Living The Journey

By KM Bergstrom and KL Campbell

After the independent film The Journey exploded into a cultural phenomenon, Kathryn Sterling and Ryan Preston were dubbed Hollywood royalty and followed everywhere they go by greedy paparazzi. The tabloid industry relies on celebrity photographers to capture every moment of a star’s life. As Kat’s and Ryan’s romantic relationship heats up, follow along as they learn to live amid an unscrupulous gossip society, a media savvy fan base, and at times demanding schedules.

• Language: English
• Publisher: KM Bergstrom
• Release date: Sep 27, 2014
• ISBN: 9781310830495

KM Bergstrom

KM Bergstrom & KL Campbell are good friends, who with seven kids between them and numerous carpools and sporting events, decided to add freelance writer to their resume. After several bottles of red wine, a lot of conversation and a year’s worth of writing: the first book in a series was born. Now they proudly count their number of children as eight with nine on the way. Both ladies love to cook, eat, and exercise, but not always in that order. They love alternative music, going to concerts, getting their nails done, and a girl’s night out!

Book preview

Chapter 1

Happy New Year

My hands felt clammy and slightly cold. I knew I wasn’t getting sick, so it had to be nerves. I looked down at my gnawed fingernails and sighed. Yes, definitely nerves. Tucking my book of poems into the side pocket of my backpack, I slid the plastic curtain up and looked out the tiny airplane portal. It was hard to make out, but off in the distance a faint glimmer of light lit up the densely dark sky—our destination. I still couldn’t believe this was happening. If you had told me two months ago I’d be on a plane to London, I would have never believed you.

I gave the invitation to spend New Year’s with Ryan absolutely no thought. I don’t make spontaneous decisions. I mean, I go with my gut, but generally my gut doesn’t lead me across an ocean for a guy. But Ryan wasn’t just some guy. We met almost a year ago, and I knew on that first day we had something. Everyone called it chemistry. I guess that word fits, but really what we have is more complicated. It’s like a magnetic pull we have for each other that is impossible to fight. Trust me, I’ve tried. He throws me off, yet centers me at the same time. I gave up trying to define our relationship to the countless friends, fans and media that have clamored for an answer since we met. What I can tell you is this: three weeks ago he and I were only friends, but now things have shifted.

Life for us is exciting, yet at times difficult to navigate. We rely on one another in ways most people can’t understand. Last year we were cast in a low-budget movie called The Journey, which we both thought was an independent film. Turns out we were wrong. The movie blew up overnight into a blockbuster, propelling Ryan and I into a full-fledged media blitz, the likes of which haven’t been seen since the Beatles. Dealing with sudden fame and its pressures has been challenging. Although I’m confident, I’m often awkward and at times unable to handle the rush of attention thrust upon me. Yet through it all, I’ve done my best to maintain my sanity and integrity while staying true to who I am. And I’ve done all that with Ryan by my side.

Excuse me, would you like a beverage? It’s the last call, the flight attendant said, snapping me back to attention. Yes, I would love a Coke. Thanks, I said with a pop of my knuckles. I loved Drew for thinking ahead and booking a first-class ticket. Los Angeles to London was a long flight. I reclined my seat and shuffled through my iPod, trying to find something relaxing.

I was nineteen, and now that The Journey stuff had exploded, flying intimidated me a little. I was pretty sure I made it through LAX unnoticed. The fans were great, but since our movie premiered, the paparazzi had become insanely ridiculous. The stalkerazzi (my nickname for all scumbag photographers) have been hounding me since they caught Ryan and me together last summer. Sure we were outside the infamous Chateau Marmont, but nothing was going on between us—at least nothing we were acting on. When I was seeing Chris, their constant made-up stories and half-truths planted a seed of doubt in him that couldn’t be mended. He wasn’t able to handle my independence and the success of the movie, so we ended our three-year relationship a month ago. His jealousy and controlling ways tore us apart long before he cheated. That said, the paparazzi didn’t make my transition into the limelight easy for either one of us.

Attention ladies and gentlemen! Please fasten your seatbelts. We are beginning our descent. Hearing the announcement, my stomach lurched, and I could feel myself starting to sweat. I knew I didn’t have anything to be nervous about. Ryan and I had spent a lot of time together, traveling the world and watching our lives change before our very eyes. We had become best friends and each other’s rock. I just needed to stay calm and trust in Ryan that everything would be okay.

