It was just another day at the Carter house.  Or so I thought.  Nick and I had just come back from the tour a week before.  Aaron a week before that.  We were enjoying ourselves, spending time with Angel, Leslie, and B.J. and just basically being a family.  The other guys were there that day.  Yet there was nothing they could do for what happened next.

"KARI!  You've got mail here!" Mom shouted from inside the house.  I turned to the guys as I stood up from my chair.

"I wonder who that can be from.  I got all of my penpal letters last week."  I thought out loud.

"Hey Kari!  Maybe it's your biggest fan and he wants to meet you as soon as possible or you'll break his little heart."  Nick laughed as he slapped Brian a high five.

"That was so funny I just forgot to laugh.  Remind me to do that later." I replied as I stepped inside.  Brothers, can't live with them, can't live without them.  Mom handed me the letter.

"Do you know who its from?"  I asked her.

"No dear.  There was no return address."  she said as she was picking through a pile of stuff.

"Maybe Nick was right." I thought as I ripped open the envelope.  I began to read it.  It was no fan letter.  In fact it was far from.

"Mom?  I think you should read this."  I said nearly in tears.  She grabbed the letter and began to read it out loud.

"To whom this concerns,
There has been a official court order in the means of one Karoline  Melissa  Louis.  The plaintiff in this case would like her return to the family as soon as possible.  The custody trial will be held on July 15th 2000.  In that time, Karoline must have no contact with either side of the parties and will be send to a juvenile home until the trial is over.  She will removed from the home on July 10th.  There is to be no resistance.

James  Leoanardo Tracy, Attorney for Mr. and Mrs. Charles Louis."

She put the letter down on the table and I began to cry.  Mom wrapped me in a hug and tried to comfort me.  As that was happening, the guys came back in.  They stopped dead when the saw me and mom.

"Man!  I didn't know you would be that hurt from that joke."  Nick said in surprise.

"The joke is the least of our worries."  Mom said and she handed him the letter.  All of the guys began to read it.  I saw this stunned look come to all of their faces.  They all looked up at the same time.

"What day is it today?"  asked Howie.  I couldn't talk.  It hurt to much to even think about what I had read.

"It's the 6th.  *sigh* They are coming to remove her in 4 days."  replied Mom.

"Don't let them take me Mom!  Please don't let them take me!"  and I began to cry harder.

"I don't know what to do honey." she said as she was trying to comfort me. "No matter what we do, those people are going to take you."

"They can't do that!  I may not be your brother, but they can't take you from us.  But if they take you anyway, you know that we will do everything in our power to get you back."  Brian declared.  He turned to the others.  "Right guys."

"You bet.  An eye for an eye!  A tooth for a tooth!"  said Kevin.

"That's very sweet of you guys but I'm kind of stuck."  I said, after finally getting my bearings back.  "No matter what all of us do, the trial will go on."

"But who are we up against?"  asked A.J.  I let out a long sigh.

"My Grandparents.  They have never treated me like I exist.  Why would they want me now?"  I almost yelled.

"Well, with cases with those kind of people, it's always just for money."  explained Mom.

"How am I going to tell Aaron, Leslie, B.J., Angel and Dad?"  I asked her.

"Don't worry, I'll tell them.  Go on now, I have to get on the phone with our lawyer."  said mom as she picked up the phone.

"Come on Kari.  Lets go somewhere where we can forget this ever happening.  Our treat."  said Kevin.  He was always the one to try and make things better.

"Alright.  Lets get out of here."  I agree.  I climbed into Brian's BMW with Nick and the others went into Kevin's car.  I just needed to get my mind off things.  They took me to a place that always cheers me up.  The bowling ally.  I didn't mind that girls kept coming up to them for autographs.  I was just borrowing time with the.

"Do you think Mom can get this cleared up so I won't have to go?"  I asked Nick.

"I most certainly hope so.  You've lived with us for so long now, I don't know what we would do without you Kari.  We all love you so much."  he said careingly.

"Thanks Nicky.  I needed that."  I guess with the arrival of that letter made me think of all that the guys have done for me.  I mean, they put up with me all tour.

"Last round you guys.  A.j.'s in the lead with Brian and Kari right behind him."  Howie was pretending to be an announcer.

"Just shut up and bowl D."  laughed Kevin.

Well, I didn't win the game but I surely beat Brian for second place.  We all piled into the cars and headed back home.  When we got there, Mom and Dad had a very grim look on their faces.

"I think we better go.  Come on guys.  See you later Nick."  said Kevin.  With that, they all left leaving Nick and Kari.

"Mom, Dad, what's the matter?"  I asked them.

"There's nothing we can do Karbear.  I talked our lawyer and their lawyer.  They both said that it would be best you would be removed from home until the trial is over.  They said you have 3 days to pack and say your good-byes."

"NO!  Dad, there has got to be something you can do for her!"  Nick yelled.

"There's nothing son.  I know this sound very usual but the court order said...."

"I DON'T CARE WHAT IT SAID!  WE DON'T EVEN KNOW THESE PEOPLE WHO ARE DOING THIS TO HER!"  screamed Nick.

I couldn't hear any of this.  I was just numb from the news I had heard.  My grandparents were giving me a hefty price for what had happened to my parents and sisters.  Why a year and a half after it happened are they doing this?  All I could do was cry.

"How long would the trial be?"  I asked Mom.

"Both lawyers said about a month and a half."  she replied.

"WHAT?!  How am I going to live a month and a half without seeing you or the guys?  Does Aaron know?"  I just spit out the questions as fast as I could.

"Aaron and your sisters do know.  They reacted the same way you two are."  she said in a calm voice.

"Will I have to testify?" asked Nick.

"Yes, and so will your sisters and brother.  Also, since she lived with you guys, Brian, A.j., Howie and Kevin will have to."  she said.

"This isn't fair.  It's like sending me back to that big foster home.  How could they do this to me?  I'm their flesh and blood."  I cried.

I didn't give them time to answer.  I ran up to my room and just cried.  I never felt so alone at that point.  When I had cried so much, I couldn't cry anymore, I looked at all of my pictures.  My picture with the guys in our In To The Millennium tour outfits.  They had given me one just like theirs.  I never felt more proud.  My first family picture with the Carters.  Aaron would not look at that camera.  My real family.  Oh how I still loved them so much.  I hoped that they would let me take all of those pictures with me.

"Kari?  Can I come in?"  it was Aaron.

"Yeah, come on in"  he opened the door.  His eyes were red and puffy from crying.

"Mom and Dad told me that some people are going to take you away.  I don't want you to go."  he said.

"I know A.C. but I have no say in what happens.  I'm only 14.  I can't tell a bunch of adult what to do or not do."  I told him.

"But I like having someone older around here who is not to much taller then me." he said.  I began to laugh.

"Thanks little guy.  I'll take that as a compliment.  Don't worry about me.  I won't be gone forever.  Just for about a month."  I explained.

"Then we will be counting down the hours until you get back."  he exclaimed.

"What did Angel, Leslie and B.j. say about this?"  I asked him.

"They said pretty much the same things Frack said."  He answered.

"And where is Nick now?" I hadn't heard him leave or anything.

"He's out on the patio, watching the sunset as he said.  Do you want him to come up.?"  asked Aaron.

"No.  i'll just go out to him.  And A.C.?"

"Yeah?"

"Thanks.  I think you have ESP because right at that moment you knocked, I really needed someone to talk to."  I smiled.

"Don't mention it." and he ran off.  Walked down the stairs and into the kitchen.  I could see Nick from the patio doors.  I walked over and opened them.  Nick turned around as if I surprised him.

"Hey there big guy."  I said to him.  "What are you doing out here?"

"Thinking.  And watching the sunset.  You shouldn't have to go.  I just don't think it's right for you to be kept from all of us."  he said,

"That's exactly what Aaron said." I said.

"He talked to you?" asked Nick.

"Yeah, just about five minutes ago.  It really helped."  I answered.

"He hasn't come out of him room for the past few hours. "  He turned his head towards the sky.  "It was real lucky that my partners in crime were here.  Imagine how hard it would have been to tell them over the phone."

"It's hard to even think about it." The sky had begun to darken and stars began to come out.

"They sky looks so beautiful at night around here."  I said.

"Did it look any different where you use to live?"  he asked.

"Yeah.  It was always bright around where I lived that you could hardly see any stars.  The only time it was pretty was if there was a meteor shower or Northern lights."  I replied.

"Wow.  I've never seen Northern lights.  What do they look like?

"They look like ribbons of color were just sewn into the sky.  They glow blue, pink, and sometimes even green."

"Cool.  We'll have to go up there sometime."  he said with a smile.  I knew that was going to be one of the last conversations I had with Nick in a long time.

July 10th.  Judgment day.

Today was the day.  All of my things were packed and ready to go.  I still hadn't really excepted that I wouldn't be able to be with everyone for a while.  All the people I loved most were there.  I had spent almost all three days doing stuff with my friends and family.  I never wanted it to end.  To keep our mind off things, we decided to play a little game of football.

"KARI!  GET OPEN!"  yelled Nick as the football went flying.

