Coming Down

By Marie Coulson

You can’t run away forever; sometimes, you have to start over...
With college coming to an end, a promising career in sight, and a sexy, talented rocker to spend eternity with, Layla’s life is finally coming together. She’s living the American dream. But dreams can soon become nightmares when the man you love becomes one of the world's most lusted after celebrities.
Battling to find a balance between her hectic profession and the trying demands of the rock and roll lifestyle, Layla soon discovers that the glare of the spotlight is blinding.
Adding fuel to a fiery situation, old friends turn over new leaves, thereby leaving Layla with a troubling dilemma. Will her past ruin her present? Is she strong enough to handle coming down?
Intense passion, deep emotion, sex, drugs and...rock and roll.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Marie Coulson
• Release date: Dec 1, 2014
• ISBN: 9781310600463

Marie Coulson

Born and bred in Essex, England, Marie Coulson discovered her love of writing in her early teens. Beginning with poetry and song lyrics, she tried her hand at creative writing while studying for her English GCSE.It was love at first line.Unfortunately, Marie's career as a childcare and education practitioner soon took up most of her time and writing became something she only dreamed about.In the summer of 2012 she quit her job and enrolled at university, ready to start a new career as a therapist. This left her with a lot of time on her hands and on August the 20th she sat down and wrote the first chapter of Bound Together.Bound Together was a story that had been waiting three years to be written and when fingers hit the keyboard...Layla, Jared and Ollie's story was born.Look out for other books by Marie Coulson including the tantalizing sequel to Bound Together. Burning Up - Available NOW, Romantic British comedy - Diary Of A Dieter and the Bound Together novella - Last Christmas.

Book preview

Chapter 1

The Sting Of Love

Squirming, I closed my eyes and dug my fingernails into the soft leather of the chair. My teeth were biting down on my bottom lip so hard that as my tongue quickly darted out to sooth it, I recognized the metallic and unwelcome taste of blood.

I cannot believe you are doing this. You’re crazy. Amy, tell her she’s nuts.

Opening my eyes, I rolled them at Mel, who was hovering over me looking anxious and slightly nauseated. Amy glanced up from her magazine as she pushed herself further back into the chair opposite me.

Baby, calm down. I think it’s romantic.

Mel stomped her foot, apparently irritated that Amy wasn’t sharing the same philosophy as she did.

Romantic? It’s insane. Layla, once you do this, you can never go back. It’s life changing.

Amy let out a loud snort and laughed. Mel, for the love of god, relax!

Holding my breath, I let out a slight yelp as the needle scratched and scraped across my skin. The thick, black line was mesmerizing as it gradually penetrated my perfectly clear and, until about ten minutes ago, unmarked flesh.

Well, you won’t find me being branded for some guy, Mel declared, with a distinct snootiness.

Amy raised an eyebrow at her. I should hope not, sweetie pie.

A hiss left my lips as the needle dragged across my flesh. The design itself was sweet yet striking. I wanted something that was special, unique and reflective of exactly how I felt.

He will freak, Layla! Amy squeaked excitedly as she bounced on her heels. Mel shook her head in response.

Oh yes, it screams rock chick and I’m confident he’ll fucking love it. That piece of metal in your tongue…maybe not.

I let out a small chuckle before sinking my teeth into my lip as the artist continued his work.

It’s just a tongue stud, Mel. I always wanted one but never had the guts! I’ve discovered there’s a wild side to Layla Jennings, and I’m willing to let her out to have some fun. You know, just now and then. Besides, I can always just take it out and let it heal. Anyway, what are you complaining about? The past few months have been awesome, and you can’t deny that since the guys have been gone, we girls have had more fun than ever.

Mel nodded in agreement. Or maybe, it’s since a certain business tycoon left? You know; when you found your freedom?

Trying to stay still, I frowned at her. It has nothing to do with Jared. And will you please stop poking at him? He’s thousands of miles away.

Amy squirmed and quickly tried to lighten the mood. Distance is no object when it comes to Mel and her snarkiness. Anyway, have you heard from him at all? I bet he’s seen some amazing sights so far.

