Nat you know that i wish you and taylor the best and i would never come between you two. much love.
this is complete fiction. (nat you know that i wish you and Tay the best. i love you both) this never happened and it never will. my friend requested it and so here it is. ill try to update it as soon as possible. be honest and tell me what you think of it, thank you. DO NOT TAKE, PLEASE!!!!
Chapter 1
“Dearest Taylor,
I wish that I could tell you what is going through my head. To tell you the truth I don’t even know.
I’m sorry to leave you hanging like this, but I need to love myself first before I can give you my whole heart.
Ezra and I will be fine.
Love,
Natalie”
As he read the note that she left him. Tears fell from his eyes. How could this happen? I’m lost without her…I can’t breathe without her. He thought. She’ll call…I hope…
Taylor sat down on the couch and stared at the phone for lost amounts of time. Wishing, thinking, hoping. Taylor jumped as the phone rang. He picked it up quickly.
“Natalie?!”
“No, it’s Zac.”
“Oh, hi.”
“Please, don’t sound excited.”
“Sorry, I was just thinking-“
“About Natalie, yeah, I noticed.”
“How may I assist you, Zac?”
“Are you ok, Tay?”
“Natalie left me, does it sound like I’m ok?… She took Ezra with her.”
“What?! When?!”
“Now that only leaves why and how.”
“Stop with the sarcasm! What happened?”
“ I don’t know. She must have left late last night while I was sleeping. She left me a note...”
“Tay, why didn’t you call me? You could have told me.”
“I just want to be alone.”
“Taylor, wai-“
Taylor hangs up the phone, covers his face and starts to cry. The phone rang again. Taylor let it ring until the answering machine picked up. Zac’s voice rang from it.
“Taylor, I know you’re there.”
Taylor got up and grabbed his jacket, scarf, and keys. Now I’m not. He thought as he walked out the door. Zac is still talking.
“Tay, pick up the damn phone!”
Taylor shut the door. His face, red with anger and pain. Trails of tears cover his cheeks. Taylor continued to walk down the empty hallway to the elevator. The doors open, Taylor stepped in. He pushed the button for the first floor. While he waited the words she wrote flashed through his mind. The doors opened to the lobby. Taylor walked out of the building, avoiding eye contact with anyone. And to his surprise, slipped out unnoticed. He turned to the right, heading toward the subway station. Walking at a mopy pace, Taylor soaked in everything that happened in the last half hour. Taylor’s hair, whipping in the swirling wind. His baby blues filled with tears once again.
Taylor walked down the steps and into the station. As he passed through the sea of faceless people, a dancer caught his attention out of the corner of his eye. He watched her as she moved with incredible emotion to the hip-hop music blaring from her headphones. Distracted by her extraordinary performance, Taylor walked head on into a rather large poll. The dancer saw what he did and smiled. Embarrassed, Taylor tried to play it off by leaning on it. She just smiled and kept dancing.
Oh, that was smooth, Tay. Real smooth. Taylor thought to himself. Taylor looked back where the dancer was. She was gone. He looked around and spots her getting on the train. She sat down and started to read. The doors shut and the train left.
“Oh shit!” he yelled, realizing that he had just missed his train. “Great, now I have to walk. Why must I be so easily distracted?… Shit.” He walked back to the stairs.
Chapter 2
The dancer goes flying through the doors of Starbucks.
“Jennifer?!” A voice yelled in a Why the fuck are you here? tone.
“Sorry, Jay, I know I’m late.” Jennifer yelled rushing to the back.
“Actually, you’re early.” Jay yelled back.
Jennifer poked her head through the door. “Really?”
“Yeah, about an hour as a matter of fact.” Jay said with a chuckle.
“Cool. Does this mean I get a raise?” she said with a sly grin.
“Ha! You wish.” Jay said smiling.
“Doesn’t hurt to ask.” Jennifer laughed.
“Yeah, right. Go on get to work.” He said.
Jennifer just smiled and walked to her register. She stood there waiting for a costumer to come in. No one seemed to be coming. Hmmm…maybe I’m really early… well; it is Saturday…people are sleeping in. she thought to herself. Jennifer looked around, then went to the back and got a CD out of her bag, walked over to the CD player, that is hooked up to the speakers in the main café, put the CD in and pushed play. Jennifer ran back to her register and waited for the music to start playing. Shania Twain’s “No one needs to know” sounded from the speakers. Jennifer started dancing in place to the beat. She saw a woman walk in carrying a little boy no more than 2 years old, accompanied by a tall well-built young man. The woman walked up to the counter.
“Hi, may I take your order?” Jennifer asked politely.
“Yes, I would like one Carmel frapachinno, one orange juice and one coffee, black.” The woman replied.
“Will that be all?” Jennifer asked.
“Yes.” The woman shot back.
“That comes out to $10.25.” Jennifer said studying the woman. That was kind of rude…hmmm… She seems nervous. Jennifer thought to herself.
The boy reached out and touched Jennifer’s hand. Jennifer’s head shot up, she looked at the boy, and then softly smiled. The woman looked at Jennifer gave a tiny smile, grabbed the child’s hand, pulled it back, and then paid. The young man she was with grabbed the drinks and they left. Michael Jackson’s “wanna be startin somethin’” started playing, Jennifer started dancing again, not paying attention to anything around her. Taylor walked in and saw her dancing, not knowing that it was the same girl from the station. He smiled and walked up to the counter, looking down at his shoes.
“Excuse me miss.” Taylor said in a quiet voice.
Jennifer jumped, startled. Embarrassed, she turned around and straitened up. “ Sorry about that.” She said trying not to laugh.
“It’s ok” Taylor replied, quite amused by her reaction.
Jennifer giggled. “May I take your order?”
“Yes, I would like a Venti raspberry chi tea, extra raspberry, not so much ice.” Taylor said, still looking down.
“Alright, that will be-“ Jennifer began.
“4.50?” Taylor finished for her.
Jennifer grinned. “Yeah’ she took the money from him. ’Come here often?” Jennifer said with a grin. Taylor smiled.
