Bright Lights - MJ/Prince

Bright Lights || Chapter 3

1988

Nicole "Nikki" Pierce

Leaving Paisley Park behind almost shattered my heart, but it was time to move on, especially considering Michael's tour.

Even then, I didn't want Prince to break me down, either.

Pennsylvania. New Jersey. Ohio. Maryland. Michigan.

California.

Machal knocked out great shows between cities Irvine and Los Angeles, pausing just in time for the holidays.

"Nicole?" Michael stopped me in the hallway one night, glancing around.

"Hi. Everything okay?" I didn't know what to think.

"Yeah. I'll see you soon." Michael wouldn't rush away, but something didn't feel right.

"See you later. Take care." I smiled back, trying to help him a little.

For once, we stood in silence and just faced each other awkwardly until Bill Bray walked up, cueing Mike's signal to leave.

Damn. I thought to myself.

_____

Sometime during the break, I found another letter from Michael:

Nicole,

I'm sorry for what happened the other night.

You've done nothing wrong and the tour has been perfect. Absolutely perfect.

Still, I already miss you, no matter how fleeting our time is on the road.

Time drags with almost nothing else for me to do.

Even working on my short films and handling other projects involves long days without you around.

No one to laugh with. No quick hellos to each other. Your smile is brighter than sunlight.

My heart doesn't know what to feel right now, but I just can't wait to see you again.

Sincerely,

-MJ ⭐️

PS: 5225 Figueroa Mountain Road, Los Olivos, California.

I almost jumped back squealing once I recognized the address.

Neverland Ranch.

______

"Hi!" We hugged when I passed the gate, almost running along to see him.

"Wow! I didn't think you'd get here so quickly." Michael seemed shy again, but still laughed at me.

"I drove myself." Going two hours out wasn't bad, even as the weather chilled outside.

"Thank you. Come on." Michael grinned, leading me to the house.