"I got it I got it!" I shouted and ran for the ball.  Too late.  Howie intercepted the ball.  I guess he has the definite height advantage.

"Ha ha.  Your team is down seven points."  laughed Brian.

"You are going to be eating those words Brian Thomas Littrell!"  I replied with a big smile on my face.

We all got into our playing places.  All I could see was a bunch of guy butts.  Not that it was bad if you get my drift.

"HUT HUT HIKE!"  yelled A.J. and he passed the ball to Kevin.  Of course they had him be the Q.B. because he was a good player in school.  We all ran for the endzone and Kevin threw the ball.

"Now I got it!"  I yelled as the ball came right in my direction.  Just as I was about to catch it, there was a loud honk from a car.  It scared me so bad the ball just hit me in the arms.

"No!  Not now!  It's still early!"  whispered Nick.  We all knew who it was.  They had come to take me.  Mom came out of the house with Dad and the others.  Mom was crying.  Dad had my bags.

"It's time for you to go.  We're all going to miss you so much!"  cried Mom as she gave me a hug and a kiss.  Dad did the same thing.  I hugged all of my sisters and my little brother.  When it came to Nick's turn, I could keep it in anymore.  I started to sob as I hugged each of the guys.

"You be good now.  And never worry.  In the end, I know you will be with us."  said Nick.  There were tears running down his cheeks.

Two men now climbed out of the car.  One took my bags and one took my arm and led me into the car.

"NO! PLEASE!  YOU PEOPLE DON'T KNOW WHAT YOU DOING!  PLEASE DON'T TAKE ME FROM MY FAMILY!  PLEASE DON'T!"  I don't think they were listening to me.  they just threw me into the car with my bags and shut the door.  I looked out the window and opened it a crack.

"I LOVE YOU! " was all I could get out before the car started away.  I could tell the others were saying the exact same thing.

I turned around and faced front.

"Where are you taking me?" They seemed not to here me.

"I SAID, WHERE ARE YOU TAKING ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"  I screamed.

"You are going to a special boarding home with other children.  So far you will be the oldest one there."  One of the men replied.

"Why do I have to be away from my family and friends?"

"It is a simple procedure in a custody case.  You will understand when your older." he said.

"I'm 14 years old mister.  I think I know a little more than you think."  I said as cocky as I could get.

"Do I have to talk to those people who brought this against me?"

"Yes.  They will be at the boarding home right now."  said the other man.

It seemed like they drove forever.  The home was way out of town and almost in a different county.  I knew that this was it.  I was now alone and there was nothing I could do about it.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

We pulled into a driveway and stopped.  The two men climbed out of the car and shut the doors.  One of them opened my door for me.  I grabbed my bags and climbed out.  The house was huge.  It had several little gardens in the front and a very long porch.  There were a couple of bikes leaning against the house.  There were other kids here.

"Here we are.  Karoline, this is Krystel and her husband Leo.  They run this home and will be driving you to and from the trial."  Said one of the men.

"Welcome Karoline.  We have never had a high profile child here.  We are going to make sure that you have a good time here."  said Krystel with a smile on her face.  Sure, she could smile.  She hadn't just been taken away from her only family.

"Well, let us show you your room and then we will go to the conference room." said Leo.

"Why do we have to go to a conference room?"  I asked.

"Your grandparents are here to see you.  They do have visitation rights."  Krystel explained.

"If they have visitation rights, why can't my parents and siblings?"  I asked again.  There was silence.

"I'm not really sure about that.  Come on now, lets got to your room.  Thanks for driving her here bro.  I own you one."

"Don't mention it.  I got to get going.  See you next week!" and with that, the two men hopped into their car and drove off.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

They took me up a long hallway with several rooms on the sides.  There were many other kids here but not inside.

"Here we are!" said Leo cheerfully.

The room was really big.  Yet, I would not be rooming alone.  There was another bed in the room with many Tyra Banks pictures above it.  I was certain it was a boy.

"I hope you don't mind having a roommate.  He is really nice and I bet you two will become good friends." said Krystel.  I walked over and put my things on the bed.  There was a small closet next to it.

"You can unpack later.  Right now, we're late for the meeting.  And yes, you do have to go."  said Leo.

"Oh joy." I said as sarcastically as I could get.

We went down stairs to an open room.  It was more like a greenhouse than a conference room.  There sat the people I hated most.  I couldn't even look at them without seeing red.

"KARI!!!!!!!  Oh I am so glad your safe!  Come give me a kiss!" cried grandma.  I didn't go over there.

"Why wouldn't I be safe?"  I asked.

"Well, the attorney said you were going with those people on tours.  That is no way a child should live." explained Grandpa.

"Those 'people' happen to be my friends and family.  If Kevin were here..."  I stopped.  Thinking about Kevin and the others hurt a lot.

"Well what would he do?  Hurt us? HA HA HA HA HA!" laughed Grandpa.

"No more than you have hurt me." I replied.

"We haven't hurt you." said grandma.

"Then what to you called being taken from my family?  My brother Nick was the most hurt of all.  How can you say you haven't hurt anyone?" I asked.  Grandma and Grandpa didn't answer.  They just stood up.

"I think this meeting is over.  Thank you for your time Mr. and Mrs. Davenport."  said Grandpa.

"You will never get me back." I whispered under my breath.  They didn't seem to hear it.  They just left.

"I'm sorry Kari.  I didn't think it would go that bad." sighed Krystel.

"It's not your fault.  They're just really bad people." I answered.

"Well, you can go up to your room now and unpack.  We'll call you down for supper."  said Leo.

"Thank you." I ran up the stairs to the the floor my room was on.  I was sill angry from what happened.  I threw open the door only to be over come with shock.  Someone had already unpacked my bags.  My shirts were in my closet and my other clothes in the drawers.  My pillows and my stuffed tiger Blizzard were on the bed.  All of my pictures were on the night stand along with a couple of my books.

"What the?" I turned around to find a young man behind me.

"You did this for me?" I asked him.

"Yep.  I heard that you were coming today.  And when I saw your bags, I thought I would be nice and help you out."  He answered.

"Thank you."  I stammered out.  "What's your name?"

"David.  And must be Kari.  Nice to meet you."  he said.

"How long have you been here?" I asked him.

"Well, I'm 14 now so I've been here about 11 years."

"WOW!  Don't you have any family?"

"Nope.  It's just me.  I've been hopeing to get adopted but it hasn't happened yet.  You?"

"My old grandparents are suing for custody against my family.  I miss them so much."  A tear rolled down my face.  David reached up and wiped it away.  Then he got up and walked over to his bed.  He came back with a small card.

"I found this in your bag.  I think you might want to keep it."  he handed it to me.

Always remember to stay sweet.  Love Nick.  He was always telling me to stay sweet.

"David?  You leave for a bit?  I kind of want to be alone right now."  I told him.

"Sure thing.  See you dinner." and he stepped out an closed the door.  At the very instant he shut the door, I began to cry.  It was only day one and I knew I wasn't going to make it.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~

July 15th, trial day 1.

It was about 8:00 in the morning.  Krystel was driving me to the court house like she said she would.  I had been at the home for about five days now and was not enjoying.  I hardly talked to anyone and stayed in my room for hours, just listening to music.  The only kid in the house I would talk to was David.

"You know Kari, I am really hoping that your grandparents lose this case.  Your family seems like good people." spoke up Krystel.

"You talked to them?"  I asked.

"Yes, just yesterday.  I wanted to tell you, but you wouldn't come out of your room."  she replied.

"Oh.  Sorry about that.  Did you talk to my friends?"

"Yes.  Brian told me to tell you that he hasn't been able to stop thinking about you since you left."  she added.

"Really? He said that?"

"Yep."

By the time was made it to the court house, it was about 9:00.  There were a bunch of news reporters in the front.  They all turned and came to the car.  They were all talking at once.

"Kari, what are the feelings towards your grandparents?"

"Do you feel the Carters will win this case?"

"Is it true that when you were touring with the Backstreet Boys, they treated you horribly?"

"No comment, No comment and No they didn't."  I answered and ran into the court house.

Standing by the doorways was the Carters attorney, Bruce Capiler.  A very nice man.  I cleared my throat and he looked up at me.

"Kari!  It's good to see you!  Not a very nice place for a meeting huh?"  he smiled.

"No I guess not." I laughed.  "Am I allowed to see my family now?"  Bruce fell silent.  The smile disappeared from his face.

"Bruce?"  I asked with concern.

"I'm really sorry Karbear.  They won't allow it.  I know, the law is stupid, but I have to follow it."  he replied in a grim tone.

"Oh, I see."  I said, a lump was rising in my throat.

"Come on now, I 'll take you where you need to sit."  He tugged on my arm and I followed him in.

There was already a ton of people in there.  Yet my eyes only saw nine.  The guys were there with the my siblings.  Angel, I could tell, had just come from camp.  They were facing front so when Bruce wasn't looking, I pulled a little ball of paper out of my pocket and throw it toward them.  It hit A.J. in the back of the head.  He turned around and I smiled at him.  He nudged the others and they all turned and looked.  I gave them a little wave and the all smiled.

"What do you think you are doing!?" a voice behind me startled me.  I turned around to find Mr. Tracy, my grandparents lawyer.

