*Jasmine's Point Of View*

In life you have to find your way. You have to find your away around the good, the bad and the ugly.

I've personally struggle with finding my way around the bad bd the ugly. I've tried forgetting why happened and moving on.

My family did it, why can't I?

I know I deserve happiness and moping around is do nothing but letting David win, so when my friend Kayla invited me to Derreks birthday party, I agreed to go.

When he asked, I pondered it before just out right saying no. I know I have to get over the past, but it just hasn't been easy. My hopes are that this party will make it a little easier as a first step.

"So Derrek, do you like him?" Uncle Bill asks, glancing at me through the rearview mirror.

Dylan chuckles lightly beside before I could make up an defense.

I shoot him a nasty glare before answering.

"I wouldn't say I like him... He's pretty cool"

Uncle Bill smiles and nods.

"Do your parents know?" He interrogates further.

"I don't know" I simply answer.

Uncle Bill continues his series of questions regarding and revolving around Derreks life and who he is. It somehow went south to talking about relationships.

"Uncle Bill! I'm only fourteen in a half. I'm not ready to get married or anything. I just think he's cute and nice... Geez" I defend, my face growing hot with embarrassment.

I swear uncle Bill is even more worse than dad. Both just want to know way too much.

"Oh trust me, She'll be calling herself Misses Maddox after awhile" Dylan chimes as we stop at the gates of the Maddox's city mansion.

By this time I have completely ignored my little brother and have turned my attention on my steadily beating heart.

I've never felt this way, my heart is literally beating out of my chest. If it wasn't for the violet wind outside, I think Dylan and uncle Bill would be able to hear my excitement.

As we await the gets to open I can hear uncle Bill arranging safety procedures with the gate keeper.

"It's protocol. I have to keep your parents happy, especially your father" He explains as we continue through the gates.

That's the perk of being Michael and Marilyn Jacksons child. You have to constantly look out for the pesky media as well as make sure out travels and surroundings are safe.

Yes, I would say my father is most certainly paranoid.

"Alright you two... Here's the rules..." Uncle Bill starts, switching off the engine and turning to Dylan and I.

His voice is soon drowned out of my ears as time stops and so does my breathing.

Derrek Timothy Maddox. A six foot two sophomore of RosenBell High. The skin of light caramel, and dark soul inducing eyes. My exact example of Tall, tan, and handsome.

He's just perfect.

Derrek was greeting a few of his other guest as they were arriving in different groups of three, five and ten. I forgot to mention how well known Derrek is.

He's a optimistic basketball dreamer. He has scouts already trying to talk him into joining their university when he comes of age. I could see why with his father being a retired pro basketball player himself. His mother played a bit in high school as well, It's basically in his blood.

"Did you get that Jas?" Uncle Bill interrupts.

My fantasy quickly crumbles as I turn back to my bodyguard, smiling awkwardly I answer.

"Yeah... Uncle Bill. I got it. Safety first" I force a smile.

He smiles In approval.

"That'a girl. Now you two can go have fun, I'll be conversations with the adults over there" He informs.

Dylan shakes his head at me before nodding at uncle Bill and quickly hopping out of the SUV.

I turn to do the same, but uncle Bill gently reaches for my arm.

"Jasmine, please be careful. If you need me, I'm just a beep away. You do have your button right?" He asks, his stare serious and concerning.

Not wanting to have him worry anymore than he already is, I nod and showcase to him my emergency button.

It's a button that uncle had made especially for me by a friend of his that has a hidden tracker and distress signal. So if anything happens, I can press the button and uncle Bill will be there in a matter of seconds. I definitely feel safe when I have it.

"Good. I do this because I love you" He smiles, relieved.

"You sound like dad" I tease, leaning into the front to peck his cheek.

"Ha-ha. You are the daughter I never had along with Jordyn. Now, go have fun. Not too much though" He chuckles, climbing out of the SUV.

I giggle lightly before obeying and strolling into the group of unfamiliar and familiar faces.

It's been awhile since I've been to a birthday party, maybe even a year or two. I just don't like going out and meeting people that much. It's just not me.

