Mystery Star

Ok all, was going to post this in a couple of days but i was rushed.

SS&LS if it's crap tough

Disclaimer: i don't own them shed do, you know that by now.

Part 1

"Miss Wade, who's the mystery singer?"

"Miss Wade, your mystery singer has hit number one, can you confirm they wish to keep there identity anonymous to the public?"

Nikki Wade, was widely known as a top music producer, the public respected Nikki, because she wasn't someone who had been bought up in a rich family and put through public schools to become hugely successful, she had come from your average family, and had a tough upbringing hitting it's lowest when she openly admitted she was gay at 16 years of age, her parents disowned her. Nikki had always, according to her parents had a musical talent, and after spending her late teen's to early twenty's doing bar tending in various clubs was keen to get involved in the music industry, firstly working for a large producing company, eventually meeting and talking to people very high up the food change, at the age of 23 her Grandmother died, she had loved her Grandmother who had stuck by her throughout coming out, to the point where she didn't speak to her own daughter, for having treating Nikki so cruelly, although Nikki's Grandmother wasn't rich, she certainly had a healthy bank balance and owned a beautiful home all of which she left to Nikki. Nikki with the help of the poeple she had met in the industry had slowy worked her way up to producer, when she became a producer she couldn't afford to use the top recording studios but soon became well known for being a fantastic producer with impressive results, It took Nikki 7 years to become a self made millionaire, she got with it a certain amount of fame, and now owned one of the most prostigious producing and recording company's, around. Nikki was well known for settling for nothing but the best when producing music, and for this you could expect to find extremly expensive equipment in the recording studio.

Now Nikki Wade was surrounded by reporters which, although came with the territory for being so well publically known, was alittle more demanding than usual, Nikki made her way through the crowd, with twomen from security, to a blacked out car. Having just been in a radio interview, they wanted to know the identity of her new star, Nikki hadn't said a thing to reporters, but stopped at the last question. Did her mystery singer want to remain anonymous to the public? she smiled.

"Yes they do" She said before being ushered into the waiting car, leaving behind a dozen reporters sribbling down the question and answer, not too impressed they hadn't got a name of the star, all the reporters knew was that it was a woman, why? because they had heard the song which had hit No1 and sent the music industry wild. They didn't know who it was, and no-one would tell them.

Nikki lay back on the couch listening to the radio, there was a buzz on nearly every channel about the possible identity of the woman who had had such a huge impact on the music world, a song was unheard of to be sung by an anonymous person, the only thing they knew was that Nikki Wade was the music producer, and her lips were sealed.

Well welcome, if you have just joined us, are main topic of conversation here at LK radio, is the song that has sent the whole music industry wild, and is referred to as 'the anonymous' " The radio presenter spoke with a buzzing voice, it was a huge story, he paused and laughed alittle before continuing. "Well i can't actually tell you anymore than that because it was confirmed the star would like to remain, anonymous" His voice drowned out and on came the song that Nikki knew very well, she had been pleasently suprised at how successful it had been in such a short space of time, the whole 'anonymous' thing she could do without, but otherwise she was very pleased.

Helen listened to the song play, she had wanted to be in the music industry and had little choice if she wanted to do as she wanted, but to go into radio. Helen just listened to the song singing along at the catchy chorus, they was no doubting that whoever this woman was she was very talented, she knew that if the whole 'who is it'? didn't stop the pressure would be on her to find out who it was, she'd more than likely have to start with Miss Wade, do a few interviews, speak to people that worked for her, maybe a visit to the recording studio, Helen felt a little tinge of excitment at the thought of going to Nikki Wade's studio, there was a little something about Nikki Wade which made her stand out a mile infront of other women, Helen believed the answers were in her eyes, so deep and passionate. Helen lost in her dreams, didn't see her boss standing at her door.

"Helen?" Helen looked up to see Simon standing infront of her, Simon was the head of the radio station, he was the boss although he couldn't work any radio equipment if his life depended on it, other than that the man was uncapable of human feelings and expected people to bend over backwards to help him out, with that he expected you to work a ridiculas amount of hours for very little in your wage packet to compensate you, for your time. It was just aswell she loved her job.

"Simon" She smiled sweetly.

He smiled back. "I trust you are aware of how high profile this song has become, reporters and such like are willing to pay a fortune for the artist's name" Helen knew what he was getting at, but asked him to go on. "I'd like you to find out please Helen, the sooner the better, i want to have it announced live on air" He left with his head held high, he was a smug bastard and Helen hated him, she sighed, pulling up a search engine on her computer quickly typing in Nikki Wade, she waited for hits, she was going to look for anything of interest on Miss Wade, and maybe pick up a nice Nikki screen saver while she was at it.

You asleep yet?

Part 2

Yvonne watched Nikki get increasingly stressed out, Nikki had come into the recording studio that morning to find more press than yesterday, and to top that had several requests for ineterviews/meetings, she was starting to regret her good idea. Yvonne watched Nikki snap at a few undeserved people, and was ready to tell Nikki when she had a minute, to calm down. Yvonne had worked for Nikki for the past two years since Nikki had bought this large warehouse and converted it to a fantastic up to date recording studio, she had offered Yvonne the job of running things, which involved the staff, and sorting the security, but most of all she was Nikki's friend, they had become firm friends over the two years, Nikki trusted Yvonne, and they had a mutual respect for eachother, they would look after eachother.

"ENOUGH!" Nikki shouted over the deafening music, a group of three very successful singers were relying on Nikki to record/produce and promote a record, that Nikki couldn't bare to listen to. On a good day Nikki would sit down and talk them through what to change, suggest ways of changing the background music the length etc, but today Yvonne knew Nikki was too harassed to do it. "That was bloody awful, how the bloody hell am i supposed to work with that. Now GO AWAY, and work on it, come back to me when it sounds like music, and stop wasting my time" Nikki threw her water bottle on the floor and walked from the room raking her hands through her hair in a frustrated gesture. Yvonne shook her head at Nikki's retreating back, Nikki couldn't keep doing that if she was having a tough time with reporters, no-one should get that sort of treatment from Nikki Wade they expected to see a very professional side to Nikki, luckily they knew the group well, and Yvonne didn't see it being a lasting problem maybe it would be awkward at the next meeting, but Nikki shouldn't be going out of her way to make a bad name for herself, she followed Nikki out of the room.

"Nikki, what the bloody hell are you playing at?" Yvonne shouted at her as she caught her up.

"What?" Nikki turned around with a mixture of anger and disbelief. "You heard them for christ sake, i'm a bloody music producer, i don't work miracles" Nikki had now stopped walking and looked hard into Yvonne's eyes her resolve never slipping, many people were terrified of Yvonne, but Nikki had never once backed down from her.

"Your being a bit unfair Nikki, love" Yvonne placed a calming hand on Nikki's shoulder, it had the oposite effect Nikki shrugged it off and went to walk away.

"I will not apologise because i was subjected to listening to the equivalment of a childs attempt at making a song, it was painful to listen to, and i won't have my name associated with it" Nikki started walking away her back to Yvonne.

"Your supposed to help them improve it, you silly cow. Your just becoming the arsehole producer you said you'd never be" Nikki stopped in her tracks and for a couple of seconds Yvonne thought Nikki was either going to turn around and give her a mouth full or sack her, but she didn't, she lifted her head from the floor looked up and carried on walking, choosing to ignore the remark. Yvonne couldn't help but feel relieved she had over stepped the mark a little and she was sure if she was anyone else she'd be collecting her things and then escorted from the building, Nikki didn't do confrontations.

"Helen" Simon smiled as he tapped on the door, it had been less than 24 hours but already he wanted information, how the hell was Helen supposed to get it anyway, she had heard on the radio that reporters were offering 10,000 pounds to anyone that gave them the correct name, and so far no-one had done so, either not very many people knew or they were extremly loyal to this woman.

"Good morning, Simon" Helen afforded a smile in his direction.

"Hmmm quite, i take it you have nothing for me?" He sounded a little annoyed, which just rattled Helen.

"Look, Simon i have been doing abit of research and asking about, no-one seems to know anything, you know reporters are offering 10,000 pounds to anyone who will tell them and still nothing, i don't think it's going to be easy" She watched him take in what she had said. "I'll speak to Miss Wade today, Sir" He nodded and smiled, he knew she'd come round and a pretty little thing like Helen was sure to get the information he wanted out of that Wade woman.

"Monica" Nikki said when she reached the woman's office, Monica was a friend of Nikki's who she had met through her Grandmother when she was alive, Monica pretty much became Nikki's surrogate mother, they cared deeply for one another, Monica handled most of the paper work for Nikki, infact she was a god send.

