“Neither am I,” Emma says.
“I was going to go anyway,” Sebastian drawls. “It’s the sickest party of the year.”
“Daisy.” Chase’s green eyes are bemused. “First, we have to talk. You need to explain what’s going on.”
I grin at my brother, my entire face beaming. “Sorry, Chase. Later. I promise. First, I have things to do. Places to go.”
Olivia stands on her tiptoes to land a soft, lingering kiss on Chase’s lips. His tense shoulders relax, and he wraps his armsaround her. She gives him one last kiss and then slips out of his embrace with a teasing look. “Darling, Daisy has to go get ready for the party. It’s girl bonding time. I’m sure she’ll talk to you later.” She turns to Emma. “Do you have anything for me to wear as well?”
“Of course. Don’t you know me at all?” Emmas asks.
Emma takes my hand and Olivia’s. And she leads us back to her room.
Though, it would be more accurate to say I float the whole way there.
CHAPTER 42
Daisy
(ONE YEAR AGO)
Dear Diary,
Dreaming about Ryder Black is a habit. One I should have grown out of long ago. But I promised myself that if he didn’t fall for me by the time I turned twenty-seven that I’d stop dreaming and move on for good. I only have a year left.
(NOW)
I show up to the biggest party of the year in Emma’s little black dress that doesn’t quite fit me.
But for once, I don’t care what I’m wearing.
One of the first people I see when I get to the party is Avery. In the dressImade. I squeal internally. Okay, and externally as well.
We hug, I congratulate her on her wins, and I admire her in my dress because she’s stunning.
“TheChicmagazine reporter said they’re putting this on their top ten of the best looks of the night. And, news flash, my Chanel did not make the list.”
“What!?” I cry. “No way.” But I’m distracted. I go on tiptoes to look for Ryder over the crowd.
“Get ready to be booked and busy, Daisy.”
“Thank you, Avery. Truly. For everything you’ve done.”
When she notices that my attention is divided, she grins. “I think your life is going to change in more ways than one.” Her eyes widen as she looks over my shoulder. “Incoming hot musician who’s got it bad for you,” she says with a laugh and then glides away.
“She’s right, you know,” a familiar voice says. A beloved voice.
I turn. “Ryder,” I whisper, suddenly breathless. He’s so damn handsome. Standing there in his suit, his short hair showing off his perfect cheekbones to chiseled perfection, his golden eyes brighter than I think I’ve ever seen them. “What is she right about?”
“I’ve got it bad for you. Actually, we both do.”
“We?” I ask. I hate that I’m tongue-tied.
“Duncan,” Ryder calls. At first, I’m confused because I think he’s telling me that his bodyguard has got it bad for me, which is flattering, but I’m sure is not true.
The man in a dark suit standing a few feet away from me turns, and I realize it’s Duncan. My startled gaze meets his, and he smirks. I look down to his broad chest, and my voice finally unlocks.
“Archie!” I cry. Duncan hands me the corgi. The dog gets so excited, he whines and licks my face.
