Chapter One: Madison Grace Jonas
"She's beautiful,"he whispered as he lifted the newborn up in his arms. She shifted a bit in her sleep, snuggling up to her daddy's chest. He blinked back tears as he rocked her in his arms and the doctor came up to him.
"Mr. Jonas?"
"Yes?"his body tensed up as he looked up at the doctor, wiping his eyes. The doctor tucked his clipboard under his left arm.
"Your wife...is gone."
The world froze. He had prepared himself for this moment, but it didn't stop his hati, tengah-tengah from breaking. Nick took the baby from him as he sat down, face pale.
"I'm very sorry, Mr. Jonas. We did all we could to keep her and your daughter alive for the last month."
But he couldn't hear him, because he was reliving memories.
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I looked at her from across the table. She was beautiful. She smiled at me shyly.
"What are anda looking at?"
"Just you,"I smiled back, taking her hand. She chuckled, giving my hand a squeeze.
"Care to dance?"I asked, looking over at the open dance floor on the small cruise ship. She nodded, and took my arm as we walked to the dance floor.
I know it was only a few minutes, but it seemed like hours to me. The most wonderful hours of my life. After awhile, I led her out to the secluded deck.
"That was wonderful,"she laughed. I grinned, watching her carefully.
"So anda liked your surprise date?"
"Of course, Kevin,"she rolled her eyes. We small talked for a few lebih minutes, then there was a short silence. She looked up at me with innocent, dark brown eyes. I could have melted right then, but I didn't. Not yet.
"I Cinta you,"she whispered, reaching up to fix my hair. The wind had messed it up some.
"I Cinta anda too,"I berkata confidently,"which is why,"I reached for the small box in my back pocket that she hadn't noticed. She gave me a strange look when I first pulled it out, then her eyes went wide with understanding. She was adorable.
I bent down on one knee, opening the box to reveal a diamond ring. She loved it; her face perpecahan, berpecah into a wide smile.
"...I should probably ask this question. Lana Kay Scott, will anda marry me?"
I should have known she would pull me up sejak my tie. But she was so unpredictable. I mimicked a choking sound, and she grinned.
"I'll get back to anda on that,"she teased. I raised an eyebrow.
"Just put the ring on my finger, Kevin."
"Gladly,"I said, taking her small hand and sliding the ring on it. It fit perfectly. She hugged me tightly, resting her head on my chest, and I hugged her back. I had the world in my arms. She pulled back a little, lifting her head, and I understood. I bent my head down so our lips met; I wasn't much taller than her. It was a short and sweet kiss, but that was the way I liked them.
"I Cinta you, Kevin Jonas,"she smiled up at me, reminding me why I was so in love.
Chapter Two; We're Gonna Be Alright
After two weeks, we were home.
Madison had to stay in the hospital before that time because of some health problems, but they had miraculously cleared up. Not to mention she was premature.
She was so tiny...
Actually, it wasn't my home, it was my mom and dad's home. Mom insisted I stay with the rest of the family for the time being, ever since Lana's death. Meaning Nick, Joe, and Frankie were also there.
I didn't talk about Lana anymore. It hurt too much. Whenever Mom brought up a conversation about her, I'd make up an excuse to go to my room. I just wasn't ready to talk about her yet, and Mom was worried.
Everybody loved Lana. A lot of people showed up for the...funeral. And a lot of people were heartbroken. They had prayed for us when news of the car accident got out, and prayed for Lana's and Madison's survival. I guess half of their prayers were answered.
I never imagined doing this without her. Raising a child, I mean. What was I going to do when she grew up and started asking soalan about her mommy? How were we going to manage on tour? And what about when she started school?
"Kevin? anda okay?"
I looked up from my trance. Joe was looking at me, worried.
"Umm..."I shrugged. He sat down beside of me.
"I'm sorry, Kevin."
"It doesn't change anything,"I bit my lip. Joe sighed.
"I know, but I don't know what to say..."
"Just...I don't know...act normal..."
"Okay...so, is Madison sleeping?"he aked. I nodded.
"Yeah. She should be after being awake all night,"I chuckled. Fatherhood was hitting me full force this week.
"She has a good set of lungs,"Joe grinned.
"Yeah,"I smiled. Almost anything about Madison made me smile.
"When is she going to be up?"
"I don't know,"I shrugged. "How come?"
"Erm...I dunno...she's kinda cute, and I think she liked my sock puppets."
I smirked at him.
"I'm going to start calling anda Uncle Joey,"I chuckled. He raised an eyebrow.
"Only if I can call anda Daddy Kevy."
"No deal."
I rubbed my temples. Migraines were common these days.
"Need some Advil?"Joe asked.
"I'll get it later,"I shrugged, then heard Madison crying. I stood up, heading towards the stairs, and Joe followed me.
I opened the door to my room, where her tempat tidur bayi, katil bayi was set up. As soon as I picked her up, she stopped crying.
"Nice,"Joe smiled, picking up her tiny hand and counting her fingers.
"She's so little,"he stated, a little in awe.
I agreed, smiling. Joe was going to be a good uncle.
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"Mmm. I Cinta you,"Lana berkata drowsily as we woke up the hari after our wedding.
"You're beautiful,"I smiled, leaning over for a kiss.
"So. What are we doing today?"she asked, stretching a bit.
"I figured if anda have a honeymoon in Paris, it's a necisity to go to Eiffel Tower."
She grinned over at me, already excited.
"I need a shower,"she yawned, still half asleep. She wasn't a morning person.
"We need a shower,"I corrected her. She gave me a confused look, and I winked at her. Apparently, she got the message. Her cheeks turned slightly red.
"You're adorable,"I laughed. She slapped my chest, and I winced. She wasn't very gentle, but hey, Cinta hurts.
If I had only known how much it really did hurt.
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I was attempting to sleep, but everytime I closed my eyes, I saw Lana's face. It was almost torture. I tossed and turned, trying to find a comfortable position, when Madison began crying. I smiled slightly, getting out from under the covers to get her.
"What's wrong, baby girl? Need a diaper change?"I asked, checking. Nope. Dry.
"Are anda hungry?"I would need to go downstairs and get some formula if she was. She continued crying as I rocked her back and forth.
"Shh. Shh. Daddy's here,"I whispered, and began humming lightly. To my surprise, she stopped crying a few secondslater, looking up at me with innocent hazel eyes. She had my eyes, but Lana's ears and nose...she had the same birthmark on her neck as I did. It looked like she was going to have my hair, too. I was amazed at how much she looked like both me and Lana...she was beautiful.
Sh grabbed my finger, wrapping her tiny hand around it. I kissed her forehead, but continued humming. Soon, her eyes began to close, and she was finally asleep. I gently stood up and placed her back in her crib.
"Wow,"I heard someone whisper. I turned to see my Mom in the doorway, and smiled.
"Hey Mom,"I berkata in a low voice. She came in and sat seterusnya to me.
"I heard her crying, and thought anda might need help, but I guess I was wrong,"she hugged me. I hugged her back.
"You're going to be alright, Kevin. We're gonna be alright,"she berkata suddenly. I sighed.
"I don't feel alright, Mom,"I told her in a cracked voice. She rubbed my back.
"I know, sweetie. I know."
"Why me?"I put my head in my hands.
"Kevin...we never know why, sometimes these things just happen."
"Why would God do that, Mom? If not keep Lana alive for me, keep her alive for Madison,"I sniffed, eyes brimming.
"Sometimes we don't see things the way God does, but in the end, it all works out for the best. You'll see Lana again someday, Kevin."
I looked up, A tear escaping and rolling down my cheek. Mom wiped it away.
"You're tired. Go to sleep,"she told me, tossling my hair. I chuckled slightly as Mom left and I crawled back to bed. But I never did get to sleep.
Chapter Three; Don't Become Nick and His Socks
Three Years Later.
Three tahun old Madison ran through the tour bus in her diapers, with her Uncle Joe chasing her. I laughed at them as I read my book. He was trying to get Madison to eat the rest of her dinner, to no avail.
"Daddy!"she yelled, jumping into my lap. I grunted slightly, then winked at her.
"What is it, Maddi?"
"Tell Unca Joe that I'm full!"she wrinkled her nose up. Joe stood not too far away, arms crossed. I smirked at him, then poked Maddi's belly.
"I think I feel one lebih empty spot,"I told her. She frowned, then ran back to the table, eating up the rest of her macaroni and cheese. Joe sighed.
