(A/N: What's good everyone??!?

I'm so excited for y'all to read this. It's time to start this crazy journey called novel writing all over again!)

Gabrielle
July 23rd
9:42am

     The wind whipped my hair around my face as I sped down the road. Of course, I had to be scheduled for a meeting with a promoter so close to Michael's interview! It's not his first one, sure, but I promised I'd be there for every one.

     Pulling up to the set that had the sign "Leeza" on the front, I hurriedly cut the ignition and start running inside. Once I open the side door, I smile when I see Amiyah is already there waiting. She keeps pace with me as I whip my sunglasses off.

     "Alright, what's the plan for today, 'Miyah?"

      She scrolls on her iPad. "Well, y'all ain't got much, actually. After this interview's over at 11, you and Mike got a photoshoot with People Magazine at 1, and y'all have been asked to make an appearance at the opening of the new club that Mike's a part owner of. That's around 10 tonight. Other than that, you're free."

     As I listen, I wave and smile at the set crew, making my way towards the back. I also pass by Jesse, Bishop's partner, who's keeping a sharp eye out for anyone trying to start trouble. "Wow, only 2 more things to do today? That's rare. Do you know how Jordan is?"

     Amiyah rolls her eyes. "Girl, I tried telling Melanie's stubborn ass to stay home, but she just got Bishop to babysit."

     I laugh to myself. Melanie loves her work, I swear.

     Amiyah and I get close to the makeup table where Melanie already has Michael in her chair. Before I get close enough, Amiyah pats my arm.

     "Just don't be so late to the next ones, aight?" she grins, then turns in the opposite direction. "WE GOT 10 MINUTES, PEOPLE, LET'S MOVE!"

    I shake my head and keep walking to Melanie's table. When she turns around to grab another brush, I sneakingly wrap my arms around Michael's shoulders.

     "Did you miss me?"

     He turns around, and the smile on his face makes my heart melt. "I always do, Lady." As he softly kisses my cheek, I can hear Melanie kiss her teeth.

     "Man, you two are something else! It's only been a few hours, chill." She rolls her eyes jokingly, lightly brushing Michael's cheek with foundation.

     Michael frowns and sits still while I take my arms off of him. "I swear, I'll never get used to this. Why you got to cake my face in all this mess anyway?"

     "Because you need it!" I laugh when he scowls at me. "I mean, these cameras and lights are harsher, and you want your skin to look how it normally does, right?"

     "Yeah, you can't be looking too oily or ashy." Melanie chimes in, smirking. "And I'm not gonna let you go out there looking like you don't have a mirror or a friend."

     I smile and give her a high five. "And nobody will do your makeup better than Melanie."

     Michael just shakes his head as Melanie leans back, proud of her work. I look around and see Leeza Greneer, the talk show host who's show Michael's on today, already in her famous purple chair. She smiles at us, then motions for Michael to come over. There's another chair across the small coffee table where the guests sit, which Michael already has a few times.

     I'm glad that Leeza took a chance on us when we were first starting out. She's been one of the main reasons Michael is gaining more fans each show. She's also one of the few interviewers that Michael has come to trust because of her honesty and genuine personality.

     "TWO MINUTES, Y'ALL! TWO MINUTES!"

      Amiyah's warning snaps me out of my thoughts. I wave at Melanie as she goes off, probably to find Nelson, and watch as Michael starts fumbling with his jacket.

     Moving his hands away to fix his collar, I giggle to myself. "Oh, Applehead. You know they'll love you."

     He laughs, lowering his lips to mine. Nothing else needed to be said after a kiss like that. It's time for the show.

     We split up, Michael going over to the guest's chair, while I went to watch by the cameraman. The murmuring of the studio audience starts to quiet down. I can hear the director start to count down right when Nelson and Melanie come to stand next to me. I flash them a smile, then go back to watching Michael when the intro music plays.

     Then, the director cues the camera and the studio bursts into applause. I can't help but join in, Nelson chuckling next to me. Leeza just smiles, patiently waiting.

     "Alright! Welcome back, everyone, and thanks for tuning in! I have here with me today a very special guest and friend to the show," she pauses when a few girls scream in the back, chuckling. "And apparently a lady killer. Please help me welcome Grammy-nominated artist, Michael!"

     The applause starts up again and Michael waves back at the audience, loving the attention.

