One Shot
I walked down the grocery store with my boyfriend picking up miscellaneous items we needed to stock our apartment with. While I was taking this serious so we could get home and just stay in for the night, Joe thought it was a better idea to goof off and play with the stuff in the toy aisle. “Joseph, come on. I wanna get home and just say in tonight.” Joe looked over at me and then to the case filled with plastic balls then back at me. I thought he would make the right decision and help me finish shopping but as always, I was wrong. Joe ignored everything I said and played with the ball. I was so beyond annoyed that I stormed away, finished my shopping, put everything in the car, and drove home. Yes, I left him at the store. I figured it would teach him a lesson to listen to me when I say something the first time. I was home for about a half hour and prepared a warm bubble bath for myself. Just as I was about to get in, my phone rung. It wasn’t a normal ring tone which everyone else had, it was “Hello Beautiful” a song Joe wrote for me. It was our song. It’s about damn time he realized I left him there. I picked up the phone and spoke into the receiver. “Hi babe.” “Don’t get cute with me Miley. You left me in the toy aisle! One of the staff members came up to me asking if they needed to call my mommy on the loudspeaker for me. Do you know how embarrassing that was?!” I could sense the anger in his voice. He deserved it though. This wasn’t the first time he didn’t listen to me. I just stood in our hallway listening to Joe rant about how embarrassed he was. I didn’t dare say anything though because if I did, I risked him getting angry at me and not coming home that night. If he didn’t come home, he’d spend the night in the studio, like always. He was hard at work at creating an album. His dream in life was to become a musician. I knew he could do it but I just wished he didn’t spend so much time there. Finally, Joe started to calm down and I told him I was gonna come get him. I pulled up to the grocery story and there was Joe waiting patiently, sipping a cup of coffee. I smiled and waved at him as my car came to a stop. Surprisingly, he smiled back at me. God, I loved that smile. It was one of the things I loved about him. That, and when he didn’t shave so his face was scruffy. Or, when he was too lazy to wake up and put in his contacts so he just slipped on his glasses. I could go on and on with my list, that’s how amazing he is. “Hey handsome.” I said when Joe got into the car. “Hey yourself, beautiful.” Joe said back, tossing in a wink. I leaned over and puckered my lips for a kiss that Joe gladly gave me. We would have continued this for a few minutes but we were rudely interrupted by a car horn. Joe and I sprung apart from each other and I stepped on the gas peddle in a hurry to get home. The best part about fighting with Joe was the making up part afterwards. I looked forward to it more than anything else. Joe and I flew out of the car and started making out. Joe skillfully opened the door, without breaking the kiss and shut it without doing the same. As we made our way up the stairs to the bedroom door, the clothes slowly began to come off and were scattered about the house. Our little dispute from earlier that day was now forgotten and our main focus was sharing our love for each other. Mission accomplished.
The following morning, I woke up to an empty space next to me. That meant Joe was at the studio, or as his brother, Nick, called it, “The Beat Lab.” I wondered why he didn’t wake me up and say goodbye. I didn’t let it get to me though because if I did, I would spend the whole day freaking out. Instead, I called up my best friend, Camilla, and asked her if she wanted to go shopping then get mani/pedis. I needed a day out and I was more than thrilled when Camilla agreed. I hopped in the shower then I got dressed. It was Los Angeles, which meant it was hot out. I opted for a pair of light wash shorts, a neon green tank top, and neon green flip flops. Twenty minutes later, I heard the roaring of an engine outside; Camilla had arrived. I walked outside and greeted her with a hug. It had been a few weeks since we hung out and it was gonna be nice to just have some girl time together. We went to the mall and I bought a new pair of Jimmy Choo’s and some new skirts. After we shopped for a good two hours, we decided now was the time to go get our mani/pedis. I chose a hot pink for both my fingernails and toenails while Camilla chose a dark blue color. I decided it would be fun to surprise Joe at the studio and hoped maybe we could go out to lunch or something. I asked Camilla if it would be okay for her to drop me off at the studio and she gladly agreed. She told me she had some errands to run anyway. Her car pulled up to 500 S Buena Vista Street/Hollywood Records, where Joe was at work on his album. I quietly opened the door to room 800, where Joe practically lived when he wasn’t at home, and walked in. “Love slayer, causin’ nothing but trouble babe and I want more of it.” Joe was in the process of recording one of my favorite songs, Love Slayer. It had such a catchy beat and he always practiced performing it in our apartment as if he was a legit musician onstage performing in front of the thousands of fans he would one day have. The one thing I hated about it was who it was written about, his ex
girlfriend, Ashley. Other than that, I loved the song. Joe sang the final lyrics to the song and looked up at me. Our eyes met and he smiled. I smiled back,
feeling myself blush. I hated how he could make me blush like an elementaryschool kid. Joe took off his headphones and gestured for me to come into the
little booth, in which he was standing. I accepted his offer and walked in. “Hi baby.” He said before kissing me. I felt myself melt. “I have some amazing
news!” I could tell Joe was excited. I nodded my head, telling him to continue. “Well, the record company says I’m making major progress. I’m getting this done way faster than they thought I would. We’re hoping it’ll be done within the next two weeks.” “Babe, that’s great!!” I exclaimed, pulling him into a giant hug. Joe rubbed my back gently. “But that’s not the best part. Britney Spears has heard some of my stuff and wants me to be her opening act on tour!” I was so happy for Joe. “That’s amazing! I’m so proud of you, congratulations!” “I know, I’m pretty excited. I’m just gonna miss you.” I pulled away from the hug Joe and I were in. What did he mean he was gonna miss me? Wasn’t I going with him. “What are you talking about? Aren’t I going with you?” I forced out a fake laugh. Joe took a step towards me and cupped my face in his hands “Baby, of course I want you there, you know that. It’s just that my people don’t want me to get distracted while I’m on tour. But they promised for my next one, you can come with me.” I removed his hands from my face and stepped back. Joe gave me a weird look. “Miles, I know you’re mad but it’s not my fault. I can’t risk losing this tour because of some girl.” “Oh, so now I’m just ‘some girl’ that’s fantastic Joe. Thanks a lot.” I yelled before storming out the door and back to our apartment. I was so angry that I didn’t know what to do with myself. I could sit on the couch and sulk. But that would mean I was admitting defeat. Something I refused to do. I loved Joe and I understood where he was coming from but still. It seemed like he didn’t want me there. I gave myself a few hours to cool down before deciding to go back to the studio and work things out with Joe.
