·         I dozed off again, and when I woke up I saw someone next to me. Thankfully I recognized him. Timothy. 

"Hey kiddo," he smiled. "Hey," I smiled back, "Thanks for taking care of Tigger." "What’re friends for?" he asked. "What happened though? I never fall off Tigger." Tim sighed heavily, "I went to clean up Tigger's stable while you were taking practice runs. I noticed a chocolate cupcake wrapper, empty." I didn't have to have all my memory to know that chocolate plus horse equals bad. 

"How did he get it?" "That’s what I couldn't figure out, until I looked at who was assigned to feed the horses that day, Tawni." "Tawni? Why would she do that? I didn't do anything to her," I told him. "Tawni and I started dating a few months ago. It caused a big fight between me and you, and I finally realized that she was cheating on me and called everything off. The way she saw it as, you won. You had Nick and me, the best of both worlds. So she wanted to take the one thing away from you she knew she could." "Championships," I cut him off. "Championships," he repeated, "But council is taking action, so she won't go unpunished." 

I sighed, wishing I could remember everything, "I think I hurt Nick’s feelings," I pondered. "And why is that?" Tim asked. "I think he overheard me when I told my parents I could never love Nick." Tim thought for a minute, "Why could you never love him?" "They told me I wasn't with Pat anymore, that he left me. And that I was now happy with Nick. But when Pat dumped me tonight, I couldn't hurt. I tried, but nothing happened." "When Pat dumped you, you became a different person," Tim remembered, "You never smiled, never laughed, never did anything. I lost my best friend for a while. Until you met Nick. Nick brought back your old smile. Your old laugh. The old you. You're happy with him. And I know he makes you happy." "So I love him?" I questioned. "You love him," Tim answered.

Nicks POV

"How can she say that she can never love me?" I asked, lying on my back, on my bed, with my head dangling off the foot of it. "She has amnesia. She doesn't know you," Joe told me. "I don't get how she doesn't know who he is, at least. I mean a year ago we were still pretty big," Kevin told us. I thought for a minute. Back to what she said when we took our first horseback ride together.

"She found us when her and Pat broke up," I muttered. "How on earth do you know that?" Joe asked. "She told me. I asked her what her favorite songs are and she said after Pat we helped her through the break up." "So does she still think she goes out with Pat?" Kevin asked. "No, Pat broke up with her again." "Oh good job. The girl just woke up, and now has amnesia. Let's emotionally destroy her too," Taylor piped in with Miley nodding by her side. 

I ignored them, "What if she never gets her memory back?" "Dude, don't sweat it, she will," Joe assured. "Nicky, she loves you. There's no way she'll never remember you. Her brain just has to heal on its own. When she gets home from the hospital you just have to refresh her memory. Bring pictures, movies, CDs, anything," Miley said. "Wait, where did you two go yesterday at the stables?" Taylor asked. "I, uh, sang her inseparable." "That’s it!" Taylor cheered. "When’s your next concert?" Miley asked. "In about a week," Kevin told her. "Man, you are so going to love us," Taylor beamed.

Kenzie's POV

A few days later I was finally released and in my own room, even though it didn't look like my own room. 

The comforter was not what I remembered, my closet was fuller, the trophies had numbered, the posters on the walls were different, and the pictures in the frames were newer. It was like I was a stranger in my own life. 

"Kenzie," mom cooed from the doorway, "Someone’s here to see you." I turned around to see her standing at the door with Nick. "H-hi," I stuttered. "I'll let you two talk," mom announced and walked back downstairs. 

"How you feeling?" Nick asked, walking into my room. "Confused," I admitted. "I meant the injuries," he smiled and nodded to my shoulder that was in a sling and the bandage on my head. "Oh, well pain killers work wonders, I guess." it was silent for a while until I decided to speak again, "I’m sorry about the other night in the hospital." "Don’t sweat it, Kenz. You had just been told that you were broken up with Pat fir almost a year, when you thought you two were still going strong. It's understandable," he told me. "You weren't upset?" I asked him. "Well, I was for a little until Joe and Kevin calmed me down." "Joe and Kevin would be who, exactly?" "My older brothers. I have two older and one younger." I nodded trying to remember that and looking around the room.

I noticed a poster on the wall. It was of three curly haired boys. The middle one was Nick. 

"That’s you?" I asked, walking over to get a better look. "That would be us. That's Joe, and that's Kevin," he said, pointing to the boys on either side. "And you're famous?" I asked. "You could say that," Nick chuckled. "So if you're famous, then why are you with me?" I asked. 

Nick seemed taken back at the question, shocked, if you will. 

"Well, for starters, you helped me as much as I helped you. When we met I was not over my ex. Neither were you. We started out as friends, and finally you literally fell into my arms," he stopped to smile at the memory he was having, "And that night I asked you to be my girlfriend." "Sounds like a good memory," I sighed, sitting on my bed. "You’ll remember it someday," he soothed. "You seem like the sweetest, nicest boy," I whined, "I just wish I could remember you." 

"Don’t stress anything," Nick said, kissing my forehead, "You’ll remember soon enough. But for now we can make the best of things."

