*~*SURPRISES*~* By Morana Luna Marchand (me)

[But Why's The Rum Gone?!?!?!]

Disclaimer: I know Benji and Joel are only 25, but this story is based in 2007(when I’m talking about how old we are now, Now is 2007), the year I graduate from High School. THIS NEVER HAPPENED AND PROBABLY NEVER WILL!!!!!

*~*SURPRISES*~*
Chapter 1: *Nikki’s POV*

“Where are we going?” I asked him as we sped away from the movie theater in his Black Ferrari with Hot Pink and Lime Green flames.
“You’ll see.” He said. I loved surprises.
This wasn’t our first date seeing as how we had been going out since I was 14, even though my parents didn’t know about him. Now I’m almost 18, and he’s 28.
This was our first date alone in a long time because we always went out with his identical twin brother, Joel, and the rest of the members of his band, Billy, Chris, and Paul, and whoever they were dating at the time.
It was prom night, and I wasn’t going because I wanted to spend my night with Benji. Then, I realized where we were. We were going to Billy’s house.

“I thought we were gonna spend the night alone together.” I said
“Calm down, Babe.” He said, smiling. God I love his smile! “We are gonna spend the night together, but first I’ve got a surprise for you at Billy’s house.”
He stopped at the stop sign by Billy’s house. He leaned over and gave me a kiss. ‘He’s so sweet. That’s why I love him.’ I thought as he kissed me.
We pulled into Billy’s driveway. He got out the car, walked over to my side and let me out. What a gentleman.
We walked up to Billy’s door and rang the doorbell.
Someone I didn’t expect to be there answered the door. Someone I hadn’t seen since I moved to Waldorf, Maryland, from Beaufort, South Carolina when I was 16, after I got my Driver’s License and got emancipation from my parents.
I thought I was hallucinating. It couldn’t be her. I had to be dreaming.
“Pinch me!” I said to Benji.
“OWW! I didn’t mean that hard.” I said. I was just kidding with him because he didn’t pinch me hard at all.

I looked the girl in the face. She looked the same as she did three years ago. She was tall, thin and had finally let her hair grow out so that it was its natural color, light, sandy brown.
I looked mostly the same despite the fact that I had lost a lot of weight, I had highlighted hair, and I had blue eyes because I was wearing colored contacts.
We stared at each other for a while, I guess it had to be quite a few minutes because Benji poked me on the shoulder and gave me a very strange look as if to say, ‘Who is that and why is she here?’
“Kathleen? Oh my God!” I said pulling her into a huge hug.


Chapter 2: *Nikki’s POV* [/i]

“Damn, Nikki!” she said. “You look great!”
“Thanx. You don’t look too bad yourself.” I said.
Benji and I followed Kathleen to the living room.

“Kathleen, this is my boyfriend, Benji.” I said with excitement. “Benji, this is one of my best friends from Beaufort, South Carolina, Kathleen.”

“Call me Honey.” She said shaking his hand. “Nice to meet you.”
“Honey? Did you actually get your name changed like you planned?” I asked.
“Yep. My name is now Honey Marie Thomas, but it’s about to change again.” She said excitedly, flashing her three-stoned diamond ring.

“OOH!” I said. “Who is it? It’s Jr., isn’t it?”
“Hell Yeah!” she said.
“I’m so happy for you!” I said hugging her again.
“Congratulations,” Benji said, “But who’s Jr.?”
“Oh, Dale Earnhardt, Jr. He’s a racecar driver for NASCAR.” Honey said.
“Oh.” He said, still kinda clueless.

I guess Benji got annoyed with our girl talk so he got up and walked to the kitchen with Billy.

*In the Kitchen* [/i]

“Hey, Benj.” Said Billy.
“Hey.” Benji said. “When did the chick get here?”
“Around Noon.” Billy replied. It was now 4:30. “She said she found my address in the note Nikki left for her when she left Beaufort.” Benji nodded. “OH!” Billy said with a look of excitement, “When are you gonna give Nikki the first part of your surprise? I let Honey in on the surprise and she’s gonna help.”
“In about 20 minutes.” Benji said.
“Cool. I’ll go tell Honey to meet us upstairs in the spare room at 5 o’clock. I hope she likes it.” Billy said walking towards the living room.

*In the Living Room*

Billy walks up to Honey, taps her on the shoulder, and motions for her to follow him.
“I’ll be right back.” She said getting up. Honey and Billy walked over to a corner.
“Meet us upstairs with Nikki at 5 o’clock in the spare bedroom.” Billy told her in a whisper.
“Sure thing.” She said. “This is so exciting!”
She walked back to the couch where I was sitting,
“What was that all about?” I asked.
“Nothing.” She said. I could tell something was up by the smirk on her face.

[But Why's The Rum Gone?!?!?!]

Chapter 3: *Benji’s POV*

*In the Spare Bedroom*

“This dress is gonna look great on her.” I said to Billy. Billy nodded in agreement.
“Where are the shoes?” Billy asked.
“Ummm…I think they’re in the closet. Go get them.” I said to Billy.
“Hey, Benj,” Billy called, “Which pair? There’s three different ones?”
“Bring then all. She can choose the ones she wants.” I called back.
I looked at the dress. It was kinda short, black, and faded to hot pink at the bottom, and was covered in sequins.
“She’s gonna look extravagant.” I said out loud. Billy cracked up. I turned around and asked, “What’s so funny?”
He looked at me. “Since when did you start using big words?” he asked me. I cracked up.
“I dunno.” I said, still laughing. “It just seemed like a good word to use.”
“I guess it’s a good word.” Billy said, also laughing. I looked at my watch. It was 5:02. I looked towards the door. Then there was a knock.
*Knock* *Knock*
“That’s Nikki and Honey.” I said to Billy. “Go open the door. OH, and make sure Nikki’s eyes are covered.”<br>Billy opened the door and told Nikki to close her eyes tight. Billy walked up behind Nikki and put his hands over her eyes to make sure she couldn’t see anything, then led her into the room. Billy made sure Nikki was facing away from the dress before he uncovered her eyes. She looked at me, and I looked at her. Then I took her hands in mine.

Chapter 4: *Benji’s POV* [/i]

“Baby,” I said to her, “I wanted to do something special for you. And since it is your Senior Prom, I want to take you to your prom. Please say ‘Yes’.”
She looked at me. “Of course I’ll go with you, but I didn’t buy tickets, I don’t have a dress or shoes, and you… well, I don’t think you have a tux.” She said, a look of sadness coming across her face.
“Turn around.” I said to Nikki.
“Why?”
“Because I said to, and you love me.”
Nikki turned around and let out a scream of excitement and joy.
“OH, Benji! It’s beautiful!” she said to me, leaping into my arms and kissing me.
“I knew you’d love it.” I said, giving Billy and Honey a thumbs up. “Now go try it on.”
“There’s three pairs of shoes in the corner that match the dress.” Billy said to Nikki. “We’re leaving those up to you to choose.”
“Thanx.” She said, giving Billy a kiss on the cheek as she left the room with the dress, followed by Honey.

*Fifteen Minutes Later* [/i]

Nikki and Honey walked back to the bedroom where Billy and I were. I was talking to Billy and my back was to the door.
When Nikki walked in the room, Billy’s jaw hit the floor.
“Damn, Benj. She’s even sexier in that dress!” Billy said, winking at Nikki. I turned around.
“Hey Sexy. Come over here and give me some Lovin’.” I said. I knew it was cheesy, but I didn’t care.
She laughed at me and walked over and gave me a kiss.
“I love you, Babe.” I said.
“I love you, too.” She said. I kissed her again.
Nikki walked over to the corner of the room and picked up the shoes, looked at them, and chose the hot pink, leather boots.
“Sweetie,” Nikki said to me, “You need to get ready to go.”
I looked at my watch. It was already 5:45. Billy and I went to get ready to go and Nikki helped Honey get ready. She was going as Billy’s date because he didn’t have one and they both wanted to go with us. We were all ready to go at 6:30. I loaned Billy and Honey my Ferrari because I had gotten a limo for Nikki and me. Then we headed off for the prom.
I was happy. Nikki was happy. I was happy because Nikki was happy.

Chapter 5: *Benji’s POV*

“I love you, Babe!” I said when I got out of the limo, helping Nikki out. She was beautiful, hott, and sexy.
Billy parked my Ferrari and led Honey to the doors as I did the same with Nikki.
We gave the guy our tickets and went inside. I went and got drinks for Nikki, Honey, Billy, and myself as I frantically searched for the six other people I was meeting there.
I didn’t see them, so I took the drinks to Nikki, Honey, and Billy. I pulled Billy to the side.
“They’re not here yet! Where could they be?!” I said. Billy could tell I was nervous, worried and a little angry.
“Calm down, Benj. I’ll give ‘em a call.” He said, pulling out his cell phone.