“Am I that obvious?” Taylor said blushing.
“ Only to me.” Jennifer said trying to get a look at his face. Taylor looked up at her through his wavy locks.
“Thanks for the tea.” Taylor sighed, going back into his depression.
“You’re welcome.” Jennifer said sweetly. Taylor gave her a slight smile and then went to sit down in a booth. Jennifer studied him as he sat in a blank stare. He distracted himself of his thoughts by doodling on a napkin. I know I probably shouldn’t interfere, but something tells me that he’s not well… His eyes seem so empty. Jennifer thought to herself as she looked around and saw the last piece of cheesecake in the display case. She grabbed a plate and two forks. Jennifer put the cheesecake on the plate.
“Jay, I’m taking a break!” Jennifer yelled.
“Ok, not too long though. Okay?” Jay responded.
“Ok!” Jennifer yelled back. She walked over to Taylor. “May I sit here?” She asked sincerely. Taylor motioned for her to sit. She sat down across from him.
“I know I probably shouldn’t ask, but, are you ok?” Jennifer asked with all kindness intended.
“ Not to be rude, but, why do you care?” Taylor shot back.
“Why not?’ She paused. ‘ Every one needs some one to talk to.” Jennifer tried to look into his eyes but his hair was in his face. He scoffed. Jennifer jumped, surprised by his response. She shifted around in her seat, then looked down and started rubbing her hands together nervously.
“I’m literally alone on my birthday-‘ Jennifer looked up at him. ‘- I have no one…no one that I care to talk to right now.’ Taylor paused as he tried not to cry. ‘Happy fucking birthday.”
“ I know it may not mean much, but, you’re more than welcome to celebrate it with me. My birthday was two days ago. I didn’t have anyone special either.’ Jennifer slid the plate toward him. ‘ It’s not much but, it’s better than nothing.” Taylor just sat there. Jennifer got up and went to the other side, Taylor moved over and she sat down next to him. She could feel that he was looking at her but she couldn’t see his eyes. Taylor jumped a little as she moved his hair away from his face. She saw a single tear fall from his eye.
“Some one so beautiful should not be so angry. And especially shouldn’t hide.” Jennifer said as she got back up to go to the counter. Taylor grabbed her hand. Jennifer turned around to face him.
“Some one so beautiful should never be alone on her birthday.” Taylor said looking up at her. Jennifer just looked at him for a moment. Then sighed.
“Thank you.’ she looked down at her shoes.’ I’ll see you around. I have to get back to work.”
“Yeah, I have to get going too.’ Taylor paused reflecting on what, who was a stranger to him, had said.’ See you around.”
“Alright.’ Jennifer said with a soft smile. Taylor slowly released her hand as She walked back toward the counter. She saw him open the door. ‘By the way,’ Taylor said as he turned around. ‘Happy Birthday.” Taylor smiled.
“Same to you.” Taylor walked out the door. Then opened the door again. ‘By the way you are a great dancer.” Taylor said with a grin, knowing that he had embarrassed her.
“Thanks.” Jennifer said blushing. Taylor looked at her for a moment then left. Stacy walked in checking out Taylor as he walked by her.
“Friend of yours?” Stacy said teasingly.
“No, he’s just a customer.” Jennifer shot a glare at her.
“Yeah, right.” Stacy said as she walked to the back. Just a customer…Jennifer thought. Then smiled.
Chapter 3
Taylor left Starbucks with a smile on his face, and then he heard "Every word I say," blaring from a girl's stereo. He stopped dead in his tracks. The song immediately reminded him of Natalie. He stood there in a blank stare. No expression. The girl looked up at him, slightly confused about why he stopped.
"Excuse me, sir?" the girl asked. Taylor is shaken from his thoughts.
"Yes?" Taylor responded.
"Are you ok?" she asked.
"Yes, I'm ok. Why do you ask?" Taylor said in a kind voice.
" You stopped suddenly and had this look like you were missing something. Are you missing something? Maybe I can help you?" she said.
"I'm missing a lot of things, thank you for your concern but I don't think you can help." Taylor said looking down, his hair in his face.
"You should go home and sleep, you don't look well at all' she gives him a look like she knows him. 'Hey,' Taylor tensed up. ' Is your name Taylor?" she asked
"I'm sorry?" Taylor asked just to make sure he heard her right.
"Is your name Taylor?" she asked again.
"I'm sorry, miss, you must have me mistaken for someone else. My name is Jordan." Taylor said still tense. Oh god I hope she doesn't recognize me. That's the last thing I need right now. Taylor thought. He lifted his head to look at her.
"I'm sorry, you just look a lot like Taylor Hanson." She said embarrassed.
"It's ok, well, I got to go." Taylor said. He walked away and didn't stop until he reached his apartment. Taylor got out his keys, unlocked the door and walked in, shutting the door behind him. He walked across the living room to the kitchen table, set everything down and then went to lay down on the sofa. Taylor lay there, starring at the ceiling. ::Taylor:: Happy Fucking birthday. ::Jennifer:: Someone so beautiful should not be so angry. ::Taylor:: Why do you care? ::Jennifer:: Everyone needs someone to talk to. The girls' face flashed into his mind. He remembered her beautiful smile and her warm, comforting, hazel eyes. Taylor sat up and rubbed his face then walked to the piano and started to play "Love somebody to know" and singing passionately.
Mean while at Starbucks, just as Taylor started playing, "Love somebody to know" started playing in the café. Jennifer started singing and bobbing her head to the music. She didn't know why but she couldn't seem to stop thinking about the young man that came in earlier. And she had a feeling that she was being thought about too. When the song ended they both sat there for a few moments. Jennifer went on break and Taylor left the apartment again. He wondered around for a couple of hours before making his way to the subway station. He stayed on the train until about 11:30 pm. Then decided to go home and sleep off the day.
Arriving at home he found the light on the answering machine blinking. He had two new messages. Taylor knew who the first message was from. He walked over and pushed the play button. Zac's Voice sounded from the machine.