Dylan is the polar opposite, within five minutes he's carelessly flirting with some older girls and joking around with other older boys. Dylan is definitely a socialite.

Five minutes into the party, and I find myself swaying on the poolside hammock. I don't know if it's just because I am a natural liner or the fact that most if the kids here I don't even know, either way I'm already ready to go home.

"Great way to party huh?" A voice calls from behind me.

A bit startled, I jump up from the hammock and glance towards the direction of the voice.

When my eyes meet those beautiful brown pulls, my heart did that thumping thing again. My stomach is churning in excitement, or fright. Either way it goes, I'm crushing and crushing hard.

"Y-yeah..." I stutter, tucking a few pieces of my blonde locks behind my ear.

He nods, tugging at the hem of his graphic tee.

"So, why is miss Jasmine Jackson isolating herself at her friends birthday party?" He teases, nudging me a bit.

When the word friend slips out of his lips, my heart sunk. I don't want to be his friend, I don't know why he can't see that.

"I-I don't know... I just..." I trial off trying to find a valid excuse.

"I just really like your pool" I lie.

"You like my pool?" He repeats slowly in confusion.

"Yes" I nod.

He chuckles before wrapping his arm around my shoulder.

"I understand if you aren't a party person, I'm not one either. This was mainly my parents idea to network basically. It's always about work, even on my birthday" He sighs, removing his arm.

God I wish he would have left his arm around me. I give him a small and glance around his beautiful pool space.

Derrek's house is just plain beautiful. It's like a Malibu dream house here, just in Hollywood. I definitely wouldn't mind moving into this neighborhood.

"Hello earth to Cupcake..." Derrek teaeses, snapping his fingers in my face.

I snap out of my trance and blush in complete embarrassment that I blanked out.

"I... Sorry. What were you saying?"

"That I'm glad you are here. I'm surprised Adrien didn't come with you, she's cute..." He smiles, displaying his cute dimples.

Despite his adorable smile, he has yet another strike in killing my nerve to punch him for being a idiotic, clueless boy.

Seeing my smile drop from my face, he bursts into laughter.

I glare at him in height of his amusement, truly feeling stupid and embarrassed for actually liking the kid.

When his reign of laughter is over, he clutches his stomach and inhales violently before regaining a proper breathing pattern.

"I'm sorry. I'm really sorry, it's just when I said that your face just dropped. You know I love you. Adrien isn't my type..." He smiles, his voice a little more serious.

He loves me? What?

My mind poked fun at his words, but my heart jumped in hope. I continue listening to whatever he has to say next before jumping to any conclusions.

"I. Um... Jasmine I like you. There, I said it. I do. You're an amazing friend, but even more of an amazing girl. I understand being in the spotlight. I wish I could take back your past, but all I can offer you is the chance to be your... Your um. Your-"

"Derrek! Where have you been?! We've been looking for you! Come on and let's cut this cake" Mister Maddox yells from behind us.

Dammit.

Derrek rolls his eyes before quickly turning away and jogging over to his father and disappearing behind the gate of the backyard.

I remain in my same standing position. My heart restarted with its thumps and thuds as well as my stomach now flipping.

He was just about to tell me he likes me. He wanted to ask to be my boyfriend. I can't believe it. Derrek Timothy Maddox wants to be my boyfriend.

Would it be weird to date my friend?

I wouldn't even know how Adrien would feel about me dating a guy she used to like. I mean Derrek and I aren't close friends, but we have a mutual friendship. I understand him, he understands me.

Feeling a little overwhelmed by my own thoughts, I decide to drop it and try to enjoy myself by joining the party.

The entire time I'm trying to focus on the party I can feel Derrek watching me, when our eyes meet, he quickly looks away or gives me a small smile. Now I'm honestly confused.

"How are you enjoying the party Jasmine?" Uncle Bill asks, slipping beside me.

I glance around the party and shrug.

"It's okay. It's cool"

"Then why are you sitting at the gift table by yourself? Jas, you can't keep isolating yourself" He preaches.

