“No idea,” I say, telling the truth.
“Hmm,” Emma says. “It looks like the two of you are still fake-dating, after all.” She smirks and slants a look at Olivia, who raises an eyebrow.
Chase grumbles something under his breath, and Olivia pats his chest. He looks over at her. His frown instantly softens. He kisses her gently, and she curls into his arm.
God. It sucks to be a single girl in front of a cute couple.
Though it looks like I might not be officially single. Possibilities shoot through my mind. Maybe Briana couldn’t make it?
Ryder moves on to pose for the assembled photographers. They scream his name, and he expertly gives each one his practiced, photo-ready stare-down. He smolders. But he doesn’t smize.
The rest of the red carpet and the beginning part of the awards show pass in a blur.
Sebastian, Chase, and even Emma entertain us by dropping juicy insider gossip about most of the stars present.
Then it’s time for the big awards.
Avery skipped the red carpet. But she appears on the screen, looking ethereal in a pink Chanel gown, when she’s up for the song of the year. I scream and cheer for her when she wins it.
Not long later, Ryder wins for the album of the year. I jump up and down, and we all toast him. He wins five more Music Awards. My heart nearly explodes with pride. But there’s an ache there as well. That I’m not the one he’ll turn to after he wins. That I’m not there waiting for him offstage to throw myself into his arms and celebrate with him. That I can’t tell him how talented he is and how proud I am.
When everyone adjourns to the kitchen to raid more of Emma’s snacks, I look at my phone. I can’t let this moment pass without congratulating him. I’m still Ryder’s friend. No matter what else happens.
Me:
Hi. I just wanted to say congratulations on your amazing night. I hope you know how incredible you are. And in case you don’t know, I’m here telling you.
I’m shocked to see that he messages back right away.
Archie’s Daddy:
I’m glad you’re watching. Chase said you were having a watch party at Sebastian’s.
Me:
Yes. You have a cheering section for you in Malibu. :)
Archie’s Daddy:
It’s your big night too, Daisy. And you deserve every bit.
Me:
Aw, shucks. Congrats again. You won!!!
Archie’s Daddy:
There’s only one win that will mean anything. I’m up next to perform. Watch me.
I scream into the kitchen, “Guys! Ryder’s up next. He’s closing out the show. Quit stuffing your faces and get in here.”
We all crowd back onto the sofa and chairs. I curl up my legs and rest my chin on my knees. Ryder strides onstage, no sign of the nerves I’m sure he feels. He’s all poised, lithe confidence. He just moves like a rock star. And he’s still in the black suit that’s tailored to his honed body in a way that makes me sigh.
“Damn, he looks cool,” Emma breathes.
“Hey, you’re not allowed to ogle Ryder,” Sebastian says.
“Shut up.” I hiss, my attention glued to the television. “I can’t hear.”