I shook my head. It was a lie of course. I’d been receiving emails at least three times a week since he’d left. Each was packed with pictures and details of Jared’s travels so far. I’d also sent him updates on what I was doing. It seemed silly to just cast aside what we had. I mean, we didn’t have a gory and heart-wrenching break up. No one was to blame. If anything, we both were. Sometimes in life, I guess you meet people who will change your world, tip it on its head and make you a little more…whole. Some relationships were supposed to teach you, not break you or complete you. That’s what Jared had given me. I’d lived through so much in such a small space of time. That kind of emotional, mental and physical upheaval…Changes a person. We’d been through so much and learned so much from each other too. One day, Jared Garret would find the girl of his dreams. But she isn’t me. I was lucky enough to call him a friend and considering he was not the type to make or maintain friendships; this was a significant achievement. There was almost no one in the world who knew me quite as well as he did. Of course, the others being Amy, Mel, and Ollie.

His emails always made me smile. I could see every week just how much he was growing and changing. And yet, in other ways, he remained exactly the same. He almost blew a gasket when I sent him a picture of my tongue stud. What followed was an hour and a half conversation via my webcam. After the expected lecture on how unsanitary and dangerous piercings are, even he had to agree that it was still pretty hot. Besides, I was damn sure he’d have no place to comment on my new ink. Mr. ‘I’ll label my ass with your name on it.' Never get a partner's name permanently etched into your skin. That’s one rule I always live by. It’s sweet and adorable, yes, but it can be a little awkward and infuriating should you both part on bad terms. Luckily, for Jared, that wasn’t the case with us, and I was happy to be on his ass all the time!

But my email account hadn’t pinged with a single message from him for almost two weeks and honestly, I missed him.

The loud and excitable sound that suddenly came from Amy’s direction caught me by surprise and staring at her in bewilderment, I wondered what the hell had gotten her all riled up. Tapping me on the shoulder, Mel quickly and silently pointed up to the TV that was mounted on the far wall of the shop.

Sitting on a metal stool, surrounded by screaming girls and his band mates, was my gorgeous and incredibly talented boyfriend. His hair was beginning to get some length back and I could just make out the end of his puzzle tattoo as it peeked out from beneath the sleeve of his t-shirt. Hearing his songs on the radio and his name on the list of acts at a gig was one thing. Seeing him right there, on MTV, talking about his music…was something else entirely.

Turn it up! Turn it up! Amy squealed.

Picking up the remote from the coffee table in front of her, Mel cranked up the volume.

It’s incredible. Millions of albums sold all over the country and a tour that has completely sold out in just a few days! How do you guys keep yourselves grounded? I mean, it must be hard not to get swept up in the craziness of success.

Smiling, Ollie shrugged.

When you’ve been a band as long as we have, it’s not really like we’ve hit the big time. To us, we’re just the same three guys, playing our music on stage back home in the local bar.

Or in Eric’s garage! Nick interrupted.

Ollie and Eric chuckled.

We’re also lucky to have such great friends and support back home, Eric said with a small smile at the camera.

Groupies, Nick quipped with a grin that could rival the Cheshire cat.

What about romance? the interviewer asked as she looked around at the hordes of girls whistling and cheering beside the stage.

It’s difficult. I mean, with a schedule as busy as ours, we hardly get time to visit our families and friends. Then there’s all the media attention and the fans can get a little crazy too. I’ve had about four thousand sets of panties mailed to me so far. It would take a hell of a girl to put up with all of that and still be there waiting for me when I kicked off my shoes and walked through the door. She’d be one of a kind and a real keeper.

Ollie glanced quickly at the camera and a ghost of a smile spread across his lips. My insides instantly heated and my heart thundered.

Wow, well I think there’s a big line for that position so I’ll just join the queue.

Turning the volume down, Mel smiled at me and chuckled.

See. And there you were worried he’d forgotten you even existed.

I rolled my eyes. No, I said it felt that way sometimes. Did either of you notice that Shaye wasn’t with them?

Amy shrugged. Maybe it was a boy’s only kind of interview. I mean, they’re the founding members after all. She does solo shit all the time.

Trying not to dwell on the fact that my boyfriend was currently surrounded by lustful women, I let out a long sigh but caught my breath midway as the sharpness of the needle scraped my skin. I flinched and glancing up at me, Sam, the artist, rolled his eyes.

I take it this is your first time.

I nodded in response. I’m not accustomed to pain.

Not accustomed to pain…now that really was a lie. Jared had introduced me to the world of pleasure and pain. The truth was that I kind of enjoyed the sharp scratching followed by the warm and tingling sensation that followed. But Sam didn’t need to know that.

I smiled at him gently and tried to hide the fact that I was currently re-living hundreds of nights of hot, kinky sex in my head.

You should have seen me squirm when I had my tongue pierced, I quipped.

He shook his head. Some girls can take it, some can’t. What about you ladies? Who’s going next?

