with a baby on her own!” she shrugged.
“She was never pregnant in the first place!” sighed Sam.
“Yeah, how much money do you think he gave her to stick to that story?” said Livvy, rolling her eyes, “Face it, Sam. Why would she lie? The guy is a loser!” 

Nicky looked at the others again, rolled his eyes and shook his head, “A man whore?? What the fuck????” 

“I thought we were talking about Shane. How on earth have we gone to Nicky?” sighed Sam.
“Just always wanted to say my piece about Nicky. The guy is an idiot!” huffed Livvy.
“I thought you didn’t like any of them!” asked Sam confused.
“I don’t. But it doesn’t mean I don’t read about them!” she smirked.
“Well, maybe you shouldn’t believe anything you read! The media always tends to exaggerate!” she shrugged.
“Whatever. I think what he did to his poor wife was unforgivable. I hope his choreographer does the same to him one day!” she shrugged.

“Ex wife, you mean!” came a voice from behind them. Livvy turned her head around to come face to face with Nicky. Her face went deathly white, as she fidgeted with her fingers.
“Alright girls!? It’s me… the man whore,” grinned Nicky, “I hear you are talking about us. And what an interesting conversation that was!”
Sam blushed and covered her face, wanting to get out of there fast. The girls just looked at them totally shocked.
“You know, I think you really ought to find out the facts before you actually comment on what you clearly have no idea about!” smiled Nicky, enjoying this a bit more, “I mean, first of all, my choreographer? She has a name, and it’s Mandy. And she is the most wonderful and beautiful person to have ever entered my life. Secondly, my EX wife, well you don’t know the whole story, and I am not really in the mood to go over it. All water under the bridge, but I can assure you, I did not spend a single penny trying to bribe her to stick to the story. There is no story to stick to. She tricked me into believing she was pregnant. And I left her for the woman I truly love. End of. And fthirdly, your mate here makes a lot of sense when she says don’t believe everything you read. She was also right about Kian and his string of one night stands!” he laughed, “But oh well. He is a good man now, with a beautiful girl by his side. He is not complaining. At least he has lived. As for Shane? Well, who here does not get flattered when he is in the presence of a beautiful young woman. As for being an animal in bed, I am afraid I cannot help you there.” He winked. The girls all looked at him, totally bewildered, except for Sam, who in her head, was trying to come up with a good way to get out of there and fast. Instead she just gave Nicky an apologetic look and shook her head, “I’m... I mean...Sorry...I...”
Nicky laughed and shook his head, “It’s ok, love. I was only messing around. That conversation you were all having was quite amusing really. Anyway, you girls want a drink?”

Chapter Text

The girls looked at each other, too embarrassed to even talk. Nicky stared at them and laughed, “Come on. Surely you would accept a drink from us!”
Sam looked at him and blushed, “Ok.”
“Ok, what are you girls having?” he grinned, kneeling on his seat, looking at them from above the back rest.
They gave him their orders and Nicky left to get the drinks. The other lads were all looking at them, much to the girl’s discomfort.
“So, how long have you been fans then?” queried Brian, with a smile.
“Erm, Only Sam is the fan. We are not really... into you...much!” Rachel paused when she saw the look that Sam was giving her.
Brian smiled, “Well, at least you are honest.” He then looked at Sam, who sighed and rolled her eyes, “Well?”
“I have been a fan since the beginning!” she blushed.
“Why don’t you girls just come and sit with us. We could all be comfortable, and it would save us the discomfort of having to kneel on these benches. They may be soft and cushiony, but they are killing my knees!” smiled Kian.
“Oh no, it’s ok!” stuttered Sam, “We’ll just carry on with our conversation and you go back to yours! We don’t wanna get in your way!”
“Oh nonsense!” smiled Nicky, getting back with the drinks, “We don’t mind. Maybe you’ll have more luck trying to cheer Shane up than us!”
He looked at Shane, who gave him an evil stare. Sam felt a bit uncomfortable and looked at the girls. Livvy shrugged, “Your call!”
“Well, only if you are sure!” she answered sweetly.
“Course we’re sure!” grinned Nicky, “Come on over, grab a few chairs!”
The girls got up and joined them. They conversation flowed nicely as if they had known each other for years. Nicky cracked the jokes, sending everyone into hysterics once Brian joined him with the jokes. Before they knew it, they had had quite a few to drink, and the effects were quite noticeable.
“So you’re telling me that your ex wife tricked you into getting back together with her?” giggled Livvy.
“That’s right!” grinned Nicky, “And not long after I found out, I divorced her!”
“I don’t buy it. I’m sorry!” giggled Livvy, “No woman would ever do that!”
“This was no ordinary woman, love. This was my ex wife. She’s mental!” he snorted.
"And also my cousin, Nico!" Kian reminded him, not too impressed but still smiling. Nicky looked at him and shrugged, "Must run in the family then!" he grinned cheekily. Kian punched his arm playfully and shook his head.
Livvy looked at him and giggled, “So this Mandy bird!” she started.
“Mandy bird?” questioned Mark, “Oh she will be so happy to hear her new pet name!” he chuckled.
Livvy looked at him and then looked back at Nicky, “She is your choreographer, right?”
Nicky nodded as he took another sip of his drink and placed his glass down, “That’s right. The love of my life teaches me to dance!”
Livvy laughed, “But you hated her at the beginning!”
Nicky winced, “not exactly hated her, no...”
“But Mark said...” she argued.
Nicky shook his head, “No. I was just frustrated coz of Kris and all that. But I never hated her. In fact, it was quite the opposite!” he grinned, remembering it all. He then realised he was telling all this to someone he did not know at all, “Anyway, why am I telling you all this? You’re a bit nosy, aren’t you? For someone who is not even a fan!”
Livvy laughed, “Just curious, that’s all. Trying to understand you all a bit better!”
Nicky shook his head, “Well, you’re getting nothing else out of me!”
“So, are you gonna marry Mandy then?” she questioned with a grin.
“Hey, did you just hear what I said!” he laughed, “No more answers!”
Livvy looked at him and sighed.
“But, well...I have thought about marriage!” he smiled, “Maybe one day!”
“Kids?” she continued asking.
Nicky gave her a shocked look, “Do you ever stop prying?”
Rachel giggled, “The answer to that would be no. She is always doing that!”
Livvy pulled the innocent look, “What? I am just trying to get to know you!”
“Well, I refuse to answer anymore. That is between Mandy and I!”
Livvy grinned and continued drinking her drink. She then got up and sat herself on Nicky’s lap, pouting at him, “Oh come on. You can tell me!”
Nicky looked at her, starting to worry, “What are you doing?”
“What’s the matter? Don’t you like a bit of a flirt?” she grinned, pressing her lips against his. Nicky pushed her away and moved away from her, “What do you think you’re doing?” he shrieked again.
Livvy just laughed, “Awww you’re not gonna tell me that you are all sensible and loyal, are you?”
Nicky stared at her in disbelief, “I may be drunk, but I do know what I am doing, and who I love, and that person is Mandy, and no way would I hurt her!”
Livvy laughed and shook her head, as Sam looked at her in horror, “Whatever. I am getting myself another drink!”
Nicky sat there, still shocked by her behaviour. Sam just cringed. Shane looked at her, “You ok? You’re really quiet!”
Sam smiled and nodded, “Just a bit overwhelmed by all of this. It feels so surreal!”
Shane managed to smile, “Why? They are just four idiots trying to cheer up this idiot. We’re only normal average idiots!”
“With stunning looks and lots of success!” she wanted to add, but stopped herself and just smiled at him. “My friends are showing me up and I feel very embarrassed at their behaviour.” She explained.
Shane laughed and shook his head, “It’s the drink. It does that to you. Mine are doing the exact same thing.”