"How do anda do that?"he asked.
"Do what?"
"Get her to listen to you?"
"Talent, Joe, talent. anda lack it."
He scowled at me, then went back to his bunk. I sighed, putting my book down to watch Maddi. I could tell she was getting tired, so I went over and picked her up, sitting back down with her on the couch, and laying down.
"Daddy?"she looked up at me with wide eyes.
"Hmm?"
"Tell me a tory."
"What kind of tory?"I half-smiled at her mispronounciation of the word.
"A good tory."
"Okay. Well, let's see...Once upon a time...there was this pretty little girl named Madison. Maddi lived with her daddy, her Uncle Nick, and her Uncle Joe. Sometimes she'd go live with her Nanny and Pappy when Daddy was working. Maddi loved the rain, and thunderstorms, even though they made her a little scared. She liked-"
"Dad!"Maddi interrupted me.
"What?"
"I'm not a'skared!"
"Not as'kared of what?"
"Of thunner. An lighting,"she stuck her lower lip out.
"Your face is going to freeze like that,"I told her, poking her lip. She giggled, then laid down so her head was resting in the crook of my arm.
"One day, after it rained, Maddi wanted to go jumping in the puddles. Her Daddy berkata no, and that made Maddi mad. So-"
"Daddy?"
"Yes, Maddi?"
"I wasn't mad. I was just fwustated."
Where in the world did she learn the word 'frustrated'?.
"Oh, I see,"I smiled as Maddi yawned.
"Anyway, Maddi got 'fwustated' with her Daddy. And even though her Daddy told her no, Maddi sneaked outside without telling anyone-"
"Daddy?"
"Yes?"I asked, a little 'fwustated' now myself.
"I did tell someone. I told Gigi,"she said, referring to her teddy bear.
"Yes, but anda know you're supposed to talk to me atau Uncle Nick atau Uncle Joe first,"I berkata calmly. She let out a short sigh.
"Maddi decided to go ahead and jump in the puddles, and she didn't have any shoes on. Her Daddy found her and made her go on time-out. Maddi woke up the seterusnya hari with a cold. Her Daddy and uncles took care of her though, and sejak the end of the hari she was all better, and learned her lesson. The end."
I had rushed the ending, knowing she had already fallen asleep. I smiled as I closed my eyes, going to sleep with her.
I wouldn't trade anything for days like this.
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The news hit me like a missile. At least, it felt like one had crashed into my life.
"No, no, no, it can't be her! She's pregnant, we're going to have a baby!"I yelled at the nurse on the phone.
"I'm sorry, sir, but-"She didn't get a chance to say what she was sorry for. I slammed the phone back onto the receiver.
"Mom! Dad?!"I yelled frantically. Soon Mom came running down the stairs.
"Kevin, what is it?"She asked, worried.
"We need to go to the hospital. Now,"I berkata weakly, grabbing my jaket and car keys.
"Hold up, Kevin. anda don't look like anda should be driving-"
"I'll drive,"I heard a voice behind me. It was Dad. I nodded, throwing him the keys and running out the door.
It was one of the worse drives of my entire life. I kept tapping my fingers nervously on my leg, while Mom called Joe and Nick, explaining what had happened and where we were at. They were on their way with Frankie and Lesley, Joe's fiance at the time being.
I ran into the emergency room after jumping out of the car before it was stopped.
"Lana Jonas!"I barked at the nurse. She looked up sharply, awe covering her face. I could tell it was a fan.
"Where's my wife?"I demanded. She snapped out of it.
"Um..uh..let's see.."She was looking at her chart. I grabbed it from her.
"Excuse me-"
"201. Thankyou,"I told her, throwing the chart back and heading to the elevators. I pressed the button repeatedly. Why were these things so slow?!
"That won't make it go any faster,"Dad said, placing a hand on my shoulder.
"Well it should,"I snapped, then the elevator opened. Mom, Dad, and I all went inside. I began tapping my foot on the floor nervously.
This isn't like me at all. Usually I'm the calm, cool, and collected one. Joe is the one who freaks out. But this time, my wife and child's lives were on the line. Yeah, maybe I went a little beserk, but no one ever knows what they would be like in a situation like this.
I was out of the elevator as soon as it was opened wide enough for me to get through. I was rushing towards Room 201, darting around people to get there.
201.
The sign read.
Wait, this was ICU.
I looked around nervously, then peeked in.
I almost fainted at the sight.
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"Joe! Those are my SOCKS!"Nick yelled. I snorted back laughter at the expression on Joe's face. He knew he was in trouble.
"You can use my socks, Unca Nick,"Maddi smiled. Nick smiled back, crouching down to her level.
"That's sweet of you, Maddi, but I don't think they'd fit very well. Besides, Uncle Joe has his own socks,"he glared at Joe, emphasizing the last part of the sentence. I took Maddi's hand.
"I think your Uncle Nick and Joe need some alone time,"I winked at her. She grinned, swinging our hands.
We were backstage after a concert. I thought we were going to have a little crisis in the middle of it, when Nick happened to look over right when Joe was doing one of his kicks and saw his socks on Joe's feet.
I decided to stay out of this one. Things could get pretty ugly when anda came between Nicholas and his socks.
Chapter Four; I Cinta anda Too, Madison
This couldn't be Lana- not this mass of wires, cords, and strange machines. No.
I don't know how long I had stood there, just staring, when a doctor came in.
"Mr. Kevin Jonas?"
"Y-yes?"my voice shook. I knew he was referring to me, and not my father.
"Your wife...is in a coma."
I took a seat. What does this mean?
"Mr. Jonas...there's a small chance of her making it. She's been pronounced brain dead."
"What about...the baby?"my mom asked. The doctor turned to talk to my parents, and I just sat there, reaching out and holding Lana's hand, which had miraculously escaped all the wires and cords engulfing her small body.
She hadn't even reached 8 months of pregnancy yet...
"Honey,"I heard Mom's voice at a distance. I looked up, and realized she was standing right in front of me.
"Do anda want something to eat atau drink?"I shook my head no. It wouldn't feel right to eat when Lana was like this. Mom sighed, and left the room. I finally noticed that Joe and Nick had arrived.
"Hey Kevin,"Nick berkata softly. I bit my lip and nodded, rubbing my fingers across Lana's pale white hand.
"Kevin...are anda okay?"Joe asked.
"What do anda think?"I retorted, in a blank voice. He frowned, then looked down at the floor. His girlfriend reached over and patted his arm. I had to force myself not to roll my eyes, not to mention going crazy and yelling at all of them.
Lana was going to die, and all we were doing was sitting here.
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2 years later
I smiled sadly as I hugged Maddi. She was crying.
"I want to go with you, Daddy."
"I'm sorry, sweetie. anda have to go to big girl school now,"I tried to convince her. She didn't buy it.
"Uncle Frankie says school is stupid and boring. And that the teachers are mean,"she stuck her lower lip out. Way too cute. I sighed, sitting down on the sofa, kerusi panjang and pulling her into my lap.
"Listen, honey, you're going to have a lot of fun staying here with Nanny and Pappy and Uncle Frankie." I felt like a horrible dad, but I just wanted her to have a normal life. She would thank me someday...I think.
"Nu-uh. Uncle Frankie doesn't like me. And who's going to tuck me in without anda here? Who's gonna tell me jokes like Uncle Joe does? And who's going to sing to me like Uncle Nick?"
"Maddi,"I sighed. "I promise I'll be back in two months. And anda can call me every night. Nanny atau Pappy will tuck anda in, and Uncle Joe and Uncle Nick can sing to anda on the phone. Besides, anda Cinta Nanny's cooking."
"But I Cinta anda more,"she cried, a tear slipping down her face. Ouch. I think this was breaking my heart.
"Honey,"I kissed her forehead. "Try to be a big girl for me? I'm sure Nanny will let anda visit Aunt Miley and Aunt AJ while we're gone." Okay, so Miley wasn't actually an aunt, but Maddi alled her that-just to clear things up. AJ was an aunt her and Joe had been married for about a tahun now.
"What about Selena?"she asked, referring to Nick's fiance.
"I'm sure she'll come visit anda too,"I smiled. Just then, Nick came running down the stairs.
"Hey Kevin, it's about time to go. Once Joe gets ready,"he rolled his eyes. I nodded, and Maddi cried more. Nick came over, crouching in front of us.