I let out a long sigh, remaining silent.

"Look, if you want the guy, go get him. I seen you two talking, he definitely likes you... Don't make him wait" He continues.

Trust me, I'm not waiting.

"I don't know. What if he doesn't? Then I'll look like an idiot" I whine.

"An idiot who went out for something she wanted and doesn't have to say what if later" He reasons, chuckling a bit.

I glance over at Derrek who was dancing with Dylan an a couple of other guys.

"You really think he likes me?"

"I do, but it's up to you to find out for sure" He winks, standing up to do another patrol.

Uncle Bill is right. I do need to grow some kahuna's and talk to Derrek. I'm scared of the risk, but tonight is about breaking out of my old habits and finding a newer, refined me. It's time I have happiness.

Before I can act with my newfound confidence, Derrek beats me to the punch, joining me on the picnic bench.

"Hi cupcake" He greets in a near whisper.

My cheeks redden at the smile that spreads on his face when he calls me by the nickname he has given me.

"Hi..."

He chuckles awkwardly, scratching at the back of his neck nervously.

"Well my party is almost over..."

I nod.

"Yeah... I see"

He nods again, staring up at the sky which is threatening for nightfall.

I stare at him patiently. What I wouldn't give to have him kiss me under the stars like an old corny movie.

Would he think I'm crazy if he knew what was going on in my brain. That I picture the wedding, the house, the car, the very names of our children. It would probably scare him.

I bite on my lip, contemplating my own thoughts.

"Don't do that" He suddenly speaks.

I release my bottom lip and question him.

"Don't do what? I didn't do anything" I defend.

"That's exactly it... You didn't do anything" He replies, giving me his full gaze.

I swear his basketball body looks even more appealing in this sunset lighting. This moment is a bit perpendicular, but somehow perfect.

"Jasmine I-"

"Jasmine let's go... Your father wants you guys home now" Bill interrupts, walking up to Derrek and I.

Derrek sighs heavily before standing up.

"Hello Mister Bray, nice seeing you again" He greets.

"Hi Derrek, Happy Birthday" Uncle Bill replies, handing me a jean jacket.

"It's a little chilly on our side of the town" He explains, turning his attention back on Derrek.

"Thank you Mister Bray. I hope to see you again"

"I am sure I will. I drop them off at school remember?" Uncle Bill chuckles.

Derrek nods and chuckles as well.

There's a long awkward silence before Uncle Bill decides to take a hint and leave.

"I'm going to go get Dylan, just meet me at the car in five" Uncle Bill instructs.

I nod and watch him leave before turning my attention back on Derrek.

"You have a nice-"

I couldn't take it. I built up my confidence and I darn sure wasn't going to punk myself out this time. Therefore, I said something in the best possible way you can; a kiss.

When my lips crash against his, all of my butterflies and rapid heart bears turned on full blast as I finally released them. His lips feel like a rose against mine. I can tell he wanted this kiss as much as I did. This is complete bliss.

After two minutes of lip acquaintances, I pull away and try to find a proper breath.

When I find my breath, I giggle at his stars struck gaze.

"Yes I'll be your girlfriend. Yes you can call me tonight and yes, we can hang out some time soon" I answer, still giggling at his astonishment.

Before he could say anything, I give him another quick peck on the lips and jog towards the gates.

Step one complete.

*Michael's Point Of View*

I knew this would happen. Now she's pissed and probably wanting to rip someone's head off.

I completely understand her anger, but I'm just concerned about the twins and our growing baby. I don't need her plotting revenge. I don't need this.

Since telling Marilyn about the incident with Evelyn, she has been mumbling and grumbling to herself, repeating about how fed up she is with Evelyn.

I didn't know what to do, so after thirty minutes of her stressing out, I finally decided to call mother Burgess. I know she's the only one who can talk sense into Marilyn besides me, Bill or Yuli.

I have no idea what they have been talking about, but Marilyn has been in out bedroom for an hour fussing, swearing and crying. I wanted to go and see if everything was okay, but she locked the door, so I've been in my office a little over and hour waiting.