I pulled into the studio parking lot and ran inside the building. “Hello, Miley.” Rick, the security guard, greeted me. “Hey Rick. How ya doing?” I asked, trying to be polite. Normally I loved how friendly the staff here was but not today. Today it was just too much to handle. I was on a mission and as much as I loved Rick, he could talk your ear off. He told me he was doing good. I nodded my head and excused myself telling him I had to go see Joe and that it was important. I flew up the stairs because I was too impatient to wait for the elevator. I got to room 800 and there was Joe, in his little recording booth. But he wasn’t recording. Nope, he was sucking face with Camilla. I let out a loud gasp which caused them to pull apart. Joe’s eyes widened very fast as did Camilla’s. I wasn’t sure what to do. Part of me wanted to run away but another part of me wanted to scream and beat them both hoping it would allow them to feel what I felt, broken. Joe walked out of his booth and over to me. With each step closer to me he got, I would take a step twice as large to try and keep the distance. “Miley, I know it looks bad but I promise it’s not.” I stopped walking backwards and stared at him. “It’s not bad? You were just sucking face with my ‘best friend.’ No wonder you spend so much fucking time here. It’s not because you care about the music. It’s because you’re a lying cheating asshole!” I yelled. I was furious. There was nothing he, or anyone else could say that would make me feel better. “Okay so maybe it is bad. But I promise you, Camilla means nothing to me. You’re my everything.” “Cut your crap Joseph. If I was really ‘your everything’ you would listen to me when I tell you things, you would take me out to nice places and show me off to the world, and most importantly, you wouldn’t cheat on me. But you know what, I’m glad you did because now I realize how much I hate you and never want to see you again. You can tell the same to Camilla too. I hope you’re both happy together. You deserve each other.” I yelled before running out and down to my car. I opened my car door, sat in the drivers seat and just cried. There was nothing to live for anymore. Maybe I should just drive my car off a cliff. No pain could be worse than what I was feeling right now.
It’s been four years since I’ve spoken to Joe. I can’t say he hasn’t tried calling me, because he has. Each time I see his name pop up on my caller ID, followed by the picture of us kissing, and his own personal ring tone, I feel my heart break all over again. I’m always tempted to pick up the phone but I know if I do, it will just hurt me even more than I already am. I’ve tried going on dates but none of the guys compare to Joe. No one will ever come close to being as good as Joe was. The day I found out Joe was cheating on me, I moved out of his apartment and bought my own. It wasn’t as nice as ours, well now Joe’s, was but it got the job done. Joe’s career really took off. His album, Fastlife was on the Billboard Top 100 list for 8 weeks straight. It killed me to see how good of a life he was living without me. And each year, he only got more and more popular. He was always in the gossip magazines, mostly for his partying ways. Maybe he was better off without me. I was snapped out of my thoughts by Morgan and Joseph fighting. “Mommy! Joseph took my dolly and won’t give her back.” Morgan shrieked. “It’s only because she won’t play warrior with me!” Joseph shot back. “I don’t wanna play warrior! I wanna play dolly!” This was the kind of fighting I’ve had to deal with for the past four years. Yup, that’s right, four years. I know what you’re thinking; that means Joe’s their daddy! Yeah, Joe’s their “dad.” Some dad he is. He doesn’t even know his children exist but I doubt he would care. “THAT”S ENOUGH! BOTH OF YOU KNOCK IT OFF RIGHT NOW BEFORE I SEND YOU TO TIME OUT AND TAKE AWAY YOUR TOYS FOR THE NEXT TWO WEEKS!” I yelled. I had had enough. It’s not that I didn’t love them, because I did, more than anything in the world. It was just it was hard enough to be a single parent, let alone to twins. Morgan and Joseph got the picture that mommy wasn’t playing around and without a word, they got up, went to their room, put on their pajamas, and waited for me to come around and tuck them in. After I put them to bed, I had some time to myself. I grabbed my laptop from my bedroom and took it down to the living room with me. It was time for my nightly routine, seeing what Joe was up to. I popped his name into Google and a multitude of results came up. I clicked on the very first one, “Joe Jonas, headed downhill?” It basically said that Joe was going crazy with the alcohol and the sex. What a surprise. It’s been this way for four years. It also said his family was worried for his health. His mom, Denise, was concerned if he didn’t get help soon, he would put not only his life but the lives of others at
danger. A smirk came on my face. Good, maybe he would fuck up his career and have nothing. I read a few more articles about Joe, nothing too interesting was happening, before I called it a night. I woke up at 6:00 am that following morning because it was around this time that I had to go wake up Morgan and
Joseph. I went upstairs and Morgan was already up and pacing around the hallway. “Good morning Morgie.” “Morning mommy.” She said back. She had a worried look on her face. “What’s wrong?” “Joey’s got a bad cough.” “Why don’t you go downstairs and have a pancake. Mommy set the table an everything so go help yourself.” Morgie nodded her head and went down the stairs. I walked into Joseph’s room and he was indeed coughing. But it wasn’t a normal cough, it was a bad one. I didn’t know what to do. I called my mom and she told me it might be a good idea to take him to the hospital. By now, I was panicking. My mom told me to calm down and that she would meet me at the hospital. I picked Joseph up and carried him down to my car and put him in his car seat. Then I went back in the house and got Morgan. I started the car a drove to the hospital nervous about what was happening next.
