There was no way Michael could hide how nervous he was. No nervous was an understatement. He was terrified. For once he wasn't the big man in charge or the one with all the power. Oh no not this time. This time it was someone else entirely. It was a change of roles. Was this how each and everyone of his and Kat's victim's had felt? If that was the case..how could he have put them through this and not felt a single dang thing? He was so wrapped up in thoughts and his fear he couldn't even enjoy the position he was in with Megan. He still had a firm hold on her and she was settled comfortably in his lap-warm close and completely huggable. Despite his situation he couldn't help but derive some comfort and happiness from such a simple thing. Sadly all good things had to come to an end.

Exhaling slowly, he watched Megan disappear upstairs before he turned to face her brothers watching as they expertly arranged things how they wanted them. Of course, a little chat. Why didn't they just go ahead and call it what it really was, an interrogation? Once he was settled in the chair he'd been directed to. He had a really bad feeling about this...of all the powers he'd been blessed with why couldn't he have been given the ability to control time? If he'd been given that ability then he could have frozen time completely to keep this form happening or better yet he could have made time speed up to get this over with. Sadly though he didn't have that power, instead he had super strength. Honestly being able to punch a hole through the wall would really help him out in a situation like this. Not!

He started slightly as the room suddenly plunged into darkness. Stiffening uncomfortably he braced himself for something...no anything. He'd done this plenty of time to unsuspecting underclassmen. It had never ended well for them. Clearly this was karma getting back him! Her brothers didn't want to talk to him, they knew. They knew about what he'd done and know they were going to get payback...He looked up as an over head lamp came on. He stayed silent through out their mini-spiel.

Once they'd finished though he spoke up with one eyebrow raised. "I'm sorry but I think you have the words chat and interrogation mixed up. I may not be the smartest person at school but I do know that those two words don't even come close to meaning the same thing." he pointed out with a faint amount of smugness. See he wasn't that stupid. Yes he'd made lots of stupid mistakes pertaining to his life and school work but considering the improvements he'd been making, something was bound to rub off at some point! His triumph however was short lived. He could joke all he wanted but he couldn't put this off for ever. They'd find eventually..actually he was pretty sure the mind reader of the group already knew-he was pretty sure he'd heard Megan say something about one of them being able to read minds. But she hadn't given him any names so the only two brothers he knew would be Jake and John. Maybe John was the mind reader? Nah..he didn't look like one and Jake...well Jake just looked terrified of him and he couldn't say he really blamed the kid there. He was working on changing, that much was true but he still hadn't managed to right all of his wrongs. Although that could take a while considering how long that particular list was..Shaking his head he brought himself out of his distracted musings and did as they'd asked him. "My name is Jordan Callister. I'm eighteen years old and my power is strength." he stated calmly even though on the inside he was still nervous as all get out.

John grinned an gripped Jordan's shoulders encouragingly. "I like you, here you are in this position, and you can still joke with us. You're right. But if we told her we were going to interrogate you, she'd never leave. So, tell me Jordan Callister. What are your intentions and desires with my sister?" he asked and walked around the table, every now and then glancing at Michael for a clue on if Jordan wasn't telling the truth. "Will you treat her like a princess and treat her with respect? Will you be a gentleman when you're with her?" he asked as he walked around. He was about to speak when Jake beat him.

"Do you prey on those weaker and smaller than yourself?" he asked, his eyes boring into Jordan's. Jake knew for a fact that Jordan did exactly that, because Jake had been on the receiving end, one too many times. John looked at Michael when he asked questions. Jake, however, looked straight at Jordan. He wanted to hear what he would say. This was likely to be the last question before they make him swear to hold to his word.

Jordan couldn't hide his surprise hearing John's simple statement. He liked him? Ok...well on the one hand it was good to know he'd gotten one of the brothers on his side.On the other hand how the heck did he know if he was serious? Simple, he couldn't. So he'd just have to pretend to go along with it. And if push came to shove..well he'd just shove back harder. Not enough to hurt anyone but definitely enough to defend himself. He offered a faint smile as he forced himself to relax in his chair crossing his arms over his chest. "You're right...she doesn't seem like the type to just run off and leave someone if they need help. She's nice..." he mused softly before flushing softly at the next question. Intentions? Desires?! He wasn't going to touch that second one. That was just awkward. And his intentions..well so far he hadn't figured those out. One thing he was sure of though? He wanted to date her, just date her. And if something came out of that then good. If not..well it wouldn't be so good but he'd get over it. Considering his past of inflicting pain it only seemed right that karma sent some of the same pain and suffering back at him. Right? "Well..I want to date her. I guess thats my only intention towards her now. Its kind of early for me to have it all planned out don't you think? After all its up to her. I like her, but I'm not so sure she likes me in the same way." he explained calmly taking a brief pause before he continued to answer the next question with a low chuckle. "Honestly I intend to treat her better than that. In my opinion all girls deserve to be treated like princesses and with utmost respect, but if its a girl I really like then I think she deserves to be treated like a queen, but that's just me. I try to always treat girls with respect. Its how I was raised." he explained before wincing slightly. Girls. He'd said girls only! What about other people in general?! He opened his mouth to hurriedly try and rectify that small mistake before froze up completely hearing Jake's next question.