"You are not allowed to be doing that.  You are breaking a law!"  he yelled.

"I I I I..."  I stammered out.

"Back off Mr. Tracy!  Go pick on someone your own size."  scold Bruce.  He took me by the arm and lead me to my seating area, way across the room from the others.  Bruce turned around to face me.

"Just to let you know, what you did wasn't against any law.  Mr. Tracy just has a giant stick up his butt."  smiled Bruce.  I giggled at what he said.  He looked down at his watch and looked back at me.

"I have to go now.  Cross your fingers, and if all else fails, put your head between your legs and kiss you butt good-bye."  he laughed.  I certainly hope he didn't mean it.  Just as I was getting use to the hard seats,  The judge came out.

"All rise!" yelled the cop in the corner of the room.  The judge sat down. "Please be seated.  Your honor, this is case number 456, Louis vs. Carter."

"Thank you Parker.  This is a case of custody, am I right Mr. Tracy?"  asked the judge.

"Yes your honor.  That is correct."  he answered.  As the judge was talking,  I looked over to where the others were sitting.  Howie and Brian were staring at me.  I smiled and made the I love you sign in sign language.  They returned it.  I felt like I wanted to cry.

"We will now begin the the questioning.  Mr. Capiler, you may proceed."  said the judge.

"Thank you your honor.  Ladies and gentlemen, this is a simple case of want and there happens to be a child in the middle.  Now, do you think it's fair to do this to a child?  I would like to call, Mr. Charles Louis to the stand."

As grandpa walked to the stand, my blood began to boil.  I had never felt such anger before.  I watched him as he took the oath and sat down.

"Now, Mr. Louis.  Were you a close relative of Kari's?"  asked Bruce.

"Yes.  As close as can be."  With that answer, I knew that this was going to be a fight against.  The questioning went on for what seemed forever.  Then, the end finally came and they called grandma up.  That was a bit shorter.  She was not a key player.  Then she stepped down.

"I call Mrs. Carter to the stand."  My heart skipped beats as I saw Mom go up there.  Oh how I missed her.

"Mrs. Carter.  Kari has been in your home for quite some time.  Am I right?"

"Yes.  She is part of the family."

"Tell me, has she ever done anything to strike out against you?"

"No.  She is a normal teenager."

"Do you think she can have a normal teenage life on the road with five men?"

"Nick is her brother and the others are her best friends.  Yes I do."

"No further questions.  You may step down."

Mom looked me directly in the eyes.  I could tell what she was saying without any words.  They court did something that took me by surprise.  They didn't call Dad, Angel, Aaron, B.J., or Leslie up.  The must have only wanted the mother and the ones who I have lived with the most.

"Your honor, I would like to call Nickolus Gean Carter to the stand."

Nick got up there and took the oath.  I could tell that he had not been sleeping well at all.  His eyes had dark circles around them and he looked worn out.

"Now Nickolus, may I call you Nick?" asked Mr. Tracy.

"Yes sir."  he answered.

"You have allowed Kari to live with you for some time now.  How long would you say?"

"We had just started the tour when we picked her up, so for about 7 months."

"You stopped off at home did you not?"

"Yes sir."

"But instead of letting her stay at home, you took her on another tour.  Did you not?"

"That is correct."

"Now tell me, have you ever fought with her?"

"Well of course.  All siblings do."

"But one time you let the argument escalate, did you not?"

"No.  They have never gone past just a normal argument."

"Ah, I see.  Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to present exhibit A.  I tap recording of them in a 'simple' argument."  He began to play it.  All we could hear was yelled and screaming of two people.  There was also noises like someone was being slapped.  There was only one problem.  The voices they could hear were not our voices at all.  In fact, the male voice was way to deep.  I think Nick realized that too.

"Those aren't our voices.  Either that or Kari sound like a 40 year old women!"  yelled Nick.  The judge banged his hammer thingy.

"Order Order!  This court session it now adjourned.  We will return Friday of next week.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"I could not believe the events that happened today David.  Those horrible people just lied through their teeth."  I was back at the home and made as heck at what grandpa had said today.

"Wow.  If I were you, I would have gone up and broken all of his teeth."  He said while punching a fist into his other hand.

"I was really close to doing that.  Also, from where I was sitting, I could see the others.  I wish that I would have gone over there and talk with them.  What I wouldn't kill to here the sound of their voices."

"I know what you mean.  When's the next session anyway?"  he asked.

"This upcoming Friday.  It feels like an eternity away."  I sighed.

"Don't worry about it.  The only thing that can hurt you in this, is the attitude you have towards it."

"That's really sweet."  I smiled at him.  I gave him a kiss on the cheek.   Yet, I couldn't help wondering how Nick was feeling through this whole time.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Nicks POV

I stood there just staring into her room.  The bed was made and everything was the way she left it.  It felt horrible knowing that she was gone.  I had seen her in the court room.  If I had a choice, he would have gone and sat by her and just held her.  A tear slide down my cheek.

"Nick?  Nicky?  Are you o.k.?"  Aaron had seen me at the doorway.   I didn't turn around.

"I'm fine Aaron.  I just miss her a lot."  I answered.  It was the truth.  I missed her horribly.

"You know, I was wondering.  If this happened to one of the rest of us, would you be acting the same way?"  asked Aaron.  I smiled.

"Oh course.  Family is family, no matter who it is."  I laughed.  It was the first time in about two weeks the I actually laughed.

"The lady who is taking care of her said that she is going to send a video soon.   And we get to see her next friday at the trial."  said Aaron.

"Every little chance we get to see her, we better take it.  We don't know if she can ever come back to us."  I sighed.

"Nick, Aaron!  Dinner!"  yelled mom from downstairs.

"Come on."  I said to Aaron.  Everyone else was sitting at the table when we got there.  I couldn't help looking at Kari's spot.  We still set a place for her even though she's gone.

"You know Nick, we're really proud for what you did today.  You went up there and was honest and true."  said mom.  She smiled at me.

"Did you see her?"  I asked.

"Yes.  She looked so happy to see us."  she answered.

"Wanna know what she did Mom?  She must have thrown something at A.j.  because he turned around and looked at her.  Then he nudged the rest of us and she smiled and waved at us."  babbled Aaron.

"Yeah, and I noticed that this big ugly guy went over and yelled at her."  said Angel.

"Bruce was telling us about that.  It was Mr. Tracy and he was telling her that she was breaking a law by doing that."  said Mom.

"Well, when we go back on friday, i'm going to look right at those doors at wait for her to come in.  That way she can't get yelled at."  smiled Aaron.

"So will I."  I told him.

After dinner was done and the dishes were washed, I went outside on the porch to watch the sunset.  I remembered what she had told me about the Northern lights.  How the were bright colors with green, blue and pink.  I wish I could see them right now.  The trial is less than a week away.  I can't wait.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Friday July 22.
Kari's POV

I made it to the court house for the new day of trial.  The week had gone by so slow.  I was at the front entrance and was looking for the guys.  Bruce and Mr. Tracy had not yet arrived so I was pretty much on my own for a bit.

"Kari!  Kari Carter!  May we have a word with you?"  asked a new reporter.  I hadn't answered many question but I thought what the heck.

"Sure."  I said.

"Do you have anything to say to your family and your siblings?"  she asked.

"Yes, that I love them dearly and that when this is over I hope to be coming to them.  Love you guys!"  I said into the microphone.

"Thank you.  We will tell them to watch tonight."  said the reporter.

"Thank you."  I answered.  I watched them leave.  Then I felt a hand on my shoulder.  I turned around to find Bruce standing there.

"What was that?"  he asked in a very serious voice.

"They just wanted me to send a message to my family."  I answered.  I knew that it wasn't that serious because Bruce cracked a smile.

"Alright.  As long as you weren't bashing the Louis's.  Come on, i'll take you in."  he said.  As we were making our way to the door, I spotted someone.  It looked like Howie and he was going into the courtroom.  I started to run after him.  Bruce stopped me.

"I'm sorry Kari, but you can't do that."  he said with a sigh.  I walked sadly into the courtroom.  I looked up to see all of them looking at the door.  They all smiled and did the I love you sign.  My heart lifted and smiled back.  That's all we've been able to do when we see each other.  Bruce guided me to my seat and I sat down.  I could still see them.

"The hearing will start shortly.  See you then."  Bruce walking away.  I looked over at the guys and my sibs.  They were all looking a lot better then the first time.  I saw Brian mouthed the words 'How are you doing'.

"I doing great."  I whispered.  He smiled at me.  I think he got the message.

"All rise."  yelled the police officer in the court room.  The judge made his way to the stand.  When he sat down he yelled "Please be seated."  he walked up to the judge.  "Your honor, this is continuous of Louis vs. Carter."

"Thank you.  Mr. Capiler, please begin the argument."  said the judge.

"Yes sir.  I would like to call Brian Thomas Littrell to the stand.

I watched as Brian walked to the front.  I missed seeing his face almost as much as I missed the family.  He looked perfect.  Although she had never seen him in such a weird suit before.  He got to the witness stand and the guard made him take the oath.  Bruce stepped forward.