*Billy’s POV* [/i]

I pulled out my cell phone and dialed the number.
*Ring* *Ring*
“Hello?”
“Hey, It’s Billy. Where are you guys at? Benj is about to freak!” I said.
“We’re almost there. I’ve got Josh, Sarah, and Mom with me. Paul and Chris are right behind us. Alright?”
“Alright, Joel.” I said. “Bye.”
“Bye.”
I hung up the phone. “They’re almost here. They should be here any minute.” I told Benji. A look of relief came across his face.


*Benji’s POV* [/i]
I wasn’t worried or angry anymore because I knew everyone was all right, but I was still nervous and I was getting excited.
Billy and I walked back over to Nikki and Honey.
“Hey Babe, since this is your prom, do you wanna dance, or are we just gonna stand here and look sexy?” I said grinning.
I took her hand and led her to the dance floor as Billy did the same with Honey, but they were just dancing as friends. Then the song came on. It was “I’ll Never Break Your Heart,” by the Backstreet Boys, the one song that I actually liked by a boy band. To Nikki’s surprise, because she knew I hated boy bands, I started singing the song softly in her ear as we danced, my hands on her waist, her arms around my neck, and her head resting on my shoulder.
I kissed her neck and felt her shiver. She looked up at me and I kissed her. A nice long, wonderful kiss.
When the song ended, Nikki and I walked over to Honey and Billy. Billy motioned toward the door. Mom, Joel, Josh, Sarah, Paul and Chris were here.
It was time.

[But Why's The Rum Gone?!?!?!]

Chapter 6: *Benji’s POV* [/i]

I looked at Billy and he gave Honey the signal. It worked out perfectly.
“Nikki, come with me to the restroom. I want to make sure my make-up looks alright.” Honey said to Nikki.
“OK. I’m gonna tell Benji where I’m going. Be right Back.” She said to Honey, coming over to me.
“Benj, I’m going to the restroom with Honey. I’ll be right back.” She said, giving me a kiss. I said, “OK,” and she left. The plan was working!
I ran over to Mom, Sarah, Josh, Joel, Paul, and Chris, gave them all hugs and thanked them for getting there.
Joel, Billy, Paul, Chris, and I walked out to Paul’s truck and got our instruments and amps, took them inside, and got everything set up. We got tuned just in time.
Nikki and Honey came out of the bathroom. Honey laughed at the look of shock on Nikki’s face.
Joel walked up to the mic. “Hey everyone!”
*Screams and cheers from the prom goers*
“Are you having a good time?”
“Hell yeah!” they screamed.
“Well, it’s about to get better.” Joel said.
Paul, Billy, Chris, and I walked out on stage.
*More cheers from the prom goers*
“Alright everyone,” I said, “This one is dedicated to the love of my life. My Riotgirl, Christina Nicole Toenniessen.” I pointed at Nikki, flashed her a grin, and she smiled back. We played the song “Riot Girl.”
When the song was over, Joel walked over to me and I handed him my guitar and took center stage.
I spoke into the mic. “Alright, I know this isn’t one of our songs, but I feel it’s necessary for the occasion. It’s called ‘I’m Lost Without You,’ by Blink-182.” I started singing with the CD that was playing.


Chapter 7: *Benji’s POV* [/i]

I look away from Nikki, and then back again. Honey is no longer standing with her. I just keep singing.


*30 seconds ago…Nikki and Honey* *Nikki’s POV* [/i]

“I love this song!” I said to Honey. “Go tell Joel to get me a microphone. I want to surprise Benji. Hurry!”


*Back to Benji* *Benji’s POV* [/i]

I was still singing while looking at Nikki. Honey walks back to Nikki and hands her something. I couldn’t tell what it was, but when I started to sing the chorus, she was singing with me.

“Are you afraid of being alone?
‘Cause I am. I’m lost without you.
Are you afraid of leaving tonight?
‘Cause I am. I’m lost without you.”

By the time the chorus was over, Nikki was on stage beside me, her right hand holding my left, our fingers intertwined.
We continued singing the song. When it was over, everyone applauded.
‘Now Benji!’ I was telling myself. ‘Do it now!’ I was very nervous, but also excited. ‘Here goes nothin’!’

I took Nikki’s hands in mine, kissed her, and then kissed her hands.

“Nikki, you know I love you.” I said to her. I knelt down, still holding her hands. “We’ve been together for the past four years. We’ve been through everything together. The good, the bad, everything. I want to be there for you always and forever, until I die. I’m doing this tonight to show you exactly how much I love you and how devoted I am to you. Baby, I’m lost without you.” I said, letting go of one of her hands and reaching into my pocket, pulling out a small black box and opening it. “Will you marry me?”

Chapter 8: *Nikki’s POV* [/i]

‘OH MY GOD!’ I thought. ‘What do I say? I love him, but I’m not sure I’m ready to get married. No, I want to get married. Yeah, married. I’ll be Christina Nicole Madden or Mrs. Benjamin Levi Madden. OOH! I like the sound of that. Nikki Madden. Yeah. And I’ll finally have a family that cares about me. God! This is wonderful!’
I had all these thoughts wondering around inside my head.
All of a sudden, I heard a soft, distant voice calling my name.
“Nikki! Nikki, baby! Wake up, sweetheart! Can you hear me? Nikki!” I felt my body being lifted.
“Joel, Come help me.” I heard the voice say. “We need to get her to a hospital.”
“Alright, Benj. Get her outside to my Blazer. It’ll be easier to get her into that you Ferrari or the limo.”
That was all I heard.

*4 Hours Later* [/i]

I wake up. My body is numb. The only thing I can feel is the weight of whoever was laying stretched out across my stomach and the major headache I had. I opened my eyes slowly and let them adjust to the light.
‘Where am I?’ I thought. ‘The last thing I remember was Benji on the ground in front of me, on one knee, at the prom.’ I look around the room, then at my hand, then at the person laying across my stomach. I realize where I’m at. I’m at the hospital, I have an IV in my hand, and Benji is laying on me.
I hear a noise and look towards the door as it begins to open. Then, a doctor walks in the room, closing the door behind him. As the door closes, Benji wakes up and turns around.
“Hey, Doc.” Benji said. “Is she gonna be alright?”
“Why don’t you ask her?” he said, motioning towards me. Benji turned to look at me.
Benji’s eyes lit up with excitement as he jumped out of the chair, giving me a kiss and a hug.

“Can I get some aspirin?” I asked the doctor. “I have a killer headache.”
“Yes, ma’am, Miss Toenniessen. I’ll be right back.”

“What time is it?” I asked Benji. “And why am I in the hospital?”
Benji looked at his watch. “It’s 12:15 am. And…well…you’re in here because you passed out right after I proposed to you.” He stated.

[But Why's The Rum Gone?!?!?!]

Chapter 9: *Nikki’s POV* [/i]

“Benji, sweetie, I’m hungry. Can you get me something to eat?” I said.
“Yeah, Babe. What do you want?”
”How about a chocolate milkshake and some French Fries.” I said.
“Alright, Baby. I’ll be back.” He said.

*2 minutes after Benji left* [/i]

The doctor walks back into my room.
“I didn’t get a chance to introduce myself to you. I’m Dr. Taylor.” He said, shaking my hand.
“Umm…Doctor…I don’t think I should take the aspirin.” I told him.
“Why not?” he asked me.

I explained the conversation that took place when he wasn’t in the room, and told him why I thought I shouldn’t take the aspirin.
He understood and said, “We can have that checked out.”

“Oh, Doctor, don’t tell Benji. I don’t want to get his hopes up.” I said
“OK, Miss Toenniessen. I promise. It’s our secret.” He said. “By the way, where did Mr. Madden go?”

“He went to get me some French Fries and a chocolate shake because I’m really hungry and I haven’t eaten since Benji and I had some popcorn at the movie theater. We were gonna go out to dinner after the prom, but I guess I killed that plan.” I said, giggling.
“Oh. OK.” He said.

“Dr. Taylor, where’s the phone? I need to call Joel and Billy so they can make sure everyone knows that I’m fine.” I said to him.
“Here it is.” He said, handing it to me.
“Thank you.” I said.
“No problem.” He said, leaving the room.

I picked up the phone and dialed Joel’s number.
*Ring* *Ring* *Ring*
No answer.

I hung up and tried Billy’s number.
*Ring* *Ring* *Ring*
No answer there, either.

I call Benji and Joel’s mom’s house.
*Ring* *Ring*
“Hello?”
“Miss Madden. It’s Nikki.”
“Hey sweetie. How are you doing?”
“I’m fine. Do you know where the guys are? Benji was here when I woke up, and I just wanted to make sure they know I’m alright.”
“Sorry sweetie. They’re not here. Did you try Joel’s place?”
“Yes ma’am, I did. I also tried Billy’s and they aren’t there.”
“Well, Nikki, if I see them or hear from them, I’ll tell them that I talked to you and that you are fine.” Miss Madden said to me.

“Alright, Miss Madden. I’ll see you later. Bye.” I said.

“Bye.”


I hung up the phone as Benji walked in the door with my French Fries and my milkshake.

“Thank you soooo much.” I said as he handed me the fries and shake, and gave me a kiss. “Have you heard from the guys?” I asked him.

“They were here a few hours ago.” He replied, taking a drink of my shake.