Monica looked up to see Nikki, and smiled, her smile quickly turned to a frown when she saw Nikki's annoyed face.

"Yes, Nikki?"

"Can you cancel any appointments i have today please, i'm not feeling too well" Nikki tried to smile, but the annoyance was still there, she couldn't believe what Yvonne had said to her, it had taken all her resolve to not take the bait, now all she wanted to do was go home and sulk on her own. Monica looked at Nikki suspiciously, and knew in an instant she was lying.

"Ok, Nikki you take care now"


Part 3 This one is going to have some mistakes please forgive me

Nikki had stayed away from the recording studio for the whole of the day it was now the next morning, she couldn't make up her mind whether to go in or not, let Yvonne deal with it. She knew really she should go in, maybe just refuse to talk to any interviewers, how hard could that be?.

Nikki looked at her watch as she parked up, it was 9 O'clock, not bad. Nikki didn't normally make it until half past, something that drove Yvonne mad, because she had to do everything. Should have come in at ten then, she deserves it after yesterday. Nikki thought to herself, smiling at the thought of leaving Yvonne waiting she went up to see Monica, she had to make sure she didn't arrange any interviews, Nikki didn't need this disruption in her life, and she knew she needed to at least apologise to Monica for yesterday, it wasn't often Nikki went home, ill or otherwise.

"Morning, Nikki" Monica seemed suprised to see her.

"Morning" Nikki smiled and sat down to make herself comfortable, she would make Yvonne sweat a bit.

"You feeling better then?" Monica asked, Nikki looked confused.

"Eh?" She asked taking a sip of her coffee, that Monica had immediately poured her.

"Yesterday, you weren't feeling well" Monica reminded her, with a smile. It was just as well Nikki was her own boss, she would never keep a job, she had never been very good at lying.

"Oh yeah" Nikki said shifting through some paper work. "Anyway" she said changing the subject. "Can you not agree to any interviews for me, please. I just can't be done with it, this whole anonymous thing was a stupid idea, worse than the truth even" She lit a cigarette, which Monica took off her, and put it out. "Hey!" Nikki complained, taking another one out of the packet, she knew Monica didn't approve of her smoking, but that wasn't in the least bit funny. Monica shook her head in disapproval, Nikki saw and sighed putting the cigarette back in the packet, she was planning on giving up anyway.

"So why has Yvonne been tiptoeing about here then?" Monica asked.

Nikki laughed. "Probably thinks she's in for a right bollocking"

"Why?"

"You don't need to worry about that, lets just say she over stepped the mark, but she had a point. The bloody reporters were doing my head in, i need to not let them get to me" Monica nodded her head in agreement. "So no interviews or meetings, ok?" Nikki asked not really expecting it to be a problem or Monica having a problem doing it.

"Actually, you kind of have one lined up" Monica looked away.

"What, who?" Nikki stood.

Monica searched for the piece of paper that she had written it all down on, all the time talking.

"You know, i'm not sure" Nikki rolled her eyes. "Sounded a nice woman actually, from the radio, would it be that bad to talk to her.......Ahh yes here we are" she squinted to read the note. "Miss Stewart"

"And it's arranged?" Nikki asked wanting to get the facts right.

Monica nodded. "Yes, you said to only cancel yesterday's appointments, i wasn't sure you would be in today, of course had you not turned up this morning i would have cancelled, do you want me to? cancel that is?" Monica spoke hurridly.

"When is it, tomorrow?" Nikki asked, not liking the idea of cancelling something again so soon.

"No it's this afternoon, at 2" Monica looked apologetic, Nikki just couldn't believe her own luck, this had been such a bad idea, she shouldn't have done any of this, and she shouldn't have come in today.

"Fine" Nikki took the note resigning herself to the fact that she would be meeting this, Miss Stewart woman, where she'd tell her, politely to mind her own business and send the message back to the rest of them, she wouldn't tell her anything, not a thing.

Part 4

Helen sat nervously awaiting Nikki's arrival, it was only ten to two, she was early, and couldn't believe how nervous she was. Waving away the attention of the waiter in the small coffee shop she had arranged to meet Nikki with Nikki's PA, she had thought it best to meet Nikki on neutral ground, not knowing if Nikki would take to kindly to be asked to go into the radio studio, Helen couldn't blame her if this was the case, the poor woman had not been left alone all week. Spotting a flawlessly dressed tall attractive brunette walking towards the coffee shop, she drew in a sharp breath what was it about Nikki that seemed to turn her to mush, a quick glance around the coffee shop told her it wasn't too crowded which would afford them the privacy they needed.

Nikki walked towards the coffee shop, getting admiring glances from passers by, some recognised her some didn't, but it was obvious it wasn't for who she was she was getting lustful glances, of both men and women, she was the kind of woman who would even attract the attention of straight women, not that they would follow it through, but they could appreciate how stunning she was. Nikki smiled at a few women, barely concealing her scowl as a man gave her the once over.

Nikki walked into the coffee shop with an air of confidence about her, that she didn't feel. It was one thing getting recognised and being in the paper now and then, but to be no less than stalked by the press for the past week, she was starting to crack under the pressure, she kept telling herself all she needed to do was refuse to say anything, surely it would all blow over in a couple of days?

Helen watched Nikki walk in and felt her stomach clench tightly, she couldn't even begin to understand what was happening here. Sure, it wasn't the first time she had felt attracted to women, she had of course been gay her entire adult life, it just threw her how much one person could have an effect on her, it scared her that she was maybe feeling too much, afterall she didn't know Nikki, at least not out of the papers. She looked down at the coffee she had ordered when she first entered the coffee shop, it was no doubt cold by now, then she glanced back up to Nikki who she could see was looking around the coffee shop for her meeting companion, Helen raised her hand still unsure whether to bolt or stay and face the music, deciding her fate she raised her hand to get Nikki's attention and waved her over with a smile, Nikki smiled back, but if you'd known her better you would have known the look, it was a look of mixed fear and excitement. Nikki had noticed Helen first, it was as if she was trained to spot gorgeous women upon entering a room, and today had been no different, she immediately scolded herself, she was here on business, and she wasn't going to meeting that woman, mind you she thought looking back to the woman in business attire. Don't push it Wade, you can't make excuses for checking her out, on the basis you believed she may have been you business meeting, you are obviously supposed to be meeting some stuck up cow from the radio. Nikki visibly gulped when she realised that was who she was meeting.

Nikki approached the table, there was an awkward silence as they both found thereselves lost in eachother, Nikki shook her head gently, running her hand through her hair, an embarassed smile on her face, she was disgusted when she realised her hands were shaking, how embarassed was she? and why? she didn't know this woman, No, what it was, was nerves.

"Afternoon, Nikki. What can i get you?" The waiter Helen had waved off just minutes earlier came from what seemed like nowhere to break the awkward silence up, both women inwardly sighed with relief.

"Geoff" Nikki said smiling, Helen watched barely containing a gasp as the old gent, Nikki had greeted took her into a tight hug.

"Long time no see, Nikki" He smiled.

"Too long, i'll just have my usual please, and whatever Miss Stewarts drinking" He nodded, smiled and left. Nikki sat on the other end of the table oposite Helen, they were at a reasonably private table.

"Nikki Wade" Nikki said extending her hand, obviously Helen knew who she was, but the silence was killing her, she had to say something she wanted something to break the ice, but they were barely given enough time for Helen to shake her hand and confirm she was Helen Stewart, before Geoff was back with their coffee's.

"So Nikki" He said passing the coffee to her. "How are you, i have heard no-end about you in the papers, making a bit of a name for yourself aren't you" He smiled, Nikki frowned slightly and Helen sensed immediately Nikki was very reluctant to talk about it, she was starting to regret even arranging the meeting, it looked as though it would turn out to be a waste of time, Nikki's frown soon disappeared, and she smiled, as far as Helen could tell it was very genuine.

"I'm ok thanks, obviously i'd be better without all this press attention, but i guess it comes with the territory. Never mind me how are you, things ticking over here ok are they?" It became obvious to Helen at this point they knew eachother quite well, and she started to feel a bit of a gooseberry, as if sensing her discomfort, Nikki turned to her.

"Helen, this is Geoff Tomkins the owner. Geoff this is Helen Stewart, she works within LK radio" Nikki politely introduced them and then told Geoff she'd speak to him later, she felt Helen was a little uncomfortable, and one thing Nikki knew was she didn't want to be the one responsible for making her so.

They had had there drinks talking about things in general never letting the conversation turn dangerous, they spoke about Helen's work, how she got into the radio, and in return Nikki told Helen about how she managed to start her own producing company. Helen, having done very thorough research beforehand, had infact known all of this, it didn't however take away the enjoyment she got from just hearing Nikki speak.