I secured my hoodie over my head, cranked my iPod, and locked my ear buds safely into my ears before exiting the plane at Heathrow Airport. The music was merely a precaution and distraction from the shouting photographers. I realized it would create the perfect escape from their howling voices and rude comments. I just prayed their attack ended at the airport, and they wouldn’t find out where I was headed. Walking quickly I exited through baggage claim. Ryan told me he would be meeting me himself, but I had no idea what to expect. I couldn’t see him standing outside waiting, exposing us to massive paparazzi or media scrutiny.

Two seconds after I cleared the main doors, I saw him. His car was pulled to the curb, and he quickly rolled down the window and motioned me over. Clutching my duffle bag, I hustled over and climbed into the back of his SUV. Once I was securely inside and the door shut, he turned around from the passenger seat and greeted me with the biggest grin ever. He looked good, even with a completely full beard. His light brown hair was longer than before. Still managing not to lay flat, it sprouted in several directions. His blue eyes sparkled and creased the corners of his face. I met his smile with my own and reached out for his hand. He took it and squeezed lightly.

I’m so glad you’re here, he whispered.

Me too, I grinned, relieved to admit it finally.

I pulled my hood off my head, getting comfortable for the ride.

Your hair is lighter.

I nodded yes and grinned, feeling pleased that he’d noticed I’d lightened my previously black Anna locks to a reddish brown—a color more my own. We held each other’s gaze with what felt like an unspoken moment of promise. Then the ahem of a throat clearing made me realize someone else was with us.

Kat, you remember Lisa, my sister.

Of course. Lisa, it’s great to see you again. Thanks for picking me up at this insane hour. I was actually nervous about riding with Ryan. He talks all the time about what a horrible driver he is. He has me convinced my life will be in jeopardy if he’s ever behind the wheel, I joked.

She laughed with me. You are correct. Ryan is a holy terror behind the wheel. Turning to Ryan, she asked, Do you even have a permit?

Of course, he howled. Although I did just get it last year.

I was glad for Lisa’s presence. Her easy demeanor and light banter with Ryan broke up our comfortable yet awkward silence. She drove us through the city, pointing out things I might like to see. I tried to appear interested, which I actually was, except when I couldn’t settle my rapidly beating heart. Distracted by the sights, I looked back and forth from window to window while Ryan kept his eyes fastened on me. As we drove along, I scanned the buildings and scenery—basically taking in what little I could see of London, instead of freaking out, like my insides were.

I responded to Lisa’s questions about myself and asked things of her, while also trying to control my stammer and shaky leg—a difficult task.

So—we’re going back to my parents for tonight, then tomorrow heading to the island, he informed me.

I felt light-headed. Okay, I answered. I was slightly anxious about staying with his parents. I wondered what Ryan had told them about us. You need to get it together, Sterling, I thought.

We pulled up in front of a modest white home situated off a busy main road. An iron fence surrounded the property and butted up against massive green shrubbery that provided its own form of privacy around the place.

Lisa pulled right into the garage, essentially hiding us and our arrival from unwanted eyes. I stepped out of the car and took a deep breath, reveling in the thought that I was really here. Then I followed behind Ryan, allowing him to carry my bags inside.

The house was very homey and completely dark and quiet. I’d caught a 7:00 a.m. out of LA, but what with the ten-hour flight and the time difference, it was now after two o’clock in the morning UK time. Lisa said good night and left us for her own bed. I was exhausted but being in Ryan’s family home made me feel sort of high. He gave me a quick tour that ended in a guest room.

This is where you’ll sleep tonight. He winked and closed the door behind us. I immediately noticed a change in Ryan. He stood taller and seemed more confident than I remembered him being. Man, how our roles were reversed! I was edgy. My hands were shaking so badly I held them to my sides so he wouldn’t notice.

Detecting a hint of cockiness in his grin, I asked, What does that mean?

"It means tomorrow night you’re mine. There’s no guest bedroom on the Isle. Just my bedroom."

I see, I stammered. Catching the stutter in my own voice, I raised an eyebrow in what was an attempt at sexy, but what probably came across as scared shitless. Unfortunately, I was. I know he noticed my nervousness because half a second later he wrapped me in a huge hug.

"I can’t tell you how good it feels to have you here in my home," he whispered, rubbing small circles on my back.

I allowed myself to relax completely and tightened my arms around his neck. The entire flight I’d played things over and over in my head, stressing and obsessing about what this time together meant. But here in the moment, I realized none of it mattered. Everything just felt so right. I hung onto him, lightly resting my head against his chest. Focusing on the feel of his hand resting on my lower back, I breathed in his fresh outdoor scent.