He exhaled slowly before he shook his head. "Not now. Yes I used to do that. If I remember right, you were one of the more unfortunate victims." he pointed out. "It might be a little late now but I'd like to say I'm sorry. What you do with that apology is completely up to you. You can hate me or forgive and forget. What ever floats your boat dude. I've made mistakes, but then again hasn't everyone? No ones perfect, and I don't aspire to be perfect, but I do hope to fix the mistakes I've made." he said calmly.

Reily, John, and Jake all glanced at Michael once Jordan had answered. Michael nodded, he'd told the truth. Now came the vote. John nodded, he was up for it. Reily and Michael followed suit shortly after. Jake took a little longer. His physical wounds had healed, but his mental ones were far from it. He turned back to Jordan and watched him somewhat, mulling over the words he'd said.

Finally, though, he turned back to his brothers and nodded. That was the cue. Michael reached forward and grabbed Jordan's hand, holding it as though they were going to arm wrestle. One after the other, the rest of the brothers added their own hand into the bundle until they were all joined in the center. "Very well, the vote is unanimous, feel free to date our sister one condition. Jordan Callister, do you swear to hold to every word that you have spoken, knowing full well that if you fail to do so, or if you hurt her, we will come after you and use your words against you. Do you swear, Jordan Callister, to love our sister as much as she allows, and not back down until she deliberately asks you to? And do you swear, Jordan Callister, to do you best to make our sister, Megan King, happy? To all this, do you swear?" Michael asked, his eyes boring straight into Jordan's eyes, like he was looking at his very soul.

Jordan watched the brothers waiting for their reaction. He had a pretty good feeling they were going to send him packing. Why would any self respecting over protective brother young or old let his sister date someone who'd used to beat the snot out of those weaker than him? The answer? There was no answer because no brother would ever let his sister do that. Heck if Jordan had a sister he'd send the poor sap interested in her packing without a second though. But he didn't have a sister so he doubted he'd ever get the chance to do that. Point blank though he knew what these guys were thinking-not in the mind reading sense- so he couldn't blame them for sending him away.

But that wasn't what happened. Actually it was nowhere near what happened. One by one the brothers all nodded until Jake was the only one remaining. what they were they doing now? Were they coming to a decision about how to get him out of here? Frowning he watched and waited until Jake nodded and then the oddest thing happened. He blinked in stunned silent as Michael's words slowly sunk in. He couldn't hide his surprise and amazement. Wait they were ok with him dating Megan?! They were ok with him even being in the same room as her? This had to be a joke, seriously what were they waiting on? They needed to get to dumb punch line and send him away. It was bad enough that he'd had to admit to his wrong doings in the past, now they were teasing him. He realized there were waiting on him and he nodded his expression guarded as he waited for them to start laughing. Figuring they needed a verbal assent for their joke he went ahead and spoke. "I swear..." he said stiffly. There now they'd had their fun. They could quit toying around with him.

As if on cue, Megan's voice floated down the stairs, calling them to dinner, the moment Jordan agreed. The brothers grinned widely and they all stood up. John helped Jordan up and gently prodded him upstairs "don't worry. We're in favor of Megan having a boyfriend. So far, you've been the only one brave enough to try. A shame, really. So no, we aren't going to send you packing. I read minds, I know you're telling the truth. You said you wanted to change from what you were. You can't do that if no one lets you. Now, you just have to get through our dad... Oh, I guess you have to convince Megan too... don't worry, we're on your side" Michael encouraged.

Megan rolled her eyes once the boys emerged. She took one look at Jordan and knew what they'd put him through "honestly, really? Next time at least tell me you're going to interrogate him" she said just as her father walked in the door. "Who's getting interrogated and why wasn't I invited?" her father asked. Megan sighed heavily "that's my dad, I'll introduce him at dinner" she told him softly. "We were interrogating Megan's boyfriend" Reily answered. "How many times do I have to tell you? He's not my boyfriend" Megan parroted. "Maybe not now, but he will be soon enough" Jake quipped. "Boyfriend, eh? I ask again: why wasn't I invited?" Megan's father asked and walked up to him "Hello, son" he greeted, holding out his hand for a handshake. "Daddy, he just went through the boys. Don't make him deal with you tonight. You can get him on our first date. Give him a rest" Megan intervened, steering Jordan away from her father and towards the table.

With a sigh, Megan sat next to Jordan, reaching under the table to give his hand a squeeze "I'm sorry about them. You must've done wonderfully, though, because they're still going on about it. Sorry about my dad, I'll try to get him to behave" she whispered, giving him a small smile.

Jordan blinked in surprise as Michael-also known as the mind reader of the group- parroted back Jordan's thoughts and reassured him. Ahh..well that was good to know. And then it sunk in. He had a chance. He was being given a chance to sweep Megan off her feet. Sure he'd done it already but he didn't want to literally sweep her off her feet again. Not if meant her getting hurt although so far they'd been pretty lucky not having any further incidents like the one in gym. At the mention of their dad though Jordan winced. "Again? I've got to do that again? Ok fine..just give me a warning, is he as bad as you guys? He can't read minds or anything like that? Seriously some information would be helpful here. It was hard enough impressing you guys the first time around." he pointed out with a soft sigh as he brushed his hair out of his face as they made their way upstairs.