"So, do you mind if i ask, what is it you want Miss Stewart" Nikki went straight back to calling Helen, Miss Stewart after unconciously calling her Helen for the last few minutes, she had just realised that they hadn't infact talked about what she knew Helen wanted to and she did not. Helen looked slightly uncomfortable with the directness of the question and found interest for the second time that afternoon in a coffee mug.

"Helen" Nikki said again, the use of her first name, got Helen's attention straight away, she looked up into Nikki's deep brown eyes.

"Yes, sorry what did you say?" Nikki looked pointedly at her, she knew for a fact Helen knew exactly what she had said, a slight smile tugged at Nikki's lips and she felt she was fighting a loosing battle to not grin like an idiot, she thought Helen's blush looked adorable but far from her to leave a gorgeous woman in discomfort.

"You seem ok Helen, and i like you, so i'm going to help you out. You want to know who the singer is" It wasn't really a question, Nikki stopped for a reaction however, when Helen reluctantly nodded, she continued. "Then i'm going to save you some time, i'm not going to tell you and your not going to find out. I suggest you look into something or someone elses life and stop wasting your time, including now, mine" Nikki didn't speak with anger, she spoke calmly, at least she had hoped she did, Helen wasn't who she had expected to meet that afternoon, she had thought it would be easy, but it was a lot harder, she had spoken to Helen for a while and had liked her, then to have to let her down, hurt. Don't be so stupid Wade, she's only after a story, don't feel sorry, stick to the plan, say nothing. Nikki stood retrieved her jacket hurridly said goodbye, and left before she really did spill.

Part 4

Helen sat nervously awaiting Nikki's arrival, it was only ten to two, she was early, and couldn't believe how nervous she was. Waving away the attention of the waiter in the small coffee shop she had arranged to meet Nikki with Nikki's PA, she had thought it best to meet Nikki on neutral ground, not knowing if Nikki would take to kindly to be asked to go into the radio studio, Helen couldn't blame her if this was the case, the poor woman had not been left alone all week. Spotting a flawlessly dressed tall attractive brunette walking towards the coffee shop, she drew in a sharp breath what was it about Nikki that seemed to turn her to mush, a quick glance around the coffee shop told her it wasn't too crowded which would afford them the privacy they needed.

Nikki walked towards the coffee shop, getting admiring glances from passers by, some recognised her some didn't, but it was obvious it wasn't for who she was she was getting lustful glances, of both men and women, she was the kind of woman who would even attract the attention of straight women, not that they would follow it through, but they could appreciate how stunning she was. Nikki smiled at a few women, barely concealing her scowl as a man gave her the once over.

Nikki walked into the coffee shop with an air of confidence about her, that she didn't feel. It was one thing getting recognised and being in the paper now and then, but to be no less than stalked by the press for the past week, she was starting to crack under the pressure, she kept telling herself all she needed to do was refuse to say anything, surely it would all blow over in a couple of days?

Helen watched Nikki walk in and felt her stomach clench tightly, she couldn't even begin to understand what was happening here. Sure, it wasn't the first time she had felt attracted to women, she had of course been gay her entire adult life, it just threw her how much one person could have an effect on her, it scared her that she was maybe feeling too much, afterall she didn't know Nikki, at least not out of the papers. She looked down at the coffee she had ordered when she first entered the coffee shop, it was no doubt cold by now, then she glanced back up to Nikki who she could see was looking around the coffee shop for her meeting companion, Helen raised her hand still unsure whether to bolt or stay and face the music, deciding her fate she raised her hand to get Nikki's attention and waved her over with a smile, Nikki smiled back, but if you'd known her better you would have known the look, it was a look of mixed fear and excitement. Nikki had noticed Helen first, it was as if she was trained to spot gorgeous women upon entering a room, and today had been no different, she immediately scolded herself, she was here on business, and she wasn't going to meeting that woman, mind you she thought looking back to the woman in business attire. Don't push it Wade, you can't make excuses for checking her out, on the basis you believed she may have been you business meeting, you are obviously supposed to be meeting some stuck up cow from the radio. Nikki visibly gulped when she realised that was who she was meeting.

Nikki approached the table, there was an awkward silence as they both found thereselves lost in eachother, Nikki shook her head gently, running her hand through her hair, an embarassed smile on her face, she was disgusted when she realised her hands were shaking, how embarassed was she? and why? she didn't know this woman, No, what it was, was nerves.

"Afternoon, Nikki. What can i get you?" The waiter Helen had waved off just minutes earlier came from what seemed like nowhere to break the awkward silence up, both women inwardly sighed with relief.

"Geoff" Nikki said smiling, Helen watched barely containing a gasp as the old gent, Nikki had greeted took her into a tight hug.

"Long time no see, Nikki" He smiled.

"Too long, i'll just have my usual please, and whatever Miss Stewarts drinking" He nodded, smiled and left. Nikki sat on the other end of the table oposite Helen, they were at a reasonably private table.

"Nikki Wade" Nikki said extending her hand, obviously Helen knew who she was, but the silence was killing her, she had to say something she wanted something to break the ice, but they were barely given enough time for Helen to shake her hand and confirm she was Helen Stewart, before Geoff was back with their coffee's.

"So Nikki" He said passing the coffee to her. "How are you, i have heard no-end about you in the papers, making a bit of a name for yourself aren't you" He smiled, Nikki frowned slightly and Helen sensed immediately Nikki was very reluctant to talk about it, she was starting to regret even arranging the meeting, it looked as though it would turn out to be a waste of time, Nikki's frown soon disappeared, and she smiled, as far as Helen could tell it was very genuine.

"I'm ok thanks, obviously i'd be better without all this press attention, but i guess it comes with the territory. Never mind me how are you, things ticking over here ok are they?" It became obvious to Helen at this point they knew eachother quite well, and she started to feel a bit of a gooseberry, as if sensing her discomfort, Nikki turned to her.

"Helen, this is Geoff Tomkins the owner. Geoff this is Helen Stewart, she works within LK radio" Nikki politely introduced them and then told Geoff she'd speak to him later, she felt Helen was a little uncomfortable, and one thing Nikki knew was she didn't want to be the one responsible for making her so.

They had had there drinks talking about things in general never letting the conversation turn dangerous, they spoke about Helen's work, how she got into the radio, and in return Nikki told Helen about how she managed to start her own producing company. Helen, having done very thorough research beforehand, had infact known all of this, it didn't however take away the enjoyment she got from just hearing Nikki speak.

"So, do you mind if i ask, what is it you want Miss Stewart" Nikki went straight back to calling Helen, Miss Stewart after unconciously calling her Helen for the last few minutes, she had just realised that they hadn't infact talked about what she knew Helen wanted to and she did not. Helen looked slightly uncomfortable with the directness of the question and found interest for the second time that afternoon in a coffee mug.

"Helen" Nikki said again, the use of her first name, got Helen's attention straight away, she looked up into Nikki's deep brown eyes.

"Yes, sorry what did you say?" Nikki looked pointedly at her, she knew for a fact Helen knew exactly what she had said, a slight smile tugged at Nikki's lips and she felt she was fighting a loosing battle to not grin like an idiot, she thought Helen's blush looked adorable but far from her to leave a gorgeous woman in discomfort.

"You seem ok Helen, and i like you, so i'm going to help you out. You want to know who the singer is" It wasn't really a question, Nikki stopped for a reaction however, when Helen reluctantly nodded, she continued. "Then i'm going to save you some time, i'm not going to tell you and your not going to find out. I suggest you look into something or someone elses life and stop wasting your time, including now, mine" Nikki didn't speak with anger, she spoke calmly, at least she had hoped she did, Helen wasn't who she had expected to meet that afternoon, she had thought it would be easy, but it was a lot harder, she had spoken to Helen for a while and had liked her, then to have to let her down, hurt. Don't be so stupid Wade, she's only after a story, don't feel sorry, stick to the plan, say nothing. Nikki stood retrieved her jacket hurridly said goodbye, and left before she really did spill.

Part 5

It had been 3 days since, Helen and Nikki's meeting, since then not much had changed, Nikki still had the press following her almost 24/7 and Helen was still getting alot of pressure of her boss to come up with the goods. Nikki was starting to feel extremly annoyed that she was unable to live her life normally, it grated on her nerves that every corner she turned there was a high chance some or other reporter would be there waiting with a camera and microphone in hand, it was taking all her control to hold back her temper, to bite her tongue, and tell herself they were only doing their jobs, no reason for a severe beating with their own cameras.

Feeling totally pissed off, from a run in she'd just had with a reporter, Nikki stomped into the recording studio, Yvonne watched on in concern.

