The problem is I don’t know.
Rory wants another librarian job. Since she can’t get that in Wild Heart, is she gonna move?
My head starts to hurt. This is why I hate thinking about the future. Because there are no certainties in life. All I know is I want to be the next Garrett Gamble, and that won’t happen in Wild Heart.
Rory is the kind of woman who wants commitment, and even though I’m over casual relationships, I wouldn’t say I’m ready to take the plunge into anything serious.
Yeah, I know it’s ridiculous that I’m talking about mywiferight now.
But I can’t offer Rory anything beyond this summer. Would she want that? Would it offend her if I suggested it? Would it affect whether or not she’ll take care of Layla?
I rub my throbbing temple. This is why you don’t mix business with pleasure, and during sound check, I get a good reminder of that.
Across the stage, I spot her, a ghost from the past.
Marlowe’s red hair blows in the breeze as she laughs with some guy.
I feel… nothing. Not anger or hatred. Not sadness or regret.
There’s just a void of space in my chest, a good reminder I should never get that invested in a woman again.
20
RORY
Tonight,I’m going to be smart and use the stroller, but first I have to get Layla and her stuff down the steps of the bus.
“Here, let me help you.” Our security guy Edmond smiles as he grabs the contraption.
“You’re a lifesaver. Thanks.” I get the baby strapped in, and we book it for the pavilion. A few guys watch me as I cross the parking lot, and I debate my outfit for the millionth time.
Calm down. Your friends said this looked good. That it wasn’t too much.
I texted photos of every outfit I wanted to buy to Baylee, Paige, and Honey because I have zero fashion sense beyond liking vintage dresses.
When I reach the VIP line, I flash my credentials and make my way to the green room. Tonight is a big deal for the guys. They’re at the larger stage. I want to wish them luck and smooth things over with Cooper and Shane. I didn’t mean to be snarky to their guest this morning.
When Frank spots me, he smiles. “Come in. We have about ten minutes before the guys need to go.”
“Thanks.” I push the stroller into the green room that smells like old gear and musty furniture. Jace is talking with his friends, but when he sees me, he stills. His eyes travel slowly up and down my body, and I feel that look everywhere.
This outfit is more adventurous than I’m used to, but I feel pretty. Except it’s been a long time since I tried to look nice. I’m wearing a black bikini top with a wispy, sheer, long-sleeved shirt that I left open and a pair of jean shorts. Plus some dangly earrings, matching bangle bracelets, and a long necklace.
After I bought all of these clothes, the shop owner suggested I pop in next door to get my hair and makeup done. They squeezed me in, so I now have a whole new makeup collection and a slew of hair products.
It’s a lot, but I don’t remember the last time I bought myself new clothes. After getting fired, I figured I deserved to treat myself.
Jace’s grin goes crooked. “Hey, gorgeous.”
I almost look behind me until I realize he’s talking to me. “Hi.”
He leans over to kiss me, and I go with it. We’re supposed to be married after all. There are a few people in here I don’t know, and obviously Jace wants this ruse to be convincing. I will my pulse to slow down.
When we part, I look up at him with what I hope is affection in my eyes, fully committed to my role. He’s particularly handsome tonight in a button-up short-sleeved shirt that’s tucked into his jeans, a backwards baseball cap, and his cowboy boots.
“I brought everyone a pre-show snack.” I whip out the fudge I bought this afternoon.
“Thanks, babe.” Jace winks, takes a square, and shoves the entire thing in his mouth.
