I lifted my gaze. Everyone at the table was absorbed in their own intriguing conversations. Even Elijah. They all hadsomeone to talk to, except me. I was utterly alone, an outsider, completely isolated behind some invisible barrier I’d never be able to cross.
I swallowed, trying to push away the pain embedding itself deep in my bones.
I’ll see what I can do.
Yay!!!
But no promises, and I’m not coming inside the bar. I’m super overdressed.
I left my clothes at the salon.
Ehhhh, who caressssss. I’m sure you look FABULOUSSSSSSSSS!
Yep. She was definitely drunk, despite her saying otherwise. She included a few emojis and GIFs, and I stifled a laugh.
I’ll text you when I’m on my way.
Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do with any certain band members.
Yeah. Okay. ;)
I slipped my phone back into my clutch as some of the anxiety I’d been carrying left me. Every time I found myself at a Rebel Rebellion show, I was able to see more pieces of myself. Maybe, just maybe, I could find some of that belonging once again.
I didn’t need these snooty people to think I fit into their perfect superficial world.
I had my ownpeople who saw my worth.
Looking at Elijah, I watched as he spoke animatedly with the gentleman who sat beside him. He was so handsome, and it was strikingly obvious that he fit into this world.
What would happen when he realized I didn’t?
Chapter Five
Cadence
Iuncrossed my legs, only to recross them as I wiggled in my seat. I knew I was becoming a distraction.
I checked my phone to see that twenty minutes had passed since I told Jade I’d leave. I planned to excuse myself after the speeches, but they were dragging on.
And on…
It was getting harder and harder for me to pretend I was listening.
Elijah slid his hand on my knee, and I turned to him and smiled. Only to meet narrowed eyes and a scowl.
“You are shaking the table. What are you doing?”
I bit the inside of my cheek, willing myself to settle down.“I’m not feeling well.”
“Maybe you should head home then.”
I tilted my head. “Would you mind?”
“That might be for the best.”
“I’ll excuse myself after this toast.”
Elijah nodded and pulled his hand away. The suddenabsence of his touch drove home the fact he had barely touched me all night.