Ryan kissed my forehead, holding his lips for a moment, and then effortlessly dropped his arms from my waist. Is there anything you need?

No, I’m good. I looked up at him, thinking about that kiss and how I wanted another.

Okay then. Get some sleep. I’ve got big plans for tomorrow.

Alright, I said finally. I was feeling punchy from a lack of sleep, but also bummed we were no longer physically connected. With a goofy smile, he closed the door and left me alone with my thoughts.

Chapter 2

Charlie Brown

A light rapping on the bedroom door woke me up.

Come in, I said, sitting up in bed.

Lisa stepped through the door. Hey there. My brother wanted me to check on you. Breakfast is on.

Oh thanks. What time is it? I asked stretching my limbs and stepping out of bed.

It’s almost ten.

Seriously? I’m sorry I slept so late. I feel bad.

No worries. You’re on vacation, remember? There’s no schedule here, she said with a reassuring smile.

Cool.

Don’t forget the bathroom is across the hall if you need it.

Thanks, I just need a minute, I said, digging through my bag for something to wear. I quickly crossed the hall and jumped into the shower for a quick rinse. I needed to clean up from traveling. After a good soap down, I finger combed my hair and sprayed a little dry shampoo in to restore some volume. I brushed my teeth, smudged on black eyeliner and mascara, then dressed in my regular uniform of skinny Seven jeans and a pullover sweatshirt. Once again Drew deserved a serious thank-you for making sure I had enough proper clothes. Who knows what I would have brought if I’d been left to my own devices?

I walked into his kitchen amidst all the noise Ryan’s family was making. I was glad they weren’t holding breakfast for me but instead were enjoying their food and some lively conversation.

Kathryn, you made it. Grab a plate and pull up a seat, Ryan’s dad called out as I appeared. I slid into an empty chair at the table, making instant eye contact with Ryan, who was literally beaming. I helped myself to some of the huge breakfast that was spread out on the table. There were scrambled eggs, beans, bacon, sausages, tomato slices, and crumpets with Marmite. Ryan asked if I wanted coffee or tea, even though he was drinking a Coke. I went with tea, being in England and all, and added a little milk and honey to it. I was starving, and everything tasted so good. A person could seriously get used to having a big breakfast like this every day.

I didn’t know what Ryan had said about me and our relationship, but his parents seemed genuinely happy I was there. It wasn’t the first time we’d met, yet they didn’t really ask a lot of questions of me or put me on the spot. They just included me in their conversation like I belonged. I told them about my family and how we spent the holidays. His mom was interested in my mom’s creative side and confessed she was a painting novice too.

I’ve got a bit of a plan. Something I want to show you before we leave on the ferry tonight, Ryan spoke up.

Oh yeah, what? I asked.

It’s a surprise, but something I think you’ll love, he said, stealing the last sausage.

Cool, I grinned. His parents exchanged a look, and I caught Ryan’s mom giving him a smile. I couldn’t help wondering what he was up to and what he’d told his parents about us.

Ryan commandeered his dad’s classic BMW, opening the door for me before getting in. He showed me around his old stomping grounds, including his grammar school. It was so cool seeing where he grew up and being a passenger in a car with just the two of us. He and I had never ridden alone in a car. After a few close calls and one missed stop sign, I had to agree he was scary behind the wheel.

As we approached a massive red brick building, Ryan announced, We’re here. It was an interesting building that sort of resembled an old house. You’re going to love this, Ryan said, pulling the car up to the curb and parking.

Where? I asked, craning my neck trying to figure out what he was talking about. He came around to my side and opened the door. I tried not to make a funny face or brush the gesture off, but his constant and persistent gentlemanly manners were something to get used to—in a good way though, you know?

This is the home of the famous Olympic Studios, a local and international landmark. He pointed towards the brick building. I came here years ago when a buddy of mine was laying down some tracks. In a couple of months the doors are closing and it will be no more.

Olympic Studios? What, like a recording studio? I asked, thinking he might be going to play me something of his.

"Not just a recording studio, but the recording studio for bands like The Who, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and one of your personal favorites, The Beatles."

Get out! Are you fucking serious? I hopped up and down on the sidewalk in anticipation. Are we seriously about to step onto sacred ground?

Yes we are. He grabbed my hand and pulled me towards the door. I was brimming over with excitement, but still aware that we were strolling down the sidewalk holding hands. That was hard to miss.