"Taylor, I know you're there. ' There's a pause. 'Tay, pick up the damn phone! We're worried about you, Tay. We haven't heard from you in weeks, man." Zac starts to cry and hangs up the phone.
Taylor just stood there. I know that you are worried, little brother. I will call you soon. Taylor thought as he pushed for the next message. It was Natalie.
"Taylor? Are you there?' There's a pause.' Tay, I'm dropping Ezra off at Ike and Zac's apartment. I know that you miss him so I'm going to give you time with him.' There is another pause, longer than the last. 'Your brothers will pick him up next Friday. I'm dropping him off around noon so… Try to have fun with him. I lo-' she stops mid sentence and takes a deep breath. ' I got to go, I'll talk to you later…. bye." Taylor stood with his hands gripping the counter. Why won't you drop him off over here your self. I miss you so much, Nat. We need to talk. He thought as he loosened his grip. Taylor went to his room and looked around at the empty space where the love of his life once kept her possessions. He walked over to the bed, stripped down to his boxers and then crawled into bed. He thought of Natalie then was distracted by the humorous thought of the girl at the counter dancing to Michael Jackson. He chuckled then after he tossed and turned for a while, he fell asleep.
Taylor felt like he had been asleep for ten minutes when his phone rang. He rolled over and looked at his clock. If it's not an insanely beautiful woman I'm hanging up… who the hell would call me at Seven O'clock in the morning? The thought as he reached for the phone.
"Hello?" He said in a raspy voice.
"Hi, Taylor."
"Mom?"
"Hi honey, how are you feeling?"
"Exhausted."
"I was told to remind you to pick up Ez at your brothers' apartment at 1:00."
"One? I was told twelve."
"I don't know what's going on but Natalie doesn't want to be there when you pick him up."
"Did I do something wrong?"
"I don't know. I would tell you if I knew."
"I know you would."
"I'm sorry, I wish I could tell you something. Anything to make you feel better."
"I know. Well, I'm going to go get some coffee."
"Ok."
"I love you, mom."
"I love you too."
"Bye."
"Bye, baby." Taylor hung up the phone, threw off the covers and walked over to his closet. He took out a pair of jeans and a nice shirt. Taylor got dressed then walked out to the living room. He jumped to find Isaac sitting on the sofa with Ezra.
"What are you doing here?" Taylor said as he jumped back. "How did you get in?"
"Natalie gave me her key.' Isaac said as he looked back at Taylor. 'She had a gut feeling that you weren't going to wake up till noon."
"I'm sure she did." Taylor mocked as he walked over to the table and grabbed his coat and keys.
"Are you going somewhere?"
"Yeah, I'm going to get coffee." Taylor said as he put on his coat.
"What? Are you just going to leave Ezra here?"
"No, I'm not going to leave him here! Jesus Christ, Ike." Taylor shot back. Isaac Jumped at his reaction, Taylor had never really blown up on him like that. Taylor walked over and picked up Ezra then walked over and opened the door.
"Lock up when you leave." Taylor said as he walked out the door.
Chapter 4
Taylor walked into Starbucks and saw the same girl standing at the counter. He walked up to the counter without making eye contact with any one. His hair still in his face like she always sees him, this time carrying a little boy.
“Hi there.” Jennifer squeaked as she closed the register.
“Hi.” Taylor said as he shifted Ezra to his other hip.
“May I take your order?”
“Yes, I would like a Venti raspberry chi tea-“
“Extra raspberry, not so much ice.” Jennifer finished for him.
His head shot up in surprise. Ezra leaned over and grabbed Jennifer’s hand. She looked up at the boy and smiled. She played with his hand waving it up and down gently.
“ And what shall I get for the heartbreaker over here?” Jennifer said looking at Taylor, whose hair was still somewhat in his face.
“Uhhh…”
“How about an apple juice?” Jennifer asked as she poked Ezra’s nose. He started bouncing on his father’s hip.
“I’ll take that as he wants an apple juice.” Taylor said chuckling.
“I guess so.” Jennifer stated.
“So what is my new total?” Taylor asked as he pulled out his wallet.
“Four even.” Jennifer said still playing with Ezra. “Your nephew is cute.”
Taylor laughed.
“He’s not my nephew… He’s my son.”
Jennifer felt her face grow pale. And then she blushed. “ Your son?”
“Yeah.” Taylor said looking down.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to offend you. It’s just that you’re so young.” Taylor smiled at the way she was rambling.
“You didn’t offend me. It happens a lot.” Taylor handed her the money. Jennifer fixed their drinks.
“I’ll take them over. You have a hand full as it is.” Jennifer said smiling. Ezra wiggled and Taylor put him down. Ezra grabbed a hold of Jennifer’s pants and walked with her over to the booth. She set the drinks down and put straws on the table.
“There you go.”
“Thank you, Jennifer.” Taylor said as he set Ezra down in the booth next to him. Jennifer looked at her nametag then up at Taylor and smiled.
“You’re welcome…enjoy.” Jennifer started to walk back to the counter.
“Umm. Would you like to join us?” Taylor asked. Jennifer turned around.
Jennifer smiled. “Maybe next time. I can’t take a break until around noon.” She said emphasizing on the word noon.
Taylor grinned at her. “Ok.” Jennifer walked back to the counter. About 15 minutes later Taylor walked up to the counter.
“Could I have a few napkins? We kinda had an accident.”
“Sure you can.” She said handing him a hand full of napkins. “ Do you need any help?”
“ I think I got it. But thank you.”
“No problem.” Taylor’s cell phone starts to ring. He points over to Ezra. Jennifer understands and goes over to watch him while Taylor takes his call. She used the napkins that were on the table to clean up the mess. She stopped and looked at the napkins then looked at Taylor, smiled and shook her head. She watched Taylor as he took a pen and wrote something on a napkin. Ezra kicked Jennifer on the shoulder; she looked up at him and grabbed his foot. “Why are you kicking me? Huh?” she starts tickling Ezra. She smiles; it had been a while since she had last heard a child laugh. She looked up and saw Taylor heading back to the table.