     Leeza chuckles again as the noise dies down. "Now, Michael, I'm going to get right into it, since we're all dying to know. It's been about 6 months since your first live performance with the lovely Gabrielle Washington, " She gives me a wink. "And your single has skyrocketed on the charts since. On top of that, you've been nominated for two BET awards, Best New Artist and Best R&B Album. How do you feel about your newfound fame so far?"

     Michael smiles. "It's been amazing, honestly. I never imagined that a song I made a cover of when I was still in grade school would be this huge. People recognizing my work already feels like, almost like I've made it, ya know? This whole thing has been a roller-coaster, but having people I love with me makes it even better."

     A few people in the audience nod in approval, while Nelson, Melanie, and I smile at each other. I'm especially glad Michael's stayed humble through all this and hasn't forgotten about us.

     "Now all that's left is to promote that album, Facts of Life, with a tour. Hopefully we'll get some tour dates soon." Leeza grins, nudging his shoulder. "Also, speaking of people you love, there's been rumours circling around lately that you and your singing partner Gabrielle have more than just a business relationship. Care to let us in?"

     I blush as Michael smiles big, running a hand through his hair. "It's not a secret, for real. I'm surprised no one else has bothered to figure it out yet."

     "Granted, you've only been on the scene for a few months." Leeza chimes in, throwing her strawberry-blonde hair over her shoulder. "Besides, I've just been waiting for you to confirm the story. I've seen how you two act backstage."

     Everyone chuckles, Michael's smile never leaving his face. "True enough. People don't see too much of her only because she doesn't like to do appearances much. But yeah, Gabi's been a real blessing to me. She's my partner in crime."

     Leeza smiles. "That's very sweet of you! How long have the two of you been together?"

     "Hm, a little over 5 years now. Our anniversary just passed a little while ago, actually. It just makes me realize I love her more every year."

     The crowd 'oohs' and 'awhs' while Nelson snickers next to me, and I can barely feel my cheeks they're so hot.

     Leeza's eyes widen and she leans in close. "Oh wow, it's certainly been a while! Have you tied the knot already? Please tell me you have. Don't you let this girl go without a diamond now, Michael!"

     Everyone chuckles again while Michael blushes slightly, meeting my eyes. "Not yet, but it won't be long. I want to give Gabi the wedding she's dreamed about. With all she's been through and puts up with me, she deserves it."

     By now I'm covering my face with my hands, a big goofy grin on my face, while the audience applauds loudly. Michael had already told me all of this, but to hear it in front of a crowd... Just wow.

     Leeza claps a little, too. "Goodness, young love. I can't get enough!" she laughs. "Now one last question about the music, can we expect a new album within the year?"

     "Oh yeah, for sure. Probably sooner than planned, I hope. I want to do less covers and more of my own work, you know? I think the people will like it."

     "Oh anything you release is sure to have people on the edge of their seats, Michael." She smiles, then turns to the camera next to me. "Let's give a hand to Michael, everyone! And stay tuned, there's more of 'Leeza' coming up next."

     The applause continues as the camera pans away from Michael and Leeza chatting, and Leeza's director yells cut. I start to go up to them, but before I can, Melanie comes over while Nelson wraps me in a hug, smushing my face in his shoulder.

     "Hey, you're messing up my makeup! I have a shoot to go to, you know." I playfully push him away.

     He kisses his teeth. "Oh, so you too good to give your own big cousin a hug now. I see you Gabi."

     I laugh while Melanie shakes her head. "So childish. But aye, me and Nel are going home to Jordan. You know he's driving Bishop crazy."

     "That's good. Hey, can me and Michael come by after the shoot? We haven't had much downtime together!"

     She waves her hand at me while Nelson grabs her makeup case. "Oh chica, you know you're always welcome at the house! Besides, you can hang with us since your club thing is just down the street."

     "Thanks, Mel." I smile. "We'll see you in a bit. And I'll see you too, cousin!"

     Nelson waves back with a smile, holding Melanie's makeup case, while she snakes her arm around his waist. They turn and leave, and before I know it, two arms come up to wrap around me.

     "Did you like the show?"

     I don't even have to wonder who's voice it is. Turning around, I lightly kiss Michael's cheek, careful not to mess up his foundation. Luckily, we won't have to reapply our makeup and whatnot before the photoshoot.

     "Of course I did." I say, waving goodbye to Leeza. Michael takes my hand and we start to leave the set. "You always ask me that, but my answer's always the same."

      He shrugs as we get to my car in the lot. "Your opinion means a lot to me, so I can't help but ask."