We entered through the main doors and instantly the smell of history, creativity, and private stories hit me. This was a place to definitely soak in. Ryan quickly spoke to a clerk behind the desk, and she let us through the locked main doors. As we strolled through the long halls and many rooms, Ryan gave me a quick history lesson.

The doors opened in 1966 and it has been considered a cutting edge state-of-the-art facility since. Once it’s closed, all we’ll have left is Abbey Road, he moped.

That’s kind of sad. Like the end of an era, I agreed. Ryan’s shoulder slumped forward, and I watched his face sink a bit.

I’ve always dreamed of recording here someday, he admitted.

I can see why. It’s amazing. I turned to look at him. Thanks for bringing me here and sharing this.

He wrapped an arm around my shoulder and squeezed. Thanks for coming, he said.

We walked arm in arm, exploring the building and silently listening for the faint sounds of our musical heroes until we ended up in a huge sound booth.

Man, the things these walls had seen, Ryan whispered.

I bet the walls could tell some stories, I agreed. The whole place was amazing, and the fact that he would bring me here said a lot. He not only wanted to share it with me, but he also knew how much I would enjoy it. It was crazy how much we had in common.

Time flew by. After a stop at The Cow Pub for a pint, we were hustling back to his parents’ house to grab our stuff, before driving off to catch the last ferry out of Portsmouth. We were heading to Ventnor on the Isle of Wight.

Chapter 3

These Arms of Mine

Although the ferry ride was short, it was dark by the time we arrived. We checked into the Spyglass Inn and went straight to our room, which was actually an apartment with a small kitchen, two bedrooms, and a fold-out couch. Originally Ryan told me Nate, Vic, and Duncan would be here for the whole weekend. What he meant was they weren’t arriving until tomorrow for the weekend. Tonight it was just us.

If I’d known two days ago we’d be spending an entire night alone, I would have been an anxious wreck. Ryan knew me so well he neglected to give me all the details until we were on the ferry. There would be plenty of space for us and the boys this weekend. But after watching him drop both our bags in the master suite, I realized I wasn’t going to have my own room. It looked like I’d be bunking with Ryan: an arrangement we hadn’t discussed yet, but one he’d been hinting at all day. It’s not like he and I were strangers to spending the night together. Things were changing between us, so it was a fair assumption that sharing a bed might lead to a more positive outcome than before—now that we were both single.

Ryan and I hadn’t had a conversation about what was or wasn’t happening between us. I knew where he stood on the issue because several weeks ago he’d told me he wanted me with him. As usual I was a little slower on admitting my feelings. I’d just ended an almost three-year relationship and still felt injured. My self-esteem was in the toilet, and the last thing I needed was the complication of another guy. That’s not to say I wasn’t unbelievably attracted to Ryan. In fact, lately he was all I thought about.

I surveyed my surroundings. Holy shit, this place is a dive, I said, opening up the French doors and stepping onto the deck.

I know, isn’t it great? Ryan grinned.

Hell yes, I said, grinning back at him. I love that it’s right on the water. It’s so peaceful. Listen, you can hear the waves. Ryan followed me outside, lighting up a cigarette. After taking a puff, he handed it to me, and I accepted it. Neither of us spoke. Listening to the crashing water below, I inhaled deeply.

My parents have a place here, but they’d already loaned the use of it to their friends. It’s usually where we stay, but I didn’t get my request in soon enough. Besides, Lisa had dibs this year anyways.

That’s cool, I said. We sat in comfortable silence, listening to the waves.

Hey, you hungry? he asked.

Starving.

We could order in or go out. Actually, the pub downstairs has good food.

That sounds perfect. Let’s do that, I suggested. He gave me a head nod, but followed it with a giggle.

What?

This … I know I keep saying it, but really you being here with me is so cool.

He was right. Me being here with him was surreal and very cool. Who’d of thought? I smirked.

I did, he answered. Then in an assertive move, he lifted my hand to his lips and kissed my palm. My heart quickened as he placed my hand back in my lap. Heat burned through me, and I felt a hot blush on my cheeks. We locked eyes for several seconds as we both listened to the tide below, silently daring the other to move.

I broke first and handed back his cigarette before standing up. Let’s eat.

He gave me a gigantic grin. Now?

I returned the smile, and then proceeded to grab my coat so we could head downstairs for dinner. Yep, I called as I walked towards the door. It’s not that I was nervous about being alone with him, but a cocktail or two first wouldn’t hurt.

