Page 6 of The Jaded Notes

“Which is something I understand, Bren.”

“Enough about Mayhem. How’s your business?”

“It’s doing a little better. I’m going to pitch for a slot in oneof the big four fashion weeks. I won’t hit the big stage, but I could land something smaller if I keep my nose to the grindstone.”

“So Paris was the answer to all your problems.” He laughs a little. “In all seriousness, I thought you had some contacts there who would help you get back to where you were.”

Jaxon Crowne pops into my head, and for some strange reason my heart aches. “I did, but he left Paris not long after the funeral, so I wasn’t able to get much guidance.”

“Then why stay there?”

“Because I enrolled in a couple of fashion courses I found while trying to get on my contact’s schedule.”

I lift one of my new design sketches as if Bren can see it. “You thought my creations were good before? Just wait until I send you one of my new outfits I have planned for you.”

“I look forward to it. And you know I’ll support you in any way possible. Send me as many as you can and I’ll wear them to every appearance I make. Even Hawke and Cooper said they would help. We’re all set to show them off at our next gig.”

My chest squeezes. “Thanks, Bren. That means a lot.”

“In that case, make a trip out and deliver them in person.”

“I would, but I’m in classes now. Remember?”

“Yeah, I didn’t think you would anyway.”

I ignore the statement, knowing it will only take us back to talking about Callum. We both need to move on, but something always draws us back to each other.

Our relationship is toxic, and there’s no getting around it. My heart sinks a little at that realization, and I turn my focus away.

“Bren, one of these days I’m going to be showcased at a large venue during fashion week. I’ll be one of the main luxury brands. Only mine will stand out because I’ll have a claim on the rocker vibe market.”

“I’m gonna hold you to that.”

“You should. I’m determined.” I stand to stretch my legs.

“And when you’re in that state of mind, nothing could make you quit.”

“This is my dream, Bren. I want a room that doesn’t flinch when I walk in because of everything they’ve read in the gossip magazines. I want women wearing my war stories loud and proud, and I won’t stop until I succeed. Just like you made Mayhem happen, I’m going to make Livianna Grace Designs one of the best brands out there.”

“I know you will.” Bren clears his throat. “I don’t have much time before I need to let you go. We have a gig tonight and a podcast I need to prepare for.”

“It’s weird. I’m getting ready to go to bed and you’re just getting your day started.”

“Yeah, and Hawaii is spectacular this time of year. The whales are just getting here. I wish you could see them splashing around. I’m sitting on the patio of our suite, watching a few of them play. Looks like they have a calf with them.”

“That sounds magical.” I mosey over to the window and peek out at the city lights. Paris’s energy pulses, but inside my place hums with a calmness I’ve come to enjoy. I envision the beach. “I miss the ocean.”

“You can always catch a flight and come to our show tomorrow night.”

“You never give up. Do you?”

“Nope, and neither do you, so…?”

“I’m not going to Hawaii, Bren. You’ll just have to wait until you’re in Paris to see me.”

“Seriously? You won’t come to visit me before then?”

“I can’t. I have to stay focused. On that note, is Mayhem playing in Paris this year?”