He nodded toward Amy and Mel, who stared at him mortified. Crossing her arms, Mel scoffed. Not a chance in hell. I wouldn’t get a tattoo if you paid me a thousand dollars.

Amy bit her lip and smiled. Oh, I don’t know, I’ve always wanted a little color on my poor pale flesh. Maybe a flower or something.

Mel gawped at her. A tramp stamp? Seriously?

Getting up off of the black leather couch where she had been perched for the past two hours, Amy began browsing through one of the artist's portfolios. It was impressive work. I had done my research and found one of the best artists in L.A. I was pretty lucky to even get an appointment. The shop itself had been on T.V, so it was very popular without taking into account the stunning art done by the people that worked there.

Mel hurriedly attempted to snatch the book from Amy’s hands, but clutching it firmly, Amy tugged it away from her.

My body, my choice, Kitten.

Mel raised an eyebrow. You might own that hot piece of ass but I’m renting it for the foreseeable future. I’m just trying to protect my investment.

I stifled a laugh. I don’t think you’re going to win this one, Mel.

I nodded toward Amy as she bounced up and down excitedly, pointing at a page in the book.

Oh! Oh! This one! I am getting this one!

Holding it up in front of herself, Amy showed Mel and me the art she intended to have branded on her skin forever. I gave her a small smile as I saw the image of a beautiful rose entwined with a vine of thorns. It was stunning. Mel shook her head in bewilderment.

Over my dead body, baby.

Getting up from the couch, Amy stuck her tongue out at Mel and shrugged.

I like it and I’m getting it inked right here on my shoulder.

She pointed at the back of her right shoulder. Why is it that when guys get inked, you think it’s hot but when a girl does it, it’s a tramp stamp? I don’t hear you complaining about Layla’s art.

Mel rolled her eyes and glanced at me. I’m not the one staring at her body for the rest of my life.

Amy held her palm to her chest and grinned. Rest of your life? Oh, Mel, I think that’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever almost said to me.

I chuckled a little as she threw her arms around my best friend and swung there; lifting her feet from the floor. The sting of the needle once again drew my attention to my own tattoo currently in progress.

Almost done, the artist murmured as he added the final touches of color. I couldn’t wait to see it properly. At this angle, it was particularly difficult to make it out at all. Switching off the machine and quickly cleaning up the excess ink from my flesh, Sam smiled.

You’re done. It looks hot. Check it out.

He gestured at the long mirror hanging on the far wall and getting quickly to my feet, I walked over and stared in awe at the incredible artwork he had now permanently etched onto my skin.

The image of written music wound loosely around a stunning white and black guitar, stood out vividly against the pale flesh of my hip.

Wow, Amy muttered as she stood beside me. Even Mel seemed a little impressed.

Okay, even I can admit it’s kind of hot. What’s with the notes?

I smiled and bit my lip. It’s the first few bars of my song. You know, the one Ollie wrote for me?

Amy bounced on her heels and beamed. Awesome! Ollie is going to love it! When are you going to tell him?

I shook my head as I continued to smile and stare at the reflection in the mirror.

I’m not going to tell him. I’m going to show him.

Chapter 2

You’ve Got Mail

The loud, high pitched and irritating sound of my alarm woke me from the first decent night’s sleep I had experienced in almost three weeks. Lifting my head from my pillow, I sat up and swung my feet onto the floor. The feel of paper and the firm spine of the book beneath my foot caught my attention and looking down, I groaned. My psych paper was due in two days, and I was nowhere near close to completing it. Late night phone calls with Ollie and the allure of all night parties were not helping. Stumbling across the room and trying desperately to avoid stepping on my mountain of books and papers, I made my way to my computer. Opening it up, I scanned the screen for any new email notifications. Nothing.

Letting out a long sigh, I opened the file I’d affectionately named ‘the brain melting psych paper’, and began typing. I was just starting to get into the swing of it when the sound of ringing caught my attention. Reaching for my cell, I checked the screen but there was nothing there. It took me a few seconds to realize that the sound was, in fact, coming from my computer. Clicking frantically on the Skype app, I grinned as the handsome, rugged, unshaven and smiling face gazed back at me.

Good evening, My Lady.

I smiled broadly and swept the hair from my face.

Evening? It’s like nine in the morning.

He shrugged and rolled his eyes. Potatoe, potahto.

I raised an eyebrow at him curiously. When did Jared Garrett develop a sense of humor?

Glancing behind him briefly, he swept his fingers through his golden hair and smiled.

So, how’s school?