"Yvonne" Nikki shouted loud enough for anyone in there to hear.

"Yeah?"

"Can you clear everyone out please, i want this place empty in 10 minutes" Everyone that was working started to get the message and started to quietly pack equipment away, there were a few protests but none directly to Nikki, Yvonne looked to Nikki and to the people that were being ordered to leave.

"But..."

"No buts Yvonne, i've asked you to do something, now do it!" Without further protesting, Yvonne started rounding everyone up, she didn't agree with how Nikki was running things lately but it wasn't her place to say.

"Right you lot, you heard her, lets be going" She clapped her hands together, looking briefly to Nikki, who had by now sat in the corner, near abandoned equipment. When they were alone, Yvonne went to have a word.

"Nikki love, are you ok?" She said sitting next to Nikki, who's face was red with undisguised anger.

"Fine, Von" Nikki replied, her fists clenching by her knees, which were pulled upto her chest, from a distance she would've looked like a small child crying, but she was far from crying.

"Your clearly not fine, what happened?" She asked gently, Nikki looked up and glared at her, Yvonne backed off putting her hands up in defense.

"Ok ok some of us just care about you Nikki, you got to stop all this shit" She could tell Nikki was about to say something. "I know i shouldn't say anything after last time Nikki, but as a friend, i got to warn you what you have been doing since the press has been sniffing around is professional suicide. Your getting the reputation for a producer who, doesn't help those who need it, instead you tell them to stop wasting your time, you fail to make appointments, often asking poor Monica to cancel on your behalf, and you keep shutting this place" She waved her hands around the room as if to prove her point. "You can't keep doing it Nik, how long before people get fed up, and go elsewhere?" Yvonne left the question unanswered for they both knew it would be very soon, the people they worked with were rich, famous, and sometimes stuck up with it, they wouldn't stand for a producer not up to their standard, a standard, Nikki had never once fell below. Nikki nodded her head to Yvonne's speach although it was to herself, Yvonne had already left, little did Nikki know someone else was watching her with interest.

Nikki only raised her eyes briefly, making sure Yvonne was infact gone, therefore failing to notice the person that had walked in, they stood silently watching Nikki, Nikki threw her head back until it made contact with the wall a small bang was heard and a deep sigh, just as the observer was about to announce their presence they watched with interest as Nikki stretched a shaky hand to a guitar left near-by, without warning after a couple of deep breaths from Nikki she started playing it flawlessly, she played fast venting her built up anger, the observer gasped, no-one knew Nikki could play any instruments, infact in one interview with Nikki Wade, when asked about whether she had a musical talent she had answered in the negative laughing it off as though it was riduclas to even think so, she had said she had an ear for what was right and wrong, the difference between fantastic music and just ok, which made her a great producer, what the person was seeing now was quite the oposite. Nikki looked down at her hands with concentration, a frown across her forehead, she looked absolutely adorable.

Suddenly Nikki stopped and the only sound that could be heard was her heavy breathing, the silence was so quiet it was almost deafening, re-adjusting the guitar Nikki started playing at a much more steady pace, it sounded practiced rehearsed even, it was calm and simply took the observers breath away. Then she started to sing a song, that she had obviously written herself because the observer hadn't heard it before, and the one thing that made it truly amazing was the voice in which was recognised, it was Nikki.

My life is brilliant.

My life is brilliant.
My love is pure.
I saw an angel.
Of that I'm sure.
She smiled at me the other day.
That i find hard to return.
But I won't lose no sleep on that,
'Cause I've got a plan.

You're beautiful. You're beautiful.
You're beautiful, it's true.
I saw your face in a crowded place,
And I don't know what to do,
'Cause I'll never be with you.

Yeah, she caught my eye,
As we walked on by.
She could see from my face that I was,
Flying high.
And I don't think that I'll see her again,
But we shared a moment that will last till the end.

You're beautiful. You're beautiful.
You're beautiful, it's true.
I saw your face in a crowded place,
And I don't know what to do,
'Cause I'll never be with you.

You're beautiful. You're beautiful.
You're beautiful, it's true.
There must be an angel with a smile on her face,
When she thought up that I should be with you.
But it's time to face the truth,
I will never be with you.

Lyrcs, of James Blunt you're beautiful, slightly edited in the first section to fit in with story.

When the song finished without looking up Nikki placed the guitar down.

"Hi Helen, how long you been there?" When she looked up she found herself wanted to smile against better instincts, this was what Helen had wanted to know, would she now tell, would her secret be out now, what made her want to smile was Helen's face it was shock, Nikki could only hope it was either at finding out Nikki was the anonymous singer or that she had known she was there, not that she had realised the song was infact about her.

"How did y..."

"I sensed you were near" Nikki answered simply.

Part 6

There was a silence that hung in the air, neither knew what to say, if Helen were honest she was still in a little shock, she couldn't believe Nikki was the singer, she had had no idea, she was so good. Now what was Helen supposed to do? it was her job to let them know at the radio station, for some reason she felt that would be a big mistake, she couldn't explain, but she felt more loyal to Nikki than that, one thing she did want to know though, was why the secret?

"Why don't you just leave" Nikki said standing up and brushing down her todays casual wear, jeans and shirt. Helen found herself watching the movement, not failing to notice Nikki in figure hugging jeans that she looked nothing short of amazing in.
Helen shook her head gently, as much to rid her head of the thoughts that Nikki was provoking, aswell as shaking her head in the negative, no she wouldn't just leave.

"No, i won't" Helen said sitting herself down, leaving Nikki little choice but to join her. "That song, i've not heard it before, did you write it?" Helen asked, although she was almost certain she had, after all she worked for the radio, if it were a song already, she would surely have heard it.

"Yeah" Nikki answered, finding an interest in her hands, and diverting her eyes.

"Nikki, it was brilliant, why the whole mystery singer, why don't you want to be known as the singer, your amazing" Helen felt her cheeks redden, had she really just told Nikki she was amazing, fortunately for her Nikki was still stubbornly looking away from her, and inspecting her hands.

For a while Nikki didn't answer, Helen wondered whether she was actually going to. Nikki looked deep in thought, the frown was firmly back in place, she spoke quietly at first.

"You don't understand, Helen. What the reporters do to their lives, singers don't have a life, they get watched everywhere they go, every person they meet, every week reporters tell the whole country what they get upto in their personal lives, it's an invasion of their privacy, i wanted to avoid that" Nikki bought her eyes upto Helen's, she could see she was listening intently, Nikki understood why most people would find it difficult to understand, turning away from stardom, but she had been there with so many singers, many of whom had wanted to be famous, and then they had realised how much it controlled their lives, she didn't want that.

"Nikki, your well known anyway. You have reporters wanting stories all the time, why is it any different?"

"It's not the same, Helen. They don't set up camp outside my house, or wait at airports if they hear i'm flying in, i don't have to deal with people selling stories to the press, because the press and public aren't that interested in me"

"Well they are now"

Nikki gave a small smile. "I know, my mistake. I thought it'd die down, i mean if the singer had been known, they wouldn't have even spoke about it, well they would if they had known it was me, and the story may have died down by now, but what about my life, what about when i meet with friends, walk out of somewhere drunk, am i going to end up in the paper. I'm not looking for that sort of publicity Helen, i just wanted to record my own song"

"I understand, so what about that song?"

"What about it?" Nikki asked.

"Are you going to record it, you never know you might kick yourself off, of the number one spot" She laughed, and even Nikki managed a smile. "I won't say anything" Helen said seriously, in a tone which made Nikki look up and listen. "I promise, i won't say anything, that doesn't mean i don't think you should though, i'll see you around Nikki" Helen stood and left, leaving Nikki with her parting words, still ringing in her head.

Nikki sat alone in the awfully silent recording studio, wishing she hadn't sent everyone home, it was the quiet she didn't need, quietness meant she'd undoubtedly think, think about her life and what she'd come to know was missing from it, Helen Stewarts words, rolled around her head, causing a headache, a gentle reminder all was not well. Helen had pretty much come in and voiced all Nikki's thoughts, Nikki knew she had probably enough protential to live very comfortably from singing, but she did now, she asked herself what the difference was? the answer was how singing made her feel, she lost herself in the song the tone the music, real life ceased to exist. Nikki's big question was did she want to be known as a singer? to be honest, she didn't know.

Nikki sighed, sometimes she even regretted where her life had taken her, sure she had become sucessful, most would consider hers the perfect life. Most people believed that if you have money you have the perfect life, if anything, for Nikki it had been the opposite, money had ruled her life. She had had a series of girlfriends, many not too serious, but one or two that had found their way to Nikki's heart, but as it turned out it wasn't exactly Nikki's heart they were after, it was the money. Nikki wasn't stupid, she hadn't fallen for it for long, in her last relationship it had been thanks to Yvonne that she had opened her eyes, she didn't know what was worse, someone she loved that were only with her for her money, or the feeling deep inside her, that she'd never be loved the same way in return.