The girls were all still in Mandy’s room, wiping their tears after watching titanic. “I cannot believe I still cry after watching this film. I mean, it’s like the 300th time I have watched it.” Sniffed Anna, “How can one film be so sad?”
“Coz it is all about true love, and sacrifices people make for the sake of love!” sniffed Mandy, wiping her eyes with the tissue.
“Wonder if Kian would ever do something like that, if it came to that, choosing my life over his!” pondered Angie, twirling her hair.
“Not a nice thought, Ange!” shuddered Mandy.
Angie smiled and got up from the floor, sitting on the bed.
“Wonder what the lads are up to?” thought Anna aloud.
“Wonder if Shane has pulled yet!” grinned Abeth.
“Knowing the lads, they have probably got him so mind numbingly drunk, that he cannot even speak, let alone pull” giggled Anna.
Just then they heard voices coming from outside. They all looked at each other and giggled, “Well, sounds like they are back, and Shane sounds as pissed as a fart!” snorted Abeth.
“Hang on. That doesn’t sound like Shane. That sounds like...” fretted Mandy. She was interrupted by a knock on the door followed by yelling.
“Mandy. Love of my life. Let me in!” hollered the voice. The girls looked at each other and howled with laughter.
“Good luck!” smiled Angie, patting her back. Mandy rolled her eyes and groaned. Just what she needed. An extremely drunk Nicky. She opened the door and looked at Shane, struggling to keep Nicky up. Nicky grinned daftly at her and stumbled around, causing Shane to topple every now and then.
“What the hell happened? Wasn’t it supposed to be you in this condition?” gasped Mandy.
“Guess Nicky forgot what the Spanish are like with their alcohol, and how their measures are different to ours and how quickly he gets drunk,” smiled Shane uncomfortably.
This was true. The Spanish never measured their drinks. One single drink consisted of half a glass of alcohol topped with the mixer. She rolled her eyes and shook her head at Nicky.
“Thanks Shane. Sorry about him!” she smiled, taking charge now. With Shane’s help, they managed to sit Nicky on the bed, who helplessly fell back, unable to move.
“Are you gonna be ok, or do you need any help?” offered Shane.
Mandy shook her head, “I’ll be fine. I’ll take it from here. Thanks again Shane!” she smiled apologetically, “What actually made him drink this much and my god, how many has he had?”
Shane laughed and shook his head, “I lost count after the eighth drink. But you know what the Spanish are like with alcohol!” he looked at her knowingly, “and this girl just kept buying him drinks...”
“Girl?” she gasped, giving him worried looks. Shane shook his head, “Don’t worry, Mandz. Nicky soon set her straight, and made it a point of letting her know that he was unavailable!”
Mandy smiled and looked at Nicky, who just looked up at the ceiling with a huge smile on his face. The girls were still in her room, finding all this highly amusing. “I shudder to think what he’s gonna be like at rehearsals tomorrow!” she sighed. Nicky struggled to sit up in bed and saw everyone was still there, “You all still here? Don’t you have rooms to go to?”
“Nicky!” she scolded.
“Well, off you go. I wanna shag my woman. Get a move on!” he grinned, falling back on the bed.
“Nicky!!!” shrieked Mandy in disbelief, blushing heavily.
The girls laughed and looked at Mandy, “Good luck!”
Mandy nodded and led them out, “Sorry about him girls.”
They all nodded and left to their own rooms. Shane remained in her room, “You sure you’re gonna be ok?”
Mandy smiled and nodded, “Thanks for bringing him back in one piece, Shane. And sorry he ruined your night!”
“No worries!” he smiled. To be honest, he would have liked to have stayed out a bit longer. He was really getting comfortable with Sam, and enjoyed her company. He shrugged and went down to the hotel bar, after having realised that he was unable to sleep. 

