My brother's bands had finally hit the big time, and were opening for the Backstreet Boys tour, not their ideal job, but it paid the bills. I was working as the road manager for the band, so I was spending a lot of time backstage getting my guys ready to perform, making sure everything went smoothly. "2 minutes" someone called to us, and we had our last minute prayer, and chat, then kissing my guys on the cheek, I sent them on. As I watch them head for the stage, I hear someone behind me say "Hey, don't you think you forgot to kiss someone for good luck?" I turn around, and standing there is Howie, with a big grin on his face. "I don't believe we've met," he says to me "I'm Howie." Quickly recover from the shock, and offer my hand "I'm Alyssia, but everyone calls me Dee Dee."
"Nice to meet you Dee Dee" he replies "I'll have to ask you why you have that nickname, but right now I've got to get ready for my performance."
"I was very nice meeting you too Howie" I reply, trying to keep my voice calm, even though my heart is racing. Howie heads for his dressing room.
As my brother's band was beginning their last song, the Backstreet Boys gathered backstage, and Howie introduced me to Nick, AJ, Brian, and Kevin. (Boy was I nervous) Then he asked me whether I would be around later, so he could ask me more about my nickname. I told him I'd have to get the boys back to their hotel, but I'd be free to chat afterwards. He said he'd meet me at the bar in my hotel at around 12am. Then he left to go onstage.
When we got to the hotel, the guys decided to grab a quick shower, and go out clubbing for a while. They tried to talk me into going along, but I told them I was tired, and just wanted to relax for a while, and that I had plans later. The guys said goodnight, and after my brother gave me his usual "be careful, and trust nobody" speech, they left.
I had a few hours before the concert ended, so I had a shower, then I curled up on the bed to watch a movie. I must have dozed off, because I woke up to the sound of the phone ringing. I answered it, and it was the front desk, letting me know that there was a gentleman waiting for me in the bar. "Tell him I'll be down in 2 minutes" I told the desk. I threw on my black leather pants, and a Hilfiger sweater. I looked in the mirror and thought I looked alright, but had no chance to do my hair now, at least it's curly. I grabbed my key card and headed for the elevator.
I got to the bar, and there was Howie waiting for me, it looked like he's grabbed a shower too. I apologized for being late. Howie smiled and said "you look terrific, and well worth the wait." I thanked him, and he asked if I wanted a drink. I told him I'd love a glass of chardonnay. He said, "I'll be right back," and he headed to the bar. After we had a few drinks, Howie asked me if I'd like to join him for a late dinner. I told him I'd love to, but I suggested we go to my room and order room service because most places were closed, and I was sick to death of fast food.