His whole demeanor changed the moment he saw Megan though. He laughed softly hearing Megan chide her brother. "They didn't interrogate me. They just questioned me severely." he joked with another low chuckle. He looked up hearing a newer voice asking about his interrogation. Ah that would be their dad right? Offering the older man a grin he reached out to give him a nice strong handshake. Although it might have been a little stronger than necessary but hey there was nothing wrong with that. The stronger the handshake, the better impression he'd make.If he was being trusted to care for Megan then the fact that he had extra strength would benefit him. "Nice to meet you sir. I'm Jordan Callister. The guy that's hoping to be your daughter's boyfriend some day." he quipped. So maybe he was a little over confident at the moment but you couldn't blame him. he felt invincible! He'd just made it through her brothers, who was to say he couldn't make it through her dad as well?

Once he was sitting at the table beside Megan, Jordan smiled happily feeling her squeeze his hand. "Its alright...they weren't that bad. I can kind of understand why they're doing it though. They just want to keep you safe and happy. I can't really blame them for that." he whispered back. Things were finally starting to look up. He had Megan's brothers on his side and if things went well he'd have her dad behind him as well. He'd have her family's blessing and then..well then it'd be completely up to him.

Megan sighed softly, but smiled nonetheless "Okay... I'll trust you on that. You let me know if they get too tough, alright?" she said just as her mother arrived with dinner. Soon, the table was bustling with excitement. "Megan, sweetheart, introduce your guest" her mother gently prodded. "This is Jordan, he's a friend of mine from school. At the moment the closest he gets to being my boyfriend, is the fact that he's a friend and a boy. Nothing more nothing less. I would appreciate it if the quips about him being my boyfriend would cease and desist" she introduced and then turned to Jordan "that's my dad, he works with the FBI, so he would be the one to blame for the interrogation you received earlier. You've already met John and the others I'm sure, but just in case, that's Michael, Jake, and Reily. And finally, we have my mother, in case you couldn't already guess by how much I look like her" she introduced. Each other her family members greeted Jordan as they were introduced. The rest of dinner went wonderfully, the family talking to each other about their day and how their lives were at the moment, especially with the cases of John and Michael, as well as asking Jordan about his life and his future plans. Megan's mother was especially careful to include Jordan in the family conversation, as much as Megan was careful to have private conversations with him.

(Mini Time Skip-After Dinner)

It wasn't until after dinner that Jordan was finally able to fully relax. The little announcement that Megan's dad worked in the FBI didn't do much to comfort him. True Megan's brother's interrogation hadn't been hard but it hadn't exactly been easy either. But the oncoming one with her dad? Now that one was no doubt going to be a doozy because her dad wouldn't ask the same simple questions her brothers had. Her dad would ask the much more probing ones. He'd want to know everything....and Jordan would tell him. But it wouldn't end well. He couldn't see it going well even if he had managed to impress Megan's brothers.

Sighing softly he lowered himself onto the couch in the game room while aiming a grin at Mega. "If I recall correctly I do remember you challenging me to a round of Halo earlier. Does that offer still stand or is there something else you'd like to do?" he asked with a curious tilt of his head.

Megan lifted her eyebrows and grinned at him. She simply walked over to the game system and set everything up "Jordan, I'm always up for a game of Halo, whether we do something else is totally different" she said. Just then, John came down and glanced into the section of the basement. "Hey, Dad appointed me chaperone over you two since Reily, Jake, and Michael are all doing homework. I'll be on the other side of the wall, and I'll stay there unless I hear something that needs to be chaperoned. Have fun" he said and headed over to the other side of the wall, out of sight.

Megan grinned and curled up next to Jordan. She couldn't help it, really... he was very cuddly. Oh gosh... that was a girly thought, wasn't it? What was happening to her!? No, she wouldn't be able to focus on Halo until she straightened things out. "Jordan... why do you want to date me? Don't try to deny it, you haven't been very subtle about it so far. Thank you for letting it go at my pace, but why do you even want it? I'm not the girlfriend type. I'm not a cheerleader or some girl that cares about her appearance. I'm a girl the loves soccer, basketball and video games. I consistently wrestle with my brothers... unless John's playing. I don't stand and chance against him. I'm... I'm not like Katherine. She's everything I'm not. She's beautiful, a cheerleader, totally into dating guys... why are you even remotely interested in me?" she asked. She had to know.

Jordan blushed softly and shook his head. "I meant like talking. I didn't mean for that to sound like a come on line." he explained before freezing up completely as John came downstairs announcing his presence and why he was there. Heh, in that case Megan didn't have to worry about him trying anything. One her brother was in the room near bye and two he was completely ok with just talking or playing video games with her. He wasn't like that although if she happened to try something he wouldn't mind..ah crap. He had to quit thinking like that, one of her brothers was a mind reader for pete's sake!