Chapter Text

Shane walked into the pub and took a seat by the bar. He ordered his drink and looked around with a sigh. He looked at the door and did a double take when he saw a young blonde walking in. He didn’t know why, but he felt his spirits lifting. He shook his head and carried on looking at her. She saw him too and smiled shyly when she caught his eye. Shane smiled back at her and felt his heart flutter when he saw her walking towards him. “Hello again!” she smiled shyly, “I didn’t expect to see you here!”
“Oh!” smiled Shane, “I couldn’t sleep, and I didn’t feel like my night out was over, so I came for a few night caps.”
“Same here!” smiled Sam, shuffling uncomfortably on her feet.
Shane looked at her and smiled courteously, “Take a seat. Wanna keep me company? Want a drink?”
Sam gave him an unsure look, “Oh I don’t wanna intrude!”
“Intrude on what? I am here on my own. It would be nice to have some decent company, for a change!” he smiled, “That’s if you can stomach my long face!”
Sam let out a soft giggle and nodded as she sat on the stool beside him.
“So, what are you drinking?” he smiled.
“Sweet martini and lemonade please!” she smiled shyly.
Shane gave the barman his order and then turned to look at Sam.
“So, where did you leave your friends?” he smiled, taking a sip from his drink.
Sam shrugged, “Livvy is too drunk to even move, I think she went to bed, Rachel is keeping her company!”
Shane laughed, “Same as Nicky. He was totally out of it, and to say his girlfriend was not amused is an understatement!”
Sam giggled, “That’s Mandy, right?”
Shane smiled and nodded, “You seem to know an awful lot about us!”
He got the drink that the barman had gave him and handed it to Sam.
“ Thanks!” she smiled, “Well, as I said, I have been a fan since the beginning!”
“So how come you are not jumping on us, demanding we father your children!” he smiled cheekily.
Sam shrugged, “I guess I am not that kind of fan! I am sorry, but I think I am too old to be fantasising like that!”
Shane smiled and put her hand on top of hers, “Don’t be sorry at all, love! We could do with more fans like that!”
Sam just smiled.
“I mean, don’t get me wrong. I am very grateful to all our fans. After all, without them, we wouldn’t be who we are now, but sometimes it does get tiring, having to run past them, having to stop for autographs and photos, when all you wanna do is relax. But I do realise it is my job and that I asked for this. But some normality at times is good!” he smiled.
Sam laughed, “I can imagine what you mean. I wouldn’t be able to do what you do!”
“It’s like you. You met us and not once have you asked for our autograph!” he continued, “That’s kinda nice!”
Sam blushed. The reason she never asked for autographs or photos was because she was too scared to even ask. Especially with the way he was looking.
“Well, to be honest, I did want to ask, but I noticed that frown on your face, and I thought better of it. I didn’t want to come over all...I dunno, what I am trying to say is...” she thought carefully about her words.
“You didn’t want to bother me, seeing as I looked so miserable!” he finished for her with a smile.
“Yes!” she smiled, then realised what he had said, “No, I mean you didn’t look miserable, I mean...”
Shane just laughed, “Sam, it’s ok. I was miserable. I am miserable. I mean, it’s what’s expected when you split up with someone you had been with for years and were very fond of!”
Sam nodded uncomfortably.
“It was the reason why the lads took me out last night. To cheer me up and to find myself someone else.” He smiled.
Sam nodded again, not knowing what to say, “Well, at least you have nice friends. I’ll let you onto a secret too!”
“What’s that?” he smiled.
“Well, the reason I am here on holiday is coz my friends decided I needed some cheering up, after breaking up with my long term boyfriend!” she smiled, “They only have our best interests at heart!”
Shane smiled and nodded. Then he looked at Sam, “Don’t you think it is a bit annoying when all they do is fuss over you, and they seem to think that getting into another relationship straight away is what you need though?”
Sam threw her head back and laughed, “Thank you! I thought that was just me being weird. You feel the same?” she giggled.
Shane smiled, “Totally. I mean, like, hello? I only split up with Tracee a month ago. Gimme some space!”
Sam smiled and nodded, “exactly.”
“And at the same time, it is extremely annoying to see all the lads paired up with their girlfriends, all lovey dovey. Just makes me think about what I used to have with Tracee, and they don’t realise that after all their fussing, that makes me feel ten times worse, seeing them all mushy!” he sighed.
“I know!” sighed Sam, “That gets to me too!”
Shane looked at her and smiled, “It’s great talking to you, though. It’s nice having someone to talk to who understands everything I am going through!”
“Same here!” smiled Sam.
Shane looked at her, smiled and then shook his head. Sam saw him do this and wondered what he was doing. It felt like he wanted to ask her something but then changed his mind. Shane noticed her confused looks and then laughed.
“I suppose you’re wondering what I am doing, right? Don’t worry, I am not mental, just trying to decide!” he laughed.
“Decide what?” she asked confused.
“Well, I was pondering on the thought of asking you if you wanted to do dinner with me...Maybe tomorrow? Just as friends? I find it so easy to talk to you and we seem to get along great!” he said, wincing as he said it.
Sam looked at him, still unsure of it all, “You’re asking me out? Why?”
“Well, as I said, I find it so easy to talk to you, and well, it’s not like I can go out with my mates, since they’re all coupled up. What do you say?” he smiled.
Sam sighed, “Shane. I don’t think I could go out with someone like you. I am sorry, but this fame thing...”
Shane’s face fell, “Oh. Right!”
Sam felt instantly bad, “It’s not like I don’t want to. It’s just that, I dunno, the pressure and everything. As I said, don’t think I could deal with fame!”
Shane smiled and shook his head, “it would only be as friends though.”
“Friends? You consider me a friend?” she gasped.
Shane laughed and nodded, “Why else would I be talking to you right now?”
Sam smiled and nodded, “Well, in that case. I would love to. Name a day and place!” Shane grinned, “Give me your number and I’ll let you know when I am available, ok?”
Sam scribbled her number down and handed it to him. Shane smiled and put it in his jacket pocket as he got up from the stool.
“Thanks Sam. Anyway, I’d best be going back up to my room now. I have an early start tomorrow with dance rehearsals, and Mandy is not exactly well known for being laid back about it. I’ll give you a call, ok?” he smiled.
Sam smiled and nodded as she remained sitting there. Shane was about to walk away, when he stopped, stood by Sam again and looked at her smiling. To her amazement, he leaned forwards and gave her a kiss on the cheek.
“Thanks for being so friendly, Sam. And thanks for cheering me up. Goodnight!” he smiled before he walked away. Sam remained there, in disbelief with what had just happened. Shane Filan considered her a friend and kissed her cheek. She smiled to herself, let out a hearty sigh and continued drinking her drink alone, “Goodnight!” she whispered, holding onto her cheek. 