“I called Joel and Billy, but they weren’t at home. And when you came in, I had just gotten off the phone with your mom. She said that if she sees or hears from them, she’ll tell them I’m fine.”

“Are you gonna spend the night here with me?” I asked him.

“I dunno. Do you want me to?” he asked.

“I don’t care. But I know it will be uncomfortable sleeping in that chair. You really should go home and get some sleep. I’m not going anywhere. I’ll be right here when you come in tomorrow.” I said, eating my fries.

“Alright.” He said, taking the empty fry box off the tray and putting it in the trash.
I took a drink of the chocolate milkshake and handed it to him. “Do you want the rest?” I asked him.
“Yea.” He said, taking it from me.
“I’m ‘bout to go back to sleep. Bring me some different clothes and shoes when you come tomorrow, please.” I said.
“Alright, Babe.” He said, kissing me goodnight.
“See you tomorrow. I love you.” I said.
“I love you, too, Baby. Bye.” He said, kissing me again. Then he left.


Chapter 10: *Nikki’s POV*

*7 o’clock the next morning* [/i]

I woke up to the sound of someone entering my room. It was Dr. Taylor.
“Good Morning, Miss Toenniessen.” He said.
“Good Morning.” I replied.
“Since you don’t want Mr. Madden to get his hopes up, I thought we should get this done before visiting hours begin.”
“Alright. How long before I’ll get the results?” I asked.
“Not long. It’ll be a couple of days before we get all the details.” he said.
“Alright. Let’s get it over with.” I said.
The procedure was quick. When we were finished, the doctor went to start getting the results.

At about 7:45, the phone rang.
“Hello?”
“Hey, Girly! What’s up?”
“Nothin’. Just tired. You?”
“Nada. Just wanted to see if you were up. Me and the guys gotta wait 15 more minutes before we can visit. We’re at Burger King getting breakfast. You want somethin’?”
“Sure. I want some hash rounds and a chocolate shake and a chicken biscuit if they have it. I hope you don’t mind ordering that for me.”
“Why would I mind ordering that for you?”
“ ‘Cause you’re a vegetarian.”
“Oh. Whatever. I don’t mind. Anyways Girly, what’s up with you and chocolate milkshakes?”
“Nothin’ Joely. I just like chocolate milkshakes. That’s all.”
“WURD!”
“Shut up Joel! When you get here, I want to talk to you alone.”
“Alright, Girly. Benj wants to talk to you. Here he is.” Joel handed his cell phone to Benji.

“Hey Baby. Sleep good last night?”
“Yea, but I didn’t feel as safe as when I’m with you. How did you sleep?”
“Better than I would have if I had slept in that chair.” He laughed.
“Yea. You’re probably right. Your back woulda been hurtin’ if you woulda slept like you were when I woke last night.”
“Yea. Well, it’s 8 o’clock so I’ll see you in about 20 minutes. I love you, Babe.”
“I love you, too.” I said before hanging up the phone.

10 minutes after I hung up the phone, Dr. Taylor walked in.
“Miss Toenniessen, I’ve got good news.” He said.

[But Why's The Rum Gone?!?!?!]

Chapter 11: *Nikki’s POV* [/i]

I had just received the best news in the world. I was ecstatic, but I was a little scared and worried. I was pregnant. I had always wanted kids, but this was different. There was a slight chance it wasn’t Benji’s.
I would always regret and remember that night 2 months ago when Benji and I got into the really big fight about me getting really drunk at a party, passing out on the guy’s couch, and not having my cell phone with me.

*Flashback* [/i]

“Where were you, Nikki? I was scared out of my mind!” Benji screamed at me as I walked into the house.
“Benji, sweetie, please don’t scream. I was at a party with…” he cut me off.
“This is my fucking house! I’ll do whatever the Hell I want to!” he screamed even louder.
I could tell he had been drinking.

*End Flashback* [/i]

My thoughts were broken by a knock on the door, as a silent tear ran down my cheek. I wiped it away and looked at the clock. It was 8:15.
“Come in.” I said. Joel walked in.
“Hey Girly!” he said giving me a hug.
“Hey Joely.” I said.
Then Billy walked into the room with a girl hanging on his arm.
“Hey Nikki. How are you?” he asked.
“Fine.” I said. “Who’s that?”
“Oh! Nikki, this is my girlfriend, Kristina. Kristina, this is Benji’s…” he trailed off.
“Fiancé.” I completed his sentence.
“Call me squirmy.” Kristina said, shaking my hand. “Nice to meet you. When did you and Benji get engaged?”
“It’s not official, but he proposed yesterday at the prom. Then I passed out.” I said.
“Oh…Ok.” she said.
Then Paul walked in, followed by a girl.
“Hey everyone. Hey Nikki.” He said giving me a hug. “Everyone, this is Tashana.” The girl waved.
“Tashana, this is Billy, Joel, Kristina, and Nikki.” Paul said pointing at each of us.
She shook everyone’s hand and said, “Nice to meet you all.”
“Nice to meet you, too.” I said. “Umm… I don’t want to sound mean or anything, but I need to talk to Joel alone, if you don’t mind. Please?”
“Sure.” Billy said.
“Alright.” Paul replied. Then they left the room.

“Where’s Benji?” I asked Joel.
“He was ordering your food when we left. He should be here anytime.” He said.
“Ok…Joel, I need to tell you something…It’s kinda important.” I said.


Chapter 12: *Nikki’s POV* [/i]

“I…I…I’m…” I couldn’t say it.

“You’re what? Come on, Nikki. You know you can tell me.” He said in a sweet, loving, brotherly way.

“You can’t tell Benji. Alright?” I said.
“Alright.’ He said.
“Promise?” I said.
“I promise. Will you tell me now?” he said.
“I’m…” I took a deep breath. “Joel, I’m pregnant.”

“That’s great!” he said hugging me. All of a sudden, he let me go. “Wait, why don’t you want Benji to know?”

He looked me in the eye and I looked away.
“Nikki, answer me. Why don’t you want Benji to know?” he said again. I started to cry. “Nikki?”

“Joel…Please don’t tell him…Please don’t…I’ll know for sure in a couple of days…Just please don’t tell him…Please don’t.” I cried.

He looked at me. “You’ll know what for sure in a couple of days?” he said, wiping my eyes with his thumbs.

“Oh, Joel!” I cried even harder. “Joel, It…It…It…” I took another deep breath. “It might not be his, Joel. Please don’t tell him. I’ll know for sure in a couple of days if it’s his.”

“Nikki…How could it not be his?” he asked me.

“Remember 2 months ago when we got into that big, stupid fight? After I left, I got really depressed. I thought he didn’t love me anymore. I went to the 9:30 Club because I knew MEST was playing that night and a friend of mine was working was working that night, so I started to get drunk. I wasn’t completely drunk, but I was drunk enough to make a stupid decision. I mean, Jeremiah and I had been friends since I moved up here, and I knew he liked me, I just didn’t know how much he liked me. That night…I was stupid enough to find out. Oh Joel, I don’t know how I let this happen!”

Joel hugged me, and wiped my eyes again.
“It’ll be alright.” He hugged me tighter.
There was a knock at the door.

Chapter 13: *Joel’s POV* [/i]

“It’ll be alright, Nikki.” I said, kissing her forehead and wiping the tears from her cheeks. “I’m gonna go see who’s at the door. Just try to calm down.”
“OK.” She said, drying her eyes.

I walked to the door and opened it.
“Hey, Dude. How is she?”
“She’s been better. Come in and see her.” I said.

“Hey, Nikki. How ya doin’?” he asked, walking in.
“Hey, Joshey. I’m OK. How are you?” she replied.
“Fine.” He said, hugging her.
“Josh, by any chance did you see Benji on your way over here?” she asked.
“No, sorry. I didn’t.” he replied.

All of a sudden, there was a sharp pain in my side, and it wasn’t a normal pain. I could tell my Twin-Communications were kicking in.
“Josh! We need to find Benji! NOW!” I screamed. The pain was getting worse. I could feel the tears streaming down my face.

I ran into the hall and almost barreled over Chris, Chris’s girlfriend Maegan, My mom, my sister Sarah, and my girlfriend Leighanne. My mom grabbed me by the arm as I ran past. Chris had to grab hold of her arm so she wouldn’t fall over. About this time Billy, Paul, Squirmy, and Tashana appeared in the hallway.
“Joel, sweetie, tell me what’s wrong.” Mom said to me, a worried expression on her face.

“Mom, let me go. I’ve gotta find Benji!” I practically yelled.

“Joel, what’s wrong? Why do you need you find Benji?”

“Something’s wrong with him. I don’t know what, but I can feel that there is something wrong with him. He’s in trouble, that’s all I know and I have to find him.” I said, as Josh walked up behind me. “Mom, You and the girls stay here with Nikki. Me and the Guys will go find Benji!” I said.

I gave my mom a kiss on the cheek and started back down the hallway, this time followed by Josh, Chris, Billy, and Paul. As we reached my Blazer, I took out my cell phone and dialed Benji’s cell number.