He bit his tongue lightly to keep another groan of embarrassment from escaping. This sucked, her brothers trusted him and expected him to be..well perfect. but how could he do that if Michael could read every stinking though he had? What if he thought the wrong thing? Sighing he cleared his mind and contented himself with cuddling with Megan. He smiled faintly hearing her sudden onslaught of questions. "Well you just said it. You're nothing like Kat. I dated Kat and I don't think I was ever happy with her. I couldn't be nice. Being nice didn't impress her. The thing she liked about me was my strength. She wanted to be the queen of everything. And if she had me that helped. And yet I wasn't enough. She had to have Andrew and Nick and eventually she just forgot about me. You're not like that. You wouldn't just use someone and toss them aside as soon as they lost their value. And I like the fact that you like sports and video games. Around you I don't feel any pressure to be someone I'm not. I just feel like being me and doing the best I can." he explained before leaning in with a soft sweet grin as he gently tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear in shocking display of tenderness. "And you're beautiful. Both inside and out.." he murmured before realizing he might have over done it a little with that last comment even if it was true. Blushing he pulled away. "So...did I answer your question?"

Megan looked down when she heard his description of Katherine. She was suddenly very glad she wasn't like Katherine. Her face turned a bright red when he suddenly leaned in. Wait... he wasn't going to kiss her... was he? Oh thank goodness, he just wanted to say something really sweet. Well... she'll take it for what it was and just roll with it. Any guy that can pull that out is definitely worth giving a shot. "Yeah... you did... you answered a lot of them. I never thought I'd find a guy that actually liked me because I wasn't girly. It's kinda... kinda refreshing. By the way... you asked about movie and food earlier today. My favorite type of movie is, surprisingly a chick flick. Totally random considering my personality, but I love it. However, I'm totally down for whatever. We don't have to watch a chick flick. As for food... I don't care what we eat. I don't even care if it's fast food or something. I don't eat seafood, though. That's my only restriction" she answered and began to set up the game. She handed Jordan a controller and leaned against him, resting her head on his shoulder. Let him figure out what she thought of him. She liked a guy that was willing to take a few risks to get what he wanted. As long as she was open to him, she'll let him take a few risks to get their relationship going. That'll be her criteria. If he's gutsy enough to take a few risks to claim the title of boyfriend, then he can have it, not until then.

(Time skip-Friday evening-Show time!!!!!!!!)

With a soft shhhh the curtains swept down easily concealing Kevin and Aria from the audience. Aria stood stock still for a moment before she heard the loud applause through the thick material of the curtain. That was her cue that she could fully relax. Not that she hadn't been in a mostly zen like state that evening. it was just at the performance had grown closer and closer to its dramatic end she'd become more excited. Why? Because..she'd made a decision. She wanted a present. And it wasn't anything that could be bought. It was something that could be given...or taken depending on how one looked at it. And the time for her to get her present was drawing closer..

Smiling happily she threw her arms around Kevin's neck and gave him a warm happy hug. "Oh my goodness! That was perfect! We were great, and you..you danced beautifully..." she murmured pressing a soft kiss to his cheek. Allowing herself to lean against him for more brief moments she finally pulled away lifting a slim hand to tuck a stray curl out of her face. "I don't know about you..but I'm kind of said its all said and done. I mean I know there's going to be other performances but opening night, thats the key performance. After tonight we're pretty much done. I don't want this to end." she murmured with a soft p out.

Kevin smiled and hugged Aria tightly. When she pouted, however, that was the end. Without a word, he leaned down and pressed a soft tender kiss on her lips. He pulled away slightly, only to immediately dive back in for a deeper kiss. He could hear some cheering around him, likely related to what was going on. When he finally pulled away his voice was thick with emotion. "Come on, I have something for you, to celebrate a job well done" he told her and led her off to the dressing rooms. "Wait here" he said and plunged into the men's dressing rooms. He emerged with his gift behind his back. "So... a little birdy told me that you liked roses. So... here you go. Homegrown and fertilized with Ever-Grow. These things should last about 10 times longer than normal roses, even if they aren't watered regularly. if they are, they're practically immortal. I think they turned out rather nicely, do you think? Oh, and... Happy Birthday" he said as he handed Aria the bouquet of roses.

Angela was with Katerina and Andrew, to find Aria or Nick, and she happened to be there just in time to hear just in time to hear Kevin wish Aria a happy birthday. She squealed with delight. "Oh my gosh! How dare you! it's your birthday and you didn't tell your best friend!? That's it, it's official. Our after party just became a birthday party. Don't you dare argue, it was going to happen anyway and it's just our friends. Just let me track down Nick to see if he wants to come" she squealed and skipped off to find Nick.

Andrew undid his bowtie and the top buttons of his tuxedo. "Happy birthday Aria, don't worry, I'm not going to make a big deal out of it. Angela makes enough of a deal about it for the both of us. Just do me a favor and let her indulge for her sake. She's been stressed lately with Nick, and it's just going to be us going out to get some ice cream. Just let her call it a birthday party, alright?" he pleaded. His fingers were numb from playing the guitar all night.