"Brian, you know Miss Carter from where?"  asked Bruce.

"She stayed with our group for a while sir."  he answered.  His voice seemed strained.

"Did she like being with you?"

"Yes.  She was like the little sister I never had."

"Was there anything that you thought might put her at risk for anything while she was with you?"

"No.  None that I could see."

"In fact, I read here that you had a bodyguard for her plus you kept eye.  Is this statement true?"

"Yes.  She was good friends with the bodyguard.  And we never ever took our eyes off her.  She was always with one of us."

"Always?"

"To a point.  You know what I mean."

"No further questions.  You may step down."  Brian let out a sigh of relief.  He left the stand and made his way back to his seat.  His eyes met mine and I saw a certain shine.  He turned away and went to his seat.

"The court would like to call Mr. Kevin Scott Richardson to the stand."  yelled Mr. Tracy.  Today, he reminded me of the character Penguin from the Batman movie.  I giggled at this thought.  They made Kevin take the oath and sit down.

"Mr. Richardson, do you have anything to say before we start?"  asked Mr. Tracy.

"No sir."  answered Kevin.

"Alright, like your cousin said, you were with the defendant all of the time were you?"

"Yes sir.  All of this was true."

"But what your cousin didn't mention was that the defendants life was in put at stake once or twice.  Is this true?"

"No.  Not to my knowledge."

"Well, is it true that while a concert of yours was going on she was pulled into the audience a few times?"

"Yes.  Yes she did."

"Did you ever think that she could have been hurt?"

"Yes.  We even stopped to tell them to knock it off."

"Now, tell me, have you ever noticed any of the Louis's doing anything to harm the defendant?"

"Objection!"  yelled Bruce.  "Leading the witness!"

"Denied!"  said the judge.  "Answer the question."

"No, never."

"No over discipline?  No abuse?"

"Well no.  Only the usual brother sister fights."  Mr. Tracy sighed.

"No further questions.  You may take your seat."  Before Kevin could make it to his seat the judge banged his hammer thing.

"The court will now take a brief recess."  he banged in once more and stood up.

"All rise."  said the guard.  Everyone stood up.  The judge left the room and the guard told them they could leave.  Bruce walked over to me.

"Nick wanted me to give this to you."  He handed me a folded note with my name on it.

"Bruce, isn't this against that rule?"  I asked him.

"Only if they find out.  Go ahead, read it."  Bruce coaxed.  I opened up the note.  I was written in both Nick's and Leslie's hand writing.

Dear Karbear,
We hope that you are doing well where ever you are.  We wanted you to know that we all love you very much and can't wait for you to come home.   Your room hasn't even been touched since you left.  We don't even want to clean it!   Aaron kind of broke one of your CDroms but we made him pay big time :-).  I'm handing the note over to Nick now.  See you real soon, Leslie.
Hey Kari!  Man do I miss you!  But don't worry, the blonde brigade will be together again.  About Aaron breaking your CD thing, I threw him upside down in a trash can for you.  The guys all send their best.  Brian is good.  Still not normal, but good.  Kevin and Howie have sent you so many e-mails its not even funny.  A.j.'s even given up wearing rings until you get home.  Like I said, miss you much.  See you soon.
With lots of love, Nick.

I put the note down.  My heart was pounding so hard I thought it was going to pop out of my chest.  I turned to Bruce.

"Where are they now?"  I asked him.

"You can't get near enough to talk but, turn around."  I turned towards that door.  There was no one there.  I turned back and gave Bruce a look of confusion.  He just smiled.

"Look again.  Harder this time."  I turned again and looked harder.  Then I saw it.  There on the closed courtroom door was a white rose taped to it.  I turned to Bruce with a big smile.

"Go ahead, go get it."  he laughed.  I ran up to the doors.  The rose I found wasn't even real, it was silk.  There was another note.

To our darling Kari.  We wanted to give you a fake rose because  a real one would die.  This one could last forever.  Love, Mom and Dad.

"This is the most wonderful gift I have ever gotten."  I cried.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Nick's POV

"Do you think she got it?"  Mom asked me with worry in her voice.

"Don't sweat it Mom.  We told Bruce where it would be.  We even gave him a note to give to her."  I laughed.

"I hope so.  And if we get in trouble for this we. . ."

"Mom, don't worry about it.  We are not going to get in any trouble."  said B.J.

"Oh, there's Brian.  Be right back."  I told them  I rushed up to Brian.

"Hey bud.  Good job up there on the stand."  I said to him.  He gave me a half smile.

"Yeah but I was so nervous.  At least I didn't get Mr. Tracy like Kevin did."  he motion towards him.

"Hey Nick.  Who do you think is going to be next up?"  asked Howie.

"I'm not sure.  I think it's A.j.."  I answered.

"Good.  I am so scared that we'll never be able to see her again.  I mean, she is like a little sister to the rest of us.  It will be horrible if the judge believes the Louis's."

"Ha!  Like they will!"  I laughed.  Howie opened his mouth to say something else but stopped.

"What?  Was it something I said?"  I asked him.  He shook his head no.  He pointed over my shoulder towards something.  I turned around to see a small white thing in the sea of people.

"No, it can't be."  I said to myself.  I looked again.  Sure enough it was the white rose Mom and Dad gave Kari.

"Oh thank the heavens she got it."  I smiled.

"Come on.  The recess is almost over.  We have to go back."  said Dad who had come up behind me.  I didn't want to move.  All I wanted to do is watch and make sure that the rose was with the right person.

"Nick!"  Dad said sternly.  I followed him to the doors.  This was not going to be an easy case that's for sure.  But now, I had something to dwell on.  My hope had returned.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Kari's POV

The recess was over and I was back in my seat, waiting for the next one to be called up.  I clutched my rose and the note they had given me as if someone was going to steal it.

"Excuse me, miss?"  asked a women behind me.

"Yes?"  I asked her, turning a bit.

"Are you the little one they are trying to have returned?"  she asked again.  I was very shocked by this question.

"Yes.  Yes I am."  I choked out.

"Well, I hope you go back to the ones who love you most.  The Carters.  You parents would have wanted it that way."  she smiled.  My heart lightened.

"Thank you.  I hope so to."

"Well, it looks like it's starting.  Good-bye."  she held out her hand and I shook it.  She left and went to the seats in the back.

"All rise."  said the guard.  The judge came in and took his seat.  "Please take your seats, this is a continuous of the Louis vs. Carter."

"Thank you.  I have decided that the tape in an earlier court date had become irrelevant to the testimony.   That is a court decision.  Mr. Tracy, you may proceed."  said the judge.

"Thank you your honor.  Ladies and Gentlemen, we have here a case of two places fighting for one.  The one happens to be a child who is out of their element.  And with that I would like to call Mr. Alexander James Mclean to the stand."  said Mr. Tracy.  I sort of saw A.j. cringe when he was called.  I don't blame him.  Mr. Tracy is a jerk and a yuppie.  He took the oath and sat down in the witness seat.

"Now,  Alexander, You have been living with Miss Carter as long as the others?"  asked Mr. Tracy.

"Yes sir."  he answered.

"Has it always been good between her and you guys?"

"Well, at first there was a little friction but once we got to know each other it was fine."

"I see.  Alexander, has she ever complained about your so called wild ways?"

"No, not that I know of."

"Do you know the Carter's well?"

"Yes, pretty well"

"Have you ever noticed any friction in the house hold?"

"Only the couple times she got mad for being grounded and sibling stuff."

"Yes or No?"

"No.  Not at all.

"Have you ever noticed any odd marks on her body when she came to you after you decided to take her with you again?"

"No."  I could really tell that A.j. was getting frustrated by the questioning.

"Thank you.  You may step down."  A.j. breathe a sigh or relief.  In his eyes I could tell he was happy to be off.  But it wasn't over yet.  There was one more.

"Mr. Caplier, you may proceed."  said the judge.

"Thank you your honor.  What you have heard just now Ladies and Gentlemen is almost proof that Miss Carter wasn't being abused.  I would like to call my next witness, Howard Dwane Dorough, to the stand.  Howie stood up and walked to the stand.  He took the oath and sat down.

"Howard, was anything your friend said before untrue?"  asked Bruce.

"Nope."  said Howie.

"Alright.  Describe to me your perception of Miss Carter."

"She is very hyper and loves almost everything."

"Good.  Does this mood ever change when she is at home or with you?"

"No.  She's basically like that all the time.  Except when she's sleeping of course."  The people in the courtroom laugh including myself.

"Does she shy away from anyone?"

"No."

"Do you think she should stay with the Carter's?

"Objection!  Leading the witness."  yelled Mr. Tracy

"Sustained.  Proceed Mr Caplier."

"Fine.  Does anyone around her treat her like an outcast?"

"Only our fans who think she took Nick from them."  the people in the courtroom laughed again.

"So you are basically all friends right?"

"Well yeah, she's the little sister I never had."

"Yes, thank you.  You may step down."  Howie walked off the witness stand and back towards his seat.  Before he got there, he turned and gave me a wink.  I smiled.  I missed seeing that move.

"This court session will end now.  The next date is set for this coming Friday.  The court is adjourned."  The judge stood up.