Morgan and I waited nervously in the waiting room while Joseph was being looked at by the doctors. After what seemed like an eternity, but was really 45 minutes, the results were in. Joseph had bronchitis. The doctor assured me he would be fine and would be all set to go home after tomorrow. I was told Morgan and I could go back and see him. I carried Morgan to the room the doctor told me and quietly walked in the door. Joseph was fast asleep, probably drained from the long day he had. He looked peaceful. As I looked at him, I realized how much he looked like his father. I wished Joe didn’t screw things up. If he hadn’t him, Joseph, Morgan, and me would probably be a happy family. But instead, he was out partying every night. I gently put Morgan on the ground. “Morgie, why don’t you go give your brother a little kiss on the cheek and then we’ll get going?” She nodded her head and did as I asked. Before we left, I kissed Joseph’s forehead and whispered to him. “If I was you right now, I would be freaking out but you’re not. You know why? Cause you’re a Jonas and it doesn’t get much stronger than a Jonas. I believe in you baby. Mommy loves you.” I grabbed Morgan’s hand and we quietly slipped out of his room and back to our apartment. I made us some Spongebob Mac N Cheese and we sat in front of the TV watching Dora. It was a special Father’s Day episode, in honor of the upcoming day. During one of the commercials, Morgan stopped eating and looked at me. “Mommy. Why do Joseph and me not have a daddy?” I knew this question was coming one day but I hoped it would be when I had enough time to prepare. “Well, Morgie, sometimes a mommy and daddy are not meant to be. Your
daddy is a nice man but it just didn‘t work out.” I knew that wasn’t the truth but I couldn’t bring myself to tell her the truth. One day when she was older, I
would sit her and Joseph down and tell them the truth. She nodded her head and then went back to watching her show. Phew, thank you Dora for saving me. I
thought to myself.
Before I knew it, morning came and Morgan was jumping on me trying to hurry me to get up so we could go get Joseph. I got ready as fast as I could and then quickly got Morgan ready. We flew out to the car and to the hospital. To my surprise, Joseph was up and ready to go. The three of us waited in his room
until we got the okay from his doctor to be discharged. Once we got that, I carried Joseph out to the car with Morgan following closely behind. I told Joseph that because he was such a good boy while he was there, we would go to the grocery store and he could pick out a candy bar and a toy. This only got Morgan upset so I told her she could get a candy bar as well. That seemed to satisfy both of them for the time being. When we got there, I remembered we needed some odds and ends for our home so I sent the kids to the toy aisle while I went and got some milk, cereal, and bananas, all essentials for breakfast. I got those things as fast as I could because I hated leaving my children in by themselves, it didn’t look very good. I hurried back to where I left them and saw how content they were playing with random things. “Come on you guys, let’s get home and mommy will make you some lunch.” Morgan, like the good girl she was, listened to what I said and came to me. Joseph, like usual, was being difficult. “Joseph Adam, I asked you nicely to come over here.” My voice was sharp, I meant business. Joseph looked over to me, then over to a case filled with plastic balls, then back at me. “Joseph.” I tried once again to get him to listen. But of course, he did the opposite of what I said. It was typical four year old. My mind flashed back to when I was here four years ago with big Joe in this same situation. “He’s just like his father.” I muttered under my breath. “Joey, come on. Mamma’s getting angry.” Morgan said, with an attitude, throwing in a foot stomp. I giggled a little. I found it so funny how Morgan was so much like me yet she had some of Joe in her as well. And Joseph was a miniature version of Joe but there was a tiny bit of me inside of him. I didn’t know what to do. It wasn’t like I could just drive off without him like I did with Joe. That was way too harsh and he didn’t deserve it. “Joseph, please come on.” I tried again. There was a hint of desperation in my voice. He obviously didn’t pick up on it though because he just continued playing. I had given up any and all hope I had. Joseph wouldn’t stop until he had his way. There was a tall man further down the aisle. He had short black hair, was wearing dark blue jeans, a gray t-shirt, and a pair of ray bans covered his face. I guess he was watching the whole thing with me and Joseph because he started approaching us. “Hey, you should really listen to your mother.” I was shocked someone, especially a stranger, was standing up for me. “Why would I do that?” Joseph shot back. “Because she’s your mom and I know all too well if you don’t listen to someone, you can lose them forever.” The stranger was now looking at me. My gaze went from Joseph to the stranger. Something about him looked oddly familiar. I couldn’t tell what it was but I felt like I’d seen him before. Whoever he was though, he talked some sense into Joseph because as soon as the stranger spoke those words, Joseph threw the ball back in the bin and walked over to me and Morgan. “Thanks for your help.” A small smile was now on my face. “It was my pleasure. I lost someone I cared about because I didn’t listen to her and I know he’s a kid and all but that’s a lesson he can use from now until death.” “That’s an unpleasant way to think about it but yeah, I guess you’re right.” I said. “I’m Miley, by the way.” I added in before extending my right hand to the stranger. “I know who