Aria's eyes widened as Kevin leaned down placing a soft tender kiss against her lips, but he didn't stop there. With in a few brief moments he'd dived down capturing her lips for a longer, deeper kiss. Sighing she leaned into him her lips parting just the slightest as she returned the kiss. When he finally pulled away she couldn't hide her dazed smile as she allowed herself to be lead towards the dressing room. While waiting for him Aria relived the last few moments. Her first kiss, her real first kiss mind you. True she'd had one with Andrew, but that'd been more a fumble than an kiss. With Kevin though..it'd been perfect. When Kevin finally came back her face lit up in a happy content smile dimmed when she noticed him holding his hands behind his back. Oh no..he'd went and gotten her something anyhow. She didn't want anything else. That kiss had been more than enough, she let out a soft gasp seeing him pull out the gift. Roses! She laughed shaking her head softly. "I don't like roses, I love them. Sadly I don't have a green thumb..." she murmured with a soft frown but she laughed softly hearing him mention that they'd last longer. "Ah, is it that obvious that I'm not a gardening kind of girl?" she asked with a soft laugh. Shaking her head she gently ran her fingers over the baby soft petals before she stepped closer to him a soft smile making her lips curve upward. "Thank you for the roses. I love them..." she murmured leaning in to get another kiss before she jerked back hearing Angela squeal in delight. Immediately her pale cheeks flushed a bright red as she quickly stepped away from Kevin. She looked properly chastised hearing her best friend scold her. "I'm sorry..if it makes you feel better I didn't tell Kevin either..he just guessed it. And even then I made him promise not to tell. Look its fine. I really don't want a birthday party. Its not a big deal..." she babbled. But clearly her words fell on deaf ears. She sighed shaking her head softly. "Well that backfired on me. What ever happened to the birthday girl getting what she wanted?" she demanded with a soft pout but she didn't argue with Andrew. If anything she shot him a bemused smile. "I guess you know this from personal experience? What did she do on your birthday?" she teased softly, knowing the subject of that day was a delicate subject, as she stepped towards him giving him a soft brief hug before she turned to face Katerina giving her a soft curtsy before she straightened carefully removing a rose the bouquet as she held it out to the other girl. "To my adoring fans and friends.." she mused with a soft grin.

Nick let out a low grateful sigh as emerged from the dressing room free of his costume. Freedom! No more dancing, no more rehearsals. No more anything! He grinned seeing Angela skip towards him. Laughing he shook his head as he walked towards her. "Remind me, how is that almost everyone else in our charming little group ended up being recruited for this show but you didn't? Honestly, even Jordan contributed by helping the stage hands carry in things. And I think I sat Katerina fixing up the costumes. What did you do?" he teased with a faint smile before he sobered up immediately. Wait he wasn't supposed to be talking to Angela. He couldn't let Kat see...but she wasn't even back here was she? Frowning he looked around his cheek stinging softly as a silent reminder to what she'd done the last time he disobeyed her. Great..he was actually scared of a girl. Then again it wasn't like Kat was a normal girl..

Katerina laughed softly seeing Aria bouncing about. Someone was a in good mood. She arched one brow seeing Aria hug her boyfriend. She wasn't jealous so much as surprise. Laughing she gratefully excepted the beautiful rose Aria held out to her. "Thank you, is there any chance I could get an autograph as well?" she teased twirling the rose between her slim fingers as she waited for the other members of their group to show up.

Kevin grinned and wrapped his arms around Aria's waist. "Happy Birthday, sweetheart" he whispered, planting a tender kiss behind her ear. "Why don't you get changed. Angela should be back by the time you're done" he suggested. He planted a tender kiss on her lips before he urged her towards the dressing rooms.

"Looks like you've had a fine day" Andrew commented. Kevin grinned and nodded, giving a nonchalant shrug. I should probably follow my own advice. It may not be as complicate as Aria's, but this'll be a beast to get out of" he said and dissappeared into the dressing rooms.

Angela grinned, but frowned when she saw the scratch on his cheek. Her eyes widened and she touched it softly. "She did this to you. Don't worry, I'll be brief. If you think you can get away, we're all going to go get some ice cream to celebrate. It's doubling as Aria's birthday party. I'd like you to come... we all would. If you can. If not... call me tonight, alright... I'm worried about you" she said softly. She looked around for Kat. She didn't see her in the audience, so she was probably safe, but if she was here, she'd be showing up soon. She spotted one of the girls from the cheer squad "Miranda, did you see Katherine here tonight?" she asked. Mirdana shook her head "no, she told me that she was planning on going, for Nick, but she wasn't feeling too well. Oh, Nick, she sends her... er... love... she promises that no matter what, she'll be here tomorrow" she said and then walked off. Angela smiled softly. Feeling brave, she leaned up and placed a tender kiss on his scratch.

Aria shivered softly feeling him place a soft tender kiss behind her ear. "Yes..happy birthday in deed..." she murmured with a content smile as she leaned against him. Sighing happily she accepted his tender kiss and advice before she disappeared into her changing room. True her costume was a bit complicated to get out of but she managed to get out of it just fine. Once free of her costume she sighed softly in contentment before she looked warily at the after party outfit her aunt had picked out for her. Ok so maybe Aria had mentioned something about wanting to dress up for her birthday but this outfit wasn't quite what she'd had in mind. Oh it was cute don't get her wrong. But that skirt..well it definitely wasn't the usual tutu she was used to. If anything it fell into a category all its own. Hesitating a few more moments Aria changed into her after party out fit and quietly made her way back out of the dressing room to her friends. "I miss my jeans...." she murmured looking around for somewhere to hide as she waited for Kevin to come back.

