“Keep it that way,” she winks. “Now, where are we in the decision process? Made any yet?” Her already short skirt rides higher to reveal long legs that go up to her curvaceous bum. She knows how to work it, and of course, I've noticed. What guy in their right mind wouldn't, but Dani offers little more than a nice arse.
“A contract like this doesn't land at your feet every day Ash, and you sure as hell don't get many chances with my dad. We've got bands banging down our door for an opportunity like this, but you lot are hell-bent on making us beg.” She raises her brow.
“Look Dani, we're not belittling this opportunity, but thesimple truth is, me and the boys have a lot to work out. We said from the start, it wouldn't be a quick decision.”
“So, no news for me yet then?” She rolls her eyes.
“You'll be the first to know when it happens.” I was hoping to catch up with the boys before seeing Dani or Bernie again, but they haven't given us a minute.
“You know, you could make this easy on yourself,” she leans against the kitchen counter, crossing her arms over her ample chest, “since you’re the one we really want.”
She’s referring to a conversation we had before the boys were aware of any interest in us. It was a pretty sweet deal I was up for taking until I realised it didn't include the rest of the band. There’s no way I’m leaving them behind. We started this band together and we’ll carry on together.
I pass over her mug of coffee. “I’ve already said we’re a package deal.”
She huffs, “So be it,” then takes a sip before carrying on. “I’m just saying if you change your mind on?—”
“I won’t.”
“Okay fine.” She sighs. “Then at least tell me how much more time you need.”
Just then, the door to the kitchen opens. “Who was at the door and where’s my t—Oh, hello love.” Mum smiles. This is the worst time for her to appear. I haven't had a chance to explain any of this to her yet. Mum has enough on her plate with my dad, and I know she'll worry once she finds out. The offer includes a stint in London, which fills me with dread. Don't get me wrong, the opportunity is fantastic, but I'd be leaving my mum behind to fend for herself.
“Mum, this is Dani. Dani, Mum.”
Dani offers her hand, showing she does have manners. That's a relief. One thing Mum will not tolerate is rudeness.
“Does Mum have a name?” Dani asks.
“Liz,” she says, holding Dani's hand with a gentle shake. “It's nice to meet you.”
For just a second, I wonder if I can get away with not explaining exactly who Dani is. Maybe Mum thinks she is just a friend, but then Dani decides to knacker any ideas my mum may have had.
“Liz. I take it short for Elizabeth. Such a beautiful name and I'm sure a wonderful mother from what I know of your handsome boy.” Dani knows very little, but I keep my mouth shut as she continues, “Please, talk some sense into your son, Liz. I beg you.”
Mum’s blank expression targets me, then back to Dani. “What do I need to talk to him about?”
I stiffen. This is not the time. Mum will either cry or go off her rocker. “Surely he’s mentioned our record label to you or the offer of a contract?”
My mum's worried blue eyes focus solely on me. It must be obvious she has no idea what's going on, but Dani does love to poke a stick at the elephant in the room.
“Oh, Christ. Have I put my foot in it?” she asks, rubbing my arm, knowing full well she has.
“Ashton?” Mum says, worry in her voice.
I shrug away Dani’s grip and go to my mum’s side. “I was going to explain, but you've been busy, I've been busy, and you've got enough going on. I didn't want to talk about it until the band had come to a final decision and you had some time to talk it over with me.”
“I always have time for my boy, you know that.” Mum takes a seat at the table next to Dani, then they both stare in my direction. “Sit down, Ashton. Talk to me.”
I do as Mum asks, puffing my cheeks out while I think where to begin.
“Would you like me to explain for you, Ash?” Dani's hand lands on mine, but I'm swift to move it away.
“Thanks, but this is probably better coming from me.” If I'm starting to sound pissed off, it's because I am. Dani needs to stop treating me like an idiot.
“Mum, I don’t want you to get upset?—”
“That’s not a good start Ashton,” she sits back, crossing her arms.