you are.” My eyes widened. “Y-y-you do?” I stuttered out. “Don’t you remember me, Miley?” I began backing away. “No. And I don’t think I should. Whoever you are, thanks for your help but just leave me alone, please.” This guy was relentless, he kept coming closer to me. “Miley, look me in the eyes and tell me you don’t remember me.” He then took off his sunglasses and it hit me. “Joe.” I whisper blurted. He nodded his head. I could not believe I was standing here, with my children, and my ex-boyfriend all in the same spot. This was just too crazy to believe. “You look great.” Joe said, while scratching the back of his neck. That was something he did when he was nervous. “Thanks.” I mumbled, not able to look down at him. “Come on Miley, it’s been four years and you’ve obviously moved on from me. I mean, it’s clear you’ve moved on. Can’t we try talking or something?” I looked up at him. “Why would me having two kids mean I’ve moved on?” I asked, curious to know. “Well, Miley, when a boy and a girl love each other…” Joe trailed off. I shot my index finger up and pressed it against his lips, silencing him. “First, they don’t have to love each other. And secondly, it could have been 100 years, that doesn’t mean I have to be over you.” Joe took his left hand and used it to remove my finger from his lip. Then he took his right hand and began to caress my cheek with it. I felt myself melt. I missed his touch, it was magical. “Are you trying to tell me you’re not over me?” Joe asked with a giant grin on his face. Joseph and Morgan came over to us and both tarted making gagging noises. Joe and I pulled apart and looked at them. “Hi guys, what are you up to?” I asked. “The question is, what are YOU up to?” Morgan shot back in her diva tone. “I’m just catching up with an old friend. Joseph go pick out your toy and I’ll be right there.” Both Morgan and Joseph nodded their heads and went back to looking at toys. As they walked past us, more specifically, Joseph, Joe’s eyes nearly bulged out of his head. “Miley. Why does your son look exactly like me?” I couldn’t tell if Joe was angry or what but I knew he wanted an answer and he wanted one fast. “Um. Well. There’s a perfectly good explanation for that.” I could tell Joe was getting impatient. “And that would be…..?” “Joe, right here and right now isn’t the best time for you to find out. Why don’t you give me a call tomorrow and I’ll give you my apartment address. You can stop by and we can talk.” Joe nodded his head and walked off. The rest of the day came and went. Before I knew it, it was night time. I tucked Joseph and Morgan into bed before getting myself ready as well. I spoke to Joe on the phone and gave him his desired information and we agreed he would come to the apartment tomorrow morning for breakfast with me and the kids. Then I climbed into my bed and eagerly anticipated tomorrow.
When morning finally came, I woke up and began preparing breakfast. Normally, I would make what the twins wanted, pancakes. But since we were having a guest, I went a little overboard. I made pancakes, eggs, oatmeal, and bacon. I remembered that was what Joe liked when we were dating and I hoped fame hadn’t gone to his head and changed him. I went upstairs and hopped in the shower before waking up Morgan and Joseph. I wasn’t sure what to wear. I knew I shouldn’t be nervous, it’s not like this was a date or anything but I still wanted to look good. I opted for a light purple tank top with gold sequins on the front. I paired this was black shorts and some gladiator sandals. I hoped Joe would like the way I looked. I walked into Morgan and Joseph’s room and woke them up. They were so excited to have a visitor coming over…I was too. I picked out their clothes and left them to get dressed. I began walking down the stairs when I heart a ding dong noise. I hurried down the stairs and over to the door. Butterflies were bouncing around in my stomach and I felt more nervous then I thought I would. I had to get the courage to do this. Joe would find out one day and it just so happened that that day was today. I gave myself a mental pep talk and then opened the door. “I was beginning to think you were either sleeping in or ignoring me.” Joe joked. I let out a small laugh and shook my head. “Nope, I’m not ignoring you and I can’t sleep in much anymore, the twins are always awake super early so it’s kinda impossible.” Joe nodded his head and awkwardly stared at the ground. “Are you gonna invite me in or am I just gonna stand here all morning?” Joe joke AGAIN. I missed his sense of humor. I gave myself a mental slap in the forehead for being such an idiot. I stepped aside and opened the door a tiny bit wider so Joe could get in. Once he was inside, Morgan and Joseph came running down the stairs, ran right by him, and to the table. “Kids!” I yelled, which caused them to stop dead in their tracks. “We have company. When you have company, you don’t run past them to get food. You greet them first and then you calmly walk to the table.” I gave them a look and they came running over to me. “Hi Mr. Guest.” That was Joseph’s genius remark. Morgan looked at me, then at Joseph, then to Joe. “Hi Mr. Guy who looks like Joseph but older.” Morgan said, waving to him. Breakfast wasn’t anywhere near as awkward as I thought it was gonna be, thankfully. Now, the four of us were gathered in the living room. Morgan and Joseph were playing with their toys and Joe and I were sitting on the couch talking. Everything was going great until the dreaded subject came back up. “So, Miley, you never answered my question. Why does Joseph look just like me and have the same name as me?” I let out a deep sigh and asked Morgan and Joseph to come join us. “There’s something you all should know.