"Hey, princess, what's the matter?"
"I wanna go with you,"she sniffed, her nose running. I reached over and grabbed a tissue.
"Aw, I know, Mads. But think of it this way-I'll call anda every night, and in a bulan atau two, anda won't even miss me anymore. Plus, anda don't have to deal with Uncle Joe's horrible cooking here,"he scrunched his nose up and winked at her. This emitted a laugh from Maddi.
Mom came in and got Maddi settled down the rest of the way. I checked my watch. 7:00 AM.
"Isn't it time to go, like, now?"I looked over at Nick. Joe came down at 7:05, right on cue. He always had to be 5 minit late. After saying our goodbyes, I reached down and hugged Maddi one last time. She hugged me back with all the strength she could muster.
"I Cinta anda Daddy."
"I Cinta anda too, Madison."
And with that, we were gone, leaving behind my little girl.
Chapter Five; Joe Was Right
A tahun later
"Daddy, I hate Courtney Smith!"My 6 tahun old huffed on the phone. I chuckled silently; my daughter had quite the personality.
"Maddi, anda know what I berkata about that word,"I berkata in a firm voice. There was a pause as she thought over it.
"I'm sorry, Daddy. But she spilt my susu all over the meja, jadual on purpose."
"Well...maybe she's unhappy about something,"I smiled.
"Do anda think so? Her mommy isn't very nice to her. But she makes fun of me because I don't have a mommy. That's not very nice. She berkata I don't have a daddy, either, but that's not true!"
I inhaled sharply. Ouch.
"Madison, honey, remember what anda told me anda learned in Sunday school last week?"I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.
"Uh...do anda mean about being gold?"she asked innocently. I restrained myself from laughter.
"Yeah. The Golden Rule. Do anda remember what it said?"
"Treat others like anda would like to be treated?"
"Good job."
"Oh. So even though Courtney's mean to me, I should be nice to her?"
"Yes, sweetie."
"But Daddy..."she started off in a small voice.
"What is it?"I asked, concern filling my voice.
"Daddy, she was making fun of you. She berkata that if anda were a real daddy, anda wouldn't be gone all the time."
I didn't say anything for a moment. That felt like a pisau to my heart.
"Maddi, I have a soalan for you...and I want anda to be completely honest about it. Okay?"
"Alright,"she agreed.
"Maddi, do anda know that I Cinta anda lebih than anything in the world?"
"That's a silly question."
I bit my lip, waiting for her to answer.
"Of course I know that Daddy. If anda didn't Cinta me, why would anda call me every night before bedtime?"
I grinned. She was a smart six tahun old.
"That's great to know, Maddi."
"Daddy?"
"Hmm?"
"I Cinta anda lots."
"I Cinta anda too, Maddi. Uncle Joe and Nick want to talk to you."
"Okay Daddy. Goodnight."
"Goodnight, sweetie,"I smiled to myself as I handed the phone over to Joe.
"Make sure anda guys don't talk too long; she has to be in katil sejak nine."
"Yes, Daddy,"Joe rolled his eyes at me. I smacked him on the back of the head as I headed to my bunk.
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"Kevin?"Joe had come up behind me, placing a hand on my shoulder. My vision was blurred with tears.
"Kevin, anda gotta eat something. Lana wouldn't want to see anda like this."
I didn't respond.
"Kevin, come on. For me?"Joe pleaded. I finally looked up at him, seeing the worry covering his face. He didn't even look like Joe. I sighed, standing up. Joe's face immediately brightened.
I didn't feel anything as we rode down the elevator to the hospital cafeteria. Everything was...numb. It had been four weeks now, and Lana was still...brain dead. They didn't think I could hear them talking, the doctors' whispers of 'useless' and 'vegetable'. I made myself not feel anything, because I knew if I did, I would be kicked out of the hospital.
I watched with blank eyes as Joe ordered me a sandwich, sandwic and fries. He managed to guide me to a meja, jadual while holding two trays.
As soon as I sat down, I felt like I was going to throw up. I stared at the food; I really didn't want it. It felt so wrong to go on with regular day-to-day activities like eating when Lana was up there dying. She couldn't even eat; she was fed through a tube.
"Kevin?"Joe waved a hand in front of my face. I looked up.
"You okay, man? I've been trying to get your attention for over 5 minit now. Your Makanan is getting cold,"he bit his lip. I shook my head, picking up the sandwich, sandwic and taking a bite to satisfy him. He nodded in approval.
I mechnically forced myself to finish the rest of the meal; I just had to keep reminding myself this was for Joe. I remembered a snitchet of conversation in th back of my mind about him and his girlfriend breaking up last week.
"What happened to Kathy?"I asked as we dumped our trays. It just came out of my mouth before I thought it over. Joe looked at me, a bit shocked.
"Well, erm...she broke up with me,"he stuttered. I frowned.
"How come?"
"You know what, it doesn't really matter. She was a jerk anyway,"he smiled, but I could detect the whisper of hurt in his voice.
"It was because of me, wasn't it?"I asked. Joe's face fell. I knew it.
"Don't think of it that way, Kevin. I mean, she wasn't worth it. It just made me realize she wasn't the one, anda know? And, well, I'd much rather be here for you, and she just couldn't understand that."
"Okay,"I berkata in a monotone voice. Joe sighed.
"Come on, Kev, seriously, snap out of it. We all hate seeing anda like this, and you're not making it any easier on yourself, atau Mom and Dad for that matter!"his voice level heightened towards the end of the sentence. I nodded, not really listening.
"What are anda now, a doggie on a dashboard?! Come on, Kevin, this isn't you, and I'm sick of it!"
I looked up, and for the first time in weeks, felt an emotion. Anger. My eyes blazed, and Joe could see it.
"Shut up, okay? Just shut up! My wife is dying, Joe! She's dying! So get the hell out of my face!"I yelled, realizing that I had backed Joe up against the wall. And he didn't even look scared.
"Kevin, anda still have a child who's going to need you,"he sighed, then walked away. Understanding filled my mind, and I just stood there, a bit shocked.
Joe was right.
Chapter Six; Never Cease To Amaze Me
Four years later
"I'm going to miss Hannah. And Jason. Oh, and Marty..."Madison sighed, sitting on my lap as we drove away from the house she had lived in for almost a decade. But, it had been her decision. We had hired a tutor, and now Maddi was going o go on a 3 bulan tour with us. Frankie was also in the band now, the drummer. Nick had gotten his own family tour bus, with Selena and their two kids.
"You'll still get to call them. And we'll get to visit them when we have our tunjuk in Los Angeles,"I smiled, stroking her hair out of her face.
"Who-hoo!! Sacramento, here we come!!"Joe yelled, running through the bus; this caused a series of giggles from Maddi. Joe grinned over at her, then picked her up off my lap, slinging her over his shoulder.
"Careful,"I winced slightly. There was a reason Joe's nickname was Danger.
"Uncle Joe,"Maddi whined, hitting him lightly on his back. He spun around, putting her down carefully on the ground.
"Excited, Maddi?"
"Yeah!"she grinned.
"Me too,"he grinned back, then ran back to his bunk. Frankie rolled his eyes as he came in the room, smirking slightly.
"Hello there, Miss Opening Act,"he patted Maddi on the head. I smiled. Maddi had also gotten a contract with Hollywood records. I guess she pretty much was a Disney kid now; she was going to be a new Disney Channel Series seterusnya fall. She wasn't the main character, but she had plenty of lines, being the main character's younger sister.
But she had a beautiful voice, and wasn't a bit stage fright. I guess she got it from Nick.
"Hey Uncle Frankie,"Maddi smiled, then went to sit over at the table. She pulled out my laptop, playing a computer game. Frankie tugged lightly at her ponytail.
"Ouch!"she pouted, glancing at him, then turning her focus back on the computer. Our first tunjuk would be tomorrow night at eight in Sacramento. Maddi was eally excited about it, especially the fact that she would be with me the whole time.
We soon were in Sacramento. We had a few interviews, some along with Maddi. When I couldn't watch her, Selena would be, along with Aaron and Samuel, her and Nick's kids. We were also visiting the governor today. Maddi was jumping up and down hyperily when we reached the hotel. She was going to have a blast on this tour.
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(flashback)
"So they're doing the C-Section today?"Nick asked, looking over at me. I nodded.
"Yep. After that, they're taking the life support off,"I grimaced. My attitude had changed after talking to Joe. Nick put a hand on my shoulder.