Chapter Text

Mandy woke up alone in bed. She looked to her side, wondering where Nicky was! She figured he went to get some breakfast, to nurse that hangover he probably had. She yawned and stretched in bed and finally got up. It was going to be a hard morning, with rehearsals and everything. She walked barefooted to the bathroom and stood still at the sight of Nicky with his head on the toilet seat. She pulled a face and shook him gently. “Nicky!” she softly called out, “Wake up!”
Nicky just stirred but did not open his eyes.
“Nicky, come on. We need to have breakfast and go to rehearsals!” she repeated.
At the mention of breakfast, Nicky heaved. He quickly opened the toilet seat and stuck his head down it.
“Lovely!” muttered Mandy, turning around and walking back to her room. She opened the wardrobe and decided on what to wear in the meantime. She turned around when she heard Nicky’s groggy voice.
“Am I still alive?” he mumbled, walking out zombified.
Mandy looked back and rolled her eyes, “Have you been in that bathroom asleep all night?”
“I can’t remember!” he continued mumbling, “God I feel rough!”
“Good!” she sang, “No sympathy!”
“Awww come on. I feel like I am dying!” he moaned, laying on the bed again.
Mandy grabbed his trackie bottoms and a t-shirt and flung it at him, “Get ready. We have to go to rehearse!”
“Oh, do we have to?” he whined, “Can’t I stay in bed?”
“Nope!” she chirped, “Get dressed!”
“You’re mean!” he pouted, getting up and grabbing his bottoms.
“As I said, no sympathy. It is all self inflicted babe!” she smiled as she made her way into the bathroom to get her shower. When she was ready, she came back out to discover Nicky was still not ready. She put her hands on her hips and looked at him sleeping.
“Nicky!” she screamed, “Get your butt ready now!”
Nicky got up with a start and quickly walked into the bathroom. Mandy smiled and dried her hair, “We have loads to get through today and don’t even THINK about letting me down, you hear me Byrne?”
Nicky moaned and nodded. When they were both ready, they made their way to the restaurant for breakfast. Everyone was already there.
“Good to see you all so keen on these rehearsals!” she smiled, “Coz I can tell you now, it’s gonna be a hard session!”
“Come on Mandz. Take it easy on us, eh?” moaned Mark.
“Oh, we’ll see!” she winked, getting up to grab her breakfast.
“She’s chirpy this morning!” commented Kian to Nicky, “Is she on something?”
“Yeah, her self importance!” he mumbled, leaning back in his seat. Everyone looked at him and laughed.
“Had a row?” laughed Brian.
“No!” he moaned, “Just being mean to me!”
“Your fault, Nicky!” laughed Abeth, “You shouldn’t have drunk so much last night!”
“Oh, don’t you start!” he sneered, “I have already had the lecture from the boss. Don’t need it from you too!”
“Louis?” asked Shane, quite surprised.
“No, Mandy!” he managed to smile. Shane laughed and shook his head.
Mandy came back with her plate full. She looked at Nicky, “Nicky, you need to keep those energy levels up. Go and get something to eat!”
“Don’t think I can manage it!” he sighed, letting out a slight heave.
“It’ll make you feel better. Go on, get some cereal or something,” she smiled.
Nicky closed his eyes and shook his head, “stop telling me what to do. I told you I don’t want to eat, I feel sick!” He snapped.
Mandy rolled her eyes and shook her head as she started eating, not impressed with his attitude. When they had all finished, they made their way to the arena. When they got there, they all started warming up, except Nicky who lazily stood there watching them all. Mandy went to get the stereo ready. When she was ready, she clapped for their attention and looked at them all in position. She let out a smile and looked at Nicky
“You up to this?” she asked.
“Not quite!” he moaned, swaying about.
“Oh well!” she shrugged. She looked at the others and smiled.
“Ok people. We’re starting with world of our own.” She smiled, turning around to press play on the cd. As soon as the music started, she did the movements with them, to start them off. They knew most of the movements anyway from last time. With such short notice about these promotions, there was no time to show them any new moves. She looked at all of them performing beautifully, apart from Nicky, who kept missing some steps.
“Focus, Nicky!” she scolded, “Concentrate!”
“Yeah, I’d like to see you try!” he mumbled.
Mandy bopped her head in time to the music and walked around looked at them all. She wanted to make sure that they were doing it perfectly. When the music stopped, she crossed her arms and looked at them.
“That was great, lads. Excellent. You make sure you perform just as well later on ok?” she smiled.
At that moment, the door opened and Louis walked in with some others. They seemed to be holding lots of equipment.
“Lads...and Mandy!” he smiled, looking at them all, “I hate to spring this on ya now, but the TV company here in Spain have arranged for you guys to be videoed. They wanna video a typical Westlife day, which will be made into a documentary!”
Nicky moaned, not feeling quite in the mood. He was always good with cameras, and loved it, but not today. He had enough trouble standing on his own two feet, let alone perform for the camera.
“Problem, Nico?” asked Louis, raising his eyebrow.
“Course not!” answered Mandy chirpily, “He has just got a headache, don’t you Nicky?” she hissed under her breath.
Nicky sighed and nodded.
“Ok, so you just carry on with what you’re doing and forget the cameras are here ok?” smiled Louis.
When everything was set up, the rehearsing continued. Nicky seemed to be full of mistakes, much to Mandy’s annoyance.
“Come on, Nicky. Even Mark is doing really well!” she scolded.
Mark looked at Kian beside him, “I don’t know whether to be relieved or offended at that remark!” he whispered. Kian just laughed and shook his body to keep warmed up.
“Sorry!” snapped Nicky.
Mandy sighed and put the song again. She was very aware that the cameras were there and she wanted everything to run smoothly. The song came up again and they all started moving. Mandy almost screamed when she saw Nicky making another very obvious mistake. In a temper she took the song off and looked at him angrily.
“Will you just get it right, for once?” she screamed, “What is the matter with you?”
“Will you just get off my case?” he snapped back.
“No I will not get off your case. You have a show to do tonight and you’re not pulling your weight at all. You’re gonna show yourself and ME up in that stage tonight!” she shouted back.
“Fuck the bloody show and fuck you!” he shouted before walking off in a strop.
Brian looked at Mark, “Are you getting the same feeling of déjà vu as I am?” he whispered. Mark just nodded back and sat down on the floor. “This could take a while.” Mandy looked at the camera men and smiled, “Could you please not tape this bit? Don’t want my argument with my boyfriend on TV. And please edit that last bit out!” The cameramen nodded and turned the camera off. Mandy walked to where Nicky was, after he walked in a temper to the other side of the room.
“What are you doing?” she asked him.
Nicky turned around and looked at her, “Not showing you up!” he snarled.
Mandy took a deep breath, not wanting to lose her temper. She knew by now how to deal with him.
“Nicky!” she sighed, “Your performance is quite poor. You have this show tonight and you’re gonna end up embarrassing yourself!”
“I feel rough, ok?” he hissed.
“And whose fault is that?” she asked, losing her patience now and placing her hands on her hips.
Nicky shook his head, “So I went out for a drink and enjoyed myself? So what? Are you jealous?”
“Jealous of what?” she shrieked.
“Of the fact that I went out last night and had fun, and you didn’t!” he smirked.
“Oh grow up Nicky!” she sneered, “I don’t have time for this!”
“Charming. My own girlfriend has no time for me. That’s just great!” he moaned.
“No, I don’t, Nicky. Coz the others are making a huge effort to get it right, and you’re not even trying!” she shouted back, “I have had enough of your laid back attitude, just coz you have the hangover from hell!”
“Well, maybe you should just leave us to it then and leave!” he calmly said, challenging her.
Mandy looked back at him, breathing heavily, trying to contain her temper and feeling very hurt.
Brian had now approached them, “Come on guys. Let’s get back to rehearsing eh? Let’s try again!”
“Stay out of this Brian!” snarled Nicky, without taking his eye off Mandy, “Well?”
“Get on that floor, Byrne. NOW!” she gritted her teeth.
“No!” he simply said, “Not when I am being spoken to like that. You’re not my mother!”
Mandy was now fuming. She took another deep breath and looked back at him. Nicky just raised his eyebrows.
“Nicky...” she gritted her teeth again.
“Oh god, you’re gonna go on and on again, aren’t you? Jesus Christ, sometimes I really wish you would’ve stayed behind with that loser band with that loser and leave me well alone! I’d have been so much more better off without you here! You know, I had a girl on my lap last night. I had to fight her off me. Wish I hadn’t now!” he shouted.
Mandy flinched and looked at him, “What did you say?” she gasped.
“You heard!” he sneered.
Mandy bowed her head and nodded, “Fuck you, Nicky!”
She marched to her table, grabbed her bag and looked at the others, “Good luck for tonight, lads. You’ll need it! I’m outta here!” She started walking away.
“Where are you going?” gasped Shane.
Mandy stopped, looked at Nicky and then looked at Shane, “He obviously thinks he can make it on his own and I am tired of wasting my time! I’ll leave you guys to him and tell him he can have as many girls on his lap as he wants to now. I’m done! We’re done.”
Shane sighed and shook his head, “The girl was drunk, Mandy, and he pushed her off.”
Mandy stared at him, “He has just told me he wishes he hadn’t!” Her voice shook.
“That’s the anger talking, Mandz. Pay no attention, darling,” he smiled, slightly squeezing her shoulder.
“I cannot help but pay attention to that bit. You know, I can tolerate him telling me he wished I had stayed behind while you guys were here. I can even tolerate being called bossy. But I will not put up with him trying to make me jealous by telling me what he got up to last night. I can’t. I won’t. I’m done. It’s over. See you back home, guys,” she sniffed as she started walking away.
“But we need you, Mandz!” panicked Mark, “Kian, tell her!”
“Sorry Mark, but someone else seems to think differently, and I cannot be where I am not wanted. I wish you luck tonight!” she sighed before she walked off. Everyone glared at Nicky.
“Thanks a bunch, mate!” moaned Kian, “Cheers!” 