"All rise."  the guard yelled.  The judged walked out of the room.  "You may leave the courtroom."  Bruce came running up to me.

"Hey there Karbear.  Your friends are doing a lot for this case.  They might be the key to winning this thing."  he said.

"They are.  They have never failed me before, why now?"  I answered.  But in my mind I was saying "You never know."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

It was supper time at the boarding house and I was sitting in my usual seat next to David.  We had become very close friends in my short stay here.  Everyone was talking about the talent show that was to go on on Tuesday.

"Where do you have this talent show?"  I asked David.

"Every year we go to this stadium place with a bunch of other boarding homes and put on a show for charity."  he explained.

"Oh, sounds cool."  I said.  I had been in lots of talent shows but none for charity.

"And you don't even know the best part."  he smiled.

"Oh no, what is it?"  I asked him.  From what I heard about him, he was the master of mischief.

"You'll see.  I'll be right back."  he stood up and walked to the other side of the table where my new friends Lisa, Sami, Der'drie, and Riley were sitting.  They were whispering so I couldn't pick up much on their conversation.  Finally David came back.

"What took you so long?"  I laughed.

"The girls were wondering if you would do an act with them in the show."  he said.

"Really?"  I asked him.  Usually it was nothing but a joke.

"Really.  They want to do the song 'Lucky' and they want you to be the singer."  he smiled.

"What?  That's great!  I love that song!"  I cried.

"So the answer is yes?"  he asked.

"You bet it is!"  I laughed.  This was the first time I actually felt excited since the separation.  David left to go tell her friends her answer.  Then something popped into my head.  I stood up and ran over to Krystel who was talking to Leo.

"Krystel?  Can I ask you something?"  I said.  She turned to face me.

"Sure dear, what is it?"  she asked.

"Is it possible that I could do two acts in the show?"  I asked.

"Why, yeah.  Anyone can do as many acts as they want.  Why, how many do you want to do?"  she said.

"Just two.  One with my friends and one by myself."  I explained.  She whispered something to Leo.

"I don't see why not.  You don't mind that we're going to by video taping it do you?"  she asked again.

"Of course not.  I'm so use to cameras it's not even funny."

"Oh, and i'll be speaking with your family tomorrow.  If you want to send anything you can."  said Leo.

"Really?  I can break the rules?"  I smiled.  She nodded.

"Alright!"  I yelled.  I ran back to the table to find David had come back.

"What are you so happy about?"  he asked.

"Oh nothing.  You'll just have to wait and see."  I smiled.  We talked for a little bit and he started to get annoyed that I was tapping my fork on my plate the whole time.

"Can't wait can you?"  he said.

"Wait for what?"  I asked not even noticing that I was still doing it.

"The trial next week.  I can see it in your eyes."  he said.  He was only half right but I let it go.

"Yeah.  Every time I see them it gets easier and easier because I know that this all will be over soon."  I explained.  Before he could answer, Krystel excused all of the kids from the table.  David and I were lucky not to have dish duty that night.

"Hey, don't worry about it.  You got the show in 4 days and you'll be great.  You'll make them very proud."  he smiled.  I smiled back.

"Thanks.  I needed that."  I said.  He put his arm around me and gave me a little kiss.

"Next week and this all will be over."  I said to myself.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Nick's POV

It had only been a day since the second session of the trial but I was counting down the days till the next one.

"Nick!  Krystel's here!"  Yelled B.J..  I had been waiting all morning for this.

"Coming!"  I yelled down.  I ran down the stairs as fast as I could and walked into the living room.

"Whoa, somebody had his Wheaties this morning."  laughed Aaron.  I shoved his head into a pillow and held it there.

"So how is she?"  I asked Krystel, still holding Aaron's head down.

"She's doing pretty well actually.  She finally comes out of her room and has a few friends.  But she never stops talking about all of you."  said Krystel.  A heavy weight lifted from my heart.

"Mrs. Davenport, You say that you have a tape of how she is doing.  When will we be able to see it?"  asked Mom.

"In a few days.  She has a few more things she wants to put on it and it will be done. "  She paused for a moment.  "Oh, she also wrote you a little note."  Krystel reached into her pocket and pulled out a little specially folded piece of paper.  I grabbed it and nearly ripped it open.

Dear Everyone,  I hope everything is doing fine around your neck of the woods.  I wish to come home.  Not only do I miss my place but the chance to kill Aaron for breaking my CDrom.  I have a few friends but nothing really close.  I like being able to see you at the trial and I will come back to you no matter what the outcome.  Tell the others to save my bunk on the bus for the next American tour.  Don't you dare touch my diary Nick!  B.J., Angel and Leslie, you are the best sister's next to my flesh and blood.  Never forget that.  And Nick, thank you for put Aaron in the trash can.  I have to go now.  Later Daze!
Your loving sister, daughter and trouble maker, Kari.

"P.S.  I love you Mom and Dad!

I slowly put the note down.  My sisters all had smiles on their faces and Aaron was still stuck in the couch.

"She's not serious about killing me about the CDrom is she?"  said Aaron in a muffled voice.

"No.  She'll just hurt you very very badly."  laughed Angel.  Mom and Dad both shook their head at her and she closed her mouth.

"Wow.  At least we know she's o.k. and isn't crying that whole time."  said Dad.

"Oh, she does cry and a lot.  Every time She sees all of her pictures, it hurts her a lot."  explained Krystel.  I could hear none of this.  I just kept looking at the note.  Getting a mental picture of her sitting down and writing it.

"Nick?  Nick?  Hello, come in Nick.  Back to earth now!"  said Leslie.  I snapped out of it.

"What do you want?"  I asked sarcastically.

"Krystel's leaving right now.  The polite thing to do is say good-bye."  she said as snobby as she could get.

"Fine fine. Little miss Have-to-do-what-ever-you-say-even-though-I'm-older."  I laughed.  I got up and walked to the door.  Krystel was getting into her car.  I yelled my good-bye and went back into the house.

"Happy?"  I asked Leslie.

"Yep.  You know, Kari follows orders better then you and she's five years younger than you!"

"Well, the older you get, the dumber you get."  I snickered.  I stopped.  Things really had changed since Kari was gone.  Things were almost getting back to normal.  We were acting normal, except for Aaron, and did more things.

"I guess this is another stage of grief.  Denial."  I whispered to myself.  I shrugged it off, went to my room and shut the door.  I needed time alone.  Just to think.  I've doing that a lot lately.  I guess it's just one of those things.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Kari's POV
Tuesday July 26th

Today is the day.  Everyone in the house has been busy with practicing and perfecting their performance.  My friends and I have been working all day long just to get it right.  From the speaking parts to my singing part.  I never told them about my grand finale of the whole show.

"Now Kari, right after the first couple notes, you have to remember to say 'This is a story about a girl named Lucky' and walk to the right.  Then begin the actual parts."  ordered My friend Sami.  She was going to be Lucky.

"I don't even know why you want to do this song.  You don't even like Britney Spears."  Laughed Lisa.

"Please.  I understand why she wants it to be perfect.  I do to."  I said softly.  My friends just looked at me.

"That's right.  Krystel's going to be taping us for your family."  said Riley.  She was going to be the award announcer.

"I can't believe you got to live with the Backstreet Boys.  That must have been so exciting!"   said Der'drie.

"Believe me, it was."  I laughed.

"Are they as nice as they are on T.V.?"  asked Lisa.  She was very much in love with Howie.

"They are nothing like they are on T.V..  They are nice but there's a side to them only family would know."  I explained.

"Are we going to practice or just do a question and answer all day?"  asked Sami.

"Alright queen Sami.  From the top!"  said Riley.  We put on the CD and began practicing.  Right when we were almost done, David came walking in.

"Alright!  Lookin' good girls!  And the act wasn't that bad either!"  he laughed.  We all threw pillows at him.

"Aw come on!  I was just being nice!"  he smiled.  I gave him a little kiss on the cheek.

"And what are you going to be doing for the show hmm?"  I asked him.  He gave a little smirk.

"I'm going to be doing a song with my band.  We're called the Don't Give a Crap band. "  he said.

"Oh, so when you play clubs, people don't give a crap that your there?"  said Der'drie.  We all started giggling.  As we were doing so, Krystel walked into the room.

"Come on guys.  The show is in a half an hour and your all need to go to the van."  she said.  We all groaned.

"I hate that van.  It's so cramped and you can barely move."  whined Lisa.

"You wanna try cramped, you try going from place to place in a tiny airplane.  All you can do in there is sleep or look out the window."  I said.  We grabbed our tape and our costumes and ran down the hall.  Everyone else was in the van when we got there.  We threw our stuff in the back and climbed in.

"Seat belts!"  shouted Leo.  There was about a dozen clicks and we were off.  I happen to be seated behind my worst enemy.  April.  She was the meanest girl anyone could come by.

"Well well well, isn't it little miss high profile.  Why aren't you riding in your private jet?"  she smirked.  Her little cronies laughed.

"For you information, we don't have a private jet.  I suggest you leave me alone."  I said with no emotion.

"I know why you can't see the Carter's.  Because they don't want you anymore.  They threw you away like a piece of garbage."  she said.  My heart felt as though it was in a vise.

