I’m a man in love, and I’m ready to sing about it.
* * *
SPENCER
Back stage at the concert hall, I take the flowers that Gabriel offers me with a chuckle. “Flowers for me? You’re the one going on stage. Isn’t it supposed to be the other way around?”
He shrugs casually. “I told you. I’m in the mood to shower you with gifts today. And the white anemone is very sophisticated. I thought you’d appreciate it.”
Gabriel is dressed in tight black jeans, a simple long-sleeved tee, and his old boots. It’s his typical look, nothing special as he prepares to share his new album with the public for the first time. But his wavy hair is pushed back, nails freshly painted black, and he sports the silver chain necklace I gave him.
And yeah, even today, I can’t get over how damn attractive my man is.
I look down at the white flower with the burst of dark indigo at its center. “I do appreciate it. Thank you.”
After the incredible sex this morning, I expected all focus to shift to tonight’s show. But Gabriel has been preoccupied with my comfort. He surprised me with a delivery of lunch from my favorite sushi spot, and as soon as we arrived to the concert hall, someone appeared with my favorite bourbon and a slice of pie from the bakery I love down the street.
I’m not sure what’s gotten into him. Maybe flattering me is a good distraction from his pre-show nerves, although I haven’t really noticed many of those these past few days. He mainly just seems excited.
Hell, who am I to complain? Ever since I moved to Seattle, my life has been filled with these small shows of support and love. I try to shower Gabriel back with the same every day.
Tonight, though, really is about Gabriel and his music. I’ve won another Grand Slam, Wimbledon, and came in second to Everett at the US Open. Gabriel has been there supporting me every minute. It’s important to me that I do the same for him.
I lean back on a leather armchair. “You wanted me to remind you about your vocal exercises.”
Gabriel points at me. “Of course. Thanks.”
“Anything else I can do for you?”
“You’re doing everything.” Gabriel steps forward, pressing a kiss to my lips, and I rise to meet him, pushing my tongue into his mouth. With a gentle hum, he pulls back. “Everything.”
I laugh. “That easy?”
The lights flicker, and his eyebrows pop up. “It’s time.”
It’s good to see him so excited about the show. His new music is amazing. He’s let his raw emotions show, and it gives the songs real depth, but they’re infused with joy, too. It’s a sophisticated sound, unlike almost anything I’ve heard before, and I know the world is going to love it.
“Go join Alyssa and Domingo,” he says. “I’ll see you after the show.”
“Kill it, babe,” I tell him, and after another kiss, I sneak back to the front.
Alyssa is seated right near the stage with Domingo, Marco being backstage, ready to accompany Gabriel. She’s still located in New York, where she’s successfully launched her own sports PR agency. Instead of walking backwards into her public relationship, like I did with Gabriel, she perfectly planned the entire thing. After opening the doors to her hip, future-focused firm, she set up a couple exclusive interviews with glossy magazines to share her romance with Marco and Domingo, taking control of the narrative around her polyamorous relationship.
She made it work for everyone’s brands, of course, but that’s just gravy. The best part is seeing her, Marco, and Domingo all so happy together. We even get to celebrate at their wedding next year.
“Black lace and tiny metal studs,” I say, nodding to the prim collar of her tight black dress. “Very rock and roll.”
She smiles as she smooths down the lush, structured fabric. “But still professional. You know me.” Her smile turns into a grin. “Are you excited?”
“Of course.” I sit beside her. “No matter how often I hear Gabriel’s music, it’s a treat.”
“Agreed,” she says, still smiling.
I’m excited for the show, but I’m not sure why my best friend issoexcited. Even Domingo is smiling beside her, which is unusual, considering the quiet man emotes so rarely. Before I can think more of it, though, the lights dim. Applause fills the venue, a spotlight flicks to life, and my man walks out on stage.
When the applause finally calms down again, he takes his position at a stool, a single mic waiting before him. He’s just as cool and confident as ever, and I feel the power of his presence taking the room while Marco joins behind him on the drums.
“I’ve got some new songs for you tonight,” Gabriel says. “I hope you’ll enjoy them.”
