“It’s getting to be more and more.”
“Well, um … I mean, is this …” I pause, having no clue how to ask this, so I just come out and say it, “Is this something I have to worry about with you too? I mean, when you’re out on tour?”
He places his hand on my arm. “No. I don’t do anything like that.”
“You don’t? You mean, like, ever?”
“People think just because I’m a rock star, I party heavy, but no, I’m not like Mötley Crüe was in the eighties. Believe me. I’m straight edge.”
“Straight what?”
He laughs. “Straight edge. I don’t do drugs or alcohol. Never have. I watched what it did to my mom, and that was enough for me.”
“Seriously?” I nod in surprise but also appreciation for the way he goes against the grain in every aspect of his life.
He chuckles under his breath. “Why are you so surprised?”
I want to tell him everything I personally know about his rock-star lifestyle but not right now. We’ve already had a heavy enough conversation, and I don’t want to put the focus on me.
I shrug. “I just figured it went with the territory.”
“Yeah, I’ve seen a lot of bands break up due to it too. I learned early on that I don’t need it. The music is enough for me. It gives me the high I crave. Last time I felt I needed more in my life, I had Cailin. And now …”
He pauses, and I glance up into his eyes. The moment stands still as he takes me in. His gorgeous blues so full of hope.
His finger touches my cheek. “And, now, I have you.”
When his mouth presses to mine, I have to hold on to him, so I don’t lose my balance. His lips are so soft, this kiss so meaningful. I feel it. I feel what he’s saying, and he shows me with every breath and every motion. He needs me, and I’m starting to believe I need him too.
22
Sarah
Adam’s been staying close to Max the last few days, so I’ve offered to pick Cailin up before school and bring her back to his place afterword. As we pull up to the house, I see Max outside on the porch swing. Cailin runs in, eager to play with the new doll set Adam got her.
Adam strolls out, his hat pulled low and his jeans sitting perfectly on his hips. The man can wear anything. I swear, it only takes one glance, and I’m panting with need to be next to him.
I make my way up the steps, and he leans down to kiss me hello. Funny how that simple act can send jolts of pure happiness through my entire body.
“How’s he doing?” I ask, placing my hand on his chest.
“It’s been a rough day. I think he needs to go into a treatment center, but he’s not interested.”
“What do the other guys say?”
We’ve only briefly talked about his other bandmates, and I have no clue where they all stand on this issue.
“You’ll find out tonight. Everyone’s coming over.”
“Here?” I ask, nerves jumping through me.
He laughs at my reaction. “Yes, here. They all want to meet you too.”
“Oh jeez, what have you told them?”
“Just that I’m falling for a teacher.” His lips meet mine again, and I inhale every inch I can before he pulls away. “Come on. You can help me cook.”
We prep the meal while Max stays outside. My heart breaks for the guy. He’s obviously hurting, both emotionally and physically.