**Six Years Later**
Joe and I strolled hand in hand down the street, ignoring the paparazzi, only focusing on what mattered the most, our children and our love. When Joe found
out the news, he was willing to give up music to become part of our family. I told him that it was a ridiculous idea and I wouldn’t let him do such a thing. I
did, however, let him back into our lives. I think that was one of the best choices of my life. Morgan and Joseph were now 10 years old and more than happy
to have their daddy back in their life. Joe continued his career but he added a recording studio into the house so he doesn’t have to spend excessive time at
Hollywood Records. He’s in the process of working on album number three. I’m so proud of him! As for me, life is perfect for right now. I have a lovely house,
lovely children, and a lovely boyfr- I mean husband. That’s right, me and Joe got married two years ago and life couldn’t be better. I hate to say it but I’m
glad he cheated on me and that we ended things for a while. If I hadn’t said goodbye to him, who knows where I would be right now. I do know one thing for
sure, Shinedown was right when they said “Sometimes goodbye is a second chance.”
The following morning, I woke up to an empty space next to me. That meant Joe was at the studio, or as his brother, Nick, called it, “The Beat Lab.” I wondered why he didn’t wake me up and say goodbye. I didn’t let it get to me though because if I did, I would spend the whole day freaking out. Instead, I called up my best friend, Camilla, and asked her if she wanted to go shopping then get mani/pedis. I needed a day out and I was more than thrilled when Camilla agreed. I hopped in the shower then I got dressed. It was Los Angeles, which meant it was hot out. I opted for a pair of light wash shorts, a neon green tank top, and neon green flip flops. Twenty minutes later, I heard the roaring of an engine outside; Camilla had arrived. I walked outside and greeted her with a hug. It had been a few weeks since we hung out and it was gonna be nice to just have some girl time together. We went to the mall and I bought a new pair of Jimmy Choo’s and some new skirts. After we shopped for a good two hours, we decided now was the time to go get our mani/pedis. I chose a hot pink for both my fingernails and toenails while Camilla chose a dark blue color. I decided it would be fun to surprise Joe at the studio and hoped maybe we could go out to lunch or something. I asked Camilla if it would be okay for her to drop me off at the studio and she gladly agreed. She told me she had some errands to run anyway. Her car pulled up to 500 S Buena Vista Street/Hollywood Records, where Joe was at work on his album. I quietly opened the door to room 800, where Joe practically lived when he wasn’t at home, and walked in. “Love slayer, causin’ nothing but trouble babe and I want more of it.” Joe was in the process of recording one of my favorite songs, Love Slayer. It had such a catchy beat and he always practiced performing it in our apartment as if he was a legit musician onstage performing in front of the thousands of fans he would one day have. The one thing I hated about it was who it was written about, his ex
girlfriend, Ashley. Other than that, I loved the song. Joe sang the final lyrics to the song and looked up at me. Our eyes met and he smiled. I smiled back,
feeling myself blush. I hated how he could make me blush like an elementaryschool kid. Joe took off his headphones and gestured for me to come into the
little booth, in which he was standing. I accepted his offer and walked in. “Hi baby.” He said before kissing me. I felt myself melt. “I have some amazing
news!” I could tell Joe was excited. I nodded my head, telling him to continue. “Well, the record company says I’m making major progress. I’m getting this done way faster than they thought I would. We’re hoping it’ll be done within the next two weeks.” “Babe, that’s great!!” I exclaimed, pulling him into a giant hug. Joe rubbed my back gently. “But that’s not the best part. Britney Spears has heard some of my stuff and wants me to be her opening act on tour!” I was so happy for Joe. “That’s amazing! I’m so proud of you, congratulations!” “I know, I’m pretty excited. I’m just gonna miss you.” I pulled away from the hug Joe and I were in. What did he mean he was gonna miss me? Wasn’t I going with him. “What are you talking about? Aren’t I going with you?” I forced out a fake laugh. Joe took a step towards me and cupped my face in his hands “Baby, of course I want you there, you know that. It’s just that my people don’t want me to get distracted while I’m on tour. But they promised for my next one, you can come with me.” I removed his hands from my face and stepped back. Joe gave me a weird look. “Miles, I know you’re mad but it’s not my fault. I can’t risk losing this tour because of some girl.” “Oh, so now I’m just ‘some girl’ that’s fantastic Joe. Thanks a lot.” I yelled before storming out the door and back to our apartment. I was so angry that I didn’t know what to do with myself. I could sit on the couch and sulk. But that would mean I was admitting defeat. Something I refused to do. I loved Joe and I understood where he was coming from but still. It seemed like he didn’t want me there. I gave myself a few hours to cool down before deciding to go back to the studio and work things out with Joe.