"I'm sorry, Kevin."
"Yeah.."I answered half-heartedly. Mom looked over at me, worry covering her face. Nick's hand gripped tighter on my shoulder when a nurse came in with a clipboard.
"You'll need to sign here for the operation,"she berkata softly as she handed me the clipboard and a pen. I scanned through it quickly, then signed sloppily at the bottom. The nurse smiled sadly, thanking me as she walked out of the room. Soon morehospital staff were there to escort us to another waiting room.
I could feel my hati, tengah-tengah beating faster as we were led through the hallways. Joe reached over, holding my arm, and Dad put a hand on my back. But I didn't cry. Not yet.
(end of flashback)
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"Dad!"Maddi ran over and gave me a menanggung, bear hug. I laughed.
"You did great, Madds. Now go find Aunt Selena. I need to get onstage."
Joe, Nick, Frankie, and I had decided to do our lockdown earlier so we could see Maddi's first performace. She did wonderful, and the crowd loved her.
She gave me a Ciuman on the cheek and skipped off happily.
An jam later, we were done, and again greeted sejak an overly-hyper Maddi. Nick was the one who got attacked with the menanggung, bear hug this time.
"Guess what, guess what, guess what?!"she jumped up and down. Joe raised his eyebrows.
"Er...what?"
"Dan let me have Red Bull!"she exclaimed, then ran off to her dressing room. I sighed. Apparently Selena didn't see a problem in letting Dan, our manager, watch Maddi.
"She'll never get to sleep tonight."
"She's worse than Joe,"Nick laughed, getting a look from Joe. Nick shrugged.
"It's the truth."
We all got ready for the Meet and Greet, Maddi included in the event. She was so happy that people wanted her signatures, but I could tell after awhile her hand was getting tired. She surprised me sejak switching hands.
"You can write with both hands?"I chuckled.
"Yep,"she nodded, hugging a girl around her age and smiling for a picture. I shook my head.
Maddi never ceased to amaze me.
Chapter Seven; Goody Two Shoes Disney Girl
Five years later...
"Madison Grace Jonas! Get in here now!"I seethed. A fifteen tahun old Maddi jumped into the tour bus, arms crossed and sulking.
"Dad-"she started, but I cut her off.
"What were anda thinking?! Two words, Maddi: Disney contract!"
"I hate being a goody two shoes Disney girl, Dad! I hate it! I'm not even allowed to have a boyfriend, and I'm fifteen years old!"
I buried my face in my hands.
"Just...go to your bunk, Maddi. We'll talk about this later."
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Maddi's POV
I didn't see what Dad's big problem was. I mean, it was just a kiss. Yeah, it was with some guy I met earlier that day, but still. What did he expect me to do, sing all my life and never get married? It wasn't fair.
I buried my head in my bantal when I heard Dad opening the curtain.
"Maddi?"
"What?"I snapped, looking up at him, tears streaming down my face.
"We need to talk,"he sighed, sitting down on the edge of my bunk. I looked away from him stubbornly. He sighed again.
"Listen, Maddi, anda can't just Ciuman someone like that. anda don't even know him. anda could get hurt, sweetie."
"Whatever,"I rolled my eyes. This was ridiculous.
"Come on, Maddi, don't be like that."
"Be like what? Myself? Whatever. I'm sick and tired of not having any Friends because I'm in a state oe day, and another the next. It's not normal, and I hate it Dad. Just because anda decided not to tarikh doesn't mean I have to. Just because anda don't have anyone doesn't mean I don't want to have anyone!"I yelled.
He didn't say anything at all. I looked up at him, and immediately felt bad. He had a hurt look on his face. Dad just stood up and walked away.
"Crap,"I muttered to myself.
Chapter Eight; I Can't Let Go
Kevin's POV
I laid down on my bunk as the bus drove to our seterusnya concert. I was so...well, I had mixed feelings at the moment. Maddi knew better than to do what she did, and her comebacks, ouch. Joe and Nick both sensed my depression, but didn't say anything about it. I didn't know what to do with Maddi.
What I did do was ground her for a week from electronics. She wasn't too happy about that, but didn't get angry atau anything about it. I guess she was feeling guilty, and she should.
So, I was just sitting there, reminiscing.
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flashback
"Thanks again!"I smiled to the nine tahun old girl whose baju I had signed. She grinned, running off with her Friends and mother.
"Now, if I were a nine tahun old, I would be that happy about getting a signature from the Kevin Jonas too. But unfortunately, anda have a harder crowd to please."
I looked up, perplexed, to see a stunning blonde. All I could do was gape and blink. She chuckled; not giggled, chuckled, I noted. So she wasn't a completely crazy fan.
"I'm Lana. Lana Francis. Would anda like my signature? atau are anda just going to stand there?"she asked teasingly. I noted the glint of mischieviousness in her dark brown eyes, and snapped my mouth shut, nodding. Kevin Jonas was at a loss of words. That's a first. Joe looked over at me curiously as the girl signed a CD she was holding and handed it to me. It was one of our CDs.
"I thought it looked better with my signature,"she smirked, handed it to me. I took it, then found my voice.
"So, uh, anda live around here?"I asked as one of her Friends handed me a frisbee to sign...??
"Yep,"she answered simply.
"Cool,"I smiled, clearing my throat. She flipped her blonde hair over her shoulder. Not seductively; just like it was an old habit.
"Way cool, I know. I Cinta Chicago."
"Me too,"I agreed. I loved the Makanan here. She tilted her head to the side, studying me.
"Has anyone ever told anda you're...mesmerizing?"
"Uh, no,"I gulped, feeling color rush to my cheeks. I heard Joe laugh. Lana's eyes took him in for a moment, narrowed, then shot straight back to me.
"Oh. That's sad. Well, anda are."
"T-Thankyou?"I replied uncertaintly. She winked as the line moved on.
"Dude, why didn't anda get her number, anda idiot?"Joe asked from beside me. I frowned. Crap.
"Uh, I'll be right back," I said, ignoring Big Rob's protests. I looked everywhere for her, but she was gone. I sighed in defeat. The CD she gave me was still in my hands. Just then I thought to read her signature.
anda are mesmerizing.
Heart,
Lana Francis.
(657-1367)
I grinned to myself. I knew exactly who I was going to call that night.
end of flashback
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"Dude, is everything okay?"Joe asked a few days later. Maddi had been avoiding me, and my stress was obviously showing.
"Yeah...I'll be okay,"I shrugged. Joe rolled his eyes.
"Come here,"he said, guiding me to the meja, jadual where he sat across from me.
"Seriously, what's up?"he raised his eyebrows. I coughed.
"It's...Maddi."
"Obviously."
"Well, I caught her Ciuman some guy, and-"
"Wait, what?!"Joe exclaimed. I didn't repeat it; he had already heard.
"Just, well, we got into a fight, and she basically told me that I need to start dating again; just because I don't have anyone doesn't mean she shouldn't..."I sighed. Joe let out a low whistle.
"Whoa, that's hard."
"Yeah, I know,"I nodded.
"So...are you?"Joe asked after a moment. I looked at him, confused.
"Am I what?"
"Are anda going to tarikh again?"
"Of course not!"I exclaimed, standing up. Joe bit his lip.
"How come?"
"Because I'm in Cinta with Lana!"I yelled, then realized the words that came out of my mouth. Joe gave me a pointed look.
"You have to let go, Kevin. It's been 15 years. anda can't hold on forever."
I felt my eyes mist, and something hurt deep inside my chest.
"I can't. I'm sorry, Joe, I can't,"I whispered, then walked back to my bunk.
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flashback
I stared at the phone for a long while before I dialed her number.
"Hello?"I heard a feminine voice on the other line.
"Lana? It's Kevin, Kevin Jonas."
"Hmm, like it would be any other Kevin,"she retorted. I chuckled.
"So...what'd anda call for?"she asked curiously.
"Umm, I was wondering, we're still gonna be in town, would anda like to go out to eat atau something?"
"I'll have to check my schedule, I might be busy."
"Oh,"I said, and felt my face fall. She laughed.
"I'm just kidding, Kevin. Of course I'll have lunch with you. Pick me up tomorrow. 1205 Parker Ave,"she said, then hung up.
I stared at the phone for a long time after that. I was amazed sejak her confidence. She was so different, it was hard not to think about her that night. This girl was...simply amazing.