     I smile to myself, unlocking the doors and getting in. Once Michael is in, I start the car and make my way to the main street. It'll be only another 10 minutes before we're supposed to meet with People Magazine, just enough time. I see Jesse in the rear view, not too close, but not too far away.

     A comfortable silence comes over us, and I get lost in my thoughts. I hope there isn't any trouble once we get to the shoot. I don't like to do a lot of this type of thing, but Michael insisted on me being with him for this one. Nelson advised me to go too, if only to help with Michael's image. There were rumors, though, that the photographers there were real critical.

     I took note of my long-sleeved, tight maroon dress that went to my mid-thigh. I had my gold Honey necklace around my neck, with my engagement ring, a simple gold band like Michael's, on my left hand and a gold bracelet on the same wrist. My hair was in it's usual waves.

     Sure it was simple, but good enough. I hope.

     I feel a light tap under my chin and see Michael staring at me.

     "You're biting your lip again, or more like tearing into it. What's the matter?"

     I frown, not even bothering to try and hide what I'm thinking. He'd just figure it out, anyway.

     "It's a photo shoot. You know I don't like having my picture taken. And with how critical the media can be..."

     I trail off, Michael staying silent until we pull up to the studio the shoot is being held in. Before I can get out, he softly holds my chin, making me face him.

     "Lady, don't you let these people psych you out and make you doubt yourself like that. You're beautiful because you're you, and can't nobody tell you different just because of how you look." He then smirks at me. "Not to mention that ass. It beyond me how anybody could not like that."

     I laugh at his silly self, resting my hand on his. "You pervert. But thank you, Michael, really."

     He smiles back when I laugh, and we both step out of the car. As we walk inside, there's a few assistants finishing up the background and putting up lights, while the photographer waves us in.

      "Come in, come in! You're just in time, actually! By the way, call me Gabe." He steps away from his camera and walks up to us both, kissing both my cheeks in a greeting. A stern look from Michael stops Gabe from doing the same to him, and instead just shakes his hand. Gabe smiles, looking unaffected.

     "Now we can just jump right into it, though take a minute or two to freshen up if you like."

     Michael shakes his head, flashing his signature smirk. "Nah, we're good. Let's get it done, man."

     Nodding, Gabe waves us to the center of the studio, where there's a few violet and white roses around for decoration. As we stand where he directs us, he goes back to get his camera while his assistant finishes setting up the lighting.

     "Alright, I want the both of you to just act natural. Ignore the random comments, it's just a quirk, ya know?" Gabe holds the camera to his eye. "Now, go!"

     Michael and I just glance at each other, amused. This guy's method of doing things is certainly... different.

     "YASS, love! Give me more!"

     I laugh out loud. To think, I was nervous not even 15 minutes ago about coming in here.

      Michael just rolls his eyes, though his smile is light. "Well Lady, the man said he wants more."

     I simply rest my hands on his face, too giddy to reply, and he leans down so I can give him a hint of a kiss on his cheek.

     Maybe photoshoots weren't such a bad thing.

********
     4:15pm

     I stand corrected. I'm not doing anymore photoshoots for a long, long time.

     "Gabi, I said I was sorry. Dude was asking for it, though."

     Kissing my teeth, I make a left, driving out of the studio parking lot. "Just be glad Gabe was nice enough to convince that guy not to press charges."

     Michael furrows his eyebrows, frowning and looking out of the window. He looked annoyed, but I don't care. The shoot would've went on with no problems if he didn't start fighting the assistant.

     Actually, the assistant started it all. After Gabe took the last picture, he invited us to take a look before he sent them to the editor. His assistant, Ryan, took a look also. When he saw, he made a comment about my weight, saying that my dress was too tight and that he "saw more than he wanted to".

     It did sting me a bit. I probably still have a sour look on my face. Michael seemed even more upset when he saw my expression. He kept his cool, until Ryan made another crass comment I don't want to think about. A rude attempt at hitting on me, really. That's when Michael lost it.

     Long story short, Ryan's broken nose and dislocated shoulder is going to keep him out of work for a few days.

     I let out a heavy sigh. "You could get away with that in Compton, but not in L.A. You don't usually snap that fast, Michael, what happened?"

     "He talked about you like you were some trick on the street!" He says, slamming his hand on the armrest. "And I knew it upset you, and you being upset makes me upset. I want that smile to never leave your face."

     Hearing that makes a small smile creep on my face, and in turn the corner of his lips curl up in a smirk. I feel myself calm down some as I drive to Melanie's house.