I pulled into the studio parking lot and ran inside the building. “Hello, Miley.” Rick, the security guard, greeted me. “Hey Rick. How ya doing?” I asked, trying to be polite. Normally I loved how friendly the staff here was but not today. Today it was just too much to handle. I was on a mission and as much as I loved Rick, he could talk your ear off. He told me he was doing good. I nodded my head and excused myself telling him I had to go see Joe and that it was important. I flew up the stairs because I was too impatient to wait for the elevator. I got to room 800 and there was Joe, in his little recording booth. But he wasn’t recording. Nope, he was sucking face with Camilla. I let out a loud gasp which caused them to pull apart. Joe’s eyes widened very fast as did Camilla’s. I wasn’t sure what to do. Part of me wanted to run away but another part of me wanted to scream and beat them both hoping it would allow them to feel what I felt, broken. Joe walked out of his booth and over to me. With each step closer to me he got, I would take a step twice as large to try and keep the distance. “Miley, I know it looks bad but I promise it’s not.” I stopped walking backwards and stared at him. “It’s not bad? You were just sucking face with my ‘best friend.’ No wonder you spend so much fucking time here. It’s not because you care about the music. It’s because you’re a lying cheating asshole!” I yelled. I was furious. There was nothing he, or anyone else could say that would make me feel better. “Okay so maybe it is bad. But I promise you, Camilla means nothing to me. You’re my everything.” “Cut your crap Joseph. If I was really ‘your everything’ you would listen to me when I tell you things, you would take me out to nice places and show me off to the world, and most importantly, you wouldn’t cheat on me. But you know what, I’m glad you did because now I realize how much I hate you and never want to see you again. You can tell the same to Camilla too. I hope you’re both happy together. You deserve each other.” I yelled before running out and down to my car. I opened my car door, sat in the drivers seat and just cried. There was nothing to live for anymore. Maybe I should just drive my car off a cliff. No pain could be worse than what I was feeling right now.
It’s been four years since I’ve spoken to Joe. I can’t say he hasn’t tried calling me, because he has. Each time I see his name pop up on my caller ID, followed by the picture of us kissing, and his own personal ring tone, I feel my heart break all over again. I’m always tempted to pick up the phone but I know if I do, it will just hurt me even more than I already am. I’ve tried going on dates but none of the guys compare to Joe. No one will ever come close to being as good as Joe was. The day I found out Joe was cheating on me, I moved out of his apartment and bought my own. It wasn’t as nice as ours, well now Joe’s, was but it got the job done. Joe’s career really took off. His album, Fastlife was on the Billboard Top 100 list for 8 weeks straight. It killed me to see how good of a life he was living without me. And each year, he only got more and more popular. He was always in the gossip magazines, mostly for his partying ways. Maybe he was better off without me. I was snapped out of my thoughts by Morgan and Joseph fighting. “Mommy! Joseph took my dolly and won’t give her back.” Morgan shrieked. “It’s only because she won’t play warrior with me!” Joseph shot back. “I don’t wanna play warrior! I wanna play dolly!” This was the kind of fighting I’ve had to deal with for the past four years. Yup, that’s right, four years. I know what you’re thinking; that means Joe’s their daddy! Yeah, Joe’s their “dad.” Some dad he is. He doesn’t even know his children exist but I doubt he would care. “THAT”S ENOUGH! BOTH OF YOU KNOCK IT OFF RIGHT NOW BEFORE I SEND YOU TO TIME OUT AND TAKE AWAY YOUR TOYS FOR THE NEXT TWO WEEKS!” I yelled. I had had enough. It’s not that I didn’t love them, because I did, more than anything in the world. It was just it was hard enough to be a single parent, let alone to twins. Morgan and Joseph got the picture that mommy wasn’t playing around and without a word, they got up, went to their room, put on their pajamas, and waited for me to come around and tuck them in. After I put them to bed, I had some time to myself. I grabbed my laptop from my bedroom and took it down to the living room with me. It was time for my nightly routine, seeing what Joe was up to. I popped his name into Google and a multitude of results came up. I clicked on the very first one, “Joe Jonas, headed downhill?” It basically said that Joe was going crazy with the alcohol and the sex. What a surprise. It’s been this way for four years. It also said his family was worried for his health. His mom, Denise, was concerned if he didn’t get help soon, he would put not only his life but the lives of others at
danger. A smirk came on my face. Good, maybe he would fuck up his career and have nothing. I read a few more articles about Joe, nothing too interesting was happening, before I called it a night. I woke up at 6:00 am that following morning because it was around this time that I had to go wake up Morgan and
Joseph. I went upstairs and Morgan was already up and pacing around the hallway. “Good morning Morgie.” “Morning mommy.” She said back. She had a worried look on her face. “What’s wrong?” “Joey’s got a bad cough.” “Why don’t you go downstairs and have a pancake. Mommy set the table an everything so go help yourself.” Morgie nodded her head and went down the stairs. I walked into Joseph’s room and he was indeed coughing. But it wasn’t a normal cough, it was a bad one. I didn’t know what to do. I called my mom and she told me it might be a good idea to take him to the hospital. By now, I was panicking. My mom told me to calm down and that she would meet me at the hospital. I picked Joseph up and carried him down to my car and put him in his car seat. Then I went back in the house and got Morgan. I started the car a drove to the hospital nervous about what was happening next.