Pushing herself up from the hard floor, Nikki stretched her arms out and yawned, she hadn't slept as much as she'd have liked in recent nights, maybe if this all came out, she could at least relax. With a well practiced routine, she turned all that needed to be, off. Grabbed her phone, and keys and in a sleep like state locked everything up, tomorrow would be another day, right now she needed a glass of wine and a hot bath, where she would read a new book she had been planning to for a few days, she wouldn't let the press get to her, hell whats the worst that could happen? they could identify her, shrugging, she right then couldn't care less.

Part 7


After a restless night spent tossing and turning, Helen had finally given up trying to sleep and got dressed and ready for work. It had been one thing to be set the task of finding out who the singer was, giving the job of trying to get Nikki to open up to her, but it was another to keep that information to herself, but still she felt she had to. Nikki had been in her thoughts more than she'd like to admit recently, from a professional point of view and now non-professional, for some reason she found it impossible to shake thoughts of the atrractive brunette from her head.

Now stuck in traffic on the way to work a full hour early, which in it's self was a first, she tapped her fingers on the steering wheel impatiently. Her thoughts turned to work and what if anything she was going to tell her boss, maybe, she thought, she should find something else of interest, to lose that of the mystery singer. Helen sighed heavily, why did she feel the need to jeopardize her job for a woman she barely knew. because she's goreous, and you know it. She thought angrily, it annoyed her that she was out of control when it came to Nikki, she wasn't even sure it had been her talking to Nikki 3 days ago, when she had promised Nikki she wouldn't say anything, but she had, and she had been unable to stop herself.

Not particularly enjoying her early morning thoughts, she turned her in car radio on, it as expected came straight on to her radio station, out of habit Helen would always tune into that radio station, why? she never knew, once she had left work she didn't want any reminder of the place, but today crawling along the jam packed streets, she listened to her work collegues who wished the many listeners a good morning. Biting her lip from screaming in frustration at the lack of movement, she listened not with too much interest to this mornings brief weather forecast, after what was probably the longest brief forecast ever! a song started playing which grabbed Helen's interest once more, it was Nikki's song that still remained number one. Helen had been both pleased and obviously relieved when the public and reporters had seemed to loose some interest in the un-known singer, and although the odd comment was still spoken on the radio, it seemed reporters and such like had backed off considerably.

Pulling up into work, she felt hugely grateful she had been running so early a quick check of her watch told her it was ten to, still a hell of a lot earlier than she normally was, normally managing to arrive ten to fifteen minutes late without so much as a glance from anyone anymore at her obvious lateness, she smiled at the thought of actually having walked in a full hour early, maybe just aswell she had got held up, still a stroke of luck she thought, that she had been up all night, at least some good had come of it.

"Helen" Simon smiled, resisting the urge to ask her as soon as she had walked in to the room whether she had any information for him, his eagerness in this particular piece of information had suprised Helen, especially since the press had layed off a little in the last couple of days, Simon had been a little more persistant. Helen took her seat offering a smile at the boss that made her feel like doing anything but, she typed in her passwrd to log in on her computer.

"Simon" She greeted, fighting the growing urge to tell him to go away and work, like she had every morning this week, even though she doubted he was capable of doing anything other than ordering other people about.

"So how are you?" He asked, taking some effort to not ask the main question that had sprung into his head as he had seen her enter the office area.

"Simon" She spoke tetchily, one thing she didn't want was Simon annoying her first thing in the morning, especially not having had a good nights sleep. "Look, lets not skip around what you really want to know, you know if i find anything out you'll be the first to know, ok? But right now i have more important things to be doing, than looking for some singer's name we might never find out, come on for gods sake the press are backing off, that must tell you they have given up hope, at least for now" She stood really in need of a coffee, and fast. "And i'm absolutely bloody marvelous, thanks for asking" Her tone suggesting she wasn't at all happy with the constant reminder to get on and find things out, Simon immediately retreated, with the feeling he may have picked a bad time to aproach the woman.

Sitting alone in the coffee shop she had met with Nikki a week previously, Helen felt mildly guitly for having such ago at her boss, and having walked out so easily even though they had suffient coffee facilities within her work. This coffee shop was only around the corner, and happened to be a favourite of hers. She smiled at the waiter, or rather owner that she vaguely remembered being called Geoff, and with an award winning smile she was always ready to use, ordered her usual black coffee, with one sugar.

Placing the coffee infront of Helen, he looked at her a moment longer until it registered why she looked so familiar.

"Ahh, it's Helen, isn't it?" His face suddenly lit into a genuine smile, at having remembered her.

"Yes it is, it's nice to see you again, Geoff" This made him smile again, gesturing to the available seat, he asked if he could join her, Helen waved for him to go ahead.

"So, no Nikki today?" He asked looking around briefly, and then back to Helen, who he found also looking around.

"What? oh no, sorry" She shook her head, realising she was making a complete fool of herself. "I mean, we were just meeting here last week, i've only seen her the once since" She explained.

"Oh, i'm sorry lass, i thought the two of you were friends" He apologised feeling a little silly now for interupting at all, he went to stand but Helen hurridly told him not to leave on her account, she was keen to know more about Geoff and how he knew Nikki. Who are you kidding Stewart, it's Nikki you want to know more about.

"No, it's ok honestly, it's just i hadn't met her in person until last week, do you mind my asking, how it is you know Nikki?" She asked her cheeks reddening, feeling like she was sticking her nose into something that didn't concern her. If Geoff wondered why the interest, his face gave nothing away, he turned to look at her and smiled a little.

"Well apart from the obvious, i've known Nikki for years. She used to come in here before she became famous, me and my late wife immediately took to Nikki, we all became very good friends" He spoke with some sadness at the mention of his late wife, and there was a moment where Helen felt bad for bringing it up.

"I'm sorry" She said, her voice so genuine, that Geoff could feel tears sting the backs of his eyes, he managed a reassuring smile.

"It's ok lass, it was a long time ago. Barbara was very taken to Nikki, she spoke of her as the daughter she had always wanted, even told Nikki, if she had had a daughter she would have been very proud for her to be like Nikki" A tear slipped sown his cheek, which he quickly wiped away. "When we met Nikki, she was still very much upset with how badly her parents had treated her, except for her gran, Nikki had never been excepted for being gay, when telling someone it always came with such negative responses. Barbara and I, never gave it much thought, we couldn't help like Nikki very much for who she is, Nikki cried when Barbara told her if she had had a daughter she would have wished she would have been like Nikki, i would say it was the first time Nikki had been excepted for who she was" By now the old man had let a couple more tears slip down his wrinkly face, he wiped them away and putting aside how sad talking about his wife made him feel, he smiled again. "Ahh look at me, getting all upset infront of you, i only came over to say hello" He laughed and Helen smiled, giving his hand a squeeze as he stood to leave.

"Everything ok?" A by now familiar voice spoke behind Helen, as she watched the old man walk away from her, she turned to see Nikki standing there, a newspaper under her arm, and a smile almost in place which was somewhat covered by the concern in her eyes, having seen Geoff was upset.

"Nikki" Helen spoke with suprise in her voice, that last person she had expected to bump into when she was bunking of work was Nikki Wade. She wasn't sure what had taken her breath away more, the sight of Nikki in a fitted designer suit, or Nikki's rather casual greeting and how much she had liked to hear it, so normal, like they had been meeting for a coffee every day for years.

Nikki raised her eyebrows a little at the none to subtle once over she was being given, a smile winning she asked again in a slightly amused voice. "Everything ok?" She smiled, she really did want to know whether everything was ok? she didn't like to see Geoff upset, but the look on Helen's face was priceless.

Helen managed a nodd, trying her best to speak. "Yeah" She cleared her throat, as much to give herself a few seconds to think of an answer, than anything else. "Yes, he was just telling me about his late wife, Barbara" Helen didn't fail to notice the immediate sadness in Nikki's eyes, before she nodded, with a sigh.

"Oh, right" She sat down, without asking Helen if she wanted company and chucked the newspaper down.

"Will he be alright?" Helen questioned, feeling concern for the man who she had only briefly spoken to, but immediately liked.

Nikki smiled at Helen's concern, she could tell it was genuine. "Yeah, he will be, it's best to leave him for a few minutes though" Helen watched Nikki without looking away, as Nikki casually opened her morning paper and started to read. Nikki smiled a little behind it knowing full well Helen was watching her, and for once not minding.