"Knock it off April.  You know that isn't true.  They have been working their butts off to get her back.  And they will."  said David.

"Oh, now you have a little boyfriend to help you.  All of your many fans will be crushed."  smiled April.  I felt like punching her in the mouth.

"She's not my girlfriend.  Just a very good friend."  he explained.  April just rolled her eyes.

"What are you going to be doing tonight, Miss I'm-better-than-anyone-in-the-world?"  I said sarcastically, you know, to get the subject off me.  She didn't say anything.

"Ah,  April?  She asked you a question."  said Riley.  April muttered something.

"Sorry April, I didn't hear you.  Say it again?"  I asked in a sweet voice.

"I'm the curtain puller."  She said loudly,  Everyone on the bus started laughing really hard.

"Hey hey!  Settle down back there!  We're almost there."  said Leo.  Everyone stopped.  I guess this isn't going to be as bad as I thought.  At least I know of some people who are going to like it.  And they're going to get it via video tape.

"O.k. everyone, we're here!"  shouted Krystel.  The door opened and everyone climbed out.  We went in back to grab our things and started to the front doors of the stadium place.

"Whoa!  This place is huge!"  I said out loud.

"It's bigger than any other place?"  asked Sami.

"Well, I never have gotten a really good look at place like this.  We have to move so fast to avoid the wave of people."  I explained.  Sami just laughed at me.

"Hey Kari, turn around."  said someone behind me.  It was Krystel and she had the camera.

"How do you think your going to do tonight?"  she asked me like a reporter.  I just laughed.

"We are going to knock them dead!  Right Samantha?"  I asked Sami.

"Oh yes, we are going to be the best performers that the house can offer.  The others will be begging at our feet!"  she laughed.  Krystel turned off the camera and opened the door for us.  We had no idea how this would go tonight.  But I can assure all of you, it's going to be wonderful.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

It's been about a half hour and we're almost up.  Sami and I had to get makeup and costume done a while ago and the others were just starting.  David and his band were on stage singing some really weird love song.

"This is great huh?"  asked Der'drie.

"Yeah.  It's been a long time since I've been to one of these.  Let alone be in one."  I answered.  They watched David do a guitar solo.

"You like him."  she suddenly said.

"Sure I like him.  He's my friend."  I said.

"No, I mean really like him.  Like kissy kissy!"  she laughed.

"No!  I don't like him like that!"  I yelled.  To tell you all the truth, I did.  I was falling in love with him.

"Hey Britney!"  someone yelled from behind me.  I turned to see Krystel and the camera.

"Oh, hey Krystel."  I said.

"You all set?  You on soon."  she said.

"Yeah, I got my makeup on and my costume on."  I smiled.

"Wonderful, you look just like Britney Spears."  she commented.  I looked down.

"There's more then one way I don't look like her and i'm looking at it."  I laughed.

"So, tell the world what you special finale of the show is going to be?  Are you going to do a dance or wrestle with tigers?"  she asked with a smiled.

"Ha ha!  Your just going to have to wait and see just like everybody else."  I smiled.

"Hey Britney girls!  Your up next!"  yelled the stage hand.  Sami, Der'drie, Riley and Lisa all gathered around by the entrance.

"We all set?" asked Lisa.  We all nodded.   I began to do the one thing with my hands that I do when I'm stressed out.

"Nervous?"  asked Sami.

"No.  I'm use to this.  It's just a bit of stress."  I lied.  The curtain closed out on stage and the last group came off.  The stage hands began to put our props out on stage.  It was my time to go out in front and let the show begin.

"O.k., break a leg everyone!"  I said.  We put our hands in to a circle.

"3...2...1 lets go!"  we yelled.  My friends went behind the curtain.  I took a deep breath and step out in front.  There were tons of people out there.  Some people started cheering.  I heard someone cue the music and I walked out into the middle.  The music started.

"This is a story about a girl named Lucky."  I said.  I quieky got out of the middle and the curtains opened to reveal Sami.

"Early morning, she wakes up, Knock knock knocking on the door.  Time for makeup, perfect smile."  I sang.  The audience was quiet and was paying attention.  We hit the part with all of the fans and it turned out that my friends had gotten other kids for the fans.  Riley was perfect as the announcer and Der'drie as the reporter.  Lisa was the bodyguard.

"Then why do these tears come at night."  I sang.  The curtains closed and the crowd cheered.  The curtain reopened and we all took a bow.  The girls pushed me forward the the crowd cheered louder.

"Wow."  I said to myself.

"Kari, come one!"  yelled Riley.  I ran off stage and was met by hugs from them all.

"We did it!  And we didn't even mess up!"  said Lisa.

"The audience loved us!"  cried Der'drie.

"What do you think about it Kari?"  asked Sami.  I smiled.

"I think it was the best one in the whole world!"  I yelled.  We all laughed and gave each others hugs.  I looked at my watch.

"Oh!  Sorry guys, I gotta go change."  I started heading for the dressing room.

"I hope you do well at your next performance!  What ever it is!  yelled Sami.  I gave a little wave and went into the room.  There were a few people but none of those I knew.  Then two girls came up to me.

"Hey, your that Backstreet Girl!"  One of them said.

"Yes?"  I asked them.

"We were wondering, the next time you see them, could you ask them to autograph something's for us?"  the second one asked.

"I'm not to sure.  I'll have to check."  I told them.  They just squealed.

"O.k., thanks!"  they said and left the room.  I rolled my eyes and grabbed my other costume.  I put it on and left the room.  I was almost up for the last show of the day.

"Kari!  Hey Kari!"  someone yelled.  I saw David running through the crowd.

"David, what are you doing back here?"  I asked.  He was suppose to be down in the audience now.

"I just wanted to wish you luck and give you this."  He pulled a little box out of his pocket.  He handed it to me and I opened and gasped at what I saw.  It was a silver necklace.  On it was six little figurines.  Five boys and a girl.

"I thought it was a good idea.  Now your friends are with you no matter where you go."  he said.  I didn't say anything.  I just grabbed him in the biggest hug.  He gave me a kiss on the cheek.

"Grand finale, your up!"  said the stage hand.  I let David go.

"I have to go.  I'll see you."  I started to walk away.  He grabbed my arm.

"Wait."  he spun me around and put the necklace on.  "Now your ready."  he left the area with me still in shock.

"Grand finale, we need you set up."  said the stage hand.  I handed him a tape as the last act with stepping off.  He motioned me to get on stage.  I took another deep breath and walked out onto the stage.  I walked to the microphone in the middle and just stood there.  The music started and I hit my cue.

"Open up your heart to me
And say what's on your mind
I know that we have been through so much pain
But I still need you in my life this time

And I need you tonight
I need you right now
I know deep within my heart
it doesn't matter if its wrong or right
I really need you tonight."

The crowd was silent as I went into the second verse.

"I figured out what you see to you
Sometimes the words
they, they come out so wrong, yes they do
But I know inside that you will understand
that what we had, was so right this time

And I need you tonight
I need you right now
I know deep within my heart
it doesn't matter if its wrong or right

All those endless times we tried to make it
last forever more
and baby I know
I need eee eed you, yeah
I know deep within my heart
it doesn't matter if its wrong or right
I really need you, whoa oh oh oh!"

The back round music kicked in and I sang Nick's part.  The crowd was still silent.  No one had moved or said anything.  The song ended and there was no noise.  I thought that the act was a bust when all of the sudden, my whole boarding house began clapping loudly.  This erupted into the whole place clapping and standing up.  I could see Krystel with the camera waving.  I smiled and waved at the camera.  All of the sudden, David and my friend came up behind me and picked me up.  This was the best night of my life
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Nick's POV

The last bit of video turned to fuzz.  Mom went up and turned it off.  The whole room was silent.  But my heart was pounded so hard I thought others could hear it.

"I thought she did great."  Leslie suddenly said.  We all agreed.

"She really did look like Britney Spears when she did the Lucky thing.  Except she was a lot prettier."  said Aaron.

"I hear you on that one."  I said to him.  It was great seeing Kari be her best.  I was always yelling at her for using the video camera so much.  Now, I wouldn't care if she did a video website on me.  There was a knock at the door.  Mom answered it and it turned out to be Bruce.

"Hey Bruce, what's up?"  I asked.

"Nothing much.  I just got some more information about the trial on Friday."  He said as he sat down.

"Oh, do tell."  said B.J..  Bruce cleared his throat.

"The judge and Mr. Tracy that a decision could be made on Friday.  Kari is the only witness we have left and I think we have this case."  He said.

"And if we win?" asked Dad.

"She will be returned to you within a week."  he answered.

"Why a week?" asked Mom.

"There are a few papers that will need to be filed and she will be yours forever and ever."  smiled Bruce.

"But, if this could happen, what if we lose?"  asked Leslie.  Bruce sighed.

"Your parents will have to give up parental rights to your sister and all of her things will be taken.  Also, her grandparents have recommend that your visitation rights not be possible."  he said.  My heart sunk.

"But that will never happen.  Kari already lost on family that she loved, why lose another?  Why can't they just let her be happy?"  asked Aaron.  Mom ran her fingers through his hair.