---

"So tell me," I said stuffing a handful of popcorn in my mouth, "How exactly did we meet?" A booming laugh escaped past his lips, "Believe it or not you caught me talking to Tigger." "Like a full out conversation?" I asked. "Yeah, I was in the middle of telling him how much girls suck and you came out if nowhere saying 'You know, he's not Mr. Ed. He won't answer you back.'" 

Nick and I were now in the kitchen, telling stories. Well he was telling stories. 

"That does sound like something I'd say," I laughed, "But why did girls suck?" He sighed heavily, thinking of how to word it, "My ex, Miley, and I were talking again. But she dropped the bomb that she was dating her costar." "Miley's famous too?" "Miley Cyrus, yes, very famous." "You dated Hannah Montana?" I asked. "Yes, and I was crushed. But you fixed that." "Are you still friends?" I asked. "Yeah, we are. You’re friends with her too," he told me. "Woah, who else am I friends with?" "Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, Taylor Swift, Taylor Lautner, and Trace Cyrus." "That’s so cool!" I squealed. "You get excited about them but not when you find out you're dating a Jonas brother," he joked. “Well I’ve adjusted to that part, but I didn’t know I had a famous entourage along with it,” I told him. “Well, you’ll meet them again soon,” he promised.

I sighed heavily. I wished so much I could remember my life the way it was before. It seems like I had everything together, like everything was as close to perfect as it could be. I just wish that things were different.

“Whats wrong?” Nick asked. “I just, want more than anything to be normal again,” I admitted. “You were never normal to begin with,” he laughed. “Very funny, you know what I meant. I want more than anything to remember. I don’t want everyone to have to explain things that they’re talking about anymore. I want my memory back,” I wiped the tear quickly that was gliding down my cheek. “Mackenzie, you can’t stress this. If you stress it, your memory will take longer to come back. You’re brain needs to heal,” Nick soothed, rubbing my back.

I got frustrated and walked back up to my room. Nick followed close behind.

I opened my closet, and ran my hands over my riding outfit. I was trying to solve my own mystery, here.

I walked over to the dresser, where my little ponies were displayed. I picked one up, it was yellow with a purple and pink mane. It was one I didn’t remember, but tried my hardest to. I tried so hard my head started to hurt, so I placed it back where it was before.

Nick was watching me, confused, but admiring me.

I walked over to him and ran my fingers through his curls. They smelled like strawberries, and I tried to remember, but I still couldn’t.

Nick bit his lip, trying to hold back a smile, but I saw the corners of his mouth turn up, wanting to give in.

My hand glided down his cheek, taking in his features and the structure. The palm of my hand rested on his jaw line, and my thumb swiftly brushed his bottom lip as I took in the shape.

“This is ridiculous!” I groaned. “What’s ridiculous?” Nick mumbled with my thumb still on his lip. I took it away and collapsed on my bed. “I can’t find my memory!” “Kenzie, you can’t drain yourself,” Nick told me, again. “Its there,” I told him. “What is?” he asked. “My memory.” “How do you know?” “Its there, Nick, I know it is because when I look at you, I can feel it.”

I was awoken by a steady, obnoxious beeping sound. I looked around the plain room, I didn't know where I was. I didn't know what I was doing here. I didn't know much, to be honest. All I know is I was in pain.

I did my best to sit up, but wires restrained me from doing so. What the hell happened? I thought.

I looked to my left and saw a familiar face in the bed next to mine.

"Pat!" I squealed, smiling. I was glad to know at least one person in this strange place, "Baby, what're you doing here?" He looked over at me, face confused. "Baby?" he questioned. "Duh, silly. You are my boyfriend," I giggled. "Boyfriend?" he asked again, "Mack, we bro-" "Kenzie! You're awake!" someone breathed a sigh of relief as he walked into the room.

"Um, who are you?" I asked, a little frightened. "Very funny," he laughed. "I think she's serious," Pat told him. "You really don't know me?" he asked me again. "I’m sorry, should I?" I asked. "You don't think she has amnesia, do you?" the strange boy with beautiful curls asked Pat

"Indeed she does," said a man in scrubs and holding a clipboard as he walked into the room, "Boys, Mackenzie’s parents wanted me to explain what's going on. So would you step outside?" Curly and Pat nodded and followed him out to the hall, along with Pats rolling IV

Nicks POV
"Mackenzie suffers from aterograde amnesia. This means she can't remember the past year. The trauma to her brain was so intense since the helmet was knocked off, her mind erased the last year, to put it in simple terms." "So her memories of the last year are gone? Forever?" I asked. "Maybe, maybe not. Think of it as her brain has to heal. In the mean time you have to let her think what she thinks, basically." "So that means she thinks she's dating me still?" the kid next to me asked. "When did you two break up?" the doctor asked. "A little less than a year ago, I think," he told him. "Then yes, she does." "Great," I sighed. I now knew who he was. It was Pat. "So how do we get her memory back to the present?" I asked. "Do things you recently did again. Whether if it's a hockey game or a road trip, anything." Pat and I nodded, and the doctor excused himself.

"So you’re the new boyfriend?" Pat asked. "Yeah, Nick. And you’re the old one?" I asked. "That would be me." "What brings you here?" I asked, "I thought you left on her? Twice?" "I didn't want to. I was sent to military school by my dad. He never really wanted me around and after he got remarried he sent me to Texas. I didn't want to tell Mack, in fear of hurting her if I never came back. I didn't know if I'd be sent to Iraq or not. And a few months ago I didn't plan on running into her. I tried to avoid her but I saw that she was about to hit Tawni. So I stopped her." he told me. "And what brings you here? Now?"