*Ring* *Ring* *Ring*

“Hello?” A man’s voice came on the line.

“Hello? Who is this?” I asked.

[But Why's The Rum Gone?!?!?!]

Chapter 14: *Joel’s POV* [/i]

There was no answer. All I heard was a bunch of different panicking voices in the background.

“Hello? Who the fuck is this?” I screamed into the phone. “Where the hell is my brother?”

“Is this Joel?” the voice said.

“Yeah. What the fuck is it to you?” I said angrily.

“Sir, I’m going to need to get your last name.”

“Why?” I said. This guy was really starting to piss me off, and I still didn’t know where Benji was.

“Sir, I’ll explain everything when you get here. I need your last name and I need you to come to Burger King.”

I had a feeling that this had something to do with Benji.
“My last name is Madden. I’ll be there in like 5 minutes. OK?”

“Alright sir.” The voice said, then he hung up.

I hung up my phone, jumped in my Blazer and sped off towards Burger King.

When we arrived at Burger King, I parked my Blazer and we got out to look for Benji. Each of us went looking for him in a different area than the others.

We had been looking for him for about 15 minutes, when all of a sudden, I heard someone scream. I turned and ran in the direction of the scream. I saw Billy on the ground crying. Chris, Josh, and Paul also came running.

I saw why Billy was on the ground crying. There on the ground in front of him was Benji. I ran towards them and fell to Benji’s side. I was crying even harder now than I was at the hospital when I sensed something was wrong.
Benji was conscious. He looked up at me. I took his hand and told him to hold on. I closed my eyes and prayed.

By this time, Josh, Paul and Chris had knelt next to him and we were all crying and praying.

A man walked over to us and spoke. It was the guy that had answered Benji’s phone. “Mr. Joel Madden?” he said.

I looked up. “That’s me.” I said.

“Mr. Madden, I’m Detective Jonathon Potter.” He said.

I let go of Benji’s hand and stood up. Josh also stood up. I shook the detective’s hand. “I’m Joel, this is my brother Josh, and that is my twin brother Benji.” I said, pointing at Benji. “Can you tell us what happened?”

“Well, he was hit by a drunk driver in a red Mustang SVT Cobra convertible. Then the driver hit a tree.” He pointed in the direction of the woods, where the totaled car was. “The driver was killed instantly. I’m surprised your brother survived.”

As we spoke, Benji was moved onto a stretcher and loaded into the ambulance.

I took the keys to Benji’s Ferrari and gave them to Billy, and gave the keys to my Blazer to Chris. I told Billy to take the Ferrari to his house because it was closest to the hospital, and told Chris to follow him and pick him up and bring him back to the hospital.

“Josh and I are gonna ride back in the ambulance with Benj. Paul, call Tashana and have her tell Mom and Nikki that we found Benji, and that we are heading back to the hospital right now. Tell her to have them meet me at the ER entrance.” I said, climbing into the ambulance and sitting next to Benji. Josh climbed in after me.

The doors were closed as I saw Paul talking on his cell phone to Tashana. In less than 2 minutes flat, we were at the hospital.


Chapter 15: *Nikki’s POV* [/i]

I turned on the TV and flipped through the channels. I stopped in the news.


*On the News*

“… And on a sadder note, we go to Jim Brown in Waldorf, Maryland. Jim.”
“Thanks, Bob. Today is a very tragic day for all fans of the Punk Rock Band, MEST. The lead vocalist/guitarist, Tony Lovato, was killed this morning. He was driving drunk, and hit the guitarist/vocalist of Good Charlotte, Benji Madden, before hitting a tree. Mr. Lovato wasn’t wearing his seatbelt, and flew threw the windshield on impact. He was killed instantly. To his family and friends, we give our greatest condolences. Back to you, Bob.”
We have just received news on Mr. Madden’s condition. Mr. Benji Madden is in stable condition…”

*End News* [/b]


I shut off the TV. I was already in tears. Tony had always been like a big brother to me, and now he was gone.
Dr. Taylor walked into my room, followed by Billy.
“Miss Toenniessen, you can leave now. Mr. Martin has already signed your release papers.” He said.
“Thank you.” I replied.
“I’ll get a nurse to remove the IV.” He said as he left the room.
Billy walked over to me and gave me a hug. “I brought your clothes.” He said.
“Thanx. I’m gonna go get changed, then I wanna see Benji.” I said, going into the bathroom.
“How do you know about Benji?” he asked me.
“It’s all over the news.” I replied.
“Did they say who the driver of the car was?” Billy asked me.
I walked out of the bathroom from changing.
“Yea.” I said, crying again.
“Who was it?” he asked.
I didn’t say anything.
“Nikki, who was it?” he asked me again.
“It…It…It was…was…T-T-Tony!” I said, crying even harder.
“Holy Shit!” He said, shocked.
He hugged me tightly. I felt safe and protected when he hugged me. Billy and Tony had always been like the big brothers I never had, ever since we met, and now, Tony was gone. I missed him so much. Billy hugged me until I calmed down a bit.

Chapter 16: *Nikki’s POV* [/i]

The nurse walked in the room, followed by Leighanne.
Leighanne and I were like sister. we did everything together, and told each other everything. She was the only person that knew, before today, about what had happened between me and Jere. When Leighanne walked in, I noticed who she had with her. It was her 3 1/2 year-old daughter, Mary-Jane Allissa Lovato.
"Aunt Nikki!" she squealed, running over to me.
"Hey Mary-Jane." I said, Picking her up to hug her.
She gave me a hug, then looked behind her.
"Uncle Bill-Bill!" she said, reaching her arms out towards Billy.
"Hiya Chickadee! What have you been up to?" he said, taking her from my arms, as the nurse removed the IV from my hand and placed a bandage on it.
Mary-Jane was telling Billy what she had been doing before Leighanne had picked her up from visiting her daddy, Matt.
"Mary-Jane, Do you want to see Uncle Benji?" I asked her.
"Yea!" she said excitedly.
"Ask Uncle Billy to take you to see Uncle Benji." I told her.
"Uncle Bill-Bill, will you take me to see Uncle Banjo? Pwease!" she said.
"Okay." he said, getting the hint that I wanted to talk to Leighanne alone. "Let's go see Uncle Banjo." He said to Mary-Jane as they left the room.

I filled Leighanne in on my situation and what had happened to Benji and Tony.
"I wonder how Matt's taking this?" she said.
"I don't even know if he knows." I replied. "We'll go check on Benji, then we can go talk to Matt."
We got my things together and left the room.

We walked down the hall to the elevators with my stuff.
"Let's put your stuff in the Blazer." She said as the doors closed after we got on.
We went to the first floor and went outside to put my stuff away.

As we reached the Blazer, my cell phone rang. The caller ID read 'Unknown Number'.
"Hello?" I answered it.
"Hey Nikki. It's Honey."
"Oh Hey! How'd you get my number?" I questioned.
"Joel..." I interrupted her.
"Figures. Anyways, what's up?"
"Nothin'. How are you?" she asked.
"Fine. Did you hear what happened this morning?"
"Yea. That's why I called. I'm at my hotel and I don't know how to get to the hospital from here."
"Oh. Well me and Leighanne can come and pick you up on our way to talk to Matt. And you'll get to meet my god-daughter, Mary-Jane Allissa Lovato. She's Leighanne and Matt's daughter." I told her.
"I thought Leighanne was with Joel." she stated.
"She is...We'll explain it later. Okies?" I said.
"Okay." she replied.
"We are gonna go see Benji, then we'll come get you." I told her.
"Alright. See you then." she said as she hung up the phone.
I hung up my cell phone as Billy and Joel appeared.
Leighanne and I walked over to them.
"How is he?" I asked Joel.
He looked at me with that "Everything's gonna be alright" look, but somehow, I could tell it was false.
He pulled me into a hug.

[But Why's The Rum Gone?!?!?!]

Chapter 17: *Nikki's POV* [/i]

"Please tell me He's not dead! Please!" I cryed into Joel's chest, as he hugged me.
Billy pulled Leighanne to the side and told her what was going on.
"Oh my God!" She gasped. "I'm gonna call Honey back and tell her what happened and that you are gonna go pick her up. Alright?" She said to Billy.
"Yea, I'll go pick her up. I'll do pretty much anything to comfort Nikki right now. What hotel is she staying at?" he said.
"I'm not sure. I'll call her and find out." Leighanne said as she pulled out her cell phone. "Did she give you her number?"
"Yea. Here, it's programmed into my phone, so use it." he said, pulling out his phone and handing it to Leighanne.
"Cool." she said, taking it and finding the number.

The phone rang a few times before it got answered.
"Hey Billy." Honey answered.
"Actually, this is Leighanne. Look, tell me what hotel you are at so that Billy can come pick you up."
"I'm at the Holiday Inn..." she said, getting cut off by Leighanne.
"Meet Billy outside the lobby. He'll be in his Blue Jeep. He should be there in about 10 minutes, Alright. He'll explain what's goin' on, but I need to call Matt." Leighanne said.
"Alright. Bye." Honey replied.
"Bye." Leighanne said, the she hung up Billy's phone and handed it back to him.
"She's at the Holiday Inn." Leighanne told Billy.
He simply nodded and headed to his Jeep.
Leighanne took her cell back out and called Matt.
There was no answer, so she called his cell phone.
Still no answer.
She was getting worried so she called Jere.