Chapter Text

The lads all looked at each other, except Nicky, who was still sulking in the corner of the room.
“I’ll go and get her, shall I?” growled Kian, running off. The others just shrugged and welcomed the break while the production team just shuffled awkwardly around the room and sat down. Kian ran out the doors and looked around. He saw Mandy quite far away. God she walked quickly, he thought. He sped past the people, not caring who recognised him until he caught up with her. He grabbed her arm and stopped her. Thinking it was Nicky, Mandy turned around quickly, and shot Kian an evil look, shrugging her arms away. She sighed when she saw it was Kian.
“What are you doing?” he asked calmly, rubbing her arms as he noticed the tears in her eyes.
“What Nicky suggested. Leaving! Maybe he can find those girls and sit them on his lap again,” she cried as she started walking away again. Kian rolled his eyes and grabbed her arm again.
“And you’re gonna pay attention to him?” he shrieked.
“Why not?” she shrugged, quickly wiping her eyes, “It’s clear as day he doesn’t want me or need me there, and I am just wasting my time! I mean, why tell me that, huh? He says he loves me and then says those things. People who love each other don’t say those things to each other, Kian. No matter how angry they are.”
“And what about us, huh? We all need you and we all want you there. We are all depending on you, Mandz. You cannot walk away! Please,” he argued.
Mandy just shrugged, “I cannot go there, Kian. Not when he is in that mood. I feel like I am just wasting my time! I want to actually hit him. I literally want to punch him in the face.”
“Then don’t concentrate on Nicky and concentrate on us!” he suggested, “Mark is having kittens in there. He needs you, Mandz. Come on!”
“I can’t Kian. I’m sorry!” she sighed, putting her hands on her hips and looking at the ground.
Kian sighed, trying to think of the right approach to use.
“Listen to me!” he sighed, “You are the best choreographer we have ever had. Yes, we do know the moves, but it would be good for us to go over them all again. We need to be refreshed, Mandy. We cannot do it without you! This is your job. You cannot just walk away coz one idiot is in a strop!”
“Of course you can!” she laughed.
“Well, personally, I know I can, but can the others?” he grinned, making a joke out of it, “Think of Mark!”
Mandy snorted and nodded.
“So you’ll come?” he asked, with a hopeful glint in his eyes, “And think of Louis too. He needs this to be filmed. Imagine what his mood will be like when he finds out what has happened!”
Mandy sighed, knowing he was right, “Fine. Ok, you win! But if he so much as gives me a look, I’ll leave ok?”
Kian smiled and nodded, “Just ignore him babe.”
“It hurt what he said you know? Not just about the girl on his lap, but about wishing I had never left the job with Take That? I mean, it was him I did it for!” she sighed.
Kian hugged her, “I know. But this is Nicky. You know what he is like with a hangover, especially first thing in the morning! And this thing with the girl on his lap, there was nothing to it, really. The girl was drunk, tried it on with him, tried to get off with him, but he pushed her away and told her in very clear terms that he loved you and would never cheat on you.”
“That’s not the point, Kian. The point is that he told me he wished he hadn’t pushed her away,” she cried, “I cannot let that go. That fucking hurt!”
“Angry words, darling. He loves you to bits,” he smiled.
“Yeah!” she sighed. “No excuse though.”
Kian nodded, “I know it’s no excuse. But come on, you love him. And he loves you.”
“Funny way of fucking showing it,” she mumbled.
“Look, if you are not going to go back for him, then at least do it for us. We need you, Mandz. We are panicking, babe,” he smiled.
Mandy sighed and nodded as she folded her arms, “fine, but you tell him to stay the fuck away from me!”
Kian let go of her and smiled at her, “ok. Come on. Let’s go, eh?”
Mandy nodded and made her way back to the arena. When they got in, the others got up and smiled.
“Heeeeey good to have you back!” smiled Shane, hugging her.
“Thanks!” smiled Mandy, looking at Nicky from the corner of her eye. He was massaging his temples, sitting on the chair. He didn’t even look at her. Mandy sighed and got back to her place. She put the cd back in the stereo and looked at the lads. “Come on. Let’s do this!” she smiled. She was sure as hell not gonna let show that she was disappointed and upset. She was not giving Nicky the satisfaction. Nicky sighed and got in line with the others.
“Ok, if I let you go. You ready?” she beamed.
The lads all nodded and the music started. The lads started moving. Although she tried not to look at Nicky, just to not get annoyed, she couldn’t help herself. She spotted all the mistakes he was making.
“God, this is gonna be a mess tonight!” she muttered to herself. She then shook her head and looked at the others, performing really well. She managed to smile as she nodded to the music. When rehearsals was over, the cameramen and interviewer decided to interview all the lads. Nicky put on a great act. He knew Louis would have his hide if he remained in that mood. He even cracked a few jokes and acted all normal. When they were all done, they went towards Mandy.
“You ok to be interviewed?” asked the reporter.
“Me?” gasped Mandy. 
“Well yes!” she smiled, “We are filming this, and you are part of the documentary. I am sure the fans would appreciate to hear about all the hard work that goes behind the shows!”
Mandy sighed and nodded. If only they knew the truth. She sat down and looked at them as the cameramen got ready. The reporter started interviewing her. Mandy kept looking at Nicky every now and then. He looked at her and then looked away again. She had to admit, he looked like he was sorry. Not that she was ready to forgive him about his behaviour.
“So, you and Nicky!” smiled the reporter, “How long have you been together now?” Mandy tensed up, “Erm, about 6 months!” she shrugged.
“Wow! And he left his wife for you, is that right?” she smiled.
Mandy sighed loudly, “I am not prepared to talk about that!”
The reporter looked at her. Mandy sighed again, “Look, can you stop filming a sec please?”
She nodded and instructed the cameramen to stop the cameras. Mandy looked at her. “Not being funny or anything and don’t wanna sound rude, but isn’t the point of this filming to discover about the lives of Westlife and what they do in a typical westlife day?” she asked.
“Yes!” nodded the reporter.
“Well, then I don’t think it is appropriate to ask about relationships. I am not comfortable in answering questions about Nicky’s ex wife or what happened between us. That is private!” she shrugged.
“Oh fine. Fair enough. I’m sorry!” she answered.