"Burst appendix during training. They figured it best I came home to recuperate," he told me, "I heard Mack's happy with you. Very happy as a matter of fact." "Well she was. Now she doesn't remember me." I sighed. "You're good for her, Nick. I left her a mess. I know. I didn't mean to, but I had to. I had no choice. You fixed her." "Do you still love her?" I decided to ask. "There’s no getting over that girl. I regret leaving her every day. But I'm glad she moved on. Don't worry, I won't try to ruin anything. We just have to try and get her to remember you."

Pat and I walked back into the room and found Kenzie fiddling with her wires.

"Mack, leave those alone," Pat told her. Sorry washed over her face. It was like he had such control over her. She wasn't the same girl I was singing to ten hours ago.

"So are you going to tell me who you are now?" Kenzie asked. "This is my friend, Nick," Pat told her. "Why am I here?" she asked. "You fell off Tigger and your helmet flew off. You hit your head pretty bad," Pat told her. "Is he okay?" she demanded. Pat looked to me. "Tigger's fine. Tim took care of him," I told her.

"Tim? But he's mad at me," Mackenzie shook her head. I looked to Pat. "Why is Tim mad, Mack?" he asked. "I keep blowing him off for you. He doesn't even sleepover anymore on Friday night." "He’s forgiven you, I promise," Pat reassured. "It seems like things have changed," she sighed, "How much did I miss while I was unconscious?" "Don’t worry about that now. Just focus on getting better," I told her. I ten excused myself and went to find Joe.

Kenzie's POV

It was like I was a stranger in my own body. Something didn’t feel right. Pat was being distant, which was not like him at all. And Nick, or whatever his name was, was acting more like my boyfriend than Pat. What the hell happened while I was asleep? Was I asleep for THAT long?

Pat went down to the cafeteria shortly after Nick left, and I was left alone, until my parents stopped by.

“Hey sweetheart, how you feeling?” mom asked, sitting on the chair by my bed. “Kind of weird,” I admitted, “Is there something, like, wrong with me?” “Well, sweetie, you hit your head pretty badly,” Dad said, sitting on the foot of the bed. “The boys said that,” I told him, “But it seems like I’ve missed something.” “When you hit your head you’re helmet flew off. You hit the hard turf pretty bad, baby,” mom said, stroking my arm. “Can you stop beating around the bush and tell me what’s wrong with me?” I snapped. “The blow to your head was so bad, it caused a certain type on amnesia. One that erased the last year of your life,” dad told me. I was silent, taking in the news.

I really had missed a lot of my life.

“So you mean, I’m stuck in the past?” I managed to ask. “That’s one way of putting it,” mom admitted, “But the doctor said there is hope we can get your memory back. We just have to repeat history a little for you.” “So what did happen in the last year?” “Well a lot, actually,” mom smiled, “You and Tim are best friends still, you and Nick are happy together, and you’re on the national riders list.” “Wait, what did you say?” I demanded. “Nation Rider’s List?” she asked. “No, before that.” “You and Tim are best friends still?” “No, after that.” “Oh, you and Nick?” “Yes, I don’t even know Nick. How could we be ‘happy together?’ I’m dating Pat!” “Sweetheart, Pat’s not in your life anymore,” dad soothed. “No, you’re both lying. How could he not be in my life anymore? He’s in the bed next to me!” “That’s because the hospital doesn’t have any more room, honey. He came back home because his appendix burst,” mom said. “But I love Pat!” I yelled, “I don’t even know nick! How could I love someone I don’t know?”

There was no way i believed them.

I felt someone’s presence at the door, and looked up to see Nick. All I saw was hurt on his face.

“Just bringing back some food, like you asked Mr. and Mrs. Thompson,” he told them, setting the tray on the table. Nick left, and I turned to my parents. “Well sweetheart, we’ll let you get some rest. And please try to eat something,” mom pleaded as she kissed the top of my head. “I’m not hungry.” I muttered. “Try, baby girl. Just try to eat something,” dad told me, as he kissed my head too.

I watched them walk out and Pat walked back in, in street clothes.

“Where are you going?” I asked. “Home,” he stated plainly. “Lucky,” I told him, picking at the pink, chipped nail polish on my fingers. “Can you stop? That’s such a disgusting habit,” Pat snapped. “Sorry,” I whispered. “Sorry doesn’t  cut it, Mack. I’ve had it with your crap. I’m done.” “What?” I asked, trying to comprehend the last statement he just made. “You heard me. We’re through. I can’t deal with you anymore, I’m leaving.” “What did I do?” “Goodbye Mackenzie,” he spat as he zipped up his bag and left the room.

I was shocked. Not hurt, though. I couldn’t hurt for some reason. I tried to cry, but the tears never showed. Maybe I should have believed my parents. Maybe I already was over Pat. Maybe I did really love Nick.

"Wake up, foo," Tim screamed into my ear that Saturday morning. The one thing I didn't miss. His obnoxiousness. 

Friday night dinners were reinstated once our parents found out we were friends again, and it was like nothing had ever changed.