"She's beautiful,"he whispered as he lifted the newborn up in his arms. She shifted a bit in her sleep, snuggling up to her daddy's chest. He blinked back tears as he rocked her in his arms and the doctor came up to him.
"Mr. Jonas?"
"Yes?"his body tensed up as he looked up at the doctor, wiping his eyes. The doctor tucked his clipboard under his left arm.
"Your wife...is gone."
The world froze. He had prepared himself for this moment, but it didn't stop his hati, tengah-tengah from breaking. Nick took the baby from him as he sat down, face pale.
"I'm very sorry, Mr. Jonas. We did all we could to keep her and your daughter alive for the last month."
But he couldn't hear him, because he was reliving memories.
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I looked at her from across the table. She was beautiful. She smiled at me shyly.
"What are anda looking at?"
"Just you,"I smiled back, taking her hand. She chuckled, giving my hand a squeeze.
"Care to dance?"I asked, looking over at the open dance floor on the small cruise ship. She nodded, and took my arm as we walked to the dance floor.
I know it was only a few minutes, but it seemed like hours to me. The most wonderful hours of my life. After awhile, I led her out to the secluded deck.
"That was wonderful,"she laughed. I grinned, watching her carefully.
"So anda liked your surprise date?"
"Of course, Kevin,"she rolled her eyes. We small talked for a few lebih minutes, then there was a short silence. She looked up at me with innocent, dark brown eyes. I could have melted right then, but I didn't. Not yet.
"I Cinta you,"she whispered, reaching up to fix my hair. The wind had messed it up some.
"I Cinta anda too,"I berkata confidently,"which is why,"I reached for the small box in my back pocket that she hadn't noticed. She gave me a strange look when I first pulled it out, then her eyes went wide with understanding. She was adorable.
I bent down on one knee, opening the box to reveal a diamond ring. She loved it; her face perpecahan, berpecah into a wide smile.
"...I should probably ask this question. Lana Kay Scott, will anda marry me?"
I should have known she would pull me up sejak my tie. But she was so unpredictable. I mimicked a choking sound, and she grinned.
"I'll get back to anda on that,"she teased. I raised an eyebrow.
"Just put the ring on my finger, Kevin."
"Gladly,"I said, taking her small hand and sliding the ring on it. It fit perfectly. She hugged me tightly, resting her head on my chest, and I hugged her back. I had the world in my arms. She pulled back a little, lifting her head, and I understood. I bent my head down so our lips met; I wasn't much taller than her. It was a short and sweet kiss, but that was the way I liked them.
"I Cinta you, Kevin Jonas,"she smiled up at me, reminding me why I was so in love.
Chapter Two; We're Gonna Be Alright
After two weeks, we were home.
Madison had to stay in the hospital before that time because of some health problems, but they had miraculously cleared up. Not to mention she was premature.
She was so tiny...
Actually, it wasn't my home, it was my mom and dad's home. Mom insisted I stay with the rest of the family for the time being, ever since Lana's death. Meaning Nick, Joe, and Frankie were also there.
I didn't talk about Lana anymore. It hurt too much. Whenever Mom brought up a conversation about her, I'd make up an excuse to go to my room. I just wasn't ready to talk about her yet, and Mom was worried.
Everybody loved Lana. A lot of people showed up for the...funeral. And a lot of people were heartbroken. They had prayed for us when news of the car accident got out, and prayed for Lana's and Madison's survival. I guess half of their prayers were answered.
I never imagined doing this without her. Raising a child, I mean. What was I going to do when she grew up and started asking soalan about her mommy? How were we going to manage on tour? And what about when she started school?
"Kevin? anda okay?"
I looked up from my trance. Joe was looking at me, worried.
"Umm..."I shrugged. He sat down beside of me.
"I'm sorry, Kevin."
"It doesn't change anything,"I bit my lip. Joe sighed.
"I know, but I don't know what to say..."
"Just...I don't know...act normal..."
"Okay...so, is Madison sleeping?"he aked. I nodded.
"Yeah. She should be after being awake all night,"I chuckled. Fatherhood was hitting me full force this week.
"She has a good set of lungs,"Joe grinned.
"Yeah,"I smiled. Almost anything about Madison made me smile.
"When is she going to be up?"
"I don't know,"I shrugged. "How come?"
"Erm...I dunno...she's kinda cute, and I think she liked my sock puppets."
I smirked at him.
"I'm going to start calling anda Uncle Joey,"I chuckled. He raised an eyebrow.
"Only if I can call anda Daddy Kevy."
"No deal."
I rubbed my temples. Migraines were common these days.
"Need some Advil?"Joe asked.
"I'll get it later,"I shrugged, then heard Madison crying. I stood up, heading towards the stairs, and Joe followed me.
I opened the door to my room, where her tempat tidur bayi, katil bayi was set up. As soon as I picked her up, she stopped crying.
"Nice,"Joe smiled, picking up her tiny hand and counting her fingers.
"She's so little,"he stated, a little in awe.
I agreed, smiling. Joe was going to be a good uncle.
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"Mmm. I Cinta you,"Lana berkata drowsily as we woke up the hari after our wedding.
"You're beautiful,"I smiled, leaning over for a kiss.
"So. What are we doing today?"she asked, stretching a bit.
"I figured if anda have a honeymoon in Paris, it's a necisity to go to Eiffel Tower."
She grinned over at me, already excited.
"I need a shower,"she yawned, still half asleep. She wasn't a morning person.
"We need a shower,"I corrected her. She gave me a confused look, and I winked at her. Apparently, she got the message. Her cheeks turned slightly red.
"You're adorable,"I laughed. She slapped my chest, and I winced. She wasn't very gentle, but hey, Cinta hurts.
If I had only known how much it really did hurt.
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I was attempting to sleep, but everytime I closed my eyes, I saw Lana's face. It was almost torture. I tossed and turned, trying to find a comfortable position, when Madison began crying. I smiled slightly, getting out from under the covers to get her.
"What's wrong, baby girl? Need a diaper change?"I asked, checking. Nope. Dry.
"Are anda hungry?"I would need to go downstairs and get some formula if she was. She continued crying as I rocked her back and forth.
"Shh. Shh. Daddy's here,"I whispered, and began humming lightly. To my surprise, she stopped crying a few secondslater, looking up at me with innocent hazel eyes. She had my eyes, but Lana's ears and nose...she had the same birthmark on her neck as I did. It looked like she was going to have my hair, too. I was amazed at how much she looked like both me and Lana...she was beautiful.
Sh grabbed my finger, wrapping her tiny hand around it. I kissed her forehead, but continued humming. Soon, her eyes began to close, and she was finally asleep. I gently stood up and placed her back in her crib.
"Wow,"I heard someone whisper. I turned to see my Mom in the doorway, and smiled.
"Hey Mom,"I berkata in a low voice. She came in and sat seterusnya to me.
"I heard her crying, and thought anda might need help, but I guess I was wrong,"she hugged me. I hugged her back.
"You're going to be alright, Kevin. We're gonna be alright,"she berkata suddenly. I sighed.
"I don't feel alright, Mom,"I told her in a cracked voice. She rubbed my back.
"I know, sweetie. I know."
"Why me?"I put my head in my hands.
"Kevin...we never know why, sometimes these things just happen."
"Why would God do that, Mom? If not keep Lana alive for me, keep her alive for Madison,"I sniffed, eyes brimming.
"Sometimes we don't see things the way God does, but in the end, it all works out for the best. You'll see Lana again someday, Kevin."
I looked up, A tear escaping and rolling down my cheek. Mom wiped it away.
"You're tired. Go to sleep,"she told me, tossling my hair. I chuckled slightly as Mom left and I crawled back to bed. But I never did get to sleep.
Chapter Three; Don't Become Nick and His Socks
Three Years Later.
Three tahun old Madison ran through the tour bus in her diapers, with her Uncle Joe chasing her. I laughed at them as I read my book. He was trying to get Madison to eat the rest of her dinner, to no avail.
"Daddy!"she yelled, jumping into my lap. I grunted slightly, then winked at her.
"What is it, Maddi?"
"Tell Unca Joe that I'm full!"she wrinkled her nose up. Joe stood not too far away, arms crossed. I smirked at him, then poked Maddi's belly.
"I think I feel one lebih empty spot,"I told her. She frowned, then ran back to the table, eating up the rest of her macaroni and cheese. Joe sighed.