“It’s ok. I am sorry, but it’s just that...well...since me and Nicky got together, I have read of lots of not very nice things about me, and I cannot stand it! People just seem to want us to fail, and judging by the way things are going today, they might actually get their wish,” she sighed.
“Well, maybe this is the chance to put things straight, and explain yourself!” she smiled encouragingly.
“I don’t have to explain myself to anyone. What happens in my love life and in Nicky’s love life is no-one’s business but ours. Everyone else can think what they want. I am not bothered with what I read.” She shrugged.
“Ok then. We’ll just ask questions about the job, ok?” she smiled.
Mandy nodded and the interviewing continued. Every so often, Mandy shot Nicky a look and he shot her a look back. When it was all over, the filming team left and the lads and Mandy were left there alone.
“So...how did that go?” smiled Brian, sitting beside her.
“Not too bad. Had to stop and give them my thoughts on the kinds of questions and assumptions they were making, but it went pretty well!” she smiled.
Brian looked at Nicky, who was sitting down, not talking to anyone and keeping himself to himself! He then looked at Mandy, who looked just as miserable.
“Why don’t you go and talk to him?” he smiled, putting his hand on her shoulder. Mandy looked at him and shook her head, “I think he has said enough, don’t you?” 
“You know that you are gonna talk eventually, and we have the concert to do tonight. He will give a much better performance if this argument is resolved!” he sighed. Mandy shook her head stubbornly, “If he wants to talk to me, he can come and do it. He will make the first move. I am done with trying to put things right and doing all the hard work in this relationship. He did wrong, not me!” she argued.
Nicky looked at them. He knew they were talking about him. He grumpily got up and left the room. Mandy and Brian looked at him.
“We all know that’s not gonna happen!” laughed Brian.
Mandy shrugged, “His problem if he lets his pride come before our relationship. He knows where I am if he wants to make up. And if he thinks I am gonna put up with one of his I am sorry, I was not feeling too well stories, he is wrong. I want him to realise exactly what it was he said to me, and realise why I am very hurt about it.” She got up and stormed off. The concert was already taking place. Mandy sat by the side of the stage watching them. They seemed to be getting on ok. Even Nicky had put all his efforts in, and despite some mistakes, which they all laughed at, he managed to make it through. They were now at the part where they were thanking everyone and Brian was saying his thanks.
“We just want to say thanks to everyone who has made this concert possible. Firstly, our super amazing band behind us. We couldn’t do this without you. Thank you!” he smiled, turning around to face them. He then turned back to the screaming fans, “Secondly, to Louis, we wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for you mate. Cheers. And lastly, but certainly not least, to Mandy. Thanks sweetheart. Thanks for all your hard work and dedication. And thanks for putting up with us. I really dunno how you do it!” he grinned. He looked to the side of the stage and smiled at her. Nicky frowned and looked at the ground.
“In fact, you know what, ladies and gentlemen, I am gonna pull her up on stage. We always thank her but never bring her up and I truly think she deserves it…and I want a big round of applause to her, alright? She has the patience of a saint when it comes to us. She deserves a huge round of applause!”
Mandy shook her head, “No, Brian! Don’t!” she hissed.
“Come on, Mandy, don’t be shy!” he teased, going up to her. He grabbed her hand and pulled her up.
“Brian, I said no. I cannot go up there!” she whispered.
“Oh rubbish. You deserve the credit, Mandy. Now stop arguing and get up there!” he grinned.
Mandy stood there, feeling very uncomfortable in front of the crowd in front of her. She blushed slightly and smiled. Thankfully, she couldn’t see past the front row because of all the lights.
“Come on people. A huge round of applause for all the hard work this woman has done. Without her, we would all probably be sitting in stools all evening with sore arses!” he joked. Everyone laughed and went mad on the cheers. Mandy flinched when she heard a few boos amongst the crowd. She knew full well what that was all in aid of. She frowned and looked at Brian, who just shook his head, telling her not to worry about them. She couldn’t help but feel bad about it though.
“Oh come on people!” scolded Shane, “What was that all about?”
Mandy just didn’t know whether to run or walk out. Shane grabbed her hand and stopped her.
“So she is going out with Nicky? So what?” he continued, “Is that such a crime that she has to be booed!”
“Shane stop. You are just making things worse!” whispered Mandy.
Shane squeezed her hand and shook his head. Mandy looked at Nicky, who just stared at her and frowned, bowing his head down and shaking his head. She then looked back at the crowd. She snatched the mic off Shane and walked to the front of the stage.
“Normally, I wouldn’t do this!” she sighed, looking and squinting from the bright lights, “But tonight I cannot help myself.”
The crowd went quiet and all the attention was now on her. She blushed at the thought of thousands of fans just sitting there listening to her and grew butterflies in her stomach.
“I know a lot of you probably liked Nicky’s ex wife, but that is what she is now. An ex wife, and like it or not, you’re gonna have to face the fact that we are together now. I am sorry I stole some of your dreams of getting together with Nicky, but we are in love and we are going to stay together…At least…I hope we are…” She turned around and looked at Nicky straight in the eye. He gave her a brief look, a small nod and then looked away. “To whoever cheered at us, thank you so much. It means a lot to us. To those who booed, believe everything you read about what Kris did to make Nicky stray away. That is all I am saying! Now thank you for your time, and goodbye!” She handed the mic back to Shane, looked at Nicky, who just gave her a shocked look and she stormed off wiping her tears off.
“A round of applause ladies and gentlemen!” grinned Kian, trying to bring the audience back. Mandy just bowed her head down and covered her face with her hands while the other girls put their arms around her comfortingly. She stayed at the side of the stage after she finished crying, sighed and watched the encore. When they all came offstage, they decided that they were too tired to go out, and all headed back to the hotel.
“Great show lads!” complimented Mandy, “and you all did really well!”