I quickly changed into sweatpants and a sweatshirt, grabbed my bag and we were out the door t the stables.

"Take my hand, I'll never let go! Just take my hand, I'll never let go! Take my hand I'll never.." Tim sang obnoxiously to the metro station CD that was blaring through his stereo. 

"I met him," I bragged. "Who?" Tim demanded. "Trace Cyrus." "What?! How?!" "Miley's birthday party a few weeks ago. Me and you weren't friends," I shrugged. "Yeah, me and you are never not talking again," he laughed, "So what kind of audience will you have today?" "Like the whole Jonas family, Taylor and Miley," I told him. "Miley? Nicks ex?" Tim asked. "Nonetheless." "That’s pretty cool that they're good friends after going out for so long," he sighed, "You don't get jealous?" "The way I see it is Miley is like what you are to me, only me and you never went out, obviously. So I don't really have a reason nor right to be jealous." "Wow. For once you actually make sense," Tim laughed as we got out of the car and walked into the stables. "Jerk," I said as I pushed him playfully. He pushed me back and then ran down the hallway. 

I ran after Tim and jumped on his back, just as Tawni walked by and glared at us, well me. 

"Jeez, I thought outside was cold, in here is freezing," I muttered to him. "I’m so much better off without her," Tim stated. I tried to detect hurt or a lie in his voice but I couldn't. Maybe he was legit over her, or maybe I was slumming at my Tim defying methods.

"Hey girl hey!" Joe called as he barged into the stable with Taylor by his side and Nick and Miley right behind them.

"Hey Kenz," Nick cooed as he kissed me softly. "Aww you look adorable," Miley giggled, looking at my riding outfit and frenchbraid. Personally I hated it, but whatever. "Miley this is Tim. Tim this is Miley," I introduced. "He’s gorgeous!" Miley squealed. Everyone looked at her. "I meant the horse!" she corrected. "Oh, this is my baby boy, Tigger," I told her as she stroked his nose.

"Well Tigger’s all tacked up, care to walk around?" Tim asked. 

Everyone turned left out the door but Nick pulled me right.

"What are you doing?" I giggled. "I want to play something for you," he smiled and picked up an acoustic guitar, then started t strum away.

Take my hand tonight
We can run so far
We can change the world to anything you want
We can talk for hours just staring at the stars
They shine down to show us
That you know when the sun forgets to shine
I'll be there to hold you through the night
And we'll be running so fast we can fly tonight
And even when we're miles and miles apart 
You're still holding all of my heart
I promise it will never be dark
I know we're inseparable 
We could run forever if you want
And I would not get tired
Because I'd be with you
I can tell you're listening until the very end
We have done all these things
You know when the sun forgets to shine
I'll be there to hold you through the night
We'll be runnin' so fast we can fly tonight
And even when we're miles and miles apart
You'll still be holdin' all of my heart
I promise it will never be dark
I know we're inseparable
I would give it up 
To never let you fall
Cause you know we're inseparable
I would give it all
Just to show you I'm in love
Yea you know we're inseparable
You know when the sun forgets to shine
I'll be there to hold you through the night
We'll be runnin' so fast we can fly tonight
And even when we're miles and miles apart
You'll still be holdin' all of my heart
I promise it will never be dark
I know we're inseparable 

Throughout the whole song I had the dopiest, cheesiest smile on my face, but I didn't care. Nick was incredible, and whatever I did to deserve him I was glad I did. 

"I love you," I said as our lips crashed into each other’s. "I was hoping you would say that," he said as a booming laugh escaped his mouth. "What do you say we go find the others?" h asked. We intertwined fingers and went in search of them.

They were in the suite along with Mr. Jonas, Mrs. Jonas and Frankie.

"Hey guys," Nick said as we sat down on the bench. "Where’d you two go?" Taylor asked. "Probably to make kissy face in the corner," Joe laughed, but Nick elbowed him in the stomach. "Ow!" he whined, rubbing his abs. "Baby," Nick muttered. "Boys, be nice," Mrs. Jonas warned. "Sorry mom," they said. 

"You nervous, Mackenzie?" Mr. Jonas asked. "Kind of," I admitted. "Aww sweetie, you'll do fine," Mrs. Jonas reassured. "Yeah I mean what is there to be nervous about?" Joe asked with his mouth full, "The worst that can happen is Tigger knock off a pokey thingy and Tawni wins." "Gee thanks for making me a whole lot more nervous," I said making a disgusted face.

"You’ll do fine," Nick reassured, rubbing my back.

“See what you did?” Taylor asked, “You made her nervous for no reason.” “I was only kidding,” Joe laughed. “It wasn’t funny,” Miley countered. “Totally uncool,” Frankie told him. “See, there you go. The boss have spoken. Even Frankie said it was mean,” Miley told him. Joe rolled his eyes and continued to eat.

"Mackenzie!" Kiley called. "Yeah Ki?" I asked. "Come run through the course before the competition starts." "Good luck!" everyone encouraged. Nick kissed me quickly and Tim and I went to go get Tigger.

---

“Tigger, what’s up today, boy?” I asked as I warmed him up around the indoor practice ring.

