C’s arm tightens possessively, sending another thrill through me. But his eyes narrow and his expression is one I recognize as dangerous.
I look over my shoulder, finding Dillon, one of the leads. I turn and reach out to welcome him. “This is C McCann, Dill. The money man who helped finance our hiring of RockinStage PR. C, this is Dillion. Where’s your boyfriend?”
Dillon rolls his eyes. “What boyfriend?” he sneers. Then he lowers his voice. “And here comes Josh for you. Careful how you go, girl. You know how rehearsal gets when Mom and Dad fight.”
A flush starts in my face and moves down. I’m careful to not look at Connor because I’m afraid I’ll give too much away. Josh and I have an ongoing flirtation that turned physical one night. We are not a thing though. We both agreed that getting involved in a serious way would be risky. I’m trying to concentrate completely on the show and my career. That being said, we have chemistry, and C will spot it because he sees everything.
“Hi,” Josh says, projecting a little more than necessary. “Josh Williams. Zoe’s partner-in-crime.”
I steal a glance at C whose expression has hardened.Shit.
“Can’t be,” C says.
“What?”
“You can’t be her partner-in-crime. Zoe’s no criminal, and Rachel Stroviak is her business partner.”
Josh shrugs, continuing to smile. “I meant onstage. She’s a demon. I’m the lucky guy she corrupts.”
“Must’ve missed that,” C says, and of course he’s lying.
My lips press together as I fidget. The urge to jump in is hard to resist.
Josh tries to ask Connor questions, and C deflects. At first. Then Josh talks about the show and makes a joke about early rehearsals and what I’m like first thing in the morning.
“I remember,” C says.
My breath catches.
“You—are you an actor?” Josh asks.
“No, I’m Zoe’s ex.”
“Oh…oh.” Josh pales. “Someone said you were one of the show’s investors. I—I had no idea that you’re—” Josh’s hand makes an uncomfortable gesture. “You’re an associate of Mr. Stroviak, Rachel’s husband.” Josh grimaces as he glances at Rachel and Anvil who are huddled in the corner with a group of the admins around them.
My eyes scan the room. Trick’s within earshot. His underage sister who has a glass of champagne dangling from her fingers is walking around chatting with people. What was he thinking, bringing a teenager here?
“Well, nice to meet you,” Josh says, withdrawing as C nods.
“Must you?” I whisper.
“What’s that?” Connor says.
“Intimidate people.”
“Unintentional.” His eyes are beautiful and remorseless.
A universe of emotions are at war inside me. It’s so good to see him. But why did he come? I’m still so in love with him, and I really wish I wasn’t.
I have to get away from him before I confess something I’ll regret. “I’m glad you came tonight,” I say softly, giving his arm a squeeze before I walk away.
Chapter
Fifteen
TRICK
Cseems distracted when we get back to the hotel, and I bet I know why.