     "I just worry, you know that. If Ryan had called the police, you would've been arrested, and you know that would cause more problems than its worth."

     It grew silent as I turned onto Melanie's street, pulling up to park in front of her house. It's a modest, two story, centennial style house in a secluded neighborhood. I'm glad Nelson and Melanie found a place where they wouldn't be found out by paparazzi too much, since most of the people here were pretty well off.

     I cut the engine, looking at Michael again. He had so much irritation in his eyes, though I know it's not directed at me. I lightly rest my hand on his arm.

     "Believe me, I want to slap anyone who even looks at you the wrong way, but we have to keep a good reputation. People are gonna say anything and everything about us. It's just the business we're in now."

     He starts to relax a little, smirking. "Yeah, I know. I'll keep my cool, just as long as nobody touches you. Only I'm allowed to do that."

     I chuckle, shaking my head. Trust him to always make a dirty joke even in a serious situation.

     We both get out of the car, and as we come to the door, Melanie already seems to know we're here and let's us in. She already has Jordan in her arms, laying against her chest.

     "Y'all finally made it! There's some pizza in the kitchen if you want any. I'm too beat to make anything else until later."

     I step inside, arms open wide to hold Jordan, while Michael closes the door behind me. "Awh, have you been keeping your mama busy, JoJo?"

     Jordan starts making little cooing noises, a smile forming on his face. I glance over the curly mop of black hair on his head, bright green eyes and dimples in his cheeks. They contrasted nicely with his tanned skin. He was just gorgeous.

     "I'm not surprised, though. It's like I'm holding a mini Nelson." 

     Melanie rolls her eyes playfully, and I notice the bags underneath them. "Girl, you have no idea. We haven't slept since last night. Jordan had a fever because of the shot he got yesterday, and me and Nelson was worried as hell. He's fine now though."

     I frown at her. She should get some sleep. Maybe we can stay a while longer, if only to watch Jordan. I hand him to Michael, who starts blowing raspberries on his stomach and going into the den.

    "Why don't we watch him for you while you get some rest?" I say, Melanie and I following after him. "Michael's club opening doesn't start until 10. That gives you enough time, right?"

     Her shoulders slacken, and I see just how tired she really is. "Would you really, Gabs? Ay Dios mio, you're a lifesaver. First y'all pay for the nursery, and now you're babysitting!"

     I just hug her. "I'd only do it for you and Nelson. It's fine, really."

     Michael, overhearing our conversation, goes over to tap Nelson's shoulder while Jordan lay comfortably in his other arm.

     "Aye man, you and Melanie can head on upstairs. We'll watch the house for you. You look like you need the break."

     Nelson groans, rubbing his eyes. "Man, you don't even know. I owe you one, Mike."

     Both of them are so tired, they slowly stumble their way upstairs. Michael sits on the couch where Nelson just was a minute ago, leaning back and lightly bouncing Jordan on his knee. Hearing his giggles makes a smile grow on my face.

     "You want to watch a movie? I know they got Netflix on here."

     "Sure," I pass Michael the remote. "As long as it's Roll Bounce."

     He kisses his teeth. "That skating movie with Bow Wow in it? That's so old school."

     "What? I like the music." I shrug.

     Michael shakes his head, smiling. "Yeah, I know. I'll put that one on if you get the popcorn."

     I smile back, turning to head into the kitchen. Going right up to the cabinet, I grab a pack of the movie theater butter popcorn and place it in the microwave.

     Leaning back on the counter to wait, I look over and see my reflection in the mirror from the hallway, through the doorway of the kitchen. I notice my backside looking a little wider, and there's a slight wobble whenever I move my arms.

     I haven't gained that much weight, have I? I'm only twenty-five. This is normal, right? Though my reflection is telling me otherwise. I'll have to step up my exercise routine.

     The microwave beeps, and I stop it before it keeps beeping. I was looking forward to eating this, but now the buttery smell of the popcorn is making me feel worse. Maybe I'll just let Michael eat it.

      Taking the bowl back into the living room, I see the movie selection screen still on the TV. I look down, and what I see makes me pause.

     Michael is fast asleep, legs spread out and arms out wide. He's snoring lightly, Jordan slowly rising and falling on his chest with every breath he takes. I take a closer look and see Jordan fast asleep too. He must've been lulled to sleep by Michael's breathing.