Nick's eyes widened and he shook his head. "No, she didn't do it. My cat did this. I was practicing shifting and I guess her scared her or something.." he explained lamely. Oh honestly, he'd told better lies in his sleep. if he could somehow make the extremely mentally deranged Kat believe he loved her why couldn't he make Angela believe that he hadn't been hurt by Kat?He smiled apologetically hearing her offer to come along with the others for a combination after party and a birthday party. "That sounds like fun but I don't think I can make it. I'll call you later.." he murmured with a soft sigh. He wanted to go. If for no reason other than to hang out with Angela it'd still be fun. And he hadn't seen Kat in the audience but who knew? She could have been hiding somewhere else...Apparently he wasn't the only one that had noticed Kat's absence from the audience. Angela had too. he watched as Ange talked with someone who apparently knew both her and Kat. He winced softly hearing the message and nodded while forcing himself to smile. "I can hardly wait..." he muttered. Well..if Kat wasn't here..."On second though I think I'll hang out with you and the others tonight. I think I deserve a night off.." he said smiling warmly as she placed a tender kiss on his scratches.

Kevin stepped out of the dressing room, his backpack on his shoulder. When he spotted Aria, however, he fought hard to keep a straight face... at least in front of so many people. He calmly walked up to her and pulled her into his arms. He placed a tender kiss on her lips and bent his mouth next to her ear "do ye realize, how gorgeous ye look? Ye better not get me alone with ye tonight, because I'm not sure I'll be able to hold meself back. I think ye just gave me an early birthday gift, baby" he whispered, his accent on full, allowing himself to nip her earlobe. Alright, reign it in, boy. Don't get too carried away. You're still in high school, still a few more months to go. Besides, he wasn't even 18... yet. Instead, he held Aria close, breathing in her scent.

Andrew grinned and tried not to watch Aria and Kevin and their private moment. "Well... looks like they're having fun... this... this is going to be interesting. Make sure I have a good time and I don't ruin the mood, alright? I'm still... I'm still upset with him because he wanted to date Lucy. But it's be alright... it'll be alright. I just need to get used to him. Just... help me, ok?" he pleaded softly as he gave Katerina a neck massage.

Angela grinned widely, grabbed Nick's hand, and pulled him back towards their group "I got him! Come on, let's go. Break it up you two, you'll have plenty of time to do that later, it's time to party!" she bubbled. Andrew straightened up "are we going to take separate cars?" he asked "probably should, that way we don't have to worry about our cars getting locked in. We'll go in three groups. We'll me ye there" Kevin said and walked off with Aria, pulling the keys out of his pocket. Andrew glanced at Angela and Nick's joined hands "I'm glad to see you could make it. I'm here for you if you need anything, see you there" he said and walked off with Katerina. Angela smiled and laced her fingers through Nick's "come on... before anyone sees us and decides they want to save their own hide by reporting us to Katherine" she said.

A low sizzle of heat zipped through Aria as she saw Kevin exit the dressing rooms. He didn't look any different than usual expect for that look on his face. It was obviously he was trying to keep a straight face but it wasn't working. He liked what he saw. Immediately what ever uncertainties Aria felt about wearing something so drastically girly vanishing. All this time she'd been wearing jeans around him and one time wore a skirt he went..well she didn't have clue what he turned into to. But what ever it was she liked it. She shivered softly all but melting in his grasp as he pressed a tender kiss to her lips. Her eyes widening hearing the words he whispered in her ear the sizzle of heat rocketing up by several notches.Swallowing softly she bit her lip letting her dark gaze drop down to his lips before lifted her eyes back up his. "Oh? Well has it occurred to ye that maybe I don't want ye to hold yeself back?" she asked with a soft flirty smile as she used her abilities to mimic his accent. She was perfectly aware that she was playing for fire. And true while there was a possibility she might get burnt..she didn't really care. Tonight was her birthday. She could afford to live a little couldn't she? Remembering his mention of his birthday she grinned impishly pressing a soft kiss against the corner of his lips. "So when is you're birthday? And what do you want for a present?" she asked curiously. True she might be a year older, and she'd definitely been properly kissed, and she now knew the miracles of a short skirt but there was so much she still didn't know. Like for starters, what to get him for his birthday. He obviously had something in mind but what? She'd just leaned in preparing to press her lips against his when Angela showed up with Nick in tow. Frowning softly pulled away lifting a hand to brush her hair out of her face."Right,party time!" she cheered gently taking Kevin's hand in hers and tugging him towards his car.