Morgan and I waited nervously in the waiting room while Joseph was being looked at by the doctors. After what seemed like an eternity, but was really 45 minutes, the results were in. Joseph had bronchitis. The doctor assured me he would be fine and would be all set to go home after tomorrow. I was told Morgan and I could go back and see him. I carried Morgan to the room the doctor told me and quietly walked in the door. Joseph was fast asleep, probably drained from the long day he had. He looked peaceful. As I looked at him, I realized how much he looked like his father. I wished Joe didn’t screw things up. If he hadn’t him, Joseph, Morgan, and me would probably be a happy family. But instead, he was out partying every night. I gently put Morgan on the ground. “Morgie, why don’t you go give your brother a little kiss on the cheek and then we’ll get going?” She nodded her head and did as I asked. Before we left, I kissed Joseph’s forehead and whispered to him. “If I was you right now, I would be freaking out but you’re not. You know why? Cause you’re a Jonas and it doesn’t get much stronger than a Jonas. I believe in you baby. Mommy loves you.” I grabbed Morgan’s hand and we quietly slipped out of his room and back to our apartment. I made us some Spongebob Mac N Cheese and we sat in front of the TV watching Dora. It was a special Father’s Day episode, in honor of the upcoming day. During one of the commercials, Morgan stopped eating and looked at me. “Mommy. Why do Joseph and me not have a daddy?” I knew this question was coming one day but I hoped it would be when I had enough time to prepare. “Well, Morgie, sometimes a mommy and daddy are not meant to be. Your
daddy is a nice man but it just didn‘t work out.” I knew that wasn’t the truth but I couldn’t bring myself to tell her the truth. One day when she was older, I
would sit her and Joseph down and tell them the truth. She nodded her head and then went back to watching her show. Phew, thank you Dora for saving me. I
thought to myself.
Before I knew it, morning came and Morgan was jumping on me trying to hurry me to get up so we could go get Joseph. I got ready as fast as I could and then quickly got Morgan ready. We flew out to the car and to the hospital. To my surprise, Joseph was up and ready to go. The three of us waited in his room
until we got the okay from his doctor to be discharged. Once we got that, I carried Joseph out to the car with Morgan following closely behind. I told Joseph that because he was such a good boy while he was there, we would go to the grocery store and he could pick out a candy bar and a toy. This only got Morgan upset so I told her she could get a candy bar as well. That seemed to satisfy both of them for the time being. When we got there, I remembered we needed some odds and ends for our home so I sent the kids to the toy aisle while I went and got some milk, cereal, and bananas, all essentials for breakfast. I got those things as fast as I could because I hated leaving my children in by themselves, it didn’t look very good. I hurried back to where I left them and saw how content they were playing with random things. “Come on you guys, let’s get home and mommy will make you some lunch.” Morgan, like the good girl she was, listened to what I said and came to me. Joseph, like usual, was being difficult. “Joseph Adam, I asked you nicely to come over here.” My voice was sharp, I meant business. Joseph looked over to me, then over to a case filled with plastic balls, then back at me. “Joseph.” I tried once again to get him to listen. But of course, he did the opposite of what I said. It was typical four year old. My mind flashed back to when I was here four years ago with big Joe in this same situation. “He’s just like his father.” I muttered under my breath. “Joey, come on. Mamma’s getting angry.” Morgan said, with an attitude, throwing in a foot stomp. I giggled a little. I found it so funny how Morgan was so much like me yet she had some of Joe in her as well. And Joseph was a miniature version of Joe but there was a tiny bit of me inside of him. I didn’t know what to do. It wasn’t like I could just drive off without him like I did with Joe. That was way too harsh and he didn’t deserve it. “Joseph, please come on.” I tried again. There was a hint of desperation in my voice. He obviously didn’t pick up on it though because he just continued playing. I had given up any and all hope I had. Joseph wouldn’t stop until he had his way. There was a tall man further down the aisle. He had short black hair, was wearing dark blue jeans, a gray t-shirt, and a pair of ray bans covered his face. I guess he was watching the whole thing with me and Joseph because he started approaching us. “Hey, you should really listen to your mother.” I was shocked someone, especially a stranger, was standing up for me. “Why would I do that?” Joseph shot back. “Because she’s your mom and I know all too well if you don’t listen to someone, you can lose them forever.” The stranger was now looking at me. My gaze went from Joseph to the stranger. Something about him looked oddly familiar. I couldn’t tell what it was but I felt like I’d seen him before. Whoever he was though, he talked some sense into Joseph because as soon as the stranger spoke those words, Joseph threw the ball back in the bin and walked over to me and Morgan. “Thanks for your help.” A small smile was now on my face. “It was my pleasure. I lost someone I cared about because I didn’t listen to her and I know he’s a kid and all but that’s a lesson he can use from now until death.” “That’s an unpleasant way to think about it but yeah, I guess you’re right.” I said. “I’m Miley, by the way.” I added in before extending my right hand to the stranger. “I know who you are.” My eyes widened. “Y-y-you do?” I stuttered out. “Don’t you remember me, Miley?” I began backing away. “No. And I don’t think I should. Whoever you are, thanks for your help but just leave me alone, please.” This guy was relentless, he kept coming closer to me. “Miley, look me in the eyes and tell me you don’t remember me.” He then took off his sunglasses and it hit me. “Joe.” I whisper blurted. He nodded his head. I could not believe I was standing here, with my children, and my ex-boyfriend all in the same spot. This was just too crazy to believe. “You look great.” Joe said, while