“Well, we better be on our way.”
“Ok, well it was nice to see you. I’m sorry we didn’t get to talk.”
“It’s ok. We’ll talk next time.” He said grinning at her. Jennifer just blushed and looked down at her feet. “Ok, little bit. Let’s get going.” Ezra looked at Jennifer and waved at her as Taylor picked him up. Taylor took Jennifer’s hand. Then slowly released it as he walked away.
Jennifer watched him walk out the doors and sighed. She walked behind the counter and looked down at a note that he had left her. It read. “See you tomorrow.”
She smiled and then went on about her work. Days would pass before they would see each other again.
Chapter 5
Jennifer went and sat outside for her break, watching people walk by. About twenty minutes later Taylor walked up to the doors and looked in. When he didn’t see her at the counter he let out a heavy sigh and looked down at his shoes. Jennifer just looked at him with her eyebrow raised.
“You do know that stalking is illegal in all 50 states?” Jennifer stated with a grin. Taylor jumped at the question then looked over at her. He smiled. “Have a seat, I won’t bite.” She said smiling. Taylor looked at her, and then took a seat. “You look so familiar.” Taylor looked up at her, scared. “I think I saw you at the Subway station’ she started to laugh.
“What? Do I have something on my face?” Taylor said trying to make her laugh more. Jennifer started laughing harder.
“No, It’s just that. You ran in to a post and tried to play it off’ she laughed again. ‘ I thought it was cute.” Taylor looked at her, and then it clicked.
“Oh my god.’ Taylor covered his face then looked at her blushing. ‘ You’re the dancer?”
She laughed “ Yeah, that was me.” She put her hand out. “I’m Jennifer.” Taylor took her hand gently.
“Is there a last name that goes with that?” Taylor said grinning. Jennifer smiled.
“Llanas.” She responded. “And your name, sir?”
“Taylor.” He responded.
“Taylor…?” She looked with an eyebrow raised.
“Han- Jordan.” Taylor said.
“Be honest, come on.” Jennifer said looking into his eyes and gently rubbing his hand with her thumb.
“Hanson.” Taylor said. Jennifer just smiled.
“There, now was that so hard?” Jennifer said. Taylor laughed.
“It was harder then you know.” Taylor said in an “if you only knew” kind of tone.
“Where is you’re son?” Jennifer asked sweetly. Taylor looked up at her and sighed.
“His mother has him.”
“What’s his name?”
“Ezra.”
“Wow. That is a beautiful name.”
“Yeah it is.”
“He is the most sweet and adorable child I have ever met.”
“Yeah he is sweet… I don’t know what I would do with out him.” Taylor put his head down. Jennifer could see that he was getting a little uncomfortable so she quickly changed the subject.
“So what is it that you do, Taylor?” Jennifer asked. Taylor released her hand and looked at her confused by the question. “What?” Jennifer asked looking back at him. Taylor raised an eyebrow. “Wrong question?”
“No, sorry. I was thinking” Taylor said quickly, putting his head down. Hmmm… this is a little weird. She has no clue who I am…refreshing but weird. Taylor thought. “I’m a musician.”
“Awesome, I’m a musician also. I’m not famous or anything but I sometimes play down in the subway station and in the park. I like to see peoples reactions, you know?” Jennifer rambled. “You know, you look familiar. A bit older then he was but you look a lot like this guy that my friend liked. He was in a band but I can never remember the name… He played with his brothers.’ Jennifer put her hand on her forehead and tried to remember the name of the band. She slowly started to raise her head and looked at him. Jennifer’s eyes widened. Oh my god… That’s him…I feel really stupid now. Jennifer thought, she had a look on her face like she just wanted to run and hide in a dark corner. Taylor gently takes her hand and rubs it with his other hand.
“Are you ok?” Taylor asked. “You’re trembling.” Jennifer just looked at him, trying to slow her heartbeat.
“I think so, I just felt light headed for a second there.” Jennifer replied smiling slightly. Jay walked out side.
“Jenn, I need you to…’ he stopped mid sentence and looked down at Jennifer who looked unusually pale. ‘Are you ok? You don’t look so good.” Jennifer looked up at Jay. ‘ Jenn, don’t worry about the rest of the day. Go home and rest. Call me when you are feeling better.”
“Ok, thank you.” Jennifer said in a quiet voice. Jay looked at Taylor then at Jennifer and walked back inside.
“Do you want me to walk you home?” Taylor asked softly.
“I think I’ll be ok, but thank you.” Jennifer nervously spat out. Taylor looked at the ground. Jennifer put her hand under his chin and lifted his head so she could see his eyes. They were closed. “I just think I should walk alone. I want to get some things off my mind. Thank you for the offer…maybe next time.” Jennifer smiled at him. Taylor looked up and saw her smile and he couldn’t help but smile back.
“That’s what you said last time.” Taylor said with a grin. Jennifer blushed.
“Yeah, and we talked didn’t we?” Jennifer said. Taylor smiled. He knew that she wasn’t going to leave him hanging. She got up, slowly released his hand and allowed her other hand to trace Taylor’s jaw line and then left. Taylor sat there, entranced by her body, eyes, smile, everything. Taylor started getting a warm fuzzy feeling in the pit of his stomach. He shook it off, got up and turned to leave. Taylor stood for a second with a grin on his face and then walked off down the sidewalk.
Jennifer walked at a rapid pace, one arm across her stomach and with the other hand started tapping her teeth with her nails.
She arrived at her apartment. Jennifer struggled to find her keys, unlocked the door and stumbled in, closing the door behind her. She dropped everything and went straight to the bathroom and took a nice, long, hot shower. She let the water run over her body and then leaned her head forward and let the water run over her head bringing her hair down over her face. She stood there, silent, thinking of how she made a complete ass out of herself not knowing who he was. Stupid stupid stupid. She thought to herself as she flipped her hair back. She ran her hand over her head, smoothing out her hair and then rubbed her eyes. She shut off the water, got out and wrapped a towel around her. She walked over to the closet and grabbed her robe off the door. Jennifer removed her towel and put her robe on. Then proceeded to walk to her living room, laid down on the couch and started watching T.V. It wasn’t too long before she was asleep.