Hello?" Jere answered.
"Jere, It's Leighanne. Have you seen Matt?" She asked, a tone of worry in her voice.
"Not since last night. Why? What's wrong?" He asked, getting scared.
"Have you seen the news?"
"No."
"Well, this morning Tony was driving drunk and hit Benji, and crashed into a tree." She said, holding back tears.
"Holy shit! Are they alright?"
"No." She said
"What?!"
"Tony's dead, Benji's in a coma, and Matt's missing!" Leighanne said between sobs.
"Oh God! I'll run over to Nick's place and get him. Then we'll go to Matt's and see if he's there, and if he's not, then we'll go to the Lovato's house. We should be there in about 30 minutes or an hour. Alright." Jere said.
"Alright. See you when you get here." She said, then hung up.

Leighanne walked back to us.
Joel looked up at her and stopped rubbing my back.
"What's wrong, Baby?" he asked her.
"Matt's missing!" She replied, still crying.
"Did you call Jackie to see if he was with her?"
"No. I don't have her number."
"Alright, I'll go call her. You stay here with Nikki. Don't let her do anything stupid. I'll send Paul and Chris out here and they'll walk you two inside."he told her.
She nodded and took Joel's place hugging me.

About 3 minutes later, Paul and Chris came outside. Paul was carrying a ver upset Mary-Jane.
Leighanne took Mary-Jane from Paul, and Paul wrapped his arms around me and gave me one of his famous "Paul-Hugs."
Paul held onto me, and Chris to Leighanne and Mary-Jane, as they helped us inside.

"Mommy," Mary-Jane said, "Is Uncle Banjo gonna be okay?"
"I don't know, Sweetie. I don't know." Leighanne told her.

Chapter 18: *Honey's POV* [/i]

I has walked outside right after I got off the phone with Leighanne. I looked down at my watch and started pacing. 5 minutes...it had only been 5 minutes.
After about a minute of pacing, I sat down on the edge of the sidewalk and stared into space, while fiddling with the phone in my hane.
I had been thinking about Nikki. I know I hadn't seen her on a couple years, and she was thin, but I remember what she looked like in her Prom dress. She looked like she was pudging out a little, but it was only her stomach.

"Hey! Honey! Yo!" I was snapped back to reality by Billy, who was calling me and waving his hand in front of my face.
"Huh? Oh! Let's get goin'!" I said, completely coming out od my daze.
"Come on." Billy said, holding out his hand to me. I took it and he pulled me up off the ground and we walked to his Jeep.

"So...Leighanne said you'd tell me what was going on..." I paused, waiting for him to speak. Just as I was about to speak again, He replied.
"Yea..." he paused.
"Well?" I asked after a few seconds.
"Benji is in a come..." he said slowly, and barely above a whisper.
"Oh my God!" I whispered to myself.
I got lost in my thoughts again. I was thinking about how Nikki looked in her Prom dress, how she passed out right after Benji proposed, how, on Prom day, she hadn't eaten anything but popcorn since about noon...I slowly pieced things together in my mind. "Oh My God! ..."
I was torn from my thoughts when Billy suddenly slammed on brakes.


*Joel's POV*
(A/N: After Joel called Benji's cell phone...He was in such a hurry that he left his cell in his Blazer, and the guys didn't bring it in when they came in......Okay now, Back to the story!)

I decided to give up looking for a pay phone, so I went to the waiting room where I told Chris and Paul to take Nikki and Leighanne.
Tashana, Maegan, and Squirmy were all standing around Nikki, who was sitting on Paul's lap. Chris, Leighanne, and Sarah were sitting on the other side of the room playing with Mary-Jane.
Nikki got up from Paul's lap as I entered the room. She walke up to me and I enveloped her in a hug and kissed her forehead.
"I love you, Scuttle." Nikki said to me.
"I love you, too, Zazu." I replied.
Scuttle was Nikki's pet-name for me, and Zazu was my pet-name for her.
(A/N: Scuttle is the Seagull from "The Little Mermaid," and Zazu is the bird from "The Lion King." Incase you didn't know...now back to the story!) [/i]
"Scuttle, I'm gonna go to the bathroom. I'll be right back." She said, pulling away from me.
"Alright, Zazu." I replied as she walked out of the room.
I walked over to Paul.
"Hey, Dude. Let me use your phone." I said. He pulled it out and handed it to me.
"Thanx." I said as I dialed Jackie's number.

"Hello?" Jackie answered.
"Hey, Jacks. It's Joel. Is Matt there?" I asked.
"He's in the bathroom right now...Oh, nevermind. Here he is." she said.
"What's up?" Matt said.
"Not much. Leighanne's been worried off her ass cuz she couldn't get ahold of you." I told him.
"Why was she worried?" He asked.
"Don't worry about that right now. Just worry about you and Jackie gettin' your asses down here to the Hospital. I'll explain when you get here. Alright?" I said.
"Okay. We're on our way. See you in a few."
"Okay. Bye." I said, hanging up the phone and handing it back to Paul.
"Thanx, man." I said.
"No prob, Dude." He replied.
I walked over to Leighanne.
"Matt and Jackie are on there way down here, and they don't know what happened." I told her.
"Okay. I'll call Jere and tell him that we found Matt." She said to me. Mary-Jane started tugging on Leighanne's arm.
"Mommy, I gotta go potty." she said.
"I'll take her." Sarah said getting up and taking Mary-Jane's hand.

Chapter 19: *Sarah's POV* [/i]

"I'll take her." I said to leighanne, getting up and taking Mary-Jane's hand.
"Okay." Leighanne said.
"Sarah, check on Nikki while you're in there. Alright?" Joel said to me.
"Kay." I said. then left the room with Mary-Jane.
I walked down the almost-silent corridor, Mary-Jane skipping beside me, all the while singing her favorite song.
We got to the bathroom and I opened the door and went in.
"Alright, Mary-Jane. Hurry." I told her as she went into one of the stalls.
I heard someone getting sick.
"Nikki? Are you in here?" I assked.
I heard one of hte stalls unlock and saw a hand sticking out of the partially opened door.
I walked over to the stall as it opened and a very sick-looking Nikki emerged, slightly stumbling.

"Nikki, hun, are you alright?" I asked her.
"I feel sick and I'm dizzy." she said while holding her head and stomach.
Mary-Jane had just come out of her stall.
"Alright. Hold on to the side of the stall while I help Mary-Jane wash her hands. Okay?" I said.
Nikki nodded and did as i said.
I helped Mary-Jane wash her hands and as i was drying them, I heard a loud 'THUD' behind me.
I turned around and saw Nikki on the ground.
"Mary-Jane, do you remember where the room your mommy's in is at?" I asked her.
"Uh-huh." She said while nodding her head.
"Can you go get Joely and Uncle Pauly? Tell them to hurry." I told her.
She nodded and ran out the door.

*Joel's POV* [/i]

Matt and Jackie had gotten here, and I had just told them about Tony and Benji. Jackie and Matt were both in tears, and Chris, Leighanne, Maegan, and Squirmy were all trying to comfort them. Paul and Tashana were talking on the other side of the room.
I was thinking about Billy's cousin Jesika. Jesika was Tony's fiancé. They were engaged to be married in 2 months...
I was pulled from my daze by someone calling my name and tugging on the leg of my jeans.
"Joely! Aunt Sarah wants you and Uncle Pauly and she said to hurry!" Mary-Jane said to me .
"Paul! Sarah needs us. Come on!" I said to him.
He got up and walked over to us.
"Mary-Jane, show me where Aunt Sarah is." I said.
She grabbed my hand and pulled me down the hall, Paul following closely behind.
Mary-Jane stopped in front of the girls bathroom and let go of my hand and pushed open the door.
Inside, I was Sarah sitting on the floor crying and cradling Nikki's head.
Sarah looked up as I walked in.
"She told me she felt sick and she was dizzy. I told her to hold on to the stall while i helped Mary-Jane wash her hands and she just passed out! And she won't wake up! I didn't know what to do!" She said sobbing.

"Calm down, Sweetie." I said, kneeling down and hugging Sarah.
I picked Nikki up.
"Paul, get Sarah and Mary-Jane back to the waiting room and go find a doctor!" I said.
He walked over to Sarah and helped her up and quickly walked Sarah and Mary-Jane to the waiting room.

[But Why's The Rum Gone?!?!?!]

Chapter 20: *Honey's POV* [/i]

"Why the hell did you slam on brakes?" I asked Billy.
"I didn't want to hit the squirrel!" Billy said.
"God!" I sighed, shaking my head.
"What?! Did you want me to hit the poor, innocent, little squirrel?" He asked.
"No! It would have moved! You didn't have to give me freakin' whooplash!" I retorted.
"Sorry! Geez!" He said.
"No, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have shouted...It's just that ...well...I'm a little worried about Nikki...I think she might be pre..." I was cut off be my cell phone.
"Shit...I have to take this...I was supposed to call him this morning." I said looking at the caller I.D.