     My heart swells at the sight. He seems so tough, but put him around babies and he's as gentle as ever. He must've been more tired than he let on.

     I turn off the TV and set aside the bowl of popcorn. Softly sitting next to the sleeping duo, I run my fingers through Jordan's hair, careful not to wake him. I giggle when his little foot twitches in his sleep, almost like a puppy. While I watch him, my head leans against Michael's shoulder, and I feel myself relax.

     Michael doesn't wake up, though he turns his head slightly so that it rests on top of mine. I snuggle close to him, my hand slowing down to rest on Jordan's back.

     I feel warm all over. This time we have to relax, when it comes around, is always special to me. We don't even have to be doing anything. Just sitting together sometimes is enough for me.

     Watching how well Michael interacts with Jordan only makes this time even better. I want this to be us one day. I know Michael would be a good father. Still, his music is just starting to take off, and I know how long he's been waiting for this. I'm willing to wait until he's ready, too. There's no one else I'd want to start a family with.

     The relaxing atmosphere and the steady sound of Michael's heartbeat calms me, and before I know it, I fall into a light sleep.

********
     9:42pm

     Finally, we're on our way to the premiere of Studio 51, the club Michael will be part owner of. Amiyah's driving us and tagging along, while Bishop is really our escort. Though it's a big investment, I'm hoping the buzz he's stirred up so far will help the club make our money's worth.

     Michael's hand squeezes mine in anticipation, his smile stretching across his face. It's no surprise he's excited, since now his brand is expanding.

     I chuckle at his eagerness. He's like a kid who's parents just told him that they're going to Disney Land.

     "Aye, none of that freaky deaky mess back there, this is just a rental."

     "'Miyah, calm down! We're not even doing anything." I laugh at her expression, though I stop when Bishop holds out his phone from the passenger seat.

     "Mhmm, that's not what Instagram is saying."

     I lean in to see what he's talking about, and I see a picture of what looks like Michael and I from earlier. Jordan is still on Michael's chest, and I had my arm around him. Michael must've shifted after I fell asleep, for his arms were around the both of us. It was posted by MelRogers with the caption 'maybe it's about time they had their own baby?? #thisoneismine #michael #mabi2k15'.

     ... We have a ship name now?

      Michael kisses his teeth. "Man, I told Melanie to quit taking pictures while I'm sleep. It's not a bad picture, though."

     I nod, already sending it to my phone. "I agree. This must be a regular thing. It's already got about 110,000 likes."

     "Mike, your fans are something else." Bishop scrolls down to the comments. "Look at what they saying on here! A bunch of heart eyes, 'Can't wait for the wedding! ❤❤', 'I ship it so hard!'."

     We all laugh, though his fans are pretty sweet.

     "Now that I look at it, maybe I should've changed my dress. I've been wearing it all afternoon." I say, pulling at my gown. It was tight, black with longsleeves, with a slit all the way up my leg and sheer material at the top.

     Amiyah jokingly rolls her eyes, turning away from the main street. "Girl, your dress was made especially for you! All I had was just some ol' thing from the back of my closet."

     Even though she says that, she looked better than she says. She's traded in her weaves a while ago for a naturally short, curly look. Her brown skin shone and contrasted nicely with her brick red lipstick. Her dress wasn't bad either, a sleeveless, skintight silver one that went to her mid-thigh. She looked gorgeous.

     Bishop seems to think so, too.

     "If it makes you feel any better, I think you look beautiful." He says in a slightly heavy tone.

     Amiyah doesn't reply, though her reflection in the rear view gives away her blush.

     Immediately I give Michael a quizzical look, and see him already mirroring my expression. Is this really happening right now? Who would've guessed Bishop would start flirting with Amiyah of all people? He's my friend though, so I won't jump to conclusions. I'll have to pester him later.

     Still, we couldn't help but glance at them every few seconds, even as we pulled up to the club's red carpet.

     The street was lit up for blocks, and there was a line of people waiting to get in wrapping around the corner. The paparazzi present were on either side of the velvet ropes, their cameras flashing the second we arrived.

     Bishop got out first, going around to open the backdoor. He stands to the side to give us room to get out, ready to help if needed.

     Michael climbs out, the press going crazy. He turns around and offers his hand to me, smiling big. I take his hand, and step down to the carpet, one foot at a time. Thank God I had Michael to hold onto. The camera flashes were so bright, I could hardly see in front of me. He walked through like a seasoned pro.