"I don't know sweetie.  Some people just have very cold hearts.  They don't know how to keep people happy."  she told him.

"I see you got the tape.  Mrs. Davenport  was talking about this secret thing Kari was going to do for her show.  What was it?"  asked Bruce.  We all smiled.

"Kari did one of Nicky's songs and she was really good that people stood up for her in the end!"  laughed Aaron.  Bruce smiled.

"Well, that's great!  I see a bit of you has already rubbed off on her eh?"  he said looking at Aaron and me.  He then stood up.

"I really must be going now.  I wish you all the best."  He began to walk to the door.  Mom followed him and let him out.  She closed the door behind her.

"Is the trial really going out way Mom?"  asked Aaron.

"I don't know.   I don't think the judge has really been listening to us.  Blood is thick than water you know."  she said.

"Yeah, but you can't have a water balloon fight with blood!"  he giggled.  Aaron was right.  I mean, I lived with her for so many months.  How could they say she isn't right here.  How could they?
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Kari's POV
Friday, july 29th

Once again I was at the court house.  Hopefully for the last time.  Krystel had told me that this could be the last day.  She also said I was the only person that needed to take the stand.  I was very nervous.  I clutch the necklace David had given me.

"Hi Kari.  Ready for the last time?"  said Bruce.  I gave a weak smile.

"Yeah, I guess so."  I answered.  He put a hand on my shoulder.

"DOn't be nervous.  You'll do fine."  he reassured me.

"But I don't know how close this is and it's putting so much stress on me."  I said.  I was true.  I hadn't slept for about 12 hours.

"Kari, it is very close.  If you are honest and good, it will fall the way you want it.  But it the judge chooses otherwise, there's nothing we came do.  They'll ship you back to Wisconsin as fast as they can."  he explain.

"Thanks.  So stress at all."  I said.  He knew I was being snippy so he ignored it.

"Its going to start soon.  I'll take you in."  He said.  He took me by the arm and lead me into the courtroom.  To my disappointment, the others weren't there yet.

"Your usual seat Madame?"  smiled Bruce.  He was trying to be funny so I just kind of played along.

"Bruce, why aren't they here yet?"  I asked pointed to the empty seats.

"You have got to stop worrying."  he laughed.

"I guess a bit of Howie rubbed of on me."  I smiled. Howie was always the worrywart.  Now I'm turning into one.

"I gotta go, it will be starting soon.  Good luck."  he said and he left, leaving me by myself in a pew looking seat with people I didn't know.  I started to talk with an older girl next to me when the guard yelled for us all to rise.  I tried to find the guys, but I couldn't see them because i'm very short and everyone else is tall.

"Please be seated.  Your honor, this is a continuous of the Louis vs. Carter case."  said the guard.  The judge opened up the file and looked through them.

"I am aware that there is one last witness, is there not?"  he asked the lawyers.  They both nodded.  "Well then, Mr. Capiler you may begin."

"Thank you your honor.  Ladies and Gentlemen, today a key witness will take the stand.  It is the only one that knows their place.  I would like to call Ms. Karoline Melissa Carter to the stand."  he called.  I stood up and started to make my way to the stand.  I could hear people whispering behind me some of it wasn't very good.  I got to the stand and took that dumb oath and sat down.

"Karoline, are you doing well today?"  asked Bruce.

"Yes sir.  Thanks for asking."  I answered.

"Now, how long have you lived with the Carters?"

"About a year and a half."  that was a dumb question.

"But most of that was with your older brother and his friends, was it not?"

"Yes."

"Did they treat you any differently than each other?"

"No.  They always promised that they would treat me equally.  And they always stood by that promise."  I looked to the others seats.  They were all there, even Aaron who was suppose to be doing promotions this week.

"What kind of things would they do with you?"  he asked.

"Well, I would be with them at the concerts.  And we would hang out and do things together, like B-ball and stuff."

"And when you went home, did the good treatment end or continue?"

"Continue.  I had to get use to having three sisters and two brothers but it was easy after a few days."

"Did the Mr. and Mrs. treat you well?"

"Mom and Dad never treated me like an outcast.  I am a Carter and I was always treated as a Carter."

"No further questions."  he finally said.  But I wasn't done yet.  Now I had to go through the evil Mr. Tracy.  I looked at the others with worried eyes.  I didn't know what to do.  Mr. Tracy just smiled at me with his fake teeth.

"Alright.  Ms. Louis, could you explain how yo became in posession of the Carters?"  he smirked.  I knew he was going to ask me this.  It hurts every time I think of it.

"Do I have to say?"  I asked.

"Yes."  he ordered.  I choked back tears.

"My parents and sisters were killed in a drunk driving accident.  The other driver lived."  I answered

"Now, Ms. Louis, you say the Carters always were with you?"  he asked.  He really pissed me off.

"Yes."

"But we are aware that at several occasions you were left alone either in the hotel or the bus.  Is this true?"  I lowered my head.

"Yes.  But it was my decision."  I whispered.

"All of the time?"

"Well, not all of the time.  Sometimes they would have to go do something that I wasn't allowed to go with."

"Good.  We are also aware that you have been injured a few times while in their care.  What happened?"  I sighed.

"A few times the fans got very ugly and made a fuss.  I have been pulled into the audience before while in the pit."

"That's not all they do is it?"

"No.  Sometimes the worst ones throw rocks at me.  They once gave me a concussion."  This is not looking good.

"Thank you. Now you say that your were treated fairly at the home.  But we have found evidence that this isn't true."

"It is true."

"But we have a statement that shows that other witnesses have seen rejection."

"They are wrong."

"No further questions.  You may step down."  I didn't leave.

"Your honor, may I say a few things on my behalf?"  I asked him.

"Objection, she'll be giving a speech!"  yelled Mr. Tracy.

"Please your honor, just a few words."  I begged.  The judge sighed.

"I don't see why not.  Go ahead."  he answered.  I smiled.

"Thank you."  I cleared my throat.  "You all may have different impressions of me right now.  All of you are making your own decisions on where it is right for me.  But here's the truth.  The Carters are wonderful people.  They wouldn't hurt a fly.  They have done nothing but be good parents and siblings.  And my friends helped a lot.  Please, if anything, let me be with the ones I love.  Not the ones i'll resent.  Thank you."  I walked off the stand and back to my seat.  The judge cleared his throat.

"There will be a half hour recess.  I will be making my decision in that time.  He banged his hammer thingy and the guard yelled for us to rise.  The judge left the room and Bruce came to my side.

"Great job short stuff.  You deserve an award for that speech."  he smiled.

"No award.  Just my family."  I answered
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Nick's POV

"I can't believe he asked her that question!  He knows it kills a person to talk about something like that!"  I said with anger.

"Lower your voice Nickolous.  Your making a scene."  Dad said.  I did as I was told.

"Don't worry everyone.  This will soon be over."  said Leslie.

"It most certainly will!"  we all jumped and turned around.  It was Kari's grandfather.  The one who started this all.

"You!"  B.j. said with her eyes in slits

"Yep.  And you haven't made your case at all.  She will be ours again and make us dirty rich!"  he sneered.  I wanted to punch his lights out.

"Now Mr. Louis, the verdict hasn't been read yet."  said Mom.

"Yes well we picked the right judge."  he laughed.

"What do you mean?"  said Kevin.  The others had heard the whole thing.

"This judge has a history of awarding the flesh and blood family the kid.  You better say good-bye now, you'll never see her again!"  he walked off laughing.  We were al stunned.

"Ignore him Frack.  He's just playing with your head."  said Brian.  I shook my head.

"If we win, i'll tell everyone at our concerts that if they see that man, laugh right in his face."  I said through my teeth.

"You know, you took the words right out of my mouth."  said A.j..

"The day she comes back, we'll have a huge party.  All of you invited of course."  spoke up Aaron and Angel.

"Cool."  smiled Howie.

"I hope that guy is wrong.  All he wants her for is money."  I said.

"Ah, guys?  We have to go back in right now.  Cross your fingers and toes!"  said Dad.  And we walked back into the courtroom.  The future of one of one youngest uncertain.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Kari's POV

The time has come.  The verdict is going to be read and i'm going to figure out whether i'm going to remain a Carter or be a Louis again.  Only one answer sucked and the other answer ruled this world.

"Here we go Karbear, what we worked all this time for will be known."  said Bruce.  He looked more nervous than me.

"No matter what, I will still be a Carter."  I said with pride.

"You know, if your parents are watching from above right now, I bet they are very proud of you."  he whispered into my ear.  I smiled.

"I bet they are.  And I bet that they think that the best place for me is with Nick, Mom, Dad, and my sibs."  I laughed.

"I'm glad you feel that way Karbear."  he looked at his watch.  "I gotta go.  Cross everything you have to cross on your body."  I giggled.

"I'll try." Bruce was gone in a instant.  I was shaking so hard that it wasn't even funny.  I almost fell over when the guard told us to rise.  The judge took his seat and the rest of us could sit.

"I have taken much time and focus over this case.  And to tell you the truth, both sides gave a good case.  Yet there can only be one winner in a case with a child."

