Attn. Readers: we posted two chapters today so make sure you read chapter 7 first!

Much Love,
Ryn

**Matt's POV**

Zacky texted me his flight arrival information earlier so I jump in Jason Berry's car and head over to the airport to pick him up. I really thought he would have stayed and visited with his family longer but I didn't want to pry into his reasons for going or leaving so suddenly...I'm sure he'll explain later.

I pull up to and head inside the airport and make my way towards the baggage claim. I can see Zacky in the distance getting bombarded for autographs by fans and let out a small chuckle and slip on my aviators in an attempt to be incognito.

A very pretty brunette come and stands next to me and I smile down at her and even though she looks extremely familiar, I can't place why at the moment...huh, she's too young to be a past hookup of mine so maybe a fan I met recently at one of the shows.

She slips her arm around my waist and give me a small hug and I feel slightly uncomfortable at the semi-inappropriate touching. "Hey Matty...long time no see" the girl whispers out softly and I yank my sunglasses off and crouch down in front of her.

"Chrissie?!" I ask and she nods her head slightly and I can feel all the air rush from my lungs...this is an unexpected surprise! She looks so different....and I'm not sure if it's all for the better.

She looks emotionally drained but stunningly beautiful all at the same time. Sadly it seems that Chrissie grew up but fell apart all at the same time and it kills me to see her look so fragile.

Zacky rejoins us and I raise an eyebrow at him but he gives me the 'I'll tell you later' look before grabbing their bags and turning towards the car.

I see Chrissie looking wildly uncomfortable all of a sudden and I just want to make her smile so I crouch down in front of her and wrap her legs around my waist and her arms around my neck and lift her into an impromptu piggy back ride.

She let's out a half hearted giggle and playfully slaps at my shoulders, "Put me down you big oaf" she argues but I shake my head no and tighten my grip on her.

She drapes her arms back loosely around my neck and rest her chin on the top of my head. I can see small crimson scars peaking out from the sleeves of her shirt and I suddenly realize what the family emergency was.

I am am not going to force either Baker to tell me what really happened but I will make sure that they know that I will be supportive in any way I can.

I reach the the car and carefully slide Chrissie back down to her feet. Zacky asks if he could drive and I toss him the keys before turning to face Chrissie, "So, do you want to ride in the back with me so we can catch up?" I say and she shrugs and climbs in the back without responding but leaves the door open for me.

I climb in next to her and she lays her head down in my lap before quickly drifting off into a peaceful sleep. I push the hair lovingly off her face and let out a quiet sigh..

...I guess she's not ready to open up yet, but that's ok.

Notes

Awe Matt didn't recognize her (do you think it is that because she grew up or because of what she did to herself?) but he doesn't seem upset that she's joining them on tour.

How do you think the rest of the guys will react?
Can Matt and the guys help her feel more welcome and wanted?