     I silently cursed myself. What good am I here if I can't see my way through? This isn't even half the number that normally surrounds Michael.

     I feel a light touch on my arm and in between flashes I see Bishop on my other side. He helps guide me along with Michael until we reach the front.

     Before I know it, the cutting of the ribbon is over with and people are filing inside the club. Most of them are locals, though a few faces I recognize as up and coming singers that we've met on the way. I've been so caught up in my thoughts, and now it's time to let loose.

     I follow Michael to the center of the dance floor, grinding couples all around us. I can't help but sway my hips to the music; especially when it's one of my favorite songs.

     Ass fat, yeah I know

     You jus got cash, blow some mo

     Blow some mo, blow some mo,

     The more you spend it, the faster it go, aye

     I can't stop myself. I'm, to put it lightly, throwing that ass in a circle. The steady beat makes me lose myself, and I faintly hear Michael chuckling over the music.

     "Still can't believe you like this song."

     I teasingly roll my eyes. "You got me into it! Don't judge me, this is my song!"

     Amiyah maneuvers her way through the crowd, and she and I start dancing together. A few men look on with a lewd look on their face, though before I get uncomfortable, Michael makes his way in between and rests his hands on my hips. He's smiling all big, probably making those same men real jealous.

     After the song ends, Michael takes my hand again and starts to lead me upstairs to the VIP section, Amiyah following.

      "Come on y'all, my partner saved us a special table up top. Said he wanted to introduce us to an investor."

     I frown at this. That sounds odd to me. "You didn't know the investor before you signed to own the club?"

     He just waves his hand at me. "Gabi, it's fine. I'm sure they won't be some gold digger. I trust this guy."

     I share a glance with Amiyah, both of us a little wary. I guess we'll have to wait and see.

     We go up the winding staircase, the neon blue and violet lights shining underneath. Upstairs, there's a dim, club feel that's typical of the spots around here. The only table in the center is the one I'm guessing is ours, since there's a short, hefty man waving us over, with Bishop sitting on one side and another woman that I don't recognize on the other.

     As we walk closer, the woman's looks are striking to me. She has a heart-shaped face, full lips, and dimples in her tanned cheeks, with jet black hair down her back and bright hazel eyes. She looks so familiar, and yet I'm sure I've never met her in my life...

     I notice Bishop sitting quietly, his signature grin gone from his expression. He looks at me, then the woman, his shoulders tense. I don't like the vibe I'm getting from him.

     What is going on here?

     The man steps up and shakes Michael's hand as he introduces himself to the rest of us. "Michael! Great to see you! I see you've brought quite the company."

     He nods, stepping aside so Amiyah and I can step forward, and points to us respectively.

     "I only keep the best. This is a friend of mine, Amiyah, and this beautiful lady right here is my fiance, Gabrielle."

     I reach forward and shake his hand after he shakes Amiyah's. "Oh, call me Gabi."

     "Well, Michael certainly got lucky with a woman like you on his arm!" He kisses the back of my hand, making me snicker at his corniness. "I'm Kevin Rhodes, but just call me Kevin."

     Michael rolls his eyes at Kevin's flirting, yet keeps his calm. "Yeah, yeah, man. Didn't you say you had someone to introduce us to?"

     "Oh yes! Let's get right to it."

     At this, Bishop moves out of the booth so that the woman can get out. He moves over behind me and Michael and says something just quietly enough for us to hear.

     "Whatever you do, don't flip your shit when you hear her name."

     Michael keeps his pokerface, but I hesitate, frowning. Did Bishop know her? And if so, is she dangerous? Before I can ask, he sets his hand on Amiyah's back and leads her away, whispering urgently in her ear.

     Kevin seems not to notice, and leads the woman in front of him, who smiles eagerly at us. "Michael, Gabi, I'd like to introduce you both to the investor that made this possible, Zara Washington. Hopefully we can do more business together!"

     I freeze. I barely feel Michael clutch my hand in a death grip. He's probably noticed it too, but we can't let it show. On the outside, I'm all smiles, but my mouth feels dry. I wouldn't be able to speak even if I wanted to.

     There weren't too many people with the name Washington around this area, and with her startling appearance, it all makes sense now. Zara, as in the cousin I never knew I had until five years ago.

      Zara, as in Angel's little sister.

(A/N: SOOO?? How was that for a first chapter of the sequel? What y'all think Angel's sister Zara is doing here? Find out in the next update of PoF!

Comment, vote, and all that jazz! Y'all know what to do.)