We grabbed a booth, and Ryan ordered two pints of Guinness before I even sat down. When he tossed the first back in practically one long gulp, I could tell he was as anxious as I. So it isn’t just me!

Thirsty? I asked, grinning at him. It made me happy to see that the confident, slightly cocky Ryan had a crack. I was sick of being the babbling idiot running from intimacy all the time.

A little, he said, looking at me over the top of his menu and blushing. We took a minute to refocus by doing something so mundane as reading the menu. I was starving anyway, and when the waitress reappeared, I ordered the fish-n-chips. He told the waitress he’d have the same, and ordered us another round of pints.

Making a conscious effort not to rattle my leg, I crossed my feet at the ankles. Why are we being so weird? We’re used to spending all our time together. This should feel normal.

It does feel normal for me, he whispered, dipping his head slightly forward. I’m completely used to sitting across a table from you, thinking about all the things I’d like to do to you.

My stomach gave a lurch. I was not expecting that. Uh-umm, I stammered, you just said that out loud.

Yup! He answered taking a sip from his beer. I’m just saying this is all very normal for me.

The confident Ryan was back. O-okay then, I murmured shifting my weight in the booth. I was shocked by his brashness, but also totally curious about what he’d been imagining. I matched his gaze wondering if he’d possibly drop a few hints.

He must have read my mind because he said, I’m not sharing anything with you tonight. He grinned, reaching for my hand and toying with my fingers.

Wait, why not tonight? I looked at our intertwined fingers.

I’d be a fool to show my hand on our first date. I plan on stretching it out … savoring every moment, he said, giving my hand a squeeze before letting go.

So first date, huh?

First of many.

Man, this guy was killing me. When did he get to be so charming and sexy? I felt myself getting warm and needed a distraction from the sexual tension brewing between us. Tossing back the last of my first beer, I reached for my second. That’s when I noticed the wall behind us. Ooh, darts! Let’s play, I said, getting up from the table.

Ryan handed me a playing set. Care to make a friendly wager? He asked in the most mischievous manner.

I threw the first dart and nailed the bull’s-eye on my first try. You sure you want to bet against me?

I’ve made a point to never bet against you. I’m simply suggesting an incentive, he said, before knocking back a long gulp and setting the empty on our table.

"Incentive, huh? Okay, if I win you make me breakfast, and if I lose I make it.

That’s not a very good incentive, seeing that I’ve already made you breakfast … several times in fact.

Ryan, coffee isn’t breakfast, I interjected.

A woman’s voice interrupted our playful banter. I turned my head before Ryan did.

"Excuse me. I don’t mean to be rude or interrupt you, but I’m such a big fan. I can’t believe you’re both really here together. Can I please get a picture with you?"

Things had been so tame the last two days with Ryan and me coming and going undetected. I almost forgot about The Journey and the fact that we were out in public together. I must be crazy to think it could have really lasted.

I looked to Ryan, who wasn’t hiding his annoyance. Sure, I answered quietly for both of us. But do you mind if we go outside. I don’t want to make a big deal in here.

No … I get it. I’ll be discreet. She motioned by zipping her lips in silence. "It’s so great seeing the two of you in person. You can’t imagine. I really am a huge fan of The Journey. You were both fantastic in it."

Thanks man. That’s really nice to hear, I said.

Can we go outside now? She beamed.

Sure, Sure, I answered grabbing my jacket.

Okay, she squealed. Let me get my husband to take the picture. She walked back to her table.

Really Kat? I don’t want to go outside, Ryan brooded.

What else could I say? Do you want her snapping pictures in here, drawing everyone’s attention towards us?

No you’re right. It’s just that tonight is about us; not Anna and Thomas." He grumbled behind me as we walked out into the cold night air.

A second later, the bar doors swung open and our super fan appeared with not only her husband, but two other people as well. I hope you don’t mind, but these are our friends, she said, stepping forward. Ryan and I introduced ourselves properly, shaking hands and making nice. I shouldn’t say making nice. It’s not hard to do that, but Ryan’s right. We aren’t working or playing a part. Tonight was about us.

They were nice people, so I did my best to not look annoyed. I mean, I get enough flack for appearing rude or standoffish when really I’m just shy. Just imagine the amount of shit I get when I’m really irritated. They took a few pictures, complimenting us again on the movie and swore to keep our location a secret. Ryan took advantage of being outside to light up, and once they’d left I followed his lead.