Brian went up to her and gave her a hug, “Are you ok?” He mumbled close to her.
Mandy sniffed and nodded, “I’m fine. I’ll be ok.”
The lads all hugged her after Brian, except for Nicky. He didn’t know what to do. His hangover was much better now, and he regretted everything he had said to Mandy. Only thing was, he was used to her making the first moves in apologising, but she showed no sign of doing that this time. He sighed and just gave her a little smile. Mandy looked away, shook her head and looked out the window. He frowned and bowed his head down. Next thing he knew, they were all back at the hotel.
“God I need my bed!” moaned Kian, “I am so tired!”
Angie just looked at him, “Hope you’re not too tired, Kino!”
Kian looked at her and grinned, “Got anything in mind?”
“Might have a thing or two up my sleeve!” she smirked.
“Well then. I might not be so tired after all!” he winked. 

They all headed towards the lift, except for Mandy, who hovered around the lobby. “You not coming up, Mandz?” called out Shane.
Mandy didn’t want to be alone with Nicky. She was far too hurt to even talk to him. She just shook her head, “Might go for a few drinks at the bar. Might even get myself booked into another room. Dunno! I am not sure about anything anymore,” she shrugged.
“Mandz, come on. This is stupid!” sighed Nicky.
Mandy shot him a look, “Is it? Is it really? You think it’s stupid, Nicky? You just think back to what it was that you said to me, and then decide if it is stupid or not!” she spat.
Nicky sighed and shook his head. He got into the lift and looked at her as the doors closed. Shane looked at him.
“You should go back down there and talk to her, mate.” He advised.
“This coming from someone who has just split up from someone, without fighting for her!” he rolled his eyes. He instantly regretted saying it.
“I am sorry, man. I am just annoyed at myself for letting it get to this. I didn’t mean it!” he sighed.
“It’s ok!” smiled Shane, “But really. Just go down there and talk to her.”
“I will as soon as I have my shower!” he smiled.
They all got out of the lift and each went to their rooms. Nicky quickly showered and changed and then made his way downstairs. He hoped Mandy was in the hotel bar. He poked his head in and looked around. The bar seemed to be empty, but he managed to see Mandy sitting at one of the tables, looking deep into space. He smiled and casually walked in. He got himself a drink, and seeing that hers was nearly finished, he got her one. He nervously walked over to her table and stood in front of her.
“Any room for a pathetic loser?” he asked with a timid smile.
Mandy looked at him and then looked away, “It’s a free bar!” she shrugged.
Nicky sighed and took a seat opposite her. He handed her the drink.
“What’s that?” she asked coldly.
“A peace offering?” he asked in the form of a question.
“But what is it?” she asked through gritted teeth.
“Vodka and coke!” he said, “What you always drink!”
“Don’t want it! You have it!” she pushed it away.
Nicky sighed and looked at her, “Come on, Mandz. I am trying to apologise here!”
“I said I don’t want it!” she growled, “I am dehydrated enough as it is, after all the sweating from rehearsals. Alcohol will dehydrate me even more!”
“Fine. What are you having?” he sighed.
“Water!” she shrugged.
He got up with the drink and took it back to the bar, to replace it with a water. When he was at the bar, Anna and Mark joined him.
“Nicky. What are you doing here?” smiled Anna.
“Thought I’d try my luck and make up with Mandy!” he smiled.
“Oooh good luck with that!” sniggered Anna, “You’re gonna need it, in the mood she is in!”
“I know!” he sighed, “This is gonna be harder than I thought!”
“Only got yourself to blame!” she sang.
“Oh, I know!” he sighed, getting the water and walking back to her table. He sat down and handed her the bottle of water. Mandy didn’t even look at him.
“So…are any of your lap dancers here tonight? Am I cramping your style?” She asked him without looking at him.
“Mandz. I am sorry about that, ok?” he said softly, looking at her lovingly.
Mandy just shrugged.
“I didn’t mean to snap at you!” he continued.
“Snap at me? You think I am pissed at you coz you snapped at me? Oh you have no idea!” she shook her head.
Nicky looked at her, “I was feeling rough, ok? Yes, I know it was my fault, and that it was self-inflicted, but I was still feeling like crap, and I just couldn’t handle it. Any sudden move and I felt as sick as a dog!”
“You showed me up in front of everyone, Nicky. And you had no right to have a go at me like that!” she growled.
“What about you? You virtually scolded me in front of everyone, as if I was some five year old school boy!” he argued back.
“Well, you were acting like one!” she snarled back.
Nicky sighed and shook his head, “Mandy, I did not come here to have an argument, ok? I came here to make up with you. Come on, I love you!”
“Do you? Do you, really?” she said dryly.
“You know I love you more than anything in this world!” he furrowed his eyebrows.

Mark and Anna looked at them from their table, “Have to give it to her. She is certainly not making it easy for him!” laughed Mark.
“Good on her!” smiled Anna, “It’s pretty bad what he told her!”
Mark laughed and shook his head, “Women. You always stick together!”
“Come on, Mark. Even you have to admit that he was out of order!” she smiled.
Mark sipped his drink and nodded, “Yeah. I suppose!”
“Oh, you suppose?” she laughed.
Mark grinned at her, “Come here and sit on my lap!” he winked.
“What? Mark, we are in the hotel bar!” she laughed.
“So? I just wanna be close to you!” he smiled sweetly.
Anna rolled her eyes and sat on his lap, flinging her arms around his neck. Mark kissed her neck and then looked at her, “If I ever tell you anything like that, like what Nicky told Mandz, I want you to slap me, ok?”
“Oh don’t you worry about that!” she laughed, “I have every intention of doing so!” 

Mandy leaned on the table and looked into his eyes, “Nicky. You told me that you wished that I had never quit my job with Take That, and that I was still back in England with them instead of being here with you. That, to me, meant that you didn’t want to be with me. You wanted me to be with someone else. Wishing that we were not together anymore. You then also told me that you had a girl on your lap last night and that you wished that you hadn’t pushed her away,” she growled with tears in her eyes, “or has that escaped your tiny little mind? What, you wish that you had not stopped that kiss she tried to give you? That’s right, I know all about that too.”
“Come on, Mandz, you are reading too much into that. That’s not what I meant at all!” He sighed.
“Oh, is it not? It’s what it sounded like to me! It is how it made me feel. I’m not too sure I can forget you ever said that you wished you hadn’t pushed her off your lap so you could cheat on me.” She grunted as more tears snuck out of her eyes. She quickly wiped them off.
Nicky bowed his head in shame and shook his head, “I didn’t mean that, baby. I really wish I could unsay it. I instantly regretted it after I said it. I am sorry ok? What more can I do?”
Mandy looked at him for a few seconds and shook her head, “And you think that by saying sorry it makes everything alright, does it?”
“Well, I dunno what else to do. Tell me, what do I do?” he whined in desperation. Mandy shook her head, “That’s just it, isn’t it? You are so used to me sorting our fights out, every time we have a fight, you have no idea how to go about it!”
“I have already said I am sorry, Mandy. I cannot do much more than that. You want me to kneel down and beg for forgiveness now? Coz you know I will do it!” he looked into her eyes. He then got up and kneeled down in front of her.
“I am sorry. I am so sorry, Mandy. Please, forgive me. I did wrong, and I know that. I am an idiot who lets his temper get the better of him. I know I did wrong. Please let me make it up to you!” he begged.
“Nicky, what are you doing? Get up!” she hissed. She wanted to laugh at the sight of him in front of her, but managed to stop herself.
Nicky smiled and got back to his seat, “I really am sorry, Mandz. I really am. God, I would do anything to make it up to you!”
“Anything?” she asked, raising a brow at him.
“Name it, I’ll do it!” she smiled.
Mandy thought about this and then looked at him.
“Oh god, what?” he asked, starting to worry.
Mandy grinned, “Take me shopping tomorrow!”
“What?” he shrieked.
“You heard!” she smiled smugly.
Nicky looked at her and smiled, “You know I would do anything for you!”
She then got up and went to walk out of the bar. Nicky looked at her walking away, and decided to follow her. As she passed by Anna and Mark, she gave them a wink and a grin and walked out, with Nicky running after her.
“Where are you going?” he panted, catching up with her.
Mandy looked at him, as she pressed the button to call the lift. She didn’t say anything, just stood there waiting.
“Mandz, come on. Are you not gonna talk to me now?” he sighed.
The doors opened and they both got in. When they got in and the lift started moving up, she pressed the stop button and looked at him.
“Mandz, wh-what are you doing?” he worried.
Mandy gave him her most seductive look and walked towards him. She flung her arms around his neck and looked at him, “Kiss me, Nicky Byrne, and make love to me, right here, right now!”
“Huh?” he asked, shocked and very aware that the lift was stopped somewhere between the 7th and 8th floor, “here?” he squeaked.
Mandy bit her lip and nodded, “That’s right. Right here.” She bit his lip as she raised her knee and rubbed it against his groin, “Right now! You said you would do anything to make things up to me. Do this.”
“But what if someone decides the lift is stuck, and fixes it, and we are...you know...” he said, making gestures with his hands.
“I thought you wanted to make up with me!” she raised her eyebrow.
“I do! God, you know I do...but what’s wrong with our room?” he added nervously. Mandy shook her head, “This is more exciting, in here. Always wanted to make love in an elevator. I always wanted to find out what Aerosmith were on about with their song. Loving it up when we’re going down. Go down on me, Nicky. What are you waiting for, Byrne. You too scared to get it on in here?” Nicky grinned and pushed her against the wall of the lift, kissing her frantically and lifting her leg, wrapping it around his waist while he unbuttoned his jeans, “Scared? Never! I’ll show you how it’s done!” 