The ring of Nikki's mobile rang around the coffee shop, everyone looked around to see her and those that hadn't yet recognised her did, some looked away some weren't so discrete. Helen glanced to Nikki, who fumbled in her jacket pocket for the mobile, eventually pulling in out and with a quick glance at the display and a frown she answered it.

"Hello?" She said at a normal voice level not wanting to disturb people anymore than she had already, as she listened her face seemed to darken.

"Trisha?" She asked not believing it was, who it sounded like. Helen too frowned recognising the name as one of Nikki's previous lovers, her last, if Helen remembered rightly. Helen found herself wondering whether it was the same woman, she tried her best to ignore the jealous feeling she was starting to feel, at the thought.

Part 8


Helen watched Nikki's face as it turned from a slightly suprised and annoyed expression to total outrage, she was clearly not very happy with Trisha right now, Helen although felt relieved that Nikki didn't seem to be on good terms with her, also felt apprehensive about what was being said, she'd never seen Nikki looking quite so angry.

Nikki stood and paced a little infront of the table, suddenly stopping and taking a quick glance at Helen, she looked away just as quickly almost embarassed for Helen to see her so annoyed.

"What!!??" Nikki almost spat down the phone, loosing control over her temper her voice was slightly raised, the few people still drinking in the small coffee shop, looked on, and looked to be enjoying the show. Nikki looked around and glared at the few that were looking at her, she sat back down and lowered her voice, waving away Geoff who had come over to check everything was ok.

"How the fuck did you get this number?" Nikki hissed into the phone, a couple of seconds where Nikki seemed to just shake her head, she spoke again. "What do you want?" The words sounded almost like she was giving in, but her face much to Helen's relief, spoke differently. "Absolutley no chance, piss off Trisha" a few more seconds where Helen swore she could hear the yelling on the other end, "I don't care" Nikki finally spoke and flipped her mobile shut, chucking it on the table.

"What happened?" Helen asked, Nikki looked at her suspiciously as though weighing up whether she could trust Helen, Helen saw this and immediately looked hurt.

"Everything ok, here?" Geoff asked, as he approached the back of Helen's chair.

"I'm sure everythings just fine, i'm leaving" Helen tried to control her sudden temper, but her tone of voice gave her away, with that she gave Nikki a small glare as she stood gathered her jacket and left.

"Everythi....." Geoff went on to say, Nikki held her hand up to stop him.

"Everything's fine" She snapped, bringing her hand upto her head, "I'm sorry" She apologised, feeling bad for taking it out on Geoff. "I'm really sorry,.....Shit" She threw her fist down on the table and grabbing her coat following the path Helen had taken, straight out of the door without a goodbye.

Nikki spotted Helen as soon as she stepped out side, running to catch up to the furious little woman, she grabbed her arm to stop her from walking away. "Helen, wait!" She spoke a little breathlessly, turning Helen around she was suprised to see the small woman in tears, Helen wiped them away quickly, and tried to carry on walking in the oposite direction. Nikki let her start walking away, almost stunned that Helen was that upset by what had happened, the last thing she had expected was to see Helen crying, snapping herself out of it she knew she couldn't leave it like this, she again caught up to Helen and fell into stride with her, Helen was walking as quickly as she could but Nikki kept up with ease, being that much taller than Helen.

"What do you want?" Helen asked, refusing to look at her. Nikki spotted an alley they were approaching and taking Helen arm gently pulled her to one side, Helen seemed suprised at first but instantly knew Nikki was just looking for some privacy, with a sigh she allowed Nikki to walk them a little into the alley way. Nikki let go of Helen and looked at her tear streaked face, feeling like a complete shit for being the cause of that, Nikki slowly moved her hands upto Helen's face and wiped them away, leaning her head forward and down, which was a little closer now to Helen's, Helen took the first move and bought her hand up to Nikki's hair gently running her fingers up and down Nikki's neck lightly caressing and playing with the small soft curls at the base of her neck. Nikki held in an automatic moan to the delicate touch, and slowly bought her head up so her eyes met Helen's. "I'm sorry" She whispered. Helen nodded a little, but her eyes remained focused completely on Nikki's big brown eyes that looked sadly back at her, without really thinking about anything, Helen closed the tiny gap between hers and Nikki's lips and they met together in a slow explorative kiss, they both pulled away at the same time after just a few seconds, both looked equally suprised, but neither pulled away completely. They looked into eachothers eyes, all questions were unspoken, but answered. Helen ran her hands through Nikki's hair again, bringing her head back down so their lips met once more.

"We should probably move" Nikki said pulling away from the kiss after a couple of minutes, as another pedestrian walked on past them, Helen opened her heavy lidded eyes, and looked to Nikki with a small smile, Nikki returned it feeling relieved that Helen wasn't angry about what had just happened, she took her hand in her own and led her out of the alley way, and towards her car which she had parked just down the road.

"Shit" Helen suddenly swore, as they reached Nikki's car together.

"Whats wrong?" Nikki asked, looking concerened, maybe overly so.

"I'm meant to be at work, i only left to get a coffee" Helen said looking at her watch, she silently cursed herself for getting carried away she'd left the office over an hour ago, Nikki lightly laughed, stopping at Helen's glare.

"It's not funny" Helen stated, getting into Nikki's car.

"I know it's not, you just had me a bit worried there" Nikki said, once she had sat into the drivers seat. Helen looked at Nikki for a couple of seconds suddenly realising what she was getting at she leaned over to Nikki gently placing a kiss on her lips.

"No, just worried about loosing my job, now are you going to get me there in record speed or do i have to walk" Nikki smiled, as she started the car.

"Nikki?"

"Hmm?"

"What did Trisha say?" Helen asked, hesitantly.

Nikki sighed, having only just remembered. "Oh nothing much, she's just a bit shy on cash, thinks i'll help her out" Nikki spoke bitterly.

Helen didn't look too convinced that was all, but Nikki didn't see because she was concerntrating on the road. Nikki sensed Helen's sudden change of mood though, she glanced at Helen to see her looking straight back at her, Nikki once again turned to the road, letting out an audible sigh, she spoke again. "What?" Nikki said drawing the word out, for some reason she knew Helen didn't believe her.

"You know what" Helen said, looking away again furious that Nikki didn't seem to trust her, Nikki pulled over and turned to Helen.

"Helen" Nikki said turning her face to look at her. "She knows ok?" At Helen's slightly confused look. "She knows it's me, ok? Trisha only gives a shit about money, and rather than getting about ten grand from the press for my name, she figures she can get a few hundred of me, on the condition she keeps her mouth shut"

"A few hundred?" Helen looked suprised.

"Yeah, thousand" Nikki looked away, never one to like discussing money, even Trisha had no idea how much she had, only that she could afford half a million comfortably.

"How much?" Helen gasped, she knew Nikki had money but she wouldn't have thought Nikki could afford to give that sort of sum away. Nikki just looked back to Helen and nodded slightly, answering her question, before turning the key in the ignition and driving on.

Part 9


Nikki slammed her hand down on the table making Geoff jump, he tried to calm her down but the most he got was his hands shrugged off her shoulder, he grabbed the newspaper to read it again.

Nikki Wade the Mystery Singer?? The headlines ran, he flicked to the relevant page to continue to read, giving Nikki a slightly concerned look before doing so.

Is Nikki Wade, famous music producer the voice of our mystery singer? It was suggested today from an anonymous informer, that the mystery star, is infact Nikki Wade. The information is believed to have come from someone working within LK radio, and is thought to be true.

It was just one month ago that the one and only song yet to be released by the secret singer, was first heard. The Song was a big seller topping the current highest sales in the first two weeks, it has since remained number one, now are question is, is Nikki Wade the name to go with the voice?

People at Wade's producers have declined to comment....

Geoff folded the paper with a sigh, it had gone on to talk about Nikki's life and fame, and her suspected 'musical background' He could see Nikki was more hurt than angry, he had known it would only be a matter of time before it all came out, and he supposed Nikki must have thought the same.

"Nikki, is it really that bad, i mean...you must have thought they would find out eventually" He said softly, passing a drink to Nikki. She had turned up unannounced earlier than normal, he hadn't even opened the cafe, he had noticed something was wrong almost straight away, and Nikki was a lot more important than opening up right now.

Nikki nodded to what he'd said as she took a sip of her coffee, smiling when she noted it was just as good as the stuff in the cafe, and just how she liked it.

"I don't know Geoff, i guess i knew it was a possibilty, but i also thought the interest in it all would die down, i guess it did" She took another sip of her drink, gently blowing on it to cool it down. "I can't believe she'd do this to me" She said, feeling tears slowy build up in her eyes, but she didn't let them fall she blinked them back and her saddness was replaced with a sudden anger.

