I turn, and with one reach, I bat the towel off the top of his head. I’m 2-0 with these cheap shots tonight. He frowns and rewraps it, but there’s a smile threatening to crack through his surly expression. “Hey, nothing wrong with looking stupid if they’re worth it.”
I ignore his attempt to rile me again and fire back a text.
Me
Have Gustav bring you to the tunnel outside the locker room. I'll be right out. Some media usually waits nearby, but security keeps them in line. We can take my ride to my place.
Lena
Right. The party.
Me
Try not to be too excited
Lena
Can I bring Joss?
Me
Thought she was outta town
Lena
Look at you, Mr. Memory. Her shoot ended early in NYC and she flew back to see me for a few days. She wants to meet you.
Me
Of course she can come
Lena
Don’t worry, we won’t stay long. I have a fitting early tomorrow and need to rest my voice before my recording session after. No drinking, no yelling, etc.
Me
I swear I saw you holding a suspicious cup on the jumbotron
Lena
Well, I couldn’t tell your mom no! I cut myself off after the two she shoved in my hand.
Me
It’s hard to say no to Darlene
Lena
I noticed. Gustav is bringing me to you now. Put your game face back on. It’s go time.
Me
See you soon
Suddenly, I’m rushing to pack my bag, eager to get out of the rowdy locker room. I ignore the hoots, questions, and promises to make things awkward from the guys who will be attending my party tonight. Despite my profession and my bright idea to date one of the most famous women in the music industry, I’m not someone who loves the spotlight. So a party is kind of a big deal. Hopefully it doesn’t suck.
As I reach the exit, the blaring hip-hop music stops. The room is completely silent until seconds later, a sweet voice pours from the speakers instead. It’s Lena singing some song about belonging together from one of her older albums. More shouts rise up over the music. I turn and brandish my middle fingerhigh above my head for everyone to see. No one is intimidated. The guys laugh and carry on, singing along with her.