"Mister Jackson, She's ready" Darrel calls from the other side of my office door.

I inhale and exhale slowly, stashing away the few ideas I have for a trip to Europe for Marilyn's thirty-ninth birthday.

"Coming" I finally reply, standing up from my office chair.

I quickly jog over to the door and open it.

"Is she okay? Does she seem pissed?" I ask, a little scared of the answer.

Darrel chuckles patting my back.

"Don't worry boss man she seems okay, but um... I'll warn you, she's being very blunt and honest right now" He shakes his head, now laughing.

Not understanding his amusement, I follow him to the bedroom to see for myself.

Upon entering the our bedroom, Darrel closes the door behind me while I search for Marilyn.

Within two minutes, Marilyn exits the bathroom and glances at me, biting down on her bottom lip.

"Babygirl are you okay?" I ask, honestly concern.

She nods and slowly approaches me.

"I'm fine... I'm just horny, that's all" She bluntly replies.

I couldn't help but burst into light laughter. I definitely missed this about her pregnancies. Though I feel a little guilty later.

"You are seriously horny?" I ask between chuckles.

She nods, playing with then collar of my V-neck.

"Very..." She purrs.

I stare at her silently, trying to decide what to do now. I know how rough she can be if I accept her offer, but I also wouldn't mind letting off a little steam. Especially after this morning.

"Damn..." I whisper aloud, slowly backing away from her.

"Babygirl, as much as I-"

I quickly come to a halt.

"Whoops!" She giggles, removing her blouse.

I swallow hard and fight to stay strong.

"Babygirl I... We can't not ri-"

"Whoopsies!" She giggles again, slipping out of her skirt.

She may have gain a little baby weight, but she still has killer curves. I'm a leg man, but I swear I'm s sucker for her pregnancy curves.

"Damn..." I whisper again, tugging at the collar of my shirt.

"Papa, don't tear yourself, just bring your sexy ass over here and lay it on me" She commands, stepping closer.

I take another step back. She's playing a dangerous game, and I'm sure as Hell am loosing.

"What? Can't we just cuddle?" I accidentally whimper.

She laughs this times, going to remove her bra.

"Michael, baby I want you on that bed... Attacking my body and making me scream. Got that? I want you to fuck me... That's all. Is that too much to ask?" She asks, her question more serious than I thought.

I gulp and continue my battle for maintenance. I can't let her win, the kids will be here and I know once we get started, neither me or her (especially her), is going to want to stop.

"Babygirl, I can't right now. The kids will be here any minute now, maybe later?"

She nods and walks over to my dresser, stealing one of my dress shirts. Removing her bra, she slides on my shirt and clasps a few buttons before turning towards me.

If I wasn't horny before, I really am now. There's nothing sexier than your curvy wife wearing your shirt. Damn this woman.

"Fuck it... Come here babygirl" I growl, meeting her halfway towards the bed.

She giggles, squealing a little as she hungrily reaches for the hem of my shirt.

Just as I was going to remove my pants, there's a knock on out bedroom door.

"Dammit..." I grumble, fussing to refasten my belt buckle.

"No papa... Let them knock, they'll understand" Marilyn reasons, sliding her hands up my chest.

"Mmm babygirl... Damn. I can't. That's Bill with the kids. Come on, let's get dressed"

She groans and reluctantly obeys.

I slip on my shirt and take that long walk towards the bedroom door.

"The kids are downstairs, they had fun and enjoyed themselves. And... Mike, what the Hell?" Bill questions, shaking his head.

I sigh knowing exactly what he was talking about.

"She's pregnant... She has mood swings... I'm just supporting her" I try to convince.

"Oh you're supporting alright... One of y'all need to get something cut... Or something tied.. Because damn... I'll see y'all on TLC The Jackson's Nineteen and Counting ha-ha" He chuckles, turning to walk away.

I open my mouth to retort, but find it useless and decide to leave it alone. Right now I need to worry about my horny wife and then later investigate this "fun" party.

The life I live...

To Be Continued...