"Who, Trish?" Geoff pushed gently, Nikki looked at him shocked that he'd even suspect her, he gave her a little smile, and she almost felt herself smile with him, the old bugger didn't miss a thing.

"No, Helen!" She spat the name out and brought a hand up to cover her face, talking to Geoff always made her reveal more than she intended to, he was just one of those people you instantly felt comfortable talking to.

"Helen?" He failed to hide the suprise in his voice.

Nikki picked up the paper and read it aloud. "The information is believed to have come from someone working within LK radio" She threw it back down again. "Who else is it going to be?" She asked although not really looking for an answer, it had to be Helen. Geoff looked a little bit lost for words, gaining a bitter smile from Nikki, he couldn't come up with a reasonable explanation, and neither could she.

"And if it is Helen?" Geoff pushed, almost believing it was Helen now himself, although she was the last person he'd have thought would sell it to the papers. He had seen the way she looked at Nikki. He knew there must be a little more to Nikki's upset, he generally felt sad that Helen may have done, what she had, but Nikki looked like she had been betrayed by the only person in the world, she hadn't expected to. She looked the most upset he had seen her since Barbara had died.

"I don't know i thought i could trust her" Her voice cracked slightly as she tried hard to remain her composure. "She promised me, and i believed her." She turned away slightly and looked out of the window, they were in the apartment above the cafe and it afforded her a nice view of the grey sky, it looked miserable and she felt it. "I'm such an idiot" She whispered, before she knew it Geoff had wrapped his arms around her, she buried her face into his shoulder as she had done so many times before when she had been young and upset over her first girlfriends.

"Come on Nikki, we don't know she told anyone. Let's not jump to conclusions, i'm sure there is a perfectly reasonable explanation" He hugged her until he felt her reluctantly nodd against his shoulder. "Now the best thing you can do is go out there like your normally do, and not let any of this" He gestured to the newspaper. "Get to you" They pulled away from eachother and both smiled, Nikki stood up and collected her abandoned brief case, before mouthing 'thank you' Geoff smiled and as he heard her reach the outer door he called to her.

"Nikki?"

"Yeah" She yelled back.

"No comment" He said, he smiled as he heard her laugh as she left, things would be ok, he just knew it.

Part 10


"Nikki!!" Seemed to be called from most directions as Nikki approached the studio, in with the shouts a few Miss Wade's coud be heard, Nikki tried to block out all the questions that were fired at her, as she pushed her way through to the safety of indoors, where her loyal security were on hand to keep things under control,

"Nikki it's been said that you are the mystery singer, is this true"

"Miss Wade, you have a fantastic voice may i ask why you...."

"Thats enough let her threw please, mate" Instructed Barry one of Nikki's security men, as a few people hassled her while preventing her getting threw them all, they backed away at the warning tone that could be heard in his voice, at 6ft 4 and a hefty but muscular 21 stone he wasn't someone to mess with. Nikki walked threw the rest with ease giving Barry a very grateful smile on her way in, he put a protective hand on the small of her back and followed her inside.

"Thanks" Nikki let out a shaky breath. Barry smiled a genuine smile at Nikki.

"No problem, if you have any more trouble give us a shout" Nikki mumbled a yes she would, as she approached Yvonne.

"Hi love" Yvonne surprised both Nikki and herself by pulling her friend into a hug, Nikki looked tired and unwell.

"Hi" Nikki pulled away and smiled that she was ok when Yvonne asked, Yvonne wasn't fooled but let the matter drop, for now.

They didn't have a very busy morning, both knew it was down to the attention they were drawing from the press right now, only the new wanna be stars were turning up as planned, the more famous and well known ones were staying away.

"How are you Nikki?" Yvonne asked softly after a few hours, they were running out of things to do and Nikki seemed to be constantly sighing and running her hands through her hair, obviously miles away anyway.

"I'm fine" Nikki tried not to snap, but she couldn't help but hate people keep asking her.

"Keep telling yourself that" Replied Yvonne clearly annoyed that Nikki kept snapping at her, she just cared. Yvonne stood up moved away and found things to keep her busy. They were still in the same room an hour later the silence was deafening, both were uncomfortable to the point where they didn't want to say anything for it had been so long since they had spoke.

"I'm sorry Von" Nikki suddenly said, Yvonne looked up suprised. "I'm really sorry ok, it's just.."

"Just what?"

"I just wish i'd never started any of this, it's doing my head in and then theres Helen.." Nikki's mind drifted back to Helen, had she been wrong to accuse so quickly, well not accuse, but assume?

Yvonne shook her head getting more and more frustrated with the whole situation herself, she was sick of seeing Nikki moping about. "Your such a twat Nikki" Yvonne spoke her mind, she hadn't meant to speak it aloud, not after last time. But she didn't regret saying it at all. Nikki looked up ready to argue back, but she didn't find anything in Yvonne's eyes that suggested she wanted a fight, just saddness. "Why do you do it?" Yvonne asked into the quietness. "You make things to difficult, before you say anything Nikki your bloody talented and you know it..." Nikki looked up shocked that Yvonne had said what she had she had never told or even suggested to Yvonne that she was the singer, but then she hadn't denied it either maybe that was her giveaway. Yvonne gave her a look that would kill, for even thinking of interrupting her. "Why didn't you just record it as your own in the first place, it would have saved all this, you know they wouldn't have been half as interested if it wasn't all one big secret" Nikki looked at her hands. "And then theres Helen.." At this Nikki looked up and met Yvonne's eyes."Your too quick to jump to conclusions Wade!! it could have been anyone, you know that. At least hear the poor woman out, i am sick to death of hearing your mobile going off" Yvonne stopped for a breath as unsure as Nikki whether she was finished. "I think your going to have to grovel, to get her to forgive you, now stop being a miserable, stubborn, idiot and go and speak to her" Seemingly finished with her lecture, Yvonne stood once more and left.

"Nikki?" Monica looked up when she heard someone running towards the exit. "Where are you going?" She asked confused by the tall womans rush.

Nikki paused, her hand was on the door ready to make an exit. "I'm sorry Mon, i gotto go" She apologised, for again leaving the woman in an awkward posisition.

"Whats the hurry" Monica asked, curiously.

"I've just realised i'm a complete arse, i owe someone an apology and it can't wait, i'm sorry Mon i promise it won't happen again" Nikki said as she hastily left the building, completly ignoring for once the press attention, for once she didn't really care only one thing mattered now. Monica couldn't help but smile at her retreating back, maybe things would be ok afterall.

Part 11


Nikki didn't stop to pay attention to anyone when she walked into Helen's work building, she felt like screaming at them to get a life, what did any of it matter anyway, she felt like yelling Yes it's me, just leave me alone!! But she didn't, she walked past the curious people who all stopped to glance at her and only stopped when she walked straight into someone around the corner on the way to Helen's office, she had only been in her office the once when she dropped her off that day, and she had no idea how she remembered the way in her current state of tiredness and slight panick. Nikki cursed softly when a handful of papers flew out of a young boys hands, she apologised immediately and started to pick them up, but he didn't say anything until she passed them back to him, the thanks got stuck in his throat as who she was, registered.

"Miss wade, i'm umm i'm Dan sounds technician" He held his hand out to her in a friendly manner, Nikki couldn't help but smile a little he was about 18 or 19 at a guess, and obviously a little suprised to have bumped into Nikki.

"Hi Dan" Nikki shook his hand, and he grinned. "Well...it was nice to meet you but i've actually got to get going" He nodded and she carried on the way she was going. When she reached Helen office door she hesistated for a moment before kncoking quickly on the door, she walked in when she heard the 'come' to see Helen staring into thin air not bothering to make any attempt to look as if she was working, she looked in deep thought and certainly hadn't noticed it was Nikki who had walked in.

"Hey, Helen" Nikki said softly, as she walked a little further into the room closing the door behind her.

"Nikki!" Helen said blinking a couple of times and focusing on her again, no she was definately there. "What are you doing here?" She then asked as the initial shock turned to anger at having been ignored by Nikki for the past two days, two days in which she had thought of little else but her and barely slept.

"Helen.." Nikki looked away unable to meet Helen's gaze, which if anything seemed to only annoy her further.

"Nikki, spit it out, i've alot to be getting on with" Nikki held back a reply along the lines of Yeah you look busy.

"I'm really sorry Helen, i should have called you back by now, but i thought..."

"You thought i had sold your story to the papers" Helen said for her, Nikki looked slightly uncomfortable but nodded slightly.