“What’s wrong Kenz?” Kiley asked. “I don’t know, Tigger's acting funny. He’s not himself at all today. He’s like hyper or something,” I told her. “Maybe he’s feeling your nervousness,” she told me, “Horses have that sense, ya know.” I laughed, “You’ve only told me that at every competition I’ve been in.” “Well it’s true. Try running him through the course again, shake out the nerves.” I nodded and clocked my heels into his side, and he took off into a gallop.

I looked up at the suite where the Jonas and friends were. Nick was talking to Joe, but his eyes never left me, and the smile never left his face. He noticed me looking at him and blew a kiss. I fake caught it, and that’s when I heard the commotion.

“MACKENZIE!” Tim screamed. “What?” I asked. “Did you leave chocolate in Tigger’s stable?” “What am I an idiot? Of course not,” I told him. “I found a cupcake wrapper in there. Empty.” “So Tigger ate it?!” I demanded, this would explain him acting so funny. That much sugar and chocolate could be potentially fatal to a horse if not treated.

“Yeah, he did.”

“So much for the competition,” I sighed, unclasping the helmet and clicking my heels into his side.

Tigger hopped on his hind legs and started kicking his front ones. My helmet flew off in the commotion, as did I. I hit the ground with a great force, and then, it went black.

“Kenz, I'm not sure that's how you make a grilled cheese," Nick told me as we sat in my kitchen, "The plastic is supposed to come off the slice of cheese." "That would explain the smell!" I exclaimed. "Oh boy," Nick sighed. 

Nick and I were home alone while my parents were in New York for the night with Tim's for some Broadway show. Normally Tim would come over but that would result in a grilled Tim and cheese sandwich, I don't know that Nick would like that very much. 

The doorbell rang as I tried to flip the sandwich and Nick went to answer it. 

"Kenzie?" Nick asked a few minutes later. "Hmm?" I asked, turning around to see Nick and Tim, "Get out!" "Kenzie, just hear him out." "Why should I?" "He’s your best friend." "Tell that to him. Best friends wouldn't pick their girlfriend over their best friend since day one." "You picked Pat over me!" Tim countered. "And we both learned from that! You gave me one chance. Technically I gave you two!" I shouted, "Three strikes you’re out!" Nick walked out of the front door, but I was too into the fight to care. "Tawni cheated on me!" Tim shouted. "Good! I told you she would! That's what you get for screwing me over!" 

"Maybe I wouldn't have picked Tawni if you didn't open your big mouth at the stables about you kissing me!" Tim shouted back. "Oh my God! It's like talking to a two year old!" Tim and I were completely in each other’s faces now. 

"I’m the two year old? Looks who's talking Ms. I Still Play with My Little Ponies." 

"I wouldn't talk. I saw you playing Barbie with Tayla a few weeks ago." 

Nick walked back through the door and clapped something on our wrists. Handcuffs. 

"Dude, get it off," Tim ordered. "Hilarious, Nick. Take these off now," I told him. He shook his head, "You two need to work this out. You were friend long before Tawni came into the picture and you'll be friends after Tawni." I sighed, I knew he was right. Tim and I never let a fight come between us. 

"Please tell me these weren't just lying around in your car," I told him. Tim burst out laughing. "Hilarious, Kenz." Nick rolled his eyes. "Then why do you have them?" Tim asked. "They’re Frankie’s, now can you two make up already?" Nick asked. 

I looked at Tim, who looked at me. "Let bygones be bygones?" he asked. I thought for a minute, and then nodded. I couldn't let this friendship slip through the cracks. 

"Good, your friends again. Maybe he can actually make a grilled cheese and not set the house on fire," Nick said as he unclasped the handcuffs.

"Her? Make a grilled cheese? She can't even make mac and cheese. It crunches," Tim laughed. "Hey Tim, who's watching Tayla?" I asked. "Shit!" "Its fine, I'll go get her. You can just make the sandwiches," I said and walked out of the house and the few feet to get Tayla. 

"Tayboo?" I called from the door. "Kenzie!" she shrieked. "Wanna come next door?" I asked, picking her up. "You and Tim friend?" she asked. "Me and Tim friends," I smiled. 

We walked back next door and found Nick and Tim in the kitchen. 

"She didn't get in any trouble right?" Tim asked, flipping the sandwich over. "No, she was just watching TV." 

The boys cooked us dinner, and then we settled down on the couch to find something on TV. 

"Dude! The 25 days of Christmas starts today!" Tim told us. I dove for the clicker and changed the channel. The Year without a Santa Claus was just starting. "Heat miser is totally my favsie!" I squealed. "They call me heat miser, whatever I touch starts to melt in my clutch," Tim sang. "I’m too much," I finished.

"You two are complete nerds," Nick shook his head in disapproval. "You’re just jealous you aren't as cool as us," Tim and I laughed. "Oh yeah, that's it." Nick rolled his eyes and nonchalantly put his arm around me as I snuggled closer to him. 

Tayla was asleep upstairs, but suddenly she started crying, which meant she was awake. 

Tim went to get her and I turned to Nick, “Thanks for making us make up.” “I could tell you missed him,” Nick admitted, “You kind of suck at hiding feelings.” “I hid my feelings for you for a while,” I reminded him. “Nuh uh,” he shook his head, “I knew.” “And you made me sweat it for so long?” “Aw come on. You didn’t like the whole football game thing?” I rolled my eyes and he pressed his lips to mine. 