"How do anda do that?"he asked.
"Do what?"
"Get her to listen to you?"
"Talent, Joe, talent. anda lack it."
He scowled at me, then went back to his bunk. I sighed, putting my book down to watch Maddi. I could tell she was getting tired, so I went over and picked her up, sitting back down with her on the couch, and laying down.
"Daddy?"she looked up at me with wide eyes.
"Hmm?"
"Tell me a tory."
"What kind of tory?"I half-smiled at her mispronounciation of the word.
"A good tory."
"Okay. Well, let's see...Once upon a time...there was this pretty little girl named Madison. Maddi lived with her daddy, her Uncle Nick, and her Uncle Joe. Sometimes she'd go live with her Nanny and Pappy when Daddy was working. Maddi loved the rain, and thunderstorms, even though they made her a little scared. She liked-"
"Dad!"Maddi interrupted me.
"What?"
"I'm not a'skared!"
"Not as'kared of what?"
"Of thunner. An lighting,"she stuck her lower lip out.
"Your face is going to freeze like that,"I told her, poking her lip. She giggled, then laid down so her head was resting in the crook of my arm.
"One day, after it rained, Maddi wanted to go jumping in the puddles. Her Daddy berkata no, and that made Maddi mad. So-"
"Daddy?"
"Yes, Maddi?"
"I wasn't mad. I was just fwustated."
Where in the world did she learn the word 'frustrated'?.
"Oh, I see,"I smiled as Maddi yawned.
"Anyway, Maddi got 'fwustated' with her Daddy. And even though her Daddy told her no, Maddi sneaked outside without telling anyone-"
"Daddy?"
"Yes?"I asked, a little 'fwustated' now myself.
"I did tell someone. I told Gigi,"she said, referring to her teddy bear.
"Yes, but anda know you're supposed to talk to me atau Uncle Nick atau Uncle Joe first,"I berkata calmly. She let out a short sigh.
"Maddi decided to go ahead and jump in the puddles, and she didn't have any shoes on. Her Daddy found her and made her go on time-out. Maddi woke up the seterusnya hari with a cold. Her Daddy and uncles took care of her though, and sejak the end of the hari she was all better, and learned her lesson. The end."
I had rushed the ending, knowing she had already fallen asleep. I smiled as I closed my eyes, going to sleep with her.
I wouldn't trade anything for days like this.
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The news hit me like a missile. At least, it felt like one had crashed into my life.
"No, no, no, it can't be her! She's pregnant, we're going to have a baby!"I yelled at the nurse on the phone.
"I'm sorry, sir, but-"She didn't get a chance to say what she was sorry for. I slammed the phone back onto the receiver.
"Mom! Dad?!"I yelled frantically. Soon Mom came running down the stairs.
"Kevin, what is it?"She asked, worried.
"We need to go to the hospital. Now,"I berkata weakly, grabbing my jaket and car keys.
"Hold up, Kevin. anda don't look like anda should be driving-"
"I'll drive,"I heard a voice behind me. It was Dad. I nodded, throwing him the keys and running out the door.
It was one of the worse drives of my entire life. I kept tapping my fingers nervously on my leg, while Mom called Joe and Nick, explaining what had happened and where we were at. They were on their way with Frankie and Lesley, Joe's fiance at the time being.
I ran into the emergency room after jumping out of the car before it was stopped.
"Lana Jonas!"I barked at the nurse. She looked up sharply, awe covering her face. I could tell it was a fan.
"Where's my wife?"I demanded. She snapped out of it.
"Um..uh..let's see.."She was looking at her chart. I grabbed it from her.
"Excuse me-"
"201. Thankyou,"I told her, throwing the chart back and heading to the elevators. I pressed the button repeatedly. Why were these things so slow?!
"That won't make it go any faster,"Dad said, placing a hand on my shoulder.
"Well it should,"I snapped, then the elevator opened. Mom, Dad, and I all went inside. I began tapping my foot on the floor nervously.
This isn't like me at all. Usually I'm the calm, cool, and collected one. Joe is the one who freaks out. But this time, my wife and child's lives were on the line. Yeah, maybe I went a little beserk, but no one ever knows what they would be like in a situation like this.
I was out of the elevator as soon as it was opened wide enough for me to get through. I was rushing towards Room 201, darting around people to get there.
201.
The sign read.
Wait, this was ICU.
I looked around nervously, then peeked in.
I almost fainted at the sight.
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"Joe! Those are my SOCKS!"Nick yelled. I snorted back laughter at the expression on Joe's face. He knew he was in trouble.
"You can use my socks, Unca Nick,"Maddi smiled. Nick smiled back, crouching down to her level.
"That's sweet of you, Maddi, but I don't think they'd fit very well. Besides, Uncle Joe has his own socks,"he glared at Joe, emphasizing the last part of the sentence. I took Maddi's hand.
"I think your Uncle Nick and Joe need some alone time,"I winked at her. She grinned, swinging our hands.
We were backstage after a concert. I thought we were going to have a little crisis in the middle of it, when Nick happened to look over right when Joe was doing one of his kicks and saw his socks on Joe's feet.
I decided to stay out of this one. Things could get pretty ugly when anda came between Nicholas and his socks.
Chapter Four; I Cinta anda Too, Madison
This couldn't be Lana- not this mass of wires, cords, and strange machines. No.
I don't know how long I had stood there, just staring, when a doctor came in.
"Mr. Kevin Jonas?"
"Y-yes?"my voice shook. I knew he was referring to me, and not my father.
"Your wife...is in a coma."
I took a seat. What does this mean?
"Mr. Jonas...there's a small chance of her making it. She's been pronounced brain dead."
"What about...the baby?"my mom asked. The doctor turned to talk to my parents, and I just sat there, reaching out and holding Lana's hand, which had miraculously escaped all the wires and cords engulfing her small body.
She hadn't even reached 8 months of pregnancy yet...
"Honey,"I heard Mom's voice at a distance. I looked up, and realized she was standing right in front of me.
"Do anda want something to eat atau drink?"I shook my head no. It wouldn't feel right to eat when Lana was like this. Mom sighed, and left the room. I finally noticed that Joe and Nick had arrived.
"Hey Kevin,"Nick berkata softly. I bit my lip and nodded, rubbing my fingers across Lana's pale white hand.
"Kevin...are anda okay?"Joe asked.
"What do anda think?"I retorted, in a blank voice. He frowned, then looked down at the floor. His girlfriend reached over and patted his arm. I had to force myself not to roll my eyes, not to mention going crazy and yelling at all of them.
Lana was going to die, and all we were doing was sitting here.
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2 years later
I smiled sadly as I hugged Maddi. She was crying.
"I want to go with you, Daddy."
"I'm sorry, sweetie. anda have to go to big girl school now,"I tried to convince her. She didn't buy it.
"Uncle Frankie says school is stupid and boring. And that the teachers are mean,"she stuck her lower lip out. Way too cute. I sighed, sitting down on the sofa, kerusi panjang and pulling her into my lap.
"Listen, honey, you're going to have a lot of fun staying here with Nanny and Pappy and Uncle Frankie." I felt like a horrible dad, but I just wanted her to have a normal life. She would thank me someday...I think.
"Nu-uh. Uncle Frankie doesn't like me. And who's going to tuck me in without anda here? Who's gonna tell me jokes like Uncle Joe does? And who's going to sing to me like Uncle Nick?"
"Maddi,"I sighed. "I promise I'll be back in two months. And anda can call me every night. Nanny atau Pappy will tuck anda in, and Uncle Joe and Uncle Nick can sing to anda on the phone. Besides, anda Cinta Nanny's cooking."
"But I Cinta anda more,"she cried, a tear slipping down her face. Ouch. I think this was breaking my heart.
"Honey,"I kissed her forehead. "Try to be a big girl for me? I'm sure Nanny will let anda visit Aunt Miley and Aunt AJ while we're gone." Okay, so Miley wasn't actually an aunt, but Maddi alled her that-just to clear things up. AJ was an aunt her and Joe had been married for about a tahun now.
"What about Selena?"she asked, referring to Nick's fiance.
"I'm sure she'll come visit anda too,"I smiled. Just then, Nick came running down the stairs.
"Hey Kevin, it's about time to go. Once Joe gets ready,"he rolled his eyes. I nodded, and Maddi cried more. Nick came over, crouching in front of us.