"I did yes, i was a complete idiot Helen, you gave me your word you wouldn't and i jumped to the wrong conclusion at the first available opportunity. I'm sorry Helen i shouldn't have ignored you, i should have listened"

"Well now your going to find out what it feels like" Helen said as she stood

"What?" Nikki's eyebrows knotted in a way Helen found adorable, but forced herself not to react at all to.

"Your right Nikki your an idiot, i did give you my word and i had no intention and still don't of going back on it. Not only do you accuse me of betraying your trust, you ignore me and my calls refusing to even hear what i had to say. I don't want to speak to you Nikki" She ended with words that hurt Nikki more than she'd ever let her know, she wasn't sure how she had said them she certainly didn't mean them, she was just angry and hurt right now.

"You don't mean that" Nikki whispered.

NO, I don't mean it, i don't mean it at all Helen wanted to shout at her, but instead she nodded. "I do" She spoke quietly as she reached for the door opening it for Nikki to leave. Nikki looked at her for a few seconds before silently walking out of the office, an air of defeat surrounded her.

Part 12


"Helen, please if your there pick up" A quiet dejected sounding Nikki echoed around Helen's apartment, it was the 4th time she had rung since Helen had got in from work a little under an hour ago, Helen again looked to the phone the green light blinked showing several messages, a deep sigh was heard from the other end. "Helen, please..." There was a click a moment later as the sound of the phone being put down was heard, Helen suddenly felt very alone.

It had been the last time Nikki had phoned Helen that night although when Helen played the left messages back she had asked, begged Helen several times to call her back, stubbornly Helen had not.

Helen had fought the urge to phone in sick the next morning, she had had the worst night ever, she had gone over her conversation with Nikki a hundred times, why had she told her to leave. It was when Helen turned the corner approaching work her heart momentarily stopped, Nikki was sitting outside the building on the pavement looking small, vunerable and even from a distance, tired. Nikki didn't once look up as Helen silently approached, her face remained downwards as if inspecting the ground beneath her, it was when a shadow feel across her she slowly started to look up, Helen lowered herself down ignoring the strange looks the security gave her, without even thinking of doing it she reached out and smoothed Nikki's hair lightly brushing it from her eyes.

"I'm sorry" They both spoke almost together, gaining a small smile from both.

"What are you sorry for?" Nikki asked her carefully.

Helen sighed, but kept eye contact. "For leaving things like i did yesterday afternoon...and for not answering your calls" She admitted ashamed she had reacted so childish, it wouldn't have taken much to answer the phone. Nikki didn't look too suprised by the confession only a little to actually hear Helen admit it.

"It's ok, Helen" She smiled faintly, if only because she had come to realise this was probably one of the most meaningful conversations they had ever had and yet they were doing in public, with a very nosey security guard listening intently.

"No it's not, i was angry yes, but i shouldn't have been so childish" There was pause. "Nikki i'm so sorry"

"You've already said that Helen" Nikki smiled a little more now, Helen looked close to tears.

"Thats not what i meant" She whispered.

"Then tell me what you mean" Nikki frowned.

"I mean, i still meant what i said yesterday Nikki. This isn't going to work, you don't trust me" Helen's eyes glistened with tears, she couldn't believe she was even thinking let alone saying this to Nikki.

"Helen" Nikki said quite forcably. "You don't mean that, this was just a stupid falling out, i'm sorry Helen, please tell me you don't mean it" The seconds both of their teary eyes remained on eachother seemed never ending.

"I do, Nikki. Yesterday i wasn't sure, but..." She stood up. "We live in different worlds Nikki, whats to say this won't happen again"

"It won't" Nikki stood too.

"What if it does, what if you accuse me of betraying your trust again!"

"Helen, i know you didn't, i shouldn't have doubted you, i wouldn't again. Jesus i don't care what you tell people, tell them what you like, go and tell them it's me, i don't care Helen, all i care about is you" She finished in a whisper, to add to her pain Helen turned and walked away from her. Helen walked away to the sound of Nikki breaking her heart, the tears finally fell. What was she doing?

Part 13


"Tell me Dan, just what is it a sounds technician does?" Nikki asked with a friendly smile some time later, she had been hit by a forceful sadness when Helen had turned and walked away from her, just a couple hours earlier. Nikki knew she couldn't compare this to any other woman she had had in her life, yes she had cared very much maybe even loved one or two women, but she had never felt the pain that she did at the thought of loosing Helen, and they really hadn't known eachother very long, something was different now, and it felt right. It was then that she remembered the young lad she had met the previous day, an idea had started to form in her head.

She smiled when he explained what his job entailed, she knew her plan could work now, she was one step closer to doing what she wanted.

"I was wondering whether you could do me a favour?" She asked sweetly, giving him a smile that made him blush, even though he knew her well enough to know he wasn't her type, he smiled slightly.

"And what would that be, Miss Wade" He said, he emphasized the Miss Wade a little more than was probably appropriate, Nikki heard the mock seductive tune and grinned.

"Behave" She said hitting him on the head with a paper she was holding, which made him laugh, she smiled slightly again there was something about him she liked, she went on to explain what she wanted him to do. "So, do you think you can help me?"

"Sure" He said without even thinking about it, then paused before a playful smile played on his lips. "For you" They both looked at eachother and laughed.

"I thought i told you to.."

"Behave, yes i know. So come on what are we waiting for.." He made a move and gestured for Nikki to follow him, which she did.

"Helen" Simon's annoying voice bought Helen out of her thoughts which were, as always on Nikki.

"Simon" Helen sounded irratated, and she knew it, but she made no attempt to sound any more pleased to see him when she asked what he wanted.

"Oh right well...yes, i was wondering what was going on with you and Miss Wade to be honest Helen, Pete from security mentioned that this morning you were.." He stopped feeling awkward.

"Simon, i'm not sure what your getting at Nikki and I are friends" She suprised herself how annoyed she was that he was even asking it was none of his business, she told him as much, Simon held his hands up in defense.

"It's ok Helen honestly, i just wondered whether you had found out anything, i appreciate the hard work you must be putting in" He laughed, Helen was unsure why until he spoke again, she felt her blood boil. "I mean to become friends, with...with a lesbian" He stammered. "I mean it's very dedicated, not many people would be comfortable getting that close to her" He spoke proudly of her, she had always been his best worker. He failed though to see the complete rage in her eyes.

"I never knew you were so homophobic, Simon" Helen spoke coldly as she stood and shifted some papers on her desk.

"I wouldn't say i was exactly homophobic" He shrugged.

"Thats exactly what i would say you were, Simon" She picked up her bag and car keys which were near-by before thrusting a pile of papers into his hands. "This is everything i'm working on right now"

"I don't understand" Simon stood infront of her, deeply confused.

"I'm gay, Simon! and EVEN if i wasn't, i'd still be disgusted by you shallow comments. Nikki is a good person far better than you or anyone else you work with. I have worked for you long enough knowing you are a bastard Simon, but i will not work for someone like you, anymore. I quit.

Helen had angrily sat in her car just in time to hear something a little out of ordinary on the radio, it certainly wasn't the normal presenter, he sounded too young. Intrigued, she turned up the volume.

luved readin this the first time round, on the old board. plz update xXx

Thanks Lisa :) nice to know your enjoying it, sorry about the delay in updating couldn't be helped i'm afraid, will hopfully write one up in the next couple of days

Sarahx

Thanks Sarah :hug2

dont wanna rush u or anything, the longer u dont do it, then the more ideas you'll have n the better it'll be!

i love this story when the next update

love this story when the rest

Hi all, this story is on hold for a while, i'm really sorry and feel really bad for doing it, but i really can't help it real life has taken over, and any attempt i make at writing an update is useless.

I'm still not going to forget about it, just sorry to keep you all waiting, i wouldn't do it if i could see any other way.

Some good news i got the job i went for an interview for, so when i've settled there and sorted my personal life out i will get back to it, it may only be a couple of weeks, but might be longer, i appreciate all your support and feedback and hope to speak to you all soon, take care all

Sarah x

Congrats Sarah! Understandably you're gonna be a bit tied up at the moment, no worries.

Lisa
xXx

congrat's on ur new job and will love for u to finish ur story but we will still be here waiting patiently for it when everything has settled

phew, and i was so worried about putting it on hold, thanks for the congrats on the job you two, and thanks for understanding :hug2 :hug2 take care both xx

U TAKE CARE AS WELL

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

:D I would like to add my congrats on your new job. We are all very priviledged to share in the talent of the writers on this board. I myself could not produce writing to this standard. Your stories depend on inspiration, talent and above all TIME. Those of us that read your work appreciate you must make a living and still you and many others, make the time to provide us with some outstanding fiction.
Thank You. :wub:

No probs hun :hug2

Take care xxx