Katerina didn't bother to hide her surprise. He was still upset because of that tiny little thing? It wasn't like he'd ever actually dated Lucy. And even if he had, he wasn't dating Lucy now. He was dating Aria. And he seemed to be doing a very good job of making her happy.Smiling reassuringly she pressed her lips against Andrew's cheek. "I promise. I'm sure I can find some way of keeping you from ruining the mood. Who knows maybe I could run home and find a skirt like Aria's before everyone meets up?" she asked with a soft flirty smile before Angela showed up with Nick. She smiled warmly at the couple-yes couple. There was no doubt about it, those two were together. Or meant to be anyway. Clearly though there was something keeping them apart..and that something was Kat. Kat wasn't a person. No person could be so cruel as to keep two people who were clearly in love separated like Nick and Angela were. That was just inhumane! She frowned softly as Andrew wrapped up the riding arrangements before leading her towards his car. "I wish someone would get rid of Kat.All she's done is cause everyone grief. Especially Nick and Angela! Have you seen how they look a each other? Its so cute.." she mused softly.

Nick's eyebrows raised seeing Kevin and Aria. Wow...that was uh..different. He coughed softly hearing the ride arrangement. "Are you sure its a good idea to let those ride alone? The birthday girl might not make it to her own party. And we all know what a travesty that would be. " he teased with a low chuckle before turning serious. He was kidding but at the same time he was very serious. He couldn't help that he already some experience they didn't, but considering he did he'd give them some advice. They'd be better of waiting until they were out of high school. Or better yet, until they were married. Old fashioned? Yes but safe? Definitely. He winced slightly at the mention of Katherine and ave Ange's hand a soft tug. "Good point. Lets go. You kids behave!" he called over his shoulder with a grin.

Kevin quickly threw his stuff into the backseat once the car was unlocked. Everything settled, he slid in and started the car. "To answer your earlier question, my birthday isn't until July. I'm sure by then I can think of something. By that way... I liked how well you mimicked my accent. If I didn't know better, I'd say you grew up on the streets of Dublin, same as me" he said and drove off. Yes, he was holding himself back. Birthday girl or not, he'd be in big trouble with so many people if things went too far. But that wasn't going to stop him from making out with her.

Andrew sighed and nodded as they walked out to his car. "I'm sure it'll be alright soon... something's going to happen anyway. They're being way too obvious right now. Kat puts up rewards for information: if you tell her what she wants to know, she'll spare you one time. It's enough to get several loyal spies, some of those spies I know were in the cast, and even the orchestra. I don't know how many saw them... but someone did. Let's just hope Ange survives it" he answered grimly as he drove off.

The car ride was awkward, she didn't know what to say, because she didn't want to bring up Katherine. All she really said was that he did a good job today. Thankfully, they arrived and joined the party. She squealed and ran forward to hug Aria "don't you ever let me hear about you holding back information, alright? Sometimes you need a little party, whether it's celebrating you or not. Now come, time for ice cream" she ordered.

After tossing her own things in the back seat with his Aria slid into the passenger seat her slim hands smoothing out her skirt. Smiling faintly she looked up at him with one slender brow raised. He'd said something would happen if the two of them were alone. Well they were alone..and she was kind of curious about what would happen. One thing she was positive that would happen was she'd get more kisses and she didn't mind that all..but she had a party to get to. One she still didn't really want but clearly she didn't have a say in that matter. If anything this party was more of a stress reliever for Angela and Nick than it was for her. But hey at least someone was getting something out of it. She laughed softly at the mention of her earlier questions about his birthday. "Oh? Earlier it sounded like you had an idea of what you wanted for your birthday. Did you change your mind already?" she teased softly. Hearing him compliment her imitated accent she beamed allowing her voice to slip into that same accent. "Thanks. I was a wee bit worried that I was making a fool of meself but it seems I had nothin' to worry about." she admitted with a warm confident grin as they pulled up at her party. It didn't take long for the others to arrive and when Angela showed up Aria was swamped in another warm hug. Laughing she hugged her friend back before she pulled away shaking her head softly. "I didn't with hold information. I just neglected to tell anyone because I figured you'd blow it out of proportions. Do I look like the typical party girl?" she asked spreading her arms slightly so everyone could look at her outfit-which she'd forgotten about. Because if she had to admit it...she did look like a bit of a party person in this outfit. But still. They knew what she meant!

Obvious? Katerina let out a soft snort of disbelief. "That's not obvious sweetie, the only obvious couple that comes to mind right now is Aria and Kevin. Did you see the way they were looking at each other? I'm surprised one of them didn't burst into flames! Who would have known Aria had it in her to wear a skirt.." she mused with a soft chuckle, however her humor was short lived because at the mention of Kat having spies she paled slightly. "Wait, you knew that and you didn't bother to give them a warning? I mean I'm sure Nick probably suspected something but honestly the guys just itching for someone to get rid of that noose around his neck do you think he even spent more than a second considering what danger he might be putting Ange in?" she asked nervously biting her lip as she sat tensely in the seat beside Andrew.

