Our lips met, and she shivered at the connection. The kisses never strayed beyond gentle pecks, both of us fully satisfied to enjoy the basics without turning into heavy petting.
“I have an appointment to get my hair done today, then we have the show in a couple of days.” She slowed our kiss with her words, then rested her head against my chest.
“OK.” I’d survived worse situations than sitting at a beauty salon.
“It’s gonna be a few hours. You don’t have to sit in there the whole time. Afterward I’ll just want to chill because my body will feel sore from sitting for so long. The weight of the braids and pulling makes my neck ache.” I understood her concern but I’d be there, especially after what just happened between us.
“I’ll live.”
She tried to get me to change my mind, but I lifted her chin slightly and kissed her into silence.
“Fine. Bring your tablet and some earplugs if you want. The women like to talk a lot. You’re going to be a hot topic for them. They may tease and flirt with you nonstop, too. On second thought, maybe you should stay home. You’ll start a riot there.” She laughed and I smiled, loving the sound of her joy.
We ate in silence like yesterday, only this time she had a bit more pep in her step instead of the zombie walk she’d donned before.
Five minutes after we walked into the hair salon, I’d been hugged and swooned constantly. Hazel grinned the entire six hours, where she had her hair styled in faux locs. The six hairdressers, and four women getting their new do had the time of their lives with us in the purple building.
By the time we left, I’d been given strict orders from ladies who never once treated Hazel like a celebrity and loved her very much.
“Marry that girl, Maddox.”
“You treat our Hazel right or I’ll take these shears to your nutsack.”
“Y’all need to start popping out babies! You two will make beautiful little babes. Her skin and your blue eyes. Mmm, can we say ‘model baby’?”
“Come back with her at the next appointment. We want to see a ring on her finger!”
Oh if they only knew.
I’d accomplish all those orders in a heartbeat if Hazel would support them. However, now wasn’t the time for marriage proposals and babies. I had the Collector to meet in a few days, and I’d end the threat to her life once and for all.
Chapter Twenty- Four
Hazel
The high I’d been riding on since my time at the salon had finally ended as I waited for the show to start. Now my hands trembled slightly when I peered out into the crowd waiting for me to sing. The Collector stood out there among the people, waiting for me to do the show and then talk. Regret bubbled in my stomach for not telling Maddox about our meeting, but I didn’t want him getting involved or hurt. He stood with a scowl on his face, his attention shifting from the crowd to the people backstage. In his mind, anyone was a potential threat. Both of our powers could handle any perpetrators, so the trembling wasn’t from fear.
I wanted to get this all over with so I’d have time to focus on my inner shit. Maddox had admitted he loved me, and while I’d guessed it, guessing and knowing had different effects on my heart.
“Woo, look at this packed house! I know we are waiting for the woman of the hour so let’s get this party started! But first, how excited are you?” The announcer looked at me, then the crowd as they screamed at the top of their lungs.
“I’m not sure you guys are excited for our guest tonight. I said, how excited are you?” The crowd managed to scream louder, and I smiled, my thoughts temporarily distracted from my problems.
“You are excited! I know our guest is, too! She’s saving the planet one flower at a time. She’s soothing your soul and fighting for justice with every lyric she sings. She’s the one, the only, Hazel Kennedy!”
I walked onto the stage with a big grin on my face, ready to continue living my dreams.
“Oh my God, it’s Hazel!”
This particular club’s appeal came from the unknown guest stars every weekend. The crowd might see an up-and-coming musician or comedian. Then sometimes they had mega-celebrities like me do a mini-show. It kept business booming with the thrill of who would walk onto the stage. I waved at the crowd and took a seat on the stool by the microphone. I’d planned to sing a few of my hits.
“Hey everybody!” I looked beyond the bright lights shining on me and strummed my guitar while they hollered excitedly.
“I hope this was a great surprise! I’ve been squealing for days about coming on this stage and seeing everyone’s reactions. You all did not disappoint!” I loved talking with the crowd. They were my people. My fans supported me like none other in the industry. I treated them like they were part of the Kennedy family, and they appreciated that.
“What song should we do first?” I asked. I already had a line-up planned, but I liked hearing what were people’s favorites.
“Rainy Day Blues!”