We were interrupted by Tim clearing his throat. “Young eyes, here,” he told us as he sat down with Tayla in his arms.

We continued to watch the year without a Santa Claus and caught up with Tim.

"Who’d she cheat on you with?" I asked. "Trevor," Tim muttered. "Who’s Trevor?" "The best football player the high school has ever seen," I told him. "Well it looks like he's scoring a lot of touch downs," Tim sighed. "Dude, you don't need her. She's a stupid slut that doesn't know a good thing if it hit her in the face." 

Just then we heard a loud bang out back.

"What the hell was that?" Tim asked. "Probably a raccoon." I told him, trying to pay attention to the TV. We heard the sound again and Tim looked at me. "Don’t be a baby, Tayla isn't even freaking out."

 We heard loud, stomping footsteps and then someone jiggle the back door handle. "And I suppose that was a raccoon as well?" Tim asked with panic in his voice. "No, that was a crazy person in the backyard," I said. "Great now what?" Tim asked and we both looked to Nick 

"Why is it my position to figure out what to do?" he asked. "Hello? Your nickname is Mr. President. You know what to do in dire situations. And this is a dire situation!" I told him. "Did you just use the word dire in a sentence?" Tim asked, "Geek." "I can totally kick you out of my house and let the crazy person get you," I reminded him and he quickly shut up.

They started pounding on the door and Tim, Nick and I ran up the stairs to my room, then shut and locked the door.

"What if he gets in?" I asked. "He’s not going to get in, Mackenzie," Nick reassured. "Really? I said I'd never forgive Tim, but I did. Face it, tonight is that's-never-going to-happen central." "Where’s Tayla?" Nick asked, looking around the room. "Shit!" Tim yelled. "You’ve got to be the worst older brother ever," I told him. "Someone has to go get her," Nick told us. "Nose goes!" Tim called. "Nose goes!" Nick seconded. "Wonderful," I moaned. 

I unlocked and opened the door and looked to see if anyone was there. "Wait," Nick told me as he grabbed hand and pulled me closer to him. His lips found mine, but it wasn't a normal kiss. It was full of urgency and terror. "Be careful," he reminded me when we pulled away. "You do know that while you were making out Tayla could’ve been killed, right?" Tim asked. I rolled my eyes and bolted down the stairs to find her.

She was right where Tim left her, asleep on the couch. 

"Psst!" I heard from the door. I was about to scream for help until I saw who it was. Joe and Kevin. "I’m going to kill you two!" I whispered. "Shh! be quiet! We can get Nick and Tim good with your help!" Joe told me.

"You two are going to hell I hope you know," I whispered as Tayla and I crept out the back door. "Tickets bought and paid for," Joe informed. "Kenzie what we doing?" Tayla asked. "Playing a trick on your brother," I told her, "Wanna help?" "Yeah yeah!" she cheered.

"So what's the plan?" I asked. "We call Nick and tell him we have you two. Then lure him downstairs and scare the crap out of them," Kevin told me. "And how do we come into this?" I asked pointing to Tayla and I. "When I give the signal just say like Nick help or something," Joe said. I nodded and adjusted Tayla who was resting on my hip.

Joe dialed the number and grabbed the voice changer, then put the phone on speaker.

"Hello?" Nick asked. "We have your little friends," Joe said into the voice changer. Kevin did his best to conceal his laughter. "Who is this?" Tim asked. "Nunya," Kevin told him, "Nunya Business." "What are you? Five?" I whispered. Kevin put his index finger to his lips, shushing me.

"Where are you?" Nick asked. "Downstairs yo!" Joe told him. The line went dead and we heard footsteps from inside. "Now what, genius?" I asked. "Stay quiet!" Joe hushed.

"Hey guys!" Tim yelled, causing us all to scream and jump a mile. "What up Nunya?" Nick asked Kevin. "How’d you know it was us?" Joe asked. "You didn't star six seven the call, Einstein," Nick told him. "Are you serious?" I asked. "Whoops I knew I forgot something.

The six of us walked back into the house.

"That wasn't funny," I told Nick. "We thought it was hilarious," Nick laughed, putting his arm around me, "It was okay for you to scare us but not us to scare you?" "I guess you got us good," I muttered. "I’m sorry," Nick apologized, pulling me in closer. "You’re lucky you’re cute," I told him as our lips collided together.

"Ewww," Tayla made a face and every let put a laugh. "So what're you crazy kids up to tonight?" Joe asked. "25 days of Christmas," I told him, as we all sat in the living room. Tayla was taking to Joe. 

"I think you have a new girlfriend," Kevin laughed as Tayla started falling asleep on Joes lap. "I don't think Taylor would mind," Joe chuckled, "She’s adorable." "I know I am," Tayla giggled, suddenly popping awake, making everyone laugh. 

"Mackenzie, when's your next competition?" Kevin asked. "Next week. It's the first one of the indoor season," I told him. "You guys can come if you want." "Sweeeeeet," Joe said, "Is this little cutie going to be there?" he asked, tickling Tayla's belly. "Of course she will be. Tay loves horses, right Tay?" Tim asked. "Yes!" she cheered. 

