I stand and lean in to kiss her cheek. “You look incredibly beautiful and so fucking sexy,” I whisper in her ear. I feel like fist pumping the air when she visibly shivers.
“Thanks.” Tinkling laughter leaves her lips. “I might be a little tipsy. We had champagne at the salon, and I forgot I hadn’t eaten since breakfast.”
We didn’t stop for lunch today as we wanted to finish our set early to enjoy a night on the town. It’s been ages since I’ve gone clubbing in L.A. It hasn’t been my scene for a long time, but I want to experience everything with Sydney. To make memories in place of the ones that were denied to us. “I should have ordered you lunch.”
“Stop it.” Her eyes rake over my tall frame, and it’s an effort not to puff out my chest when her eyes darken with lust. “It’s not your responsibility to feed me. I would’ve gotten lunch if I’d been hungry.”
“Speaking of food, our table at the restaurant is ready,” Ryder says, linking his fingers with his wife’s.
My fingers itch with a craving to hold Sydney’s hand, but I shove my hands in the pockets of my jeans instead, keeping close to her side as we exit the bar and head in the direction of the restaurant Ryder reserved for dinner.
“Are you okay?” I ask as we walk side by side, trailing the others.
“I’m great.” Her beaming smile is genuine, and I return it.
“You seem to have bonded with Zeta.”
“Oh my god.” Her eyes light up. “I just love her!” She hooks her arm in mine, and I’m not sure she realizes she’s even done it. “She’s so fun. She invited us to their house for dinner, and we swapped numbers and everything.”
I make a mental note to send Ryder’s wife some flowers. I know Syd was a little nervous about tonight, and Zeta seems to have single-handedly erased all her anxiety. Sydney’s obvious joy does funny things to my insides, and I fight the urge to sweep her into my arms and kiss the living daylights out of her. “Zeta is good people,” I say. “I had a feeling you two would gel.” I hold her close, darting to the side as a dick on a scooter whizzes by us.
“She’s really down to earth and so gracious about her talent.”
“Like someone else I know.”
Her cheeks pink, and I smile, almost floating on a cloud as I walk with the girl of my dreams to one of my favorite restaurants. “How did you like it in the studio today?” I inquire.
Her face animates again. “I loved it.” She clings to my arm tighter. “I’m in awe of you. Of all of you. You’re such incredible musicians. Thanks for letting me be a part of it today. It was amazing.”
“It was special having you there.” Toria had zero interest in our music. Unless it benefited her, she didn’t want to know. I love how much enjoyment Sydney gets from seeing me happy and living my dream. She is happy if I’m happy and vice versa. It’s that simple between us. It’s only when others are added to the mix it gets complicated.
“I know I’ve said it before, but I am so fucking proud of you, J. You did it.” Tears prick her eyes, and I wish we weren’t on a busy street with nosy bystanders staring so I could envelop her in my arms and never let her go. “You did what you set out to do. It’s mind-blowing and inspirational.”
“It all means nothing without you,” I softly say, knowing I’m close to crossing a line.
“I’m here now.” Her eyes are determined as they latch on mine. “And I’m not going anywhere.”
ChapterTwenty-Seven
Sydney
I’m having the fucking best night of my life. To think I was worried leaving Half Moon Bay this morning. Afraid I wouldn’t fit into Jared’s world or that I’d get papped and incur Vittoria’s wrath, but it’s been smooth sailing. The guys are fucking legends. In the studio and as human beings. Wilder and Linc are amazing guys, and they already feel like good friends. I can see how the three of them work so well together. There is no pretense. They are honest and vulnerable with one another, and it’s blatantly obvious they are as close as brothers. I’m so happy for J that he has them. I’ve been chatting with Ryder and Zeta a lot tonight too, and it’s like I’ve always known them. Jared is surrounded by good people, and it helps to alleviate some of my concerns about the rock star lifestyle.
I’m buzzing from more than just the champagne and great company.
I’m feeling invigorated. Alive in a way I haven’t felt in a long time.
Being in the studio today was magical.
I don’t have the words to describe it, but I just vibed with the atmosphere and the creativity swirling in the air. I haven’t sketched like that in forever. It’s like my fingers were on fire. Whether it’s being around Jared again, the music, or a combination of the two, it feels like I’m getting my mojo back. I’m itching to draw and paint and seriously considering giving it a go as a full-time career. Seeing the guys bouncing ideas off one another and how passionate they are when playing has inspired me. Maybe it’s time to spread my wings and pursue my artist dream. I’m going to create the best fucking cover for Ruminate’s album and then see where it takes me.
Right now, I feel like I can achieve anything my heart desires, and I’m happy. Truly happy for the first time in ages. I know there are obstacles to overcome, but tonight I feel confident I can get past it.
“Let’s dance.” Zeta pulls me out of the booth in the VIP area of the club we came to after dinner, dragging me toward the busy dance floor.
We have fun dancing, giggling, and singing while avoiding the grabby hands that occasionally wander our way. It’s therefore no surprise when Ryder and Jared materialize at our sides a short while later. We naturally split into two couples, and it’s not long before I’m bumping hips and brushing arms with my sexy ex.
The beat changes to a sultry, sensual number, and the room darkens when the overhead lights are dimmed. Jared slides up behind me as I shimmy my hips and throw my arms out to the side. I’m acutely conscious of his every movement as we dance, drawing closer and closer with every sway of our bodies. I’m on fire. Every nook and cranny in my body is on high alert as my hands roam over my body, and I grind my hips in tune to the music.
