We’re headed to one of Jace’s shows. It’s at a small venue, not too far away. I realize I haven’t told Theo about our plans, besides that I’ll be with Sal. The thought sits heavy in my chest like a stone.
We haven’t had “the talk” yet. The one where we officially say we’re committed. We haven’t set in stone the expectations of our relationship. And Iknowhe won’t care that I'm going out. He’s not Cole.
But still, there’s this flicker of anxiety in my belly. Cole would’ve flipped out if I tried to go anywhere without telling him. He needed to control everything.
Theo isn’t like that. But the worry’s still there. And I hatethat. Plus, I don’t want to upset him, or for him to feel like I’m lying to him by omitting the truth.
Sal waves a hand in front of my face. “Babe, hello? Earth to Sophie!”
“Oops. Sorry. Got caught up in my head.”
She raises an eyebrow. “Obviously. Spill.”
I sigh and let out a slow, measured breath, trying to steady myself.
“I’m just getting in my head about telling Theo I’m going out tonight. What if he gets upset?”
Sal scrunches up her face. “What? Girl, no. If he gets weird about that, then you turn around and run. We don’t entertain insecure jackasses around here.”
I laugh. “Yeah, good point. I just… don’t want him to feel hurt? Or left out? I don’t know, Sal. I clearly suck at this.”
I drop my head into my hands.
“Breathe, Sophie. You’re spiraling. He’s not Cole. Text him.”
I nod slowly. She’s right. I need to be brave and be an adult andnotlet my past shape my future. Plus, this is Theo we’re talking about here. My thoughtful, caring Theo.
Sophie:Hey, just wanted to let you know Sal and I are going to her brother’s show tonight.
Theo:Sounds fun! Be safe. Call me if you need me.
I grin down at my phone.
“He’s perfect,” I say, looking up at her. “Go ahead. Say it.”
She winks. “I was right.”
We get ready in her room, raiding her closet for show-worthy outfits. I settle on straight-leg, high-waisted jeans that hug my curves and a black long-sleeved crop top. Simple and cute. Comfortable.
Sal, on the other hand, goes full rock glam. Neon pink crop top, black leather skirt, and heels that could kill a man. She looks unreal. I don’t know how she walks in those things, but more power to her. She looks drop-dead gorgeous.
She loves attending his shows. He can’t always get us in, some venues more strict than others on checking IDs, but tonight we got the green light. She wants me there for moral support, though she always ends up ditching me for him anyway.
He’s her only flaw in my eyes. Her ultimate weakness.
She tries to act like it’s no big deal, like she’s just being a supportive step-sister, but I see the way she always lights up in his presence. The way she stands a little taller whenever he’s around.
She says it’s nothing, but I think, to her, he’s everything.
We drive separately. The venue’s only about twenty minutes away and I like having my own car. It gives me a quick escape if I need one. Plus, she already said she plans to go out with him later, and I know I’ll be ready to go home.
I’m not one to stay out late partying, but Sal can hang with the best of them.
We get to the bar around seven, early enough that the place is still mostly empty. We buy Red Bulls from the bar and sip them from plastic red cups as we wait for the show to start.
When the music starts up, we take our places front and center in front of the stage, and watch Jace in his true element. The lights dim as he pours his heart out, strumming his guitar. Lead singer, guitar master, and a sexy rock god appearance to match… It’s a wonder he isn’t swarmed by women already.
I sway to the music, Sal by my side, enjoying the show.