"So what's it going to be like when you face Tawni?" Joe laughed, but everyone sent him a dirty look as Tim’s face dropped. "I'll crush her like always. Only this time I have legitimate fuel. Don't fuck with my best friend," I smiled. I know I said I'd never forgive him, but I'm pretty damn glad I did.

Nick and I were going strong for a few weeks. My mother was absolutely smitten about us together, as was Denise. Tigger seemed to like having him around a lot more too. As for Tim, he steered clear of us. 

It was Saturday afternoon and I had just gotten home from a morning lesson when my phone started ringing.

"Hello?" I asked. "Hey Kenz," Nick cooed, "You busy tonight?" "I don't think so, why?" "Well Miley and I are trying to be civil and stuff and tonight’s her birthday party. I didn't know if you wanted to come, she's been dying to meet you." he told me. "I don't know, Nicky. I won't really know anyone besides you. Plus won't it be, like, awkward?" "Joe and Taylor are going too. And you can finally meet Demi. It shouldn't be too awkward, Liam will be there." "Sure, I'll go," I shrugged, I mean I didn't have anything else to do. "We'll pick you up around seven." "Sounds good."

We hung up and I looked at the clock. It was just a little after 3. I had four hours to get the smell of horse out of my hair and look presentable to impress this girl.

I showered, dried, and straightened my hair, then went to analyze my closet.

"Mackenzie!" my mom called. "Yeah?" I asked, frustrated. "Your friend Taylor is here!"

I hurried down the stairs and saw Taylor Swift at the bottom of them with a smile on her face. She looked gorgeous, as always, with skinny jeans, flannel button up and cow boy boots on.

"I thought you could use some help getting ready, Nick said you sounded worried," she told me. Curse that boy and his voice deciphering skills. "Is that okay?" "Of course! I was definitely close to freaking out," I admitted. Taylor laughed and we both headed up to my room.

"Wow, you really like horses," she told me, looking at the horse memorabilia everywhere. "Is Miley nice?" I asked, sitting down on my bed. "Everyone who doesn't know her says she's a bitch. But she really isn't. She's so down to earth and really sweet. If you don't give her a reason to hate you, she won't." "Even if I'm dating Nick?" I asked, I remembered hearing what happened when Selena had a fling with him. "Even if you're dating Nick. She's happy with Liam, and she's ecstatic Nick is happy with you. Your good for him, and that's what he needs," Taylor reassured.

Taylor and I picked out my favorite distressed jeans, brown moccasins, a light pink tank top and grey cardigan. 

"Be sure to bring a bikini," Taylor told me, "I can almost guarantee we'll end up in the hot tub." I nodded and grabbed the black Ed Hardy bikini that was hanging from one of the hangers and tossed it in my coach bag. 

Taylor and I walked down to the kitchen to get a snack; picking out clothes really makes you hungry. 

My mother was having tea with Julie, like any other normal afternoon.

"Well don't you two look gorgeous," Julie told us. "Taylor this is Tim's mom, Julie this is Taylor," I told them. "Nice to meet you!" Taylor smiled. "Why can't Tawni be as nice as you are?" she asked. "Trouble in paradise?" I asked, not like I cared. "She treats Timothy like a puppy. She's says jump he says how high. She walks all over him and yet he doesn't see it." "I tried to warn him she was like that. But did he listen? Of course not," i told them while getting out the milk and chips ahoy cookies. "Has he still not talked to you?" mom asked, even though she knew the answer. "After that night in Giuseppe’s he knows not to. He didn't even stick up for me when Tawni and the other snobs were cracking jokes. I mean I know we had a fight, but still, we were friends for years and he lets someone he's known for months ruin it," I knew I had to stop talking about it, I didn't want to be in a bad mood for tonight. I needed Miley to like me. Her opinion mattered to Nick.

"So where are you two going tonight?" mom asked, changing the subject. "Mileys birthday party," Taylor and I said in unison while stuffing cookies dunked in milk in our mouths. "Well have fun, you two," mom and Julie told us as they took their tea to the patio out back.

"You and Tim haven't talked yet?" Taylor asked. "He’s tried, but I just ignore him. Screw me once, shame on you. Screw me twice shame on me. I'm not letting him screw me twice." "That’s like my saying!" Taylor giggled. 

After we were full, we touched up our makeup and waited for the boys.

"Hey girls heeeey!" Joe said, walking through the door like it was his house. But that was Joseph for you. "Ever heard of knocking?" Taylor asked. "Psh, girl, I'm Joe Jonas. I don't need to knock," he joked. She rolled her eyes and kissed him. They were adorable together.

"Where’s Nick?" I asked. "Waiting in el coche. You two ready?" Joe asked. Taylor and I nodded, grabbed our bags, said bye to my mother and Julie and headed out the door.

Taylor and Joe climbed in back and I took the passenger seat.

"Hey," Nick smiled, that beautiful, breath-taking smile. "Hey," I smiled back, leaned in and kissed him quickly. "Alright, alright, less kissy, more drivey. We're already late," Joe told us. Nick rolled his eyes and pulled out of the driveway.

We saw Tim and Tawni on his front porch, but I just looked away. I was way happier without dealing with that drama.

"Woah," I gasped when we pulled up to Miley's New Jersey house, "I thought your house was big. This thing is huge!" Taylor, Nick, and Joe laughed and we all got out of the car.

