(Justin's point of view)
After I got back from the cemetery, I was soaked. My heart ached at the thought of Mandy. She never knew Stacey and i don’t blame her for hating her parents. I hate them too. If they hadn’t abandoned her, Stacey would know Mandy. Of course, we wouldn’t have been together but if it meant Stacey being alive and happy, I would trade all of our time together.
“Hey Curly. How come you’re soaked?” Joey asked, throwing me a towel.
“I took Mandy to Stacey’s grave and it started to rain.” I said, toweling my hair briskly. I remembered holding Mandy as she cried. It felt as though I had been holding Stacey. No, I scolded myself. Do not confuse the two. I went to my room and reached under my mattress. I pulled out a worn envelope with my name printed in flowery handwriting on it. Stacey, I thought, a tear trickling down my cheek. Why did you have to leave me? I carefully pulled out the letter inside.
Dear Justin,
My heart aches at the thought of all the pain you must be going through. My body aches for your touch, your kisses, your embrace. I know you probably hate me and I don’t blame you, but Ryan kissed me and I tried to push him away. Oh Justin, can’t you see how much I love you? You’re my lifeline, my savior. Without you, I am nothing. You give me strength and hope. You and N SYNC are the only family I have. Please Justin. Can you find it in your heart to forgive me?
Love Always,
Stacey
I was openly sobbing now. I had gotten the letter three days after she died and it was dated the night before the accident. Too late. I noticed that the rain had turned to snow and a few flakes were starting to fall. The first Orlando snow. Snow is rare and we enjoy it every chance we get. I closed my eyes as memories came flooding back. (Flashback)
“Stacey?” I called out, ready to throw a snowball. She peeked out from behind a snowman and I hurled a snow ball at her. She squealed and ducked as I prepared to launch another one.
“Justin stop!” She cried. She held up her white scarf as a signal that she surrendered. I opened my arms and she cautiously hugged me. We sat down on a bench, holding hands as the snow fell.
“Don’t ever leave Stacey. I could never live without you.” I said, looking deep into her eyes.
“I’ll never leave you Justin.” She said, softly. “I’ll never leave.” (End Flashback)
I was knocked out of my reverie when someone knocked on the door.
“Justin? We have to leave for the concert. I didn’t mean to interrupt what you were doing.” JC said, from outside my door.
“Coming.” I said, dully for performing had no joy anymore without the one I loved most there to share it with me.
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