Awkward, that was the one key word to sum up that brief car ride. Things hadn't seemed so awkward back behind stage but the moment he'd ended up alone with Angela what ever warmth and familiarity that was there between them disappeared. Was it his fault? Uh...in a way yes. He was Kat's personal slave to say the least. And of course there was the giant unspoken elephant in the back ground-Kat. It was clear that no matter what they did she'd know. He didn't doubt that, but hey if she couldn't actually be bothered to keep an eye on him herself then he'd dang well play while the Kat was away. Even if he wasn't having that much fun yet. But still. He wasn't chained to Kat's side and that said a lot in his opinion. And it didn't get much better when they showed up at Aria's impromptu party. Well it got better for Angela but not so much for him. What the heck was he supposed to do? Hesitating slightly he waited until Angela finished hugging Aria and then he stepped forward giving her a quick awkward hug. "Happy birthday..." he mumbled softly.

Kevin groaned when Aria imitated his accent again "now I know how ye feel when I use it" he groaned and got out of the car. When he heard Aria's question, he walked up behind her and wrapped his arms around her. He placed a kiss right behind her ear "yes, you do love. You look every bit the party girl. Fit to party with the Irish ye are" he told her, not using his accent for the most part.

Oh crap... Katerina was right... it hadn't even crossed his mind to tell them... maybe he just thought that they knew... but if they did... oh crap... he screwed up big time. No... don't tell Nick... not yet. 'If I tell Nick, he'll leave without having any fun. He's already here, he might as well enjoy his time here. I'll tell him later. When we're leaving later' he thought and observed the crowd. He'll have to talk to Kevin too... but not now.

Angela giggled and took Nick's hand as they walked into the ice cream shop. "I'm really glad you could come. You need a break after what you've been through lately. I... I really hope things work out, and they aren't what they appear to be" she told him softly. Wouldn't it be great if Kat would just disappear and free Nick to do whatever he wanted? Wouldn't it be great if they could stop worrying about what Kat was going to do?

(Time skip-Saturday)

This wasn't a date. Well it was but it was more of a casual date between friends than it was a date date. So if that was the case why did Jordan feel so nervous? Gulping he parked his car and shut off the engine forcing himself to loosen his death grip on the steering wheel. Ok so he liked the girl, that was good, actually it was great he liked her so much. But did she like him that way? Sure she'd seemed to enjoy cuddling and playing Halo with him a few nights ago but cuddling and video game playing didn't make a relationship!And yet going on a friendly date did? Megan knew he liked her and yet that didn't seem to change things...so that meant it was up to him. He had to up his game. He could do that, he could wow her with his ability to sit through a terribly corny chit flick-he was a guy! he could handle anything for the most part but he drew the line at chick flicks- and amuse her through out dinner. He was going to sweep her off her feet.

So with that in mind, Jordan cast one final glance around his recently scrubbed car to make sure he hadn't missed a spot before he got out with his flowers in hand. That's right, he'd gotten her flowers. They weren't roses or anything fancy like that. If he'd done something like that then he would end up scaring her off. But carnations? There was nothing extreme or overbearing about them. They were just simple, pretty, I want to be more than your friend flowers. Which was exactly the point he had to get across. Exhaling he slowly he made his way up to her door and balked a few more moments before he knocked.

"Megan! Sound's like Jordan's here!" her father called out and then answered the door. Now it was his turn. "Come in, come in. Megan should be down shortly, I fear my wife discovered Megan getting ready and decided it was not acceptable. You won't be disappointed, I assure you. Sit down, sit down. Flowers? Good choice. Clean cut, presentable. A good strong handshake, i like that. So, tell me about yourself, Jordan. What are your plans after high school? Your likes and dislikes. I'll be brief, but you aren't leaving until I've had my chance with you" he said.

Megan sighed, she could hear her father talking with Jordan "Mom... is this really necessary?" she asked as her mother applied lipstick to her lips "yes! Just because it's a casual date doesn't mean you shouldn't look your best. Besides, the colors are subdued. Thank goodness I buy your clothes, because otherwise I fear what you would wear" her mother said. Megan simply sighed and then let her mess with her hair... again "Mom... am I done?" she asked "Nope. I'm waiting for your father's cue that he's done. It shouldn't be too long. He just wants to find out some stuff about Jordan, and then ask what the plan is today. Don't worry, everything will be just fine" her mother answered.

Jordan's smile dimmed somewhat seeing Megan's dad open the door. 'I guess its time for my second interrogation of the week.' he thought with dry amusement as he stepped inside. He nodded in understanding as he waited for him to finish. "That's fair enough, you missed out on the last interrogation." he said with a warm grin before turning serious. "After high school, I plan on attending the local community college and taking some classes there. Depending on how I do there I'll decide what happens next." he explained. uh..he sounded like a slacker, but then again that's exactly what he was. He was someone who managed to coast through high school on his own knowledge and the fear of others. Now with the end of high school drawing closer he was having to force himself to work harder in class. So just the fact that he had plans to graduate was astounding ..but hey at least he had aspirations.

"As for my likes and dislikes I'll keep it simple. Like most teenage boys I enjoy watching and playing sports. I also enjoy video games. My dislikes revolve around many things. But right now there's one thing I really dislike. Interrogations." he said with a smile. He was joking..partly. He was nervous as it was without having to sit through an interview.If her dad was going to be that over protective then he'd just cut to the point. "If you'd like I could show you my drivers record, and I don't have police record. You can even call my parents and check if you don't believe. I may not be a model citizen but I can assure that I'm not some mentally deranged killer out to get your daughter. "