Chapter 1
“Dearest Taylor,
I wish that I could tell you what is going through my head. To tell you the truth I don’t even know.
I’m sorry to leave you hanging like this, but I need to love myself first before I can give you my whole heart.
Ezra and I will be fine.
Love,
Natalie”
As he read the note that she left him. Tears fell from his eyes. How could this happen? I’m lost without her…I can’t breathe without her. He thought. She’ll call…I hope…
Taylor sat down on the couch and stared at the phone for lost amounts of time. Wishing, thinking, hoping. Taylor jumped as the phone rang. He picked it up quickly.
“Natalie?!”
“No, it’s Zac.”
“Oh, hi.”
“Please, don’t sound excited.”
“Sorry, I was just thinking-“
“About Natalie, yeah, I noticed.”
“How may I assist you, Zac?”
“Are you ok, Tay?”
“Natalie left me, does it sound like I’m ok?… She took Ezra with her.”
“What?! When?!”
“Now that only leaves why and how.”
“Stop with the sarcasm! What happened?”
“ I don’t know. She must have left late last night while I was sleeping. She left me a note...”
“Tay, why didn’t you call me? You could have told me.”
“I just want to be alone.”
“Taylor, wai-“
Taylor hangs up the phone, covers his face and starts to cry. The phone rang again. Taylor let it ring until the answering machine picked up. Zac’s voice rang from it.
“Taylor, I know you’re there.”
Taylor got up and grabbed his jacket, scarf, and keys. Now I’m not. He thought as he walked out the door. Zac is still talking.
“Tay, pick up the damn phone!”
Taylor shut the door. His face, red with anger and pain. Trails of tears cover his cheeks. Taylor continued to walk down the empty hallway to the elevator. The doors open, Taylor stepped in. He pushed the button for the first floor. While he waited the words she wrote flashed through his mind. The doors opened to the lobby. Taylor walked out of the building, avoiding eye contact with anyone. And to his surprise, slipped out unnoticed. He turned to the right, heading toward the subway station. Walking at a mopy pace, Taylor soaked in everything that happened in the last half hour. Taylor’s hair, whipping in the swirling wind. His baby blues filled with tears once again.
Taylor walked down the steps and into the station. As he passed through the sea of faceless people, a dancer caught his attention out of the corner of his eye. He watched her as she moved with incredible emotion to the hip-hop music blaring from her headphones. Distracted by her extraordinary performance, Taylor walked head on into a rather large poll. The dancer saw what he did and smiled. Embarrassed, Taylor tried to play it off by leaning on it. She just smiled and kept dancing.
Oh, that was smooth, Tay. Real smooth. Taylor thought to himself. Taylor looked back where the dancer was. She was gone. He looked around and spots her getting on the train. She sat down and started to read. The doors shut and the train left.
“Oh shit!” he yelled, realizing that he had just missed his train. “Great, now I have to walk. Why must I be so easily distracted?… Shit.” He walked back to the stairs.
Chapter 2
The dancer goes flying through the doors of Starbucks.
“Jennifer?!” A voice yelled in a Why the fuck are you here? tone.
“Sorry, Jay, I know I’m late.” Jennifer yelled rushing to the back.
“Actually, you’re early.” Jay yelled back.
Jennifer poked her head through the door. “Really?”
“Yeah, about an hour as a matter of fact.” Jay said with a chuckle.
“Cool. Does this mean I get a raise?” she said with a sly grin.
“Ha! You wish.” Jay said smiling.
“Doesn’t hurt to ask.” Jennifer laughed.
“Yeah, right. Go on get to work.” He said.
Jennifer just smiled and walked to her register. She stood there waiting for a costumer to come in. No one seemed to be coming. Hmmm…maybe I’m really early… well; it is Saturday…people are sleeping in. she thought to herself. Jennifer looked around, then went to the back and got a CD out of her bag, walked over to the CD player, that is hooked up to the speakers in the main café, put the CD in and pushed play. Jennifer ran back to her register and waited for the music to start playing. Shania Twain’s “No one needs to know” sounded from the speakers. Jennifer started dancing in place to the beat. She saw a woman walk in carrying a little boy no more than 2 years old, accompanied by a tall well-built young man. The woman walked up to the counter.
“Hi, may I take your order?” Jennifer asked politely.
“Yes, I would like one Carmel frapachinno, one orange juice and one coffee, black.” The woman replied.
“Will that be all?” Jennifer asked.
“Yes.” The woman shot back.
“That comes out to $10.25.” Jennifer said studying the woman. That was kind of rude…hmmm… She seems nervous. Jennifer thought to herself.
The boy reached out and touched Jennifer’s hand. Jennifer’s head shot up, she looked at the boy, and then softly smiled. The woman looked at Jennifer gave a tiny smile, grabbed the child’s hand, pulled it back, and then paid. The young man she was with grabbed the drinks and they left. Michael Jackson’s “wanna be startin somethin’” started playing, Jennifer started dancing again, not paying attention to anything around her. Taylor walked in and saw her dancing, not knowing that it was the same girl from the station. He smiled and walked up to the counter, looking down at his shoes.
“Excuse me miss.” Taylor said in a quiet voice.
Jennifer jumped, startled. Embarrassed, she turned around and straitened up. “ Sorry about that.” She said trying not to laugh.
“It’s ok” Taylor replied, quite amused by her reaction.
Jennifer giggled. “May I take your order?”
“Yes, I would like a Venti raspberry chi tea, extra raspberry, not so much ice.” Taylor said, still looking down.
“Alright, that will be-“ Jennifer began.
“4.50?” Taylor finished for her.
Jennifer grinned. “Yeah’ she took the money from him. ’Come here often?” Jennifer said with a grin. Taylor smiled.
“Am I that obvious?” Taylor said blushing.
“ Only to me.” Jennifer said trying to get a look at his face. Taylor looked up at her through his wavy locks.