Chapter Text

Anna and Mark made their way to the lifts, after having had one drink at the bar. “Wonder if they have made up!” smiled Anna.
Mark snorted, “That cheeky wink she gave us before she left tells me she had every intention on doing so!”
Anna smiled and nodded. They waited a bit longer for the lift, in silence. Mark went to press the button again.
“What is wrong with this lift?” he sighed, continuing to press the button.
“Might be broken!” shrugged Anna, “Let’s take the stairs!”
“All the way up to the 8th floor? Not bloody likely!” he laughed, looking around. He saw the bellboy standing there, and walked up to him, “Excuse me mate, any idea what’s wrong with the lift? We have been waiting for 5 minutes!”
“Well, we haven’t had any reports of it being broken, but I’ll go and check!” he smiled. Mark nodded and continued pressing the button. The bellboy then came back and looked at Mark, “Nothing has been reported, but they are going to have a look!”
“Thanks!” smiled Mark, leaning against the wall.
“We would have already been in our room by now!” sighed Anna, looking at the time. Mark just looked at her and laughed.
“What?” she grinned.
“You just wanna get me upstairs and have your wicked way with me!” he grinned.
“Don’t you know it?” she winked, leaning against the wall beside him.
The bellboy came back after ten minutes, saying the lift was stuck between the 7th and 8th floor and that they were trying to fix it. Mark looked at Anna.
“How about another drink at the bar?” he smiled.
“You’re telling me, you would rather sit and wait than take the stairs?” she gasped in laughter, “You’re a lazy git, Feehily!”
Mark just grinned, “Any excuse for another drink!”
“Yeah, any excuse to get out of walking up a few flights of stairs. You could do with the exercise too!” she giggled, poking his stomach.
Mark flipped back, “Oi! None of your cheekiness!” he leaned towards her and kissed her quickly on the lips. After they went to have another drink, they walked back to the lift, in time to see it opening. Inside, Mandy and Nicky were cuddling, and were not looking at all tidy. Anna just stood there with her mouth wide open and Mark could not help but laugh.
“Have you been in these lifts this whole time?” he chuckled.
Nicky grinned, “Great timing eh, for it to break down?”
Mark looked at them suspiciously, “You sure it broke down, or did you just make it stop?”
Nicky gritted his teeth and looked at him, “It broke down!”
Mark didn’t quite believed him, especially the way his shirt was a button further up than it should have been and Mandy’s hair looked like she had been caught in gale force winds. He shook his head and got inside the lift. He pressed the button and leaned against the wall, holding onto Anna’s waist.
“God, it smells like sex in here! Someone ought to report that to the bellboy too!” he teased, looking at Mandy and Nicky from the corner of his eyes. Mandy blushed deeply and Nicky tried to suppress his laughter.
“God, Jesus Christ, anyone have some spray to take this whiff off this lift?” winced Mark jokingly, waving his hands about his nose. Mandy looked at Nicky and sighed. Anna just nudged him and shook her head. Mark gave her a wink and looked around the room again. He looked at the floor, “Oh my god, is that a pair of knickers on the floor there?” he shrieked, pointing at nothing. Mandy and Nicky quickly looked, both of them bearing the same shocked look on their faces, but both seeing nothing. Mark fell back in laughter.
“If you two are so innocent as you say you are, why were you so quick to look at the floor, and what was up with the panicked look on both your faces?” he chortled.
Mandy sighed and stepped in, “Ok, fine. Fine, you win. We had sex in this lift, ok? Happy now?”
Mark grinned at her and gave her a cheeky wink, “Now that wasn’t so hard, was it?” Mandy leaned to the side to look at Anna, “Anna, control your man before I really pound on him!”
“What? Isn’t Nicky enough for you that you have to go for me too?” he winked. He teasingly walked over to Mandy and placed his hands on her hips, “You know I have always had a thing about you!”
Mandy sighed, giving up and looked at Anna, “Who’s gonna do it, you or me?” she asked with a voice of exasperation.
“I’ll do it Mandz!” smiled Anna, as she whacked him round the head.
“Ow!” he winced, rubbing the back of his head, “What did you do that for?” `
“For crossing the line. Feehily!” she smirked. She tried to look annoyed, but that didn’t quite work. He just grinned and pulled Anna towards him, “You know I only have eyes for you, sweetie!”
“Good, coz I wouldn’t want to share those eyes with anyone else, you got that?” she smiled.
“Well and clear!” he whispered, before pressing his lips against hers. Mandy and Nicky looked at each other.
“Looks like it’s their turn now!” Nicky nudged Mandy.
“Oi, we heard that, Nico, and we don’t do those kind of things in places like these!” grinned Mark.
“No sense of adventure some people!” teased Nicky.
Mark smiled and pulled away from Anna, “All I am saying is, keep away from the balcony tonight or you might get an eyeful!”
Nicky grimaced, “Oh god, stop putting pictures in my head, mate!”
Mark laughed and walked out of the lift holding Anna’s hand. Nicky laughed and walked out with Mandy.
“Night guys. And try and not be too loud, eh?” he smirked.
“Same goes to you, Nico!” yelled Anna, as she got dragged into her room.