"Hey, princess, what's the matter?"
"I wanna go with you,"she sniffed, her nose running. I reached over and grabbed a tissue.
"Aw, I know, Mads. But think of it this way-I'll call anda every night, and in a bulan atau two, anda won't even miss me anymore. Plus, anda don't have to deal with Uncle Joe's horrible cooking here,"he scrunched his nose up and winked at her. This emitted a laugh from Maddi.
Mom came in and got Maddi settled down the rest of the way. I checked my watch. 7:00 AM.
"Isn't it time to go, like, now?"I looked over at Nick. Joe came down at 7:05, right on cue. He always had to be 5 minit late. After saying our goodbyes, I reached down and hugged Maddi one last time. She hugged me back with all the strength she could muster.
"I Cinta anda Daddy."
"I Cinta anda too, Madison."
And with that, we were gone, leaving behind my little girl.
Chapter Five; Joe Was Right
A tahun later
"Daddy, I hate Courtney Smith!"My 6 tahun old huffed on the phone. I chuckled silently; my daughter had quite the personality.
"Maddi, anda know what I berkata about that word,"I berkata in a firm voice. There was a pause as she thought over it.
"I'm sorry, Daddy. But she spilt my susu all over the meja, jadual on purpose."
"Well...maybe she's unhappy about something,"I smiled.
"Do anda think so? Her mommy isn't very nice to her. But she makes fun of me because I don't have a mommy. That's not very nice. She berkata I don't have a daddy, either, but that's not true!"
I inhaled sharply. Ouch.
"Madison, honey, remember what anda told me anda learned in Sunday school last week?"I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.
"Uh...do anda mean about being gold?"she asked innocently. I restrained myself from laughter.
"Yeah. The Golden Rule. Do anda remember what it said?"
"Treat others like anda would like to be treated?"
"Good job."
"Oh. So even though Courtney's mean to me, I should be nice to her?"
"Yes, sweetie."
"But Daddy..."she started off in a small voice.
"What is it?"I asked, concern filling my voice.
"Daddy, she was making fun of you. She berkata that if anda were a real daddy, anda wouldn't be gone all the time."
I didn't say anything for a moment. That felt like a pisau to my heart.
"Maddi, I have a soalan for you...and I want anda to be completely honest about it. Okay?"
"Alright,"she agreed.
"Maddi, do anda know that I Cinta anda lebih than anything in the world?"
"That's a silly question."
I bit my lip, waiting for her to answer.
"Of course I know that Daddy. If anda didn't Cinta me, why would anda call me every night before bedtime?"
I grinned. She was a smart six tahun old.
"That's great to know, Maddi."
"Daddy?"
"Hmm?"
"I Cinta anda lots."
"I Cinta anda too, Maddi. Uncle Joe and Nick want to talk to you."
"Okay Daddy. Goodnight."
"Goodnight, sweetie,"I smiled to myself as I handed the phone over to Joe.
"Make sure anda guys don't talk too long; she has to be in katil sejak nine."
"Yes, Daddy,"Joe rolled his eyes at me. I smacked him on the back of the head as I headed to my bunk.
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"Kevin?"Joe had come up behind me, placing a hand on my shoulder. My vision was blurred with tears.
"Kevin, anda gotta eat something. Lana wouldn't want to see anda like this."
I didn't respond.
"Kevin, come on. For me?"Joe pleaded. I finally looked up at him, seeing the worry covering his face. He didn't even look like Joe. I sighed, standing up. Joe's face immediately brightened.
I didn't feel anything as we rode down the elevator to the hospital cafeteria. Everything was...numb. It had been four weeks now, and Lana was still...brain dead. They didn't think I could hear them talking, the doctors' whispers of 'useless' and 'vegetable'. I made myself not feel anything, because I knew if I did, I would be kicked out of the hospital.
I watched with blank eyes as Joe ordered me a sandwich, sandwic and fries. He managed to guide me to a meja, jadual while holding two trays.
As soon as I sat down, I felt like I was going to throw up. I stared at the food; I really didn't want it. It felt so wrong to go on with regular day-to-day activities like eating when Lana was up there dying. She couldn't even eat; she was fed through a tube.
"Kevin?"Joe waved a hand in front of my face. I looked up.
"You okay, man? I've been trying to get your attention for over 5 minit now. Your Makanan is getting cold,"he bit his lip. I shook my head, picking up the sandwich, sandwic and taking a bite to satisfy him. He nodded in approval.
I mechnically forced myself to finish the rest of the meal; I just had to keep reminding myself this was for Joe. I remembered a snitchet of conversation in th back of my mind about him and his girlfriend breaking up last week.
"What happened to Kathy?"I asked as we dumped our trays. It just came out of my mouth before I thought it over. Joe looked at me, a bit shocked.
"Well, erm...she broke up with me,"he stuttered. I frowned.
"How come?"
"You know what, it doesn't really matter. She was a jerk anyway,"he smiled, but I could detect the whisper of hurt in his voice.
"It was because of me, wasn't it?"I asked. Joe's face fell. I knew it.
"Don't think of it that way, Kevin. I mean, she wasn't worth it. It just made me realize she wasn't the one, anda know? And, well, I'd much rather be here for you, and she just couldn't understand that."
"Okay,"I berkata in a monotone voice. Joe sighed.
"Come on, Kev, seriously, snap out of it. We all hate seeing anda like this, and you're not making it any easier on yourself, atau Mom and Dad for that matter!"his voice level heightened towards the end of the sentence. I nodded, not really listening.
"What are anda now, a doggie on a dashboard?! Come on, Kevin, this isn't you, and I'm sick of it!"
I looked up, and for the first time in weeks, felt an emotion. Anger. My eyes blazed, and Joe could see it.
"Shut up, okay? Just shut up! My wife is dying, Joe! She's dying! So get the hell out of my face!"I yelled, realizing that I had backed Joe up against the wall. And he didn't even look scared.
"Kevin, anda still have a child who's going to need you,"he sighed, then walked away. Understanding filled my mind, and I just stood there, a bit shocked.
Joe was right.
Chapter Six; Never Cease To Amaze Me
Four years later
"I'm going to miss Hannah. And Jason. Oh, and Marty..."Madison sighed, sitting on my lap as we drove away from the house she had lived in for almost a decade. But, it had been her decision. We had hired a tutor, and now Maddi was going o go on a 3 bulan tour with us. Frankie was also in the band now, the drummer. Nick had gotten his own family tour bus, with Selena and their two kids.
"You'll still get to call them. And we'll get to visit them when we have our tunjuk in Los Angeles,"I smiled, stroking her hair out of her face.
"Who-hoo!! Sacramento, here we come!!"Joe yelled, running through the bus; this caused a series of giggles from Maddi. Joe grinned over at her, then picked her up off my lap, slinging her over his shoulder.
"Careful,"I winced slightly. There was a reason Joe's nickname was Danger.
"Uncle Joe,"Maddi whined, hitting him lightly on his back. He spun around, putting her down carefully on the ground.
"Excited, Maddi?"
"Yeah!"she grinned.
"Me too,"he grinned back, then ran back to his bunk. Frankie rolled his eyes as he came in the room, smirking slightly.
"Hello there, Miss Opening Act,"he patted Maddi on the head. I smiled. Maddi had also gotten a contract with Hollywood records. I guess she pretty much was a Disney kid now; she was going to be a new Disney Channel Series seterusnya fall. She wasn't the main character, but she had plenty of lines, being the main character's younger sister.
But she had a beautiful voice, and wasn't a bit stage fright. I guess she got it from Nick.
"Hey Uncle Frankie,"Maddi smiled, then went to sit over at the table. She pulled out my laptop, playing a computer game. Frankie tugged lightly at her ponytail.
"Ouch!"she pouted, glancing at him, then turning her focus back on the computer. Our first tunjuk would be tomorrow night at eight in Sacramento. Maddi was eally excited about it, especially the fact that she would be with me the whole time.
We soon were in Sacramento. We had a few interviews, some along with Maddi. When I couldn't watch her, Selena would be, along with Aaron and Samuel, her and Nick's kids. We were also visiting the governor today. Maddi was jumping up and down hyperily when we reached the hotel. She was going to have a blast on this tour.
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(flashback)
"So they're doing the C-Section today?"Nick asked, looking over at me. I nodded.
"Yep. After that, they're taking the life support off,"I grimaced. My attitude had changed after talking to Joe. Nick put a hand on my shoulder.