Joe and Taylor walked ahead of us and Nick put his arm around my waiste. "Thanks for coming, it means a lot to me," he whispered. "Of course. I just hope she likes me," I admitted. "Are you kidding? She'll love you."

When we caught up with Joe and Taylor they were already greeted by Miley. 

"Hey Nicky!" she squealed, hugging him. "Miley," Nick smiled, "This is Mackenzie." "Oh my gosh, I've heard so much about you!" she told me, "I’ve been dying to meet the horse girl!" I laughed nervously, "That’s me." "Well, come in, come in. Everyone else is here!"

"Told you we were late," Joe told Nick, who rolled his eyes. 

We walked into the giant living room and saw everyone laughing and sitting around a fire. 

"Oh sweet! Chips!" Joe said, grabbing the bowl of chips and dip. Taylor rolled her eyes and sat down next to him. 

Now this was about the time I felt awkward. 

"Guys, this is Mackenzie," Miley told them, "Mackenzie, this is Demi, Selena, Trace, Taylor L, and Liam." "Hey," I said nervously. "Horse girl!" Demi squealed, "We thought Nick made you up!" "Gee, thanks, Dem," nick muttered. "Aw, Dem! Give the guy a break," Selena told her. 

"Can we have cake now?" Taylor L whined. "You just ate," Selena told him. "I’m a growing boy." everyone laughed and we moved to the dining room where the cake was.

It was cute, Pocahontas themed with leaves and characters on it. 

Nick stood behind me with his arms wrapped around my waist and I leaned against his chest, completely content. 

After we sang happy birthday Miley attempted to cut slices, but soon handed the knife over to Liam.

The first piece was handed to Miley but when she held it up to her face to eat Liam pushed it in.

"I’m sorry, babe. I had to," Liam laughed. Miley took the other piece he cut and slammed it his face, part of it hitting Demi. Ultimately starting a cake war. 

I was double teamed by Nick and Joe, but ducked so they hit each other in the face.

Taylor and I decided to team up and hit Nick and Joe with two giant pieces. 

"That wasn't fair," Nick told me, resting his frosting covered hand on the small of my back and pulling me closer. "I’m sorry," I admitted. Nick crushed his frosting covered lips to mine. "You taste amazing," I laughed, as did Nick. 

Once the cake was gone, and everyone was covered, everyone stopped.

"Dude! I didn’t even get to eat any!" Taylor whined. "There’s enough on your face to eat," Selena laughed at him. 

"What do you say we wash all this off in the hot tub?" Miley suggested. Everyone agreed and we all quickly changed.

Once we were all in the hot tub Miley docked her iPod and sat next to Liam. 

"Really, Miles? Really?" Joe asked, nodding to the song blaring. "Are you hating on my backstreet boys?" she threatened. He shook his head in disapproval.

"What do you say us men go play some ball?" Taylor L asked. Nick, Joe, Liam, Trace, and Taylor L all got up and dried off. 

"Will you be okay?" Nick asked. I nodded and watched him run out of the room to the indoor court.

Taylor and Demi got out too going get food since everyone was starving now after not getting cake. 

Once they left I noticed who was still remaining. Nicks ex girlfriends. Oh, won't this be fun.

"Nicky seems really happy with you," Selena told me. "Well, I'm really happy with him too," I admitted. "How long have you guys been dating?" Miley asked. "About a month." "Aww lifers!" Selena giggled. "I heard he's taking riding lessons from you?" Miley asked. "Yeah, he is. Tigger seems to really like him, he hardly let anyone but me ride him." "I can't get over how perfect you are for him," Miley sighed. "Like picture perfect," Selena added. “You know how in the Wizard of Oz? When Dorothy tells the guy in Emerald City that the good witch sent her because the wicked witch is after her and he says ‘well thats a horse of a different color?” I asked. Miley and Selena nodded, not sure where I was going. “Well he’s my horse of a different color.”

"Hello ladies," Nick said, climbing back into the hot tub. He sat down next to me and put his arm around me. Miley and Selena smiled, admiring us. "I thought you were playing basketball?" I asked. "Uneven number so I sat out," he shrugged, "What are we talking about?" "You," I admitted. "My favorite subject," he chuckled. "Joes rubbing off on you," Selena told him. "We were just saying how lucky you are to have a girl like Mackenzie," Miley added. "Oh believe me, Miles. I know," Nick leaned in and kissed me gently. 

"So did you have fun?" Nick asked when we were sitting on my porch after the party, we had already dropped Joe and Taylor off.

"Surprisingly, I did," I laughed, "Miley and everyone seem really nice." "They really like you too," he told me, "But I mean what's not to like?" "Aww, such a sweet talker." "I mean it, Kenz. You're an amazing girl." "Well you’re pretty amazing too." "Look, I don't know how to say it, so I'm just going to come out with it," Nick blurted, "I love you." 

His words shocked me. Did Nicholas Jerry Jonas really just say he LOVES me? 

"Wow, Nick, that's, uh, wow," was all I could manage. I wracked my brain for anything better to say, lousy time for a brain fart.

"It's okay if you don't feel the same way," he added, "I know it's soon." "No, I mean, yes of course I feel the same way," I finally managed to say, "I love you too." "Really?" "Really, really."

Nick pressed his lips to mine again. He really was a horse of a different color.