“Thanks for the tea.” Taylor sighed, going back into his depression.
“You’re welcome.” Jennifer said sweetly. Taylor gave her a slight smile and then went to sit down in a booth. Jennifer studied him as he sat in a blank stare. He distracted himself of his thoughts by doodling on a napkin. I know I probably shouldn’t interfere, but something tells me that he’s not well… His eyes seem so empty. Jennifer thought to herself as she looked around and saw the last piece of cheesecake in the display case. She grabbed a plate and two forks. Jennifer put the cheesecake on the plate.
“Jay, I’m taking a break!” Jennifer yelled.
“Ok, not too long though. Okay?” Jay responded.
“Ok!” Jennifer yelled back. She walked over to Taylor. “May I sit here?” She asked sincerely. Taylor motioned for her to sit. She sat down across from him.
“I know I probably shouldn’t ask, but, are you ok?” Jennifer asked with all kindness intended.
“ Not to be rude, but, why do you care?” Taylor shot back.
“Why not?’ She paused. ‘ Every one needs some one to talk to.” Jennifer tried to look into his eyes but his hair was in his face. He scoffed. Jennifer jumped, surprised by his response. She shifted around in her seat, then looked down and started rubbing her hands together nervously.
“I’m literally alone on my birthday-‘ Jennifer looked up at him. ‘- I have no one…no one that I care to talk to right now.’ Taylor paused as he tried not to cry. ‘Happy fucking birthday.”
“ I know it may not mean much, but, you’re more than welcome to celebrate it with me. My birthday was two days ago. I didn’t have anyone special either.’ Jennifer slid the plate toward him. ‘ It’s not much but, it’s better than nothing.” Taylor just sat there. Jennifer got up and went to the other side, Taylor moved over and she sat down next to him. She could feel that he was looking at her but she couldn’t see his eyes. Taylor jumped a little as she moved his hair away from his face. She saw a single tear fall from his eye.
“Some one so beautiful should not be so angry. And especially shouldn’t hide.” Jennifer said as she got back up to go to the counter. Taylor grabbed her hand. Jennifer turned around to face him.
“Some one so beautiful should never be alone on her birthday.” Taylor said looking up at her. Jennifer just looked at him for a moment. Then sighed.
“Thank you.’ she looked down at her shoes.’ I’ll see you around. I have to get back to work.”
“Yeah, I have to get going too.’ Taylor paused reflecting on what, who was a stranger to him, had said.’ See you around.”
“Alright.’ Jennifer said with a soft smile. Taylor slowly released her hand as She walked back toward the counter. She saw him open the door. ‘By the way,’ Taylor said as he turned around. ‘Happy Birthday.” Taylor smiled.
“Same to you.” Taylor walked out the door. Then opened the door again. ‘By the way you are a great dancer.” Taylor said with a grin, knowing that he had embarrassed her.
“Thanks.” Jennifer said blushing. Taylor looked at her for a moment then left. Stacy walked in checking out Taylor as he walked by her.
“Friend of yours?” Stacy said teasingly.
“No, he’s just a customer.” Jennifer shot a glare at her.
“Yeah, right.” Stacy said as she walked to the back. Just a customer…Jennifer thought. Then smiled.
Chapter 3
Taylor left Starbucks with a smile on his face, and then he heard "Every word I say," blaring from a girl's stereo. He stopped dead in his tracks. The song immediately reminded him of Natalie. He stood there in a blank stare. No expression. The girl looked up at him, slightly confused about why he stopped.
"Excuse me, sir?" the girl asked. Taylor is shaken from his thoughts.
"Yes?" Taylor responded.
"Are you ok?" she asked.
"Yes, I'm ok. Why do you ask?" Taylor said in a kind voice.
" You stopped suddenly and had this look like you were missing something. Are you missing something? Maybe I can help you?" she said.
"I'm missing a lot of things, thank you for your concern but I don't think you can help." Taylor said looking down, his hair in his face.
"You should go home and sleep, you don't look well at all' she gives him a look like she knows him. 'Hey,' Taylor tensed up. ' Is your name Taylor?" she asked
"I'm sorry?" Taylor asked just to make sure he heard her right.
"Is your name Taylor?" she asked again.
"I'm sorry, miss, you must have me mistaken for someone else. My name is Jordan." Taylor said still tense. Oh god I hope she doesn't recognize me. That's the last thing I need right now. Taylor thought. He lifted his head to look at her.
"I'm sorry, you just look a lot like Taylor Hanson." She said embarrassed.
"It's ok, well, I got to go." Taylor said. He walked away and didn't stop until he reached his apartment. Taylor got out his keys, unlocked the door and walked in, shutting the door behind him. He walked across the living room to the kitchen table, set everything down and then went to lay down on the sofa. Taylor lay there, starring at the ceiling. ::Taylor:: Happy Fucking birthday. ::Jennifer:: Someone so beautiful should not be so angry. ::Taylor:: Why do you care? ::Jennifer:: Everyone needs someone to talk to. The girls' face flashed into his mind. He remembered her beautiful smile and her warm, comforting, hazel eyes. Taylor sat up and rubbed his face then walked to the piano and started to play "Love somebody to know" and singing passionately.
Mean while at Starbucks, just as Taylor started playing, "Love somebody to know" started playing in the café. Jennifer started singing and bobbing her head to the music. She didn't know why but she couldn't seem to stop thinking about the young man that came in earlier. And she had a feeling that she was being thought about too. When the song ended they both sat there for a few moments. Jennifer went on break and Taylor left the apartment again. He wondered around for a couple of hours before making his way to the subway station. He stayed on the train until about 11:30 pm. Then decided to go home and sleep off the day.
Arriving at home he found the light on the answering machine blinking. He had two new messages. Taylor knew who the first message was from. He walked over and pushed the play button. Zac's Voice sounded from the machine.
"Taylor, I know you're there. ' There's a pause. 'Tay, pick up the damn phone! We're worried about you, Tay. We haven't heard from you in weeks, man." Zac starts to cry and hangs up the phone.