"Please please please."  I whispered.  Butterflies were building in my stomach.

"It is my decision and the decision of the court to award full custody to. . . ."  I held my breath.

"Mr and Mrs. Carter.  All of Karoline legal papers shall be signed to them and the Louis's give up any visitation rights.  That is the decision."  He slammed his hammer thingy down and the guard told us to rise.  I could barely stand.  Without the guards permission I got up from my seat and ran to the others.

"Nicky!"  I screamed.  I jumped up and grabbed him around the neck and just cried.  He picked he up and just held me.  He was crying also.

"Karbear, my little Karbear."  he whispered.  I had missed being in his arms so much.  He let me down and I grabbed Mom and Dad.  They were all crying.

"Oh it's good to see you again Kari."  said Dad.  The guys were all standing around me and I smiled at them.

"Just hearing your voices is heaven enough."  I said.  I wiped the tears away.  "What happens now?" I asked.

"Well, you have to stay with the Davenports for another week for the papers to go through.  But then your all ours."  said Mom.

"Another week?" I asked.  They nodded.

"Maybe less."  answered Dad.

"Then i'll call each and everyone one of you everyday and bug you until your head explode!" I laughed.  Brian's face went emotionless.  I gave him the upward eyebrow and he pointed.  I turned to she my grandfather and grandmother.

"Yes?"  asked Mom.  Grandpa made a gruff noise.

"So I guess you won.  I didn't believe I heard it but you did.  So Kari, I guess this is good-bye."  said grandma.

"I guess it is."  said Nick.  I nudged him back.  I walked up and gave both of them a hug.  You know, to remember me by.  Then they just walked out of the courtroom.  I knew I would never see them again.  I was laughing and crying at the same time in my heart.  But it was over.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
August 5th, last day at boarding home

I couldn't believe how fast the week went.  It was all some kind of blur.  I came back on Monday and everyone (well, except April)  congratulated me on the win.  I spend most of my time on the phone with the guys and time with David.  No he is not my boyfriend.  I am not that attached.  But now it was the last day.  I would be leaving in an hour.

"Are all my clothes in this bag?"  I asked Krystel.  she turned and nodded.

"Yeah, and i'm putting your pictures and posters into this case so they don't get smushed o.k.?"  she answered.  She was helping me pack the rest of my things.   For some reason I had more junk than I came her with.

"Knock knock!"  I turned to see David at the door.

"Hey, you don't need to do that, it's your room."  I laughed.  I playfully punched him in the arm.

"I like to.  Finally I won't have someone to nag about how I won't pick up my clothes from the floor!"  he said triumphly.

"Not so fast buster, you still have me."  said Krystel.

"I guess celebration short lived."  he smiled.  He walked over to his bed and sat down.  He watched me as I tried to cram several different items into a bag smaller than an airplane storage department.

"Do you want some help?"  asked David.  I looked up.

"Yeah, would you?"  I said pretty much out of breath.  He started to cram more things in.

"You know, this place won't be the same without you here."  he said.

"Why?  You've lived here longer.  You should be use to it by now."  I said back.

"But it's been a really long time since we have had someone like you here.  I mean, you are the oldest now and without you, i'm the oldest." he said.

"Well you certainly don't act like it."  I laughed.  He pushed her backwards and I fell over.

"You know who you remind me of?" I said as I got up.

"No, who?"  he asked.

"My brother Aaron.  He is always doing stuff like that and likes to be a little dork sometimes."

"Really?  Thank you you are oh so kind."  he said sarcasticly.

"Is that all your stuff Kari?"  asked Krystel.  I nodded.  "Well I guess we should load it all into the van."  she started to pick up a few things and take them out of the room.  And David followed her holding some other things. We walked outside and put the things in the van. We wouldn't need a second trip upstairs.

"Hey Karbear, i've got an idea for you when you get home."  said David.

"What?"  I answered.

"If they are all outside or somewhere else, you leave your things by the door and sneak in.  Then you take your favorite CD and put into one of the players.  You turn the stereo all the way up to the highest setting and push play.  Then run for cover."  he explained.

"Sounds cool.  I should try that."  I giggled.

"Kari.  Time to say your last good-byes."  said Leo.

"O.k." I answered I turned back to David.  "So I guess this is good-bye huh?"

"Yep.  I am really going to miss you."  he said almost in tears.  He wrapped me up in a giant hug and whispered into my ear, "Always remember me."

"Don't worry.  I will." I answered.  He let me go.  I looked behind him and saw everyone from the house on the porch to see me off.  Even evil April.

"Bye!  Be sure to write!  We'll miss you!"  yelled my friends.  Riley was bawling her head off.  I waved to them and yelled good-bye.  I climbing into the van and Leo shut the door.  EVeryone was waving from the porch.  I could see David blow a kiss and I acted like I caught it.  The van started up and began to leave the house.  Everyone cam out on the lawn and was yelled goodbye.  I smiled and faced forward again.  This was going to be something I would never forget or even want to.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
The Carter house, front area

The van screeched to a halt.   The door opened and I climbed out.  I just marveled at eh house that I haven't seen in a long time.

"Do you want us to get your parents?"  asked Krystel.

"Oh no.  I have better plans for them."  I said.  Krystel gave a weak smile.

"We are certainly going to miss you around the house Kari."  said Leo as he put my things by the door.

"Don't worry.  I'll write and even stop by for a few visits."  I said.  Leo handed me a slip of paper with the address.

"This is so you will never forget the place."  said Leo.  I took it and put it into my pocket.

"You take care now o.k..?"  said Krystel.  I smiled.  She then kneeled down and gave me a hug.  She let me go and Leo did the same thing.  Then they both got up and got back into the van.

"I'll be seeing you."  I said to them.  Leo started up the van and pulled away from the house.  I watched them leave until I couldn't see the van anymore.  I let out a long sigh.  I walked back to the front door to begin the plan David had given me.  I could see that The other guys cars were here so it would be more fun.  I tried the doorknob.  It was unlocked.  I slowly opened the door and listened carefully.  No one was in the house but they were all out back.  They must have had the door open.

"Perfect."  I whispered to myself.  I slowly came in and quietly shut the door.  I couldn't believe I was back.  I could see the back from where I was standing.  They were all there.  I made my way over to the CD player in the living room.  The CD case was still there.

"This is going to be easy."  I whispered again.  I opened it up and pulled out my most favorite CD.  You can probably guess what that is.  I opened the CD drive and put it in.  Then I cranked it all the way up.  This was going to be fun.  I pushed play and I began to set.  I ran up the stairs and hid at the top.  They would find me alright.  They better have.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Nick's POV

"This is a great party Nick.  But where is our main guest?"  Brian asked me.  I was wondering the same thing.

"I don't know.  I bet she is on her way but got stuck in traffic."  I explained.  Me and my sibs decorated the back deck with streamers and other things.  Angel and Aaron even made a welcome back banner that hung over the tables.

"Mom, wasn't she suppose to be here now?"  I asked.

"Honey, she will be here.  This is her home, where else would she go?"  laughed Mom.

"Yeah, I guess your right.  She must be almost here.  They probably let her drive!"  I snickered.  You never let Kari drive.  She is a menace on the road.

"I got the water balloons ready!"  yelled Aaron.

"Water balloons?  What water balloons?"  asked Dad.

"Hey, whats a party on a hot day without a good old water fight?"  asked Aaron.  He held up a big fat one and looked like he was going to throw it at me.

"You do and you are so dead little man."  I said.  He put that thing down faster than anything.  I made my way over to the guys when I heard something strange come from the house.  Everyone was quiet.

"What was that?  It sounded like Kevin."  said A.j..  Everyone agreed but Kevin was with us.  All of the sudden loud music began to play and I knew exactly what it was.

"Somebody put on our CD."  said Brian.  We all knew because my voice was singing 'Let's have a Party'.

"Well who turned it on?"  Mom looked at me suspiciously.

"I wasn't me I swear!"  I said.

"Well if it wasn't you then who was it?"  she asked.  We all shrugged.

"I going in there to find out!"  yelled Aaron.  He ran into the house with the rest of us behind him.  The music was so loud that he put his fingers in his ears.  I went up and turned it down.

"Now this is creepy.  The music turned on and no one is here."  said Leslie.

"Totally."  said B.j..

"I'll go check the front door."  said Howie.  I just stood there trying to figure out what the heck happened.  Maybe Dad sent it and forgot about it.  I mean, he has done it before just to scare us.

"Nick!  Come here!"  yelled Howie.  I made my way through the crowd to where Howie was standing.

"Yeah, whats up?"  I asked.  Howie pointed to the side of the porch.

"Do those look familiar?"  he asked.  I looked out and saw four bags.  One suitcase, one rollarcase, and two duffle bags.

"Wait a second, those are Kari's!"  I yelled.  I turned around to tell the others when I saw a figure at the top of the stairs.  I looked up.  It was her!

"Kari!"  yelled Howie.  She smiled big and sat down on the hand rail.  She slid down and landed right in my arms.

"Nicky, I missed you so much, it's great to be home!"  she said to me.  There were tears running down both of our faces.

"Promise me you will never leave again."  I said to her.

"I promise.  I promise."