Page 124 of The Bitter Words

The guy asking questions chuckles. “It appears you’re going to have a late night, shooting off some rounds tonight because each one of you has two girls hanging off your arms.”

Bren flashes the crew a lazy smirk.

“This is what we like to call Cash and Guns unlimited sexsomes. All these women will take turns shooting off the Guns and then Cash in when they’re ready. Not necessarily inthat order.” He winks and adds, “Just kidding. We’re just gonna get some burgers.”

They all laugh.

Callum peeks back over his shoulder at Bren and tips his chin. He says something and all the girls squeal. As he’s turning back around, he pulls one of the ladies closer and makes out with her.

Yeah, I’d say they’re back to their old ways as bandmates and best friends. My stomach hardens and I close out of the link.

Why do I keep punishing myself by watching these?

It’s not an honest question. I do it because deep down I deserve to have all the anguish I experience. I’ve hurt so many people and no matter what I do to heal, I can’t get over any of it.

Gia saunters out of her room in a short little black dress I designed for her. “Livianna, this fits me so well. It makes my horrible big ass and thighs look small. You’re a magician.”

“Your body is amazing, so quit talking about yourself like that.” I go over to her and adjust the hem.

“It’s perfect, Livianna. You don’t need to change anything.” She gives me a gentle shove. “Ready?”

“Yep.” I pick up my black clutch and check inside.

All my goodies for a great night are in their secure place. We leave our suite and find the event space for the party.

We’re wearing wristbands that give us access to the venue. It’s a private event center and we need them to get in

Upbeat music filters through the air as we enter. Black and silver curtains line the walls.

Streams of long, glittery, and curly decorations hang from the ceiling. Around the room, big-screen TVs play the New Year’s Eve specials on various channels.

I take a sweep over the guests. “Jesus, Gia. The men here are handsome as hell. And they’re all dressed in designer suits. Did you plan this party just for me?”

“I wish I could take credit.” She waves at a movie executive as he strolls by. “It seems only the best were invited. Let’s find a table to put our stuff down and scope out the place.”

I follow her as she searches for a spot. “Why isn’t Sebastian here?”

“I don’t know. I didn’t ask.” She points to an empty table. “There. That’s a great spot. We have a view of the dance floor, we’re close to the bar, and the bathroom is just a few feet away.”

“You got all that from analyzing the space for a total of thirty seconds.”

“Call it my gift.” She rushes over and stakes our claim.

I place my clutch down. “Are you sure they’re going to let us drink tonight?”

“My agent said they won’t card us if we keep our wristbands on. If they do, we’ll have to find someone to get one for us.”

“Then let’s go try.”

“You go and I’ll watch our purses.”

“Okay. What do you want?”

“Whatever you’re having.”

“Wine or vodka soda? I can’t decide.”

“Wine.” She takes a seat. “No, make it a vodka soda. Wine has too much sugar in it.”