Taylor just stood there. I know that you are worried, little brother. I will call you soon. Taylor thought as he pushed for the next message. It was Natalie.
"Taylor? Are you there?' There's a pause.' Tay, I'm dropping Ezra off at Ike and Zac's apartment. I know that you miss him so I'm going to give you time with him.' There is another pause, longer than the last. 'Your brothers will pick him up next Friday. I'm dropping him off around noon so… Try to have fun with him. I lo-' she stops mid sentence and takes a deep breath. ' I got to go, I'll talk to you later…. bye." Taylor stood with his hands gripping the counter. Why won't you drop him off over here your self. I miss you so much, Nat. We need to talk. He thought as he loosened his grip. Taylor went to his room and looked around at the empty space where the love of his life once kept her possessions. He walked over to the bed, stripped down to his boxers and then crawled into bed. He thought of Natalie then was distracted by the humorous thought of the girl at the counter dancing to Michael Jackson. He chuckled then after he tossed and turned for a while, he fell asleep.
Taylor felt like he had been asleep for ten minutes when his phone rang. He rolled over and looked at his clock. If it's not an insanely beautiful woman I'm hanging up… who the hell would call me at Seven O'clock in the morning? The thought as he reached for the phone.
"Hello?" He said in a raspy voice.
"Hi, Taylor."
"Mom?"
"Hi honey, how are you feeling?"
"Exhausted."
"I was told to remind you to pick up Ez at your brothers' apartment at 1:00."
"One? I was told twelve."
"I don't know what's going on but Natalie doesn't want to be there when you pick him up."
"Did I do something wrong?"
"I don't know. I would tell you if I knew."
"I know you would."
"I'm sorry, I wish I could tell you something. Anything to make you feel better."
"I know. Well, I'm going to go get some coffee."
"Ok."
"I love you, mom."
"I love you too."
"Bye."
"Bye, baby." Taylor hung up the phone, threw off the covers and walked over to his closet. He took out a pair of jeans and a nice shirt. Taylor got dressed then walked out to the living room. He jumped to find Isaac sitting on the sofa with Ezra.
"What are you doing here?" Taylor said as he jumped back. "How did you get in?"
"Natalie gave me her key.' Isaac said as he looked back at Taylor. 'She had a gut feeling that you weren't going to wake up till noon."
"I'm sure she did." Taylor mocked as he walked over to the table and grabbed his coat and keys.
"Are you going somewhere?"
"Yeah, I'm going to get coffee." Taylor said as he put on his coat.
"What? Are you just going to leave Ezra here?"
"No, I'm not going to leave him here! Jesus Christ, Ike." Taylor shot back. Isaac Jumped at his reaction, Taylor had never really blown up on him like that. Taylor walked over and picked up Ezra then walked over and opened the door.
"Lock up when you leave." Taylor said as he walked out the door.
Chapter 4
Taylor walked into Starbucks and saw the same girl standing at the counter. He walked up to the counter without making eye contact with any one. His hair still in his face like she always sees him, this time carrying a little boy.
“Hi there.” Jennifer squeaked as she closed the register.
“Hi.” Taylor said as he shifted Ezra to his other hip.
“May I take your order?”
“Yes, I would like a Venti raspberry chi tea-“
“Extra raspberry, not so much ice.” Jennifer finished for him.
His head shot up in surprise. Ezra leaned over and grabbed Jennifer’s hand. She looked up at the boy and smiled. She played with his hand waving it up and down gently.
“ And what shall I get for the heartbreaker over here?” Jennifer said looking at Taylor, whose hair was still somewhat in his face.
“Uhhh…”
“How about an apple juice?” Jennifer asked as she poked Ezra’s nose. He started bouncing on his father’s hip.
“I’ll take that as he wants an apple juice.” Taylor said chuckling.
“I guess so.” Jennifer stated.
“So what is my new total?” Taylor asked as he pulled out his wallet.
“Four even.” Jennifer said still playing with Ezra. “Your nephew is cute.”
Taylor laughed.
“He’s not my nephew… He’s my son.”
Jennifer felt her face grow pale. And then she blushed. “ Your son?”
“Yeah.” Taylor said looking down.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to offend you. It’s just that you’re so young.” Taylor smiled at the way she was rambling.
“You didn’t offend me. It happens a lot.” Taylor handed her the money. Jennifer fixed their drinks.
“I’ll take them over. You have a hand full as it is.” Jennifer said smiling. Ezra wiggled and Taylor put him down. Ezra grabbed a hold of Jennifer’s pants and walked with her over to the booth. She set the drinks down and put straws on the table.
“There you go.”
“Thank you, Jennifer.” Taylor said as he set Ezra down in the booth next to him. Jennifer looked at her nametag then up at Taylor and smiled.
“You’re welcome…enjoy.” Jennifer started to walk back to the counter.
“Umm. Would you like to join us?” Taylor asked. Jennifer turned around.
Jennifer smiled. “Maybe next time. I can’t take a break until around noon.” She said emphasizing on the word noon.
Taylor grinned at her. “Ok.” Jennifer walked back to the counter. About 15 minutes later Taylor walked up to the counter.
“Could I have a few napkins? We kinda had an accident.”
“Sure you can.” She said handing him a hand full of napkins. “ Do you need any help?”
“ I think I got it. But thank you.”
“No problem.” Taylor’s cell phone starts to ring. He points over to Ezra. Jennifer understands and goes over to watch him while Taylor takes his call. She used the napkins that were on the table to clean up the mess. She stopped and looked at the napkins then looked at Taylor, smiled and shook her head. She watched Taylor as he took a pen and wrote something on a napkin. Ezra kicked Jennifer on the shoulder; she looked up at him and grabbed his foot. “Why are you kicking me? Huh?” she starts tickling Ezra. She smiles; it had been a while since she had last heard a child laugh. She looked up and saw Taylor heading back to the table.
“Well, we better be on our way.”
“Ok, well it was nice to see you. I’m sorry we didn’t get to talk.”