scratching the back of his neck. That was something he did when he was nervous. “Thanks.” I mumbled, not able to look down at him. “Come on Miley, it’s been four years and you’ve obviously moved on from me. I mean, it’s clear you’ve moved on. Can’t we try talking or something?” I looked up at him. “Why would me having two kids mean I’ve moved on?” I asked, curious to know. “Well, Miley, when a boy and a girl love each other…” Joe trailed off. I shot my index finger up and pressed it against his lips, silencing him. “First, they don’t have to love each other. And secondly, it could have been 100 years, that doesn’t mean I have to be over you.” Joe took his left hand and used it to remove my finger from his lip. Then he took his right hand and began to caress my cheek with it. I felt myself melt. I missed his touch, it was magical. “Are you trying to tell me you’re not over me?” Joe asked with a giant grin on his face. Joseph and Morgan came over to us and both tarted making gagging noises. Joe and I pulled apart and looked at them. “Hi guys, what are you up to?” I asked. “The question is, what are YOU up to?” Morgan shot back in her diva tone. “I’m just catching up with an old friend. Joseph go pick out your toy and I’ll be right there.” Both Morgan and Joseph nodded their heads and went back to looking at toys. As they walked past us, more specifically, Joseph, Joe’s eyes nearly bulged out of his head. “Miley. Why does your son look exactly like me?” I couldn’t tell if Joe was angry or what but I knew he wanted an answer and he wanted one fast. “Um. Well. There’s a perfectly good explanation for that.” I could tell Joe was getting impatient. “And that would be…..?” “Joe, right here and right now isn’t the best time for you to find out. Why don’t you give me a call tomorrow and I’ll give you my apartment address. You can stop by and we can talk.” Joe nodded his head and walked off. The rest of the day came and went. Before I knew it, it was night time. I tucked Joseph and Morgan into bed before getting myself ready as well. I spoke to Joe on the phone and gave him his desired information and we agreed he would come to the apartment tomorrow morning for breakfast with me and the kids. Then I climbed into my bed and eagerly anticipated tomorrow.
When morning finally came, I woke up and began preparing breakfast. Normally, I would make what the twins wanted, pancakes. But since we were having a guest, I went a little overboard. I made pancakes, eggs, oatmeal, and bacon. I remembered that was what Joe liked when we were dating and I hoped fame hadn’t gone to his head and changed him. I went upstairs and hopped in the shower before waking up Morgan and Joseph. I wasn’t sure what to wear. I knew I shouldn’t be nervous, it’s not like this was a date or anything but I still wanted to look good. I opted for a light purple tank top with gold sequins on the front. I paired this was black shorts and some gladiator sandals. I hoped Joe would like the way I looked. I walked into Morgan and Joseph’s room and woke them up. They were so excited to have a visitor coming over…I was too. I picked out their clothes and left them to get dressed. I began walking down the stairs when I heart a ding dong noise. I hurried down the stairs and over to the door. Butterflies were bouncing around in my stomach and I felt more nervous then I thought I would. I had to get the courage to do this. Joe would find out one day and it just so happened that that day was today. I gave myself a mental pep talk and then opened the door. “I was beginning to think you were either sleeping in or ignoring me.” Joe joked. I let out a small laugh and shook my head. “Nope, I’m not ignoring you and I can’t sleep in much anymore, the twins are always awake super early so it’s kinda impossible.” Joe nodded his head and awkwardly stared at the ground. “Are you gonna invite me in or am I just gonna stand here all morning?” Joe joke AGAIN. I missed his sense of humor. I gave myself a mental slap in the forehead for being such an idiot. I stepped aside and opened the door a tiny bit wider so Joe could get in. Once he was inside, Morgan and Joseph came running down the stairs, ran right by him, and to the table. “Kids!” I yelled, which caused them to stop dead in their tracks. “We have company. When you have company, you don’t run past them to get food. You greet them first and then you calmly walk to the table.” I gave them a look and they came running over to me. “Hi Mr. Guest.” That was Joseph’s genius remark. Morgan looked at me, then at Joseph, then to Joe. “Hi Mr. Guy who looks like Joseph but older.” Morgan said, waving to him. Breakfast wasn’t anywhere near as awkward as I thought it was gonna be, thankfully. Now, the four of us were gathered in the living room. Morgan and Joseph were playing with their toys and Joe and I were sitting on the couch talking. Everything was going great until the dreaded subject came back up. “So, Miley, you never answered my question. Why does Joseph look just like me and have the same name as me?” I let out a deep sigh and asked Morgan and Joseph to come join us. “There’s something you all should know.
**Six Years Later**
Joe and I strolled hand in hand down the street, ignoring the paparazzi, only focusing on what mattered the most, our children and our love. When Joe found
out the news, he was willing to give up music to become part of our family. I told him that it was a ridiculous idea and I wouldn’t let him do such a thing. I
did, however, let him back into our lives. I think that was one of the best choices of my life. Morgan and Joseph were now 10 years old and more than happy
to have their daddy back in their life. Joe continued his career but he added a recording studio into the house so he doesn’t have to spend excessive time at
Hollywood Records. He’s in the process of working on album number three. I’m so proud of him! As for me, life is perfect for right now. I have a lovely house,
lovely children, and a lovely boyfr- I mean husband. That’s right, me and Joe got married two years ago and life couldn’t be better. I hate to say it but I’m
glad he cheated on me and that we ended things for a while. If I hadn’t said goodbye to him, who knows where I would be right now. I do know one thing for
sure, Shinedown was right when they said “Sometimes goodbye is a second chance.”