"Hey Babe." I answered.
"Hey Honey. Why didn't you call me?" Jr. asked me.
"I forgot. Sorry. It's just that my friend Nikki, the one I came to see, well she went into the hospital last night, and her fiancée is in a coma, and I'm just really worried about her cuz I know what she was like back in 9th and 10th grade."
"Alright, Honey...calm down. Take a deep breath...Better?" He said.
"Yea." I replied after taking a long, deep breath.
"Good. Call me back later and tell me if your friend is okay. Alright?"
"Alright. I'll talk to you later."
"Okay. I love you, Honey." He said.
"I love you, too. Bye."
"Bye."
I pressed the end button as Billy pulled into a parking spot.
He turned off the engine.
"Now, what were you saying before your cell rang?" Billy asked me.
"I was apoligizing for..."
"No, what were you saying about Nikki?" He asked.
"Oh...I was saying that I think she might be pregnant." I told him.
Billy's jaw dropped.
"No...She would've told me...wouldn't she? I mean...she's like my little sister!" He rambled.
"Billy...calm down! I could be wrong...let's just go inside. Okay?"
"Yea."
We got out of his Jeep and went inside to find everyone else.

Chapter 21: *Paul’s POV*[/i]

I quickly walked Sarah and Mary-Jane back to the waiting room and went to find a doctor. As I was walking down the hall, I saw Billy and Honey. I walked over to them.
“Billy, what’s the name of the doctor that was looking after Nikki?” I asked.
“Dr. Taylor...Why? What’s wrong?” he asked.
“Nikki passed out in the bathroom while Sarah and Mary-Jane were in there and Joel’s in there with her now cuz she won’t wake up and Sarah freaked out.” I said hesitantly.
Honey just looked at me and ran down the hall to the bathroom.
“Help me find Dr. Taylor or a nurse.” I said to Billy.
“Alright.” He replied. We went off to find the doctor.


*Honey’s POV*[/i]

I took off running down the hall to the bathroom. I pushed the door open.
“Joel! Is she okay?” I asked as I came in.
He looked up.” She woke up, but she might have a concussion so I’m trying to keep her awake.” He said.
“Billy and Paul are trying to find the doctor...let’s get her up on her feet and walk her out into the hallway.” I told him.
“Alright.” He said getting up and pulling Nikki up with him.
She almost fell over but Joel and I caught her.
We walked Nikki out into the hall and saw Paul, Billy, and Dr. Taylor running toward us, with Dr. Taylor in front, and Paul at the rear.
When they got up to us, Paul took my place holding Nikki up.
Then Billy’s cell phone rang and he looked at the caller ID.


*Billy’s POV*[/i]

I looked down at the caller ID. It was Jesika. ‘Oh Shit! I forgot about her! Fuck!” I thought as I answered it.
“Hey Je...” She cut me off.
“Billy I’m in Labor!”<br>“Oh shit! I’ll be there in 5 minutes!” I pressed end and ran toward the door.
Matt came out of the waiting room.
“Billy, where ya goin’?” he asked.
“Jesika’s in labor and I don’t know if she knows about Tony.” I said hurriedly.
“I’m coming with you!” Matt said.
“Me Too!” said Leighanne, coming out of the waiting room.
“Okay, but we’ll have to take Joel’s blazer.” I told Leighanne. She nodded, pulling her keys out of her pocket.
“Honey, go in the waiting room and stay with the girls and Chris. Chris will introduce you to everybody.” I said.
She nodded and went in to find Chris.
Matt, Leighanne, and I all ran out to Leighanne and Joel’s blazer. Leighanne handed me the keys and hopped in the backseat as Matt climbed in the passenger seat and I climbed into the driver’s seat. I started it up and backed out of the parking lot.
We got to Jesika and Tony’s house in like 3 minutes. (It should have taken longer, but the speed limit wasn’t going to keep me away from my cousin who’s Fiancé just died and is now in labor, about to have his children!)
I ran into the house with Matt and Leighanne right behind me. Leighanne went into Jesika’s room and packed some stuff to take to the hospital, while Matt helped me get Jesika outside and into the blazer. I stayed with Jesika and timed her contractions...5 minutes apart. Matt had gone back inside to help Leighanne and to call the hospital. Leighanne came out carrying a small suitcase followed by Matt, who locked and closed the door. Leighanne put the suitcase in the back and climbed in the passenger’s seat because I was with Jesika on the backseat and Matt was in the driver’s seat. Matt started the blazer and took off back to the hospital.

When we got to the hospital, there was a nurse waiting outside with a wheelchair. I helped Jesika out of the blazer and into the wheelchair, as Leighanne got her bag. Matt parked the blazer and met us inside.
The nurse took Jesika and me into one of the rooms and got Jesika set up on a bed after she got changed into a hospital gown. The nurse did all the normal preceedings.
“The doctor will be right with you.” She said, and then left the room. About three minutes later, the nurse walked back in followed by Jesika’s doctor, Dr. Marks, and another nurse.
“Her cervix is completely dilated and contractions are less than a minute apart.” He said. “These babies are ready to come!”<br>I took Jesika’s hand to let her know I was there for her.
“Alright, Jesika, Push!” the doctor said.
Jesika pushed, and since she was holding my hand, squeezed the hell out of it.

2 minutes later*[/i]

“Come on, Jesika. One more big push!” Dr. Marks said.
Jesika push very hard.
“Congratulations! You have a baby Boy!” he said, handing the baby to one of the nurses, who took the baby and got it cleaned up and measured and weighed.
After about 7 minutes of breathing, the 2nd baby was ready to come.
“I can see its head. Push!” Dr. Marks said. “Come on Push!...One more big one!” he said and Jesika did as she was directed.
“Congratulations! You are now the mother of two beautiful baby boys!” Dr. Marks said proudly, as he handed the second baby to the other nurse.
“You did it Jess!” I said giving her a kiss on the forehead.
“And what are their names?” the doctor asked Jesika.
“The first one is going to be Anthony Joel Lovato, and the second one is William Quinn Lovato.” She said.
“Wow! I feel Special! You’re naming your baby after me...well kinda...but still, I feel special!” I told her smiling.
She laughed. “Well of course, Silly! You are my favorite cousin!” she said to me. We both laughed.
After Jesika held her babies, I held them and took them out so Matt and Leighanne could see them.
I walked into the waiting room where Matt and Leighanne were playing with Mary-Jane while waiting for some news.
“Hey, Matt! Meet your Nephews! Anthony Joel Lovato and William Quinn Lovato.” I said, handing Little William to him.
“Wow...he looks just like Tony.” He said as his eyes started to water.
Leighanne was standing by Matt and me while holding Mary-Jane so she could see her cousins.
“How ‘bout we take them and Mary-Jane to see Jesika?” Matt suggested.
“Sounds good to me.” I said. “Hey Munchkin, do you want to go see Aunt Jesika?”<br>“Yea!” Mary-Jane said excitedly.
“Alright. Leighanne, go tell everyone to come over here and see Jesika’s twins.” I said, and she nodded. With that, we walked into Jesika’s room as Leighanne went to tell everyone else.

[But Why's The Rum Gone?!?!?!]

Chapter 22: *Nikki’s POV*[/i]

“Benji! You have to come back! Don’t leave me! I love you so much! I’m sorry about everything and I need you!”<br>“Nikki, it’s alright! I know about what happened with you and Jere. I also know that he used protection that night, and I know that you are pregnant with my child. You don’t have to worry! I’m coming back. I just need some time to talk to Tony...”<br>“Alright. I love you...make sure Tony knows that we’ll help Jesika with the babies. I Love you!” with that, we kissed and Benji disappeared.