I watched the smoke billow out through his nose. Here we are in a dive-bar. We’re literally nowhere, halfway across the ocean, and we still get recognized! When do you think this will stop? I asked.

Hopefully soon, he answered crushing out his butt. Let’s go back inside. I’m freezing my balls off. I inhaled deeply one last time before following him in.

The thrill of darts temporarily worn off, I dropped back into my seat as Ryan motioned to the waitress for another round. Dude, I’m feeling a little buzzed.

You just need to eat. Our food should be here pretty quick, he said, looking around. And don’t try and thwart my plans on getting you drunk. I want to make sure you relax.

Whatever. I shook my head. Are you still irritated about being recognized?

No. Not at all. He grinned. I’m just not the best at sharing.

Me either, I quickly agreed. I was thinking back to Chris cheating on me. Although it was not the entire reason for our breakup, it was definitely the last piece of an already crumbled relationship. It was not something I could ever get over.

When we sat down, our food and pints arrived. My plate was piled high with hand-cut fries and flakey deep-fried fish. I dove in with my hands, ignoring basic manners. Ryan drenched his in malt vinegar before following suit. We ate quietly. I couldn’t say for him, but I needed a minute to reboot and remember this was a date.

This is sooo good, I gushed dipping a fry in ketchup. Ignoring my already present buzz, I reached for my beer and took another gulp.

Are you having fun? Ryan asked.

The best. This place is really great. Thanks again for inviting me. I really needed to get out of LA.

I know … you needed to be with me, he said with a smirk.

Is that right? I nudged his leg.

Yep, he answered, letting the foam from his beer linger on his beard.

Our waitress interrupted what I’d call a moment between us, by dropping off two shots of whiskey. Here you go you two. Compliments from the table in the back. We picked them up and looked back to find our super fan giving a quick wave. Ryan tilted his up in a gesture of thanks and tossed it back. Forgetting I’m a lightweight, I followed suit.

We cleaned our plates and chatted about mutual friends until I blurted, Ooh I love this song. I jumped up recognizing a Fleetwood Mac tune.

How about that game? I asked, reaching for his hand.

Alright, but no crying when you lose and have to scramble my eggs naked, he teased while getting up to play me.

Who said anything about naked. I’m pretty sure we just bet breakfast. I corrected him.

No … tomorrow is New Year’s Eve and tradition says the day is spent naked.

"Tradition, huh? We’ll just have to see about that." I grabbed my darts from Ryan.

Ladies first, he offered moving beside me. I stepped forward slightly, raised my arm and slowly eyeballed the red center several times before firing off my first dart. Bull’s eye! I quickly followed that up by nailing the next two in the almost exact position.

Judas Priest! You weren’t kidding. Nice job Kat, Ryan praised.

You’re up, I said with a smirk.

I think I just lost … yeah. He shook his head tossing his darts aside.

Great! I’ll take salsa with my scrambled eggs-and-naked show. I beamed.

He wrapped an arm around my side and squeezed. You’re on.

We returned to our booth and finished our beers then caught up on what’s been happening the last several weeks. I couldn’t help but notice that Ryan steered clear from asking about Chris, which was good. Chris was the last thing I wanted to think or talk about. Although I guess I did expect Ryan to bring him up at some point.

Chapter 4

Pour Some Sugar on Me

We walked back to the room side by side. The night air cooled me, and a fresh set of goose bumps popped out on my arms. I had an intense desire to hold Ryan’s hand but knew better. After we were recognized earlier tonight, the last thing we needed was for some magazine or gossip show to get a picture of us together and end up being their lead story. Hell to the no!

Ryan unlocked the room and stepped back to allow me to enter first. I went inside the dark space feeling awkward. I wasn’t sure where to go or what to do.

How do you feel?

Drunk, I sputtered out and tripped over a throw rug.

Ryan reached for me as I straightened myself up. Then he turned on a lamp and headed for the kitchen, where he filled a glass with water.

Drink this, he told me as he handed me the glass. I obeyed, knowing it would help fight a hangover later. Ryan plopped himself onto the sofa and clicked on the TV. Movie?

As he flipped channels, I sat down next to him, ignoring the question.

He looked over and gave me a smile. Ryan meeting my eyes was all I needed. No sense putting off the inevitable. I reached out, grabbing the front of his button-down shirt and drew him to me for a kiss—something I’d wanted to do since last night. He responded by sliding his hand around my hips and