"I'm sorry, Kevin."
"Yeah.."I answered half-heartedly. Mom looked over at me, worry covering her face. Nick's hand gripped tighter on my shoulder when a nurse came in with a clipboard.
"You'll need to sign here for the operation,"she berkata softly as she handed me the clipboard and a pen. I scanned through it quickly, then signed sloppily at the bottom. The nurse smiled sadly, thanking me as she walked out of the room. Soon morehospital staff were there to escort us to another waiting room.
I could feel my hati, tengah-tengah beating faster as we were led through the hallways. Joe reached over, holding my arm, and Dad put a hand on my back. But I didn't cry. Not yet.
(end of flashback)
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"Dad!"Maddi ran over and gave me a menanggung, bear hug. I laughed.
"You did great, Madds. Now go find Aunt Selena. I need to get onstage."
Joe, Nick, Frankie, and I had decided to do our lockdown earlier so we could see Maddi's first performace. She did wonderful, and the crowd loved her.
She gave me a Ciuman on the cheek and skipped off happily.
An jam later, we were done, and again greeted sejak an overly-hyper Maddi. Nick was the one who got attacked with the menanggung, bear hug this time.
"Guess what, guess what, guess what?!"she jumped up and down. Joe raised his eyebrows.
"Er...what?"
"Dan let me have Red Bull!"she exclaimed, then ran off to her dressing room. I sighed. Apparently Selena didn't see a problem in letting Dan, our manager, watch Maddi.
"She'll never get to sleep tonight."
"She's worse than Joe,"Nick laughed, getting a look from Joe. Nick shrugged.
"It's the truth."
We all got ready for the Meet and Greet, Maddi included in the event. She was so happy that people wanted her signatures, but I could tell after awhile her hand was getting tired. She surprised me sejak switching hands.
"You can write with both hands?"I chuckled.
"Yep,"she nodded, hugging a girl around her age and smiling for a picture. I shook my head.
Maddi never ceased to amaze me.
Chapter Seven; Goody Two Shoes Disney Girl
Five years later...
"Madison Grace Jonas! Get in here now!"I seethed. A fifteen tahun old Maddi jumped into the tour bus, arms crossed and sulking.
"Dad-"she started, but I cut her off.
"What were anda thinking?! Two words, Maddi: Disney contract!"
"I hate being a goody two shoes Disney girl, Dad! I hate it! I'm not even allowed to have a boyfriend, and I'm fifteen years old!"
I buried my face in my hands.
"Just...go to your bunk, Maddi. We'll talk about this later."
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Maddi's POV
I didn't see what Dad's big problem was. I mean, it was just a kiss. Yeah, it was with some guy I met earlier that day, but still. What did he expect me to do, sing all my life and never get married? It wasn't fair.
I buried my head in my bantal when I heard Dad opening the curtain.
"Maddi?"
"What?"I snapped, looking up at him, tears streaming down my face.
"We need to talk,"he sighed, sitting down on the edge of my bunk. I looked away from him stubbornly. He sighed again.
"Listen, Maddi, anda can't just Ciuman someone like that. anda don't even know him. anda could get hurt, sweetie."
"Whatever,"I rolled my eyes. This was ridiculous.
"Come on, Maddi, don't be like that."
"Be like what? Myself? Whatever. I'm sick and tired of not having any Friends because I'm in a state oe day, and another the next. It's not normal, and I hate it Dad. Just because anda decided not to tarikh doesn't mean I have to. Just because anda don't have anyone doesn't mean I don't want to have anyone!"I yelled.
He didn't say anything at all. I looked up at him, and immediately felt bad. He had a hurt look on his face. Dad just stood up and walked away.
"Crap,"I muttered to myself.
Chapter Eight; I Can't Let Go
Kevin's POV
I laid down on my bunk as the bus drove to our seterusnya concert. I was so...well, I had mixed feelings at the moment. Maddi knew better than to do what she did, and her comebacks, ouch. Joe and Nick both sensed my depression, but didn't say anything about it. I didn't know what to do with Maddi.
What I did do was ground her for a week from electronics. She wasn't too happy about that, but didn't get angry atau anything about it. I guess she was feeling guilty, and she should.
So, I was just sitting there, reminiscing.
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flashback
"Thanks again!"I smiled to the nine tahun old girl whose baju I had signed. She grinned, running off with her Friends and mother.
"Now, if I were a nine tahun old, I would be that happy about getting a signature from the Kevin Jonas too. But unfortunately, anda have a harder crowd to please."
I looked up, perplexed, to see a stunning blonde. All I could do was gape and blink. She chuckled; not giggled, chuckled, I noted. So she wasn't a completely crazy fan.
"I'm Lana. Lana Francis. Would anda like my signature? atau are anda just going to stand there?"she asked teasingly. I noted the glint of mischieviousness in her dark brown eyes, and snapped my mouth shut, nodding. Kevin Jonas was at a loss of words. That's a first. Joe looked over at me curiously as the girl signed a CD she was holding and handed it to me. It was one of our CDs.
"I thought it looked better with my signature,"she smirked, handed it to me. I took it, then found my voice.
"So, uh, anda live around here?"I asked as one of her Friends handed me a frisbee to sign...??
"Yep,"she answered simply.
"Cool,"I smiled, clearing my throat. She flipped her blonde hair over her shoulder. Not seductively; just like it was an old habit.
"Way cool, I know. I Cinta Chicago."
"Me too,"I agreed. I loved the Makanan here. She tilted her head to the side, studying me.
"Has anyone ever told anda you're...mesmerizing?"
"Uh, no,"I gulped, feeling color rush to my cheeks. I heard Joe laugh. Lana's eyes took him in for a moment, narrowed, then shot straight back to me.
"Oh. That's sad. Well, anda are."
"T-Thankyou?"I replied uncertaintly. She winked as the line moved on.
"Dude, why didn't anda get her number, anda idiot?"Joe asked from beside me. I frowned. Crap.
"Uh, I'll be right back," I said, ignoring Big Rob's protests. I looked everywhere for her, but she was gone. I sighed in defeat. The CD she gave me was still in my hands. Just then I thought to read her signature.
anda are mesmerizing.
Heart,
Lana Francis.
(657-1367)
I grinned to myself. I knew exactly who I was going to call that night.
end of flashback
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"Dude, is everything okay?"Joe asked a few days later. Maddi had been avoiding me, and my stress was obviously showing.
"Yeah...I'll be okay,"I shrugged. Joe rolled his eyes.
"Come here,"he said, guiding me to the meja, jadual where he sat across from me.
"Seriously, what's up?"he raised his eyebrows. I coughed.
"It's...Maddi."
"Obviously."
"Well, I caught her Ciuman some guy, and-"
"Wait, what?!"Joe exclaimed. I didn't repeat it; he had already heard.
"Just, well, we got into a fight, and she basically told me that I need to start dating again; just because I don't have anyone doesn't mean she shouldn't..."I sighed. Joe let out a low whistle.
"Whoa, that's hard."
"Yeah, I know,"I nodded.
"So...are you?"Joe asked after a moment. I looked at him, confused.
"Am I what?"
"Are anda going to tarikh again?"
"Of course not!"I exclaimed, standing up. Joe bit his lip.
"How come?"
"Because I'm in Cinta with Lana!"I yelled, then realized the words that came out of my mouth. Joe gave me a pointed look.
"You have to let go, Kevin. It's been 15 years. anda can't hold on forever."
I felt my eyes mist, and something hurt deep inside my chest.
"I can't. I'm sorry, Joe, I can't,"I whispered, then walked back to my bunk.
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flashback
I stared at the phone for a long while before I dialed her number.
"Hello?"I heard a feminine voice on the other line.
"Lana? It's Kevin, Kevin Jonas."
"Hmm, like it would be any other Kevin,"she retorted. I chuckled.
"So...what'd anda call for?"she asked curiously.
"Umm, I was wondering, we're still gonna be in town, would anda like to go out to eat atau something?"
"I'll have to check my schedule, I might be busy."
"Oh,"I said, and felt my face fall. She laughed.
"I'm just kidding, Kevin. Of course I'll have lunch with you. Pick me up tomorrow. 1205 Parker Ave,"she said, then hung up.
I stared at the phone for a long time after that. I was amazed sejak her confidence. She was so different, it was hard not to think about her that night. This girl was...simply amazing.