My eyes fluttered open, as someone rushed to my side. I couldn’t tell who it was at first, and then it hit me. It was my best friend in the whole world. I had known her pretty much all my life.
“Hey Sexy!” I said. She looked at me. Her eyes were bloodshot and full of tears.
“OMG, Nikki! When Joel called me and said you were in the hospital I didn’t know what to think! I freaked out! I had to have Chuck drive me up here I was sooo worried!” she said as I pulled her into a hug.
“Calm down Kris. I’m alright...I think...What time is it?” I asked her. She looked at her watch.
“Almost 3 in the morning...I told them I was your sister, so they let me stay...” she said smiling slyly.
“I’m glad you did...I’ve got good news Kris...” I smiled at her.
“What?” she said excitedly.
“I’m pregnant!” I told her.
“Oh my god! I’m gonna be an Aunt!” She shouted.
“Lmao! That means that my baby will have and Aunt Kris and an Uncle Chris...Not to mention Squirmy and Krista!” I laughed.
“Oh god! Your baby is gonna be so confused!”<br>“Oh I know...So have you visited Benji yet?” I asked.
“No...I’m so sorry, Hun...Joel told me everything that happened...well, except that you were pregnant...I’m so sorry. I know that you and Tony were close, but now, you have 2 nephews to remember him by!” She said.
I looked at her confused for a moment, and then remembered my dream...
“What did Jesika name them?” I asked.
“Anthony Joel Lovato and William Quinn Lovato. Anthony Joel is older by about 9 minutes. Little Billy looks just like his daddy and Little Tony looks just like his mommy and Billiam. Little Tony was 23 ½ inches long and weighed 6 lbs. 7 oz. and Little Billy was 22 inches long and weighed 6 lbs. 3 oz. They are soooo adorable!” she said.
“I’m sure they are...we’ll have to talk the doctor into letting me see them tomorrow.”<br>“Yea, we will.”<br>“Yea...So how are Laurel and Jeff?”<br>I asked.
“At each other’s throats...as always.” Kris sighed.
“Oh...So how long are you staying for?”<br>“I dunno...a week, probably.”<br>“Cool...so when I get out of this hell hole we can go visit Benji and then go shopping...I’m gonna need some maternity clothes and some flip-flops that are easy to slip on.” I said giggling.
“So when are you gonna tell Benji that you’re pregnant?” Kris asked me.
“I have a good feeling that he already knows...” I said smiling.
“Oh yea...How’s that?” she asked.
I explained the dream I had to her.
“Ooh! That makes sense.” She said.
“That’s also how I found out that Jesika had her twins. And Benji told me that he was gonna come back to me, so I want to visit him everyday to see if he wakes up.”<br>“You really love him, don’t you?” Kris asked me.
“Yes I do. I love him with everything I have. I will always love him. I can’t even imagine how my life would have been if I hadn’t met him. He is my life...He’s what keeps me going day after day.” I told her. “I just don’t know what I would do without him.” I said as tears welled in my eyes.
“Aww Girly! It’s okay!” she said, pulling me into a hug.
“Thanx for always being here for me Kris. I love you.”<br>“I love you too Nikki. What are friends for?” She always had a way of making me smile.
“I’m tired, so I’m gonna go to sleep. Okay?” I said.
“Okay. Sleep tight.” She said hugging me again.
“Good night.” I said with a yawn and closed my eyes and drifted off to sleep.


Chapter 23: *Nikki’s POV*[/i]

I woke up from a peaceful dream. The room was silent and the sun was shining through the window. The door to my room quietly opened and Kris walked in followed by Chuck and Joel.
“Hey Kris.” I said.
“G’Morning, Sleepyhead.” She said hugging me.
“What time is it?” I asked.
“It’s 10:33.” She replied.
“Okay. Heya Chuck. How ya been?” I asked him.
“I’ve been fine. Laurel and Jeff would’ve come, but they couldn’t get out of work. How are you feeling?” He asked hugging me.
“Okay. I’m feeling better than I was yesterday.” I said.
“That’s good.” He replied.
“Aloha Joely!” I said.
“Hey.” He said. He looked a little spaced out, like something was bothering him.
“Hey Kris, Chuck, do you mind giving me and Joel a few minutes to talk?” I asked.
“Go ahead. We’re gonna go get a drink. You want anything?” Chuck said.
“Sure. A mountain Dew, and some Fritos, and some Sour Skittles, please, if you don’t mind.” I said smiling.
“Okay. We’ll be back in a little while.” Chuck replied.
“Cool. Thanx.” I said, and they left.
“Joely, is something bothering you?”<br>“Huh? What do you mean?”<br>“You keep spacing out, that’s all.”<br>“Oh. I was thinking...”<br>“About?”<br>“Well, what if Benji doesn’t wake up?...who’s gonna help you with the baby?...and who’s gonna help Jesika with the twins?...and what if your baby is Jere’s?...and if Benji doesn’t wake up, how am I gonna find someone to replace him in the band? No one could ever take his place.” He said as tears welled up in his eyes.
“Aww! Joely, its okay! Benji is gonna wake up, don’t worry. We’re all gonna help Jesika with her twins and Tony’s mom will probably help too, along with Matt’s mom, your mom, and Billy’s mom. And the baby is Benji’s.” I said.
“How can you be sure that he’s gonna wake up?”<br>I explained the dream to him.
“See Joely. Everything’s gonna be fine. Promise me you won’t worry so much.” I said giving him the puppy face.
“Alright Nikki, I promise.”<br>“Good. Now what’s taking Kris and Chuck so long?” I asked making Joel laugh.
“We’re right here.” Kris said walking in the door with chuck.
“I thought y’all go t lost, y’all took so long.” I said sarcastically. Kris stuck her tongue out at me so I copied her. She laughed and handed me my Mountain Dew, my Fritos, and my Sour Skittles.
“Mmmmm! Thank you!” I said as I opened the Fritos and ate some.
“No prob.” Chuck said. I guess he paid for the stuff.
“Joel, we got you a bottle of water.” Kris said and handed it to him.
“Thanx.” He said taking it.
“So Chuck, how are the guys?” I asked.
“Pierre sprained his ankle at the skate park. He was trying to do an Ollie. Seb and Rachael aren’t together anymore cuz Seb caught her cheatin’ with some dude. David and Missy got married and are expecting. It was a small wedding, just the band and their girls. They didn’t want reporters all over them.” He said.
“Wow! Poor Pierre. Poor Seb. I knew that Rachael chick was no good. And make sure you give David and Missy my congrats. And send everyone my love.” I said.
“I’ll be sure to do that.” He said.
“And I’ll be sure to remind him to do it.” Kris said and Chuck flipped her off.
“Maybe later.” She said.
“Ha, ha, ha.” He replied sarcastically as he went to answer the door.
“Good morning, Miss Toenniessen. How are you feeling?”<br>“Good morning, Dr. Taylor. I feel better than I did yesterday.”<br>“Would you like to know why you passed out yesterday?” I nodded. “Well, your blood sugar was low, did you eat anything yesterday?”<br>“No.”<br>“Okay. That’s why your blood sugar was low. Have you eaten anything today?”<br>“Yes. I had some Fritos, some Skittles, and some Mountain Dew.” I said, holding up the sour skittles that were now in my hand and motioning toward the tray table where the other stuff was.
“Good. There are some things I need to talk to you about privately.” He said.
“If it has to do with my baby, then they all know that I’m pregnant. Well, except Chuck, since by the look on his face, Kris didn’t tell him. But anyways, they all know now.”<br>“Okay then, you’ll be glad to know that you are 2 ½ months pregnant.” He said.
“Thank you. Dr. Taylor, I was wondering if I could go visit Benji, Jesika, and my new nephews.” I said.
“Well, you can go ahead and get dressed, and I’ll go get your release papers.” He said.
“Okay. Thank you.” I replied. “Joely, will you go with the doctor and sign the papers so I can go ahead and get out of this place?”<br>“Of course I will.” he replied. “Chuck, come with me and give the girls some time to talk.” Chuck nodded and followed Joel and Dr. Taylor out the room.
5 minutes later, Chuck, Joel, Kris and I were walking down to see Jesika and her twins. I walked in the door and saw everyone except the Maddens (not including Joel cuz he was with me). Everyone else, including the Lovatos and Martins, was there. I walked over and hugged Jesika and Billy.
“Aunt Nikki!” Mary-Jane said running up to me.
“Hey munchkin.” I said picking her up and sitting her on Jesika’s bed.
“So, where are my nephews?” I asked looking at Jesika.
“Matt’s got Little Billy and Sarah (Billy’s sister) has Little Tony.” She said.
I nodded and walked over to Matt and knelt in front of him.
“Hey Matty. How you holding up?” I asked.
He looked up at me. His eyes were full of tears.
“Aww! Maffu! It’s okay.” I said. I hugged him, took Little Billy out of his arms, and sat on his lap. Matt sat his head on my shoulder and watched me holding Little Billy.

[But Why's The Rum Gone?!?!?!]

Chapter 24: *Nikki’s POV*

About 30 minutes passed and someone’s cell rang. It was Matt’s. He looked at the caller ID and sighed. I got off his lap and he walked outside, followed by Jere, Nick and Steve.

*Nobody’s POV*

Matt, Jere, Nick, and Steve walked out into the hall.
“Hello?” Matt answered his phone.
“Hey Matt. We’ve got someone we want you, Jere, and Nick to meet.” It was their record label.
“Who is it? And what time? Cuz we’re busy right now.” Matt said
“His name is Turner Lustoff. We think he’s the perfect replacement for Tony.” They said.
“Hell Fucking No! My fucking cousin just died this fucking morning and you are already choosing a fucking replacement?! I DON’T FUCKING THINK SO!” Matt screamed into the phone before throwing it at the wall, smashing it to pieces, and bursting into tears and uncontrollable fits of rage.
It took Jere, Nick, Steve, Joel, Chuck, Jackie, and Leighanne to calm him down.