“It’s ok. We’ll talk next time.” He said grinning at her. Jennifer just blushed and looked down at her feet. “Ok, little bit. Let’s get going.” Ezra looked at Jennifer and waved at her as Taylor picked him up. Taylor took Jennifer’s hand. Then slowly released it as he walked away.
Jennifer watched him walk out the doors and sighed. She walked behind the counter and looked down at a note that he had left her. It read. “See you tomorrow.”
She smiled and then went on about her work. Days would pass before they would see each other again.
Chapter 5
Jennifer went and sat outside for her break, watching people walk by. About twenty minutes later Taylor walked up to the doors and looked in. When he didn’t see her at the counter he let out a heavy sigh and looked down at his shoes. Jennifer just looked at him with her eyebrow raised.
“You do know that stalking is illegal in all 50 states?” Jennifer stated with a grin. Taylor jumped at the question then looked over at her. He smiled. “Have a seat, I won’t bite.” She said smiling. Taylor looked at her, and then took a seat. “You look so familiar.” Taylor looked up at her, scared. “I think I saw you at the Subway station’ she started to laugh.
“What? Do I have something on my face?” Taylor said trying to make her laugh more. Jennifer started laughing harder.
“No, It’s just that. You ran in to a post and tried to play it off’ she laughed again. ‘ I thought it was cute.” Taylor looked at her, and then it clicked.
“Oh my god.’ Taylor covered his face then looked at her blushing. ‘ You’re the dancer?”
She laughed “ Yeah, that was me.” She put her hand out. “I’m Jennifer.” Taylor took her hand gently.
“Is there a last name that goes with that?” Taylor said grinning. Jennifer smiled.
“Llanas.” She responded. “And your name, sir?”
“Taylor.” He responded.
“Taylor…?” She looked with an eyebrow raised.
“Han- Jordan.” Taylor said.
“Be honest, come on.” Jennifer said looking into his eyes and gently rubbing his hand with her thumb.
“Hanson.” Taylor said. Jennifer just smiled.
“There, now was that so hard?” Jennifer said. Taylor laughed.
“It was harder then you know.” Taylor said in an “if you only knew” kind of tone.
“Where is you’re son?” Jennifer asked sweetly. Taylor looked up at her and sighed.
“His mother has him.”
“What’s his name?”
“Ezra.”
“Wow. That is a beautiful name.”
“Yeah it is.”
“He is the most sweet and adorable child I have ever met.”
“Yeah he is sweet… I don’t know what I would do with out him.” Taylor put his head down. Jennifer could see that he was getting a little uncomfortable so she quickly changed the subject.
“So what is it that you do, Taylor?” Jennifer asked. Taylor released her hand and looked at her confused by the question. “What?” Jennifer asked looking back at him. Taylor raised an eyebrow. “Wrong question?”
“No, sorry. I was thinking” Taylor said quickly, putting his head down. Hmmm… this is a little weird. She has no clue who I am…refreshing but weird. Taylor thought. “I’m a musician.”
“Awesome, I’m a musician also. I’m not famous or anything but I sometimes play down in the subway station and in the park. I like to see peoples reactions, you know?” Jennifer rambled. “You know, you look familiar. A bit older then he was but you look a lot like this guy that my friend liked. He was in a band but I can never remember the name… He played with his brothers.’ Jennifer put her hand on her forehead and tried to remember the name of the band. She slowly started to raise her head and looked at him. Jennifer’s eyes widened. Oh my god… That’s him…I feel really stupid now. Jennifer thought, she had a look on her face like she just wanted to run and hide in a dark corner. Taylor gently takes her hand and rubs it with his other hand.
“Are you ok?” Taylor asked. “You’re trembling.” Jennifer just looked at him, trying to slow her heartbeat.
“I think so, I just felt light headed for a second there.” Jennifer replied smiling slightly. Jay walked out side.
“Jenn, I need you to…’ he stopped mid sentence and looked down at Jennifer who looked unusually pale. ‘Are you ok? You don’t look so good.” Jennifer looked up at Jay. ‘ Jenn, don’t worry about the rest of the day. Go home and rest. Call me when you are feeling better.”
“Ok, thank you.” Jennifer said in a quiet voice. Jay looked at Taylor then at Jennifer and walked back inside.
“Do you want me to walk you home?” Taylor asked softly.
“I think I’ll be ok, but thank you.” Jennifer nervously spat out. Taylor looked at the ground. Jennifer put her hand under his chin and lifted his head so she could see his eyes. They were closed. “I just think I should walk alone. I want to get some things off my mind. Thank you for the offer…maybe next time.” Jennifer smiled at him. Taylor looked up and saw her smile and he couldn’t help but smile back.
“That’s what you said last time.” Taylor said with a grin. Jennifer blushed.
“Yeah, and we talked didn’t we?” Jennifer said. Taylor smiled. He knew that she wasn’t going to leave him hanging. She got up, slowly released his hand and allowed her other hand to trace Taylor’s jaw line and then left. Taylor sat there, entranced by her body, eyes, smile, everything. Taylor started getting a warm fuzzy feeling in the pit of his stomach. He shook it off, got up and turned to leave. Taylor stood for a second with a grin on his face and then walked off down the sidewalk.
Jennifer walked at a rapid pace, one arm across her stomach and with the other hand started tapping her teeth with her nails.
She arrived at her apartment. Jennifer struggled to find her keys, unlocked the door and stumbled in, closing the door behind her. She dropped everything and went straight to the bathroom and took a nice, long, hot shower. She let the water run over her body and then leaned her head forward and let the water run over her head bringing her hair down over her face. She stood there, silent, thinking of how she made a complete ass out of herself not knowing who he was. Stupid stupid stupid. She thought to herself as she flipped her hair back. She ran her hand over her head, smoothing out her hair and then rubbed her eyes. She shut off the water, got out and wrapped a towel around her. She walked over to the closet and grabbed her robe off the door. Jennifer removed her towel and put her robe on. Then proceeded to walk to her living room, laid down on the couch and started watching T.V. It wasn’t too long before she was asleep.