After about 20 minutes, Nikki decided to go see Benji.
“Does anyone want to come with me to see Benji?” she asked, standing up and taking Little Billy to Jesika.
Joel, Paul, Billy, Chris, Chuck, Jere, Matt, Nick, Leighanne, Tashana, Squirmy, Meagan, Kris, Krista, Jackie, Emilie (Jesika’s sister), and Honey all got up and walked toward the door.
“Mary-Jane, do you want to come with me and Daddy to see Uncle Benji, or do you want to stay with Grandma and Aunt Jesika?” Leighanne asked.
Mary-Jane scrunched her face in thought. “<br>Are we gonna come back here after we see Uncle Banjo?” she asked.
“Yes, we’ll come back.” Leighanne replied.
“Okay...Gwammie, I gonna go see Uncle Banjo, okay, then I be back.” She said to Matt’s mom and gave her a hug.
She ran over to Jesika’s bed and said, “Aunt Jess-ka, I be back. I gonna go see Uncle Banjo.” Then she gave Jesika a hug and kissed Little Billy on the head. “Bye Biwwy. I be back.”<br>She then ran over to Sarah (Martin), who was holding Little Tony, gave Sarah a hug and kissed Little Tony on the head and said, “Bye Tony, Bye Aunt Sawah. I be back.”<br>Mary-Jane then ran to the door and grabbed Leighanne’s left hand and Matt’s right hand.

*Joel’s POV*

I was walking with Nikki, behind Matt, Leighanne, and Mary-Jane. They looked so happy together. I knew Leighanne still had feelings for Matt, even if she said she didn’t. I could see it in her eyes every time she looked at him. But I had feelings for someone else, too. And only Nikki and Benji knew. And Matt and Jackie were always fighting cuz Jackie was always hanging out with Adam and the rest of 3 Days Grace, cuz Jackie likes Adam. And I think Matt still likes Leighanne. God, I hope so. I don’t wanna dump her and leave her and Mary-Jane with nowhere to go.

“Joely...what are you thinkin’ about?” Nikki asked.
“The whole Jesika/Leighanne/Matt deal...” I sighed.
“Oh...” she said. She linked her arm with mine and placed her head on my shoulder.
We were last to enter the waiting room attached to Benji’s room.
Nikki and I walked into Benji’s room while everyone else stayed in the waiting room.

“Hey Mom.” I said, giving her a kiss on the cheek.
“Hey sweetie.” She replied.
“Hi Ms. Madden.” Nikki said.
Mom stood up and faced Nikki.
“Call me Mom.” She said, pulling her into a hug.
“Okay, Mom.” Nikki said.

Nikki walked over to Josh and gave him a hug, then walked over to Sarah and gave her a hug.
I sat down in a chair and Sarah sat on my lap, Josh sat in the chair by Benji’s bed and Nikki sat on his lap, and Mom sat in the last chair.
Nikki held Benji’s hand and rubbed the back of it softly with her thumb. She started humming a song. I wasn’t quite sure what it was until she started singing.

“Don't pretend you're sorry, I know you're not. I know you've got the power to make me weak inside. And boy you leave me breathless, but it's okay. Cuz you are my survival. Now hear me say. I can't imagine, Life without your love, and even forever, don’t seem like long enough. Cuz Every time I breathe I take you in, and my heart beats again. Baby I can't help it. Keep me drowning in your love. And every time I try to rise above, I'm swept away by love. Baby I can't help it. Keep me drowning in your love.”<br>
It was “Drowning” by Backstreet Boys, the song she had always dedicated to him. Benji had even gone through the trouble of learning the song to sing it to her when she got depressed. That shows how much he loves her. He would do anything for her. She finished singing to him and kissed his forehead. She turned around and looked at me. Amazingly enough, I knew what she was thinking, and I nodded.
Nikki took a deep breath.

“Mom, Sarah, Josh, I don’t know how you’re gonna take this, but I hope you take it well.” She said, looking amongst the three of them. She took another deep breath.
“I am 2 ½ months pregnant.” She said.
Sarah jumped off my lap and threw her arms around Nikki’s neck.
“Oh my gosh, Nikki! I’m so happy for you! You are gonna be a GREAT mother!” she said.
After Sarah let go, Josh was next in line.
“Come here, Short-Stuff.” He said, pulling her into a hug.
After Josh, Mom congratulated her.
Later that day Nikki told everyone else the great news.

*Nikki’s POV*[/i]

After I told everyone the news, everybody congratulated me. Jere was last to congratulate me. He walked up to me and embraced me in a tight hug.
“Can we go somewhere and talk?” I whispered in his ear as he hugged me.
“Sure.” He whispered back.
After he let go, I turned around to look at everyone. They all smiled at me.
“Umm...I’m gonna go get a drink and something to munch on. Jere, Joel and Leighanne, can you guys come with me?” I said.
“Alright.” They said in unison.
Leighanne stood up and told Mary-Jane to stay with Matt, then walked over to me and gave me a confused look. Joel walked up and we walked out the door.
When we got to the elevator, I pressed the button and waited for it to get to the floor. The doors opened and we climbed on. I pressed the button for the basement and we went to the cafeteria. We went to the vending machines and got some drinks and some cookies. Nothing was said the whole time until we sat down at one of the tables.
“So what did you want to talk about?” Jere asked.
“Well. Since you, Joel, Leighanne, and I are the only ones who know about the umm...incident...I didn’t want to say anything in front of the others...I just wanted to make sure you knew the baby isn’t yours.” I told him.

[But Why's The Rum Gone?!?!?!]

Chapter 25: *Joel’s POV*
*3 Days Later*[/i]

Well, Nikki has been staying with Mom while Benji is in the hospital because Mom didn’t want Nikki to stay alone, and I didn’t want Mom and Sarah to stay alone either.
Yesterday I went up to La Plata and gave them Nikki’s doctor’s excuse and told them that we had a family emergency, so we don’t know when she’ll be back to school, and I picked up some of her make-up assignments.
I look at my watch. It’s 9:36 Wednesday morning. Leighanne is in the shower getting ready to go pick up Mary-Jane from Matt’s.
Matt’s been really upset since Tony died, and it just got worse when Jackie ran off with Adam Gontier the other day.
___________________________________________

Okay, so we’re on our way to pick-up Mary-Jane and my cell phone rings. I hand my cell to Leighanne cuz I don’t like driving and talking on my cell at the same time.
Leighanne looks at the caller ID.
“It’s Billy.” She said, then answered it.
“Hey Pimp.” Leighanne said.
There was a short pause where I guess Billy was telling her something.
I looked over at her. She had a look of shock, joy, and excitement on her face.
“Okay......Okay......Okay......Luv ya...Bye.”
“Joel, when we pick up Mary-Jane, we have to bring Matt with us, then we have to pick up Nikki, Sarah, and your mom.” Leighanne said.
“Okay...can I ask why?” I asked.
She told me what was going on.
“Okay, after we pick up Matt and Mary-Jane, I’ll take y’all and drop you off at the hospital, then I’ll go get Mom, Sarah, and Nikki.” I said.
“That works.” She replied as we pulled up in front of Matt’s house.
____________________________________________

Well, we explained to Matt what was going on and it cheered him up some, but not a whole lot. Mary-Jane screamed with joy when she heard.
Now we’re on the way to the hospital.
“Joely, can we put in a CD?” Mary-Jane asked.
“Yep. Which one you wanna listen to?” I asked her.
“Murderdolls! Die My Bride!” She said. I laughed.
“Just like your mother and Aunt Nikki.” I said, handing Leighanne the CD wallet that I always keep in the car.
Leighanne flipped thru the CD’s and pulled out Murderdolls’ “Beyond the Valley of The Murderdolls” CD, put it in the player, and flipped it to number 7, Die My Bride.
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
____________________________________________

*2 ½ Years Later*
*No one’s POV*
*Date: November 16, 2009*[/i]

“Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday Dear Tina, Happy Birthday to you!” Everyone sang.

“Happy Birthday, Baby Girl.” Benji said, picking up the tiny 2-year-old.
Tina hugged Benji.
“Dada, Momma wuvs you...” Tina said.
“Momma loves you too, Baby Girl.” Benji replied.

Joel walked up behind Benji and placed his hand on his shoulder.
“Benj, do you need some alone time?” Joel asked him with sincerity.
“Would you take Tina to your house tonight?” Benji asked his twin.
“Yea, I’ll take her. Jesika and I would be glad to have her. And Bill and Tone would be happy to see her too.” Joel replied.
“Thanks Joel.” Benji said.
“No problem Benj.” He replied.
____________________________________________

···Later That Night···[/i]

Benji got out of his car with a bouquet of deep, blood red roses.
“She’s beautiful, Nikki. She looks just like you.” Benji broke down in tears, and laid the roses on the headstone, Memories of the funeral flooding his brain.

The headstone read:

Christina Nicole Madden
June 22, 1989 –November 16, 2007
“Died during childbirth. Loving wife, Mother of One. Always in our hearts.”


FIN[/size]

[Im In L.O.V.E]

AWSOME! i love it! it made me cry

[But Why's The Rum Gone?!?!?!]

Glad you liked it! There is going to be a sequel...in fact, the sequel has already been started. It is being Co-Written by one of my best friends, Bunny! Anyway, Thanks for reading my story, and I truely am glad that you liked it!

<3 Morana Luna Marchand <3