I chuckled a little at him. Two weeks without any contact with you and the first thing you want to talk about is school. Same old Jared, always keeping tabs on me.

He shrugged. You’d be disappointed if I changed a little too much. Anyway, you didn’t answer the question.

I rested my elbow on the desk and leaned on my fist. It’s boring. I have a psych paper due. It’s not going so well.

He chuckled deep in his throat. Same old Layla, always procrastinating.

I shrugged and smiled. Would you have me any other way?

He smirked and raised an eyebrow. That’s a loaded question, Jennings, and I shall go nowhere near it.

I giggled and rolled my eyes. Spoil sport.

Sitting back in his chair, he placed his hands behind his head. So…how are things?

I gave him a knowing look. You mean how are things going with Ollie. Let’s at least call a spoon a spoon.

Bursting into laughter, Jared almost fell off of his seat. I didn’t see what was so funny.

A spoon? Where do you get these things from? I’m beginning to think you’re spending too much time with my sister.

Lucy and I had made a deal to remain friends and see each other as often as possible. She frequently invited me to the house, but it felt…wrong to consider being in Jared’s home. I mean, after everything that had happened between us within those walls. So we would meet at the mall, the beach or a child-friendly restaurant. Elliot was a gorgeous little bundle of giggles and every moment I spent with him, made me worryingly broody. But not that broody.

Poking my tongue out at him playfully, I shrugged. So to what do I owe the pleasure of your call?

Jared bit his lip and raised an eyebrow at me. I felt the need to check in on you.

I rolled my eyes. You mean check up on me.

Layla, you are alone, in Long Beach. Your…

He swallowed hard and almost grimaced.

…boyfriend is miles away living the rock star dream and I’m sure you can understand my concerns regarding your welfare considering all that happened to you. I won’t forgive myself for that, and I wouldn’t forgive myself if anything happened to you in my absence.

I couldn’t help but feel sorry for him. Jared had been holding an enormous amount of guilt since the incident with Felix. It wasn’t his fault the guy was a psychopath. And it wasn’t his fault that Ollie had been injured. Though a part of me still resented him for all of the secrets and lies, I’d long since forgiven him for them. He didn’t have to answer to me anymore. I was also acutely aware of how referring to Ollie as my boyfriend left a bad taste in his mouth. Though he claimed to accept my decision, I knew it couldn’t be easy for him. We’d experienced a lot together and regardless of where we were now, we truly did love each other. I just couldn’t ignore my heart any longer. It’s easy to fall in love with someone. You get caught up in the thrill, lust, romance and excitement of it all. I fell hard and fast for Jared. But once that fire and passion simmers out, you remove your honeymooner’s glasses and hope that what’s left is worth fighting for. Jared and I had chemistry; there was no doubt about it. We could have caused infernos with the heat that continuously built between us. But we were never friends. It was only since we’d stopped being a couple that I'd really discovered who Jared was.

You have to stop worrying about me. I'm all right. I have Mel and Amy here. I’m not alone. I double bolt my door every night, and I’m living in dorms with a security system that could rival Fort Knox. Relax.

Sighing deeply, he nodded. Would you at least check in with Daniel now and then? It keeps me sane knowing that you and Lucy at least have him there.

Offering him a small compromise, I smiled. I promise to give him a call when I can.

That appeared to placate him. Well, at least for now. Buzzing loudly on the desk, my cell began slowly moving toward me. I bit my lip and glanced down at the caller I.D. I had to stop myself from squealing with excitement.

I take it from the look on your face that you have a call from Green, Jared said with a distinct look of resentment.

I gave him a rueful nod.

Will I ever be able to hear or say his name without getting that churning feeling in my stomach? he said with a look of distaste.

I shrugged. I don’t know. I hope so. You’re my friend, and I don’t want to lose you from my life. If you honestly think you’ll never be able to accept Ollie or my choice to be with him...maybe we should get some space.

Jared chuckled. Layla, I’m in Africa. We can’t get much more space than that.

You know what I mean, Jared. Maybe we shouldn’t speak for a while. Take some time out. It doesn’t make things easier when we’re always seeing, talking to and writing to each other.

My phone stopped buzzing, and I felt my heart sink. I’d missed his call.

I’d miss you. That’s for damn sure. You’re the best friend I’ve ever had, Layla. No one knows me the way you do.

I smiled and placed my fingertips on the screen, wishing desperately that I could reach out and comfort him.

I’ll always be your friend. But I don’t think even you know who you are. Maybe now is a good time to find out.

He nodded, and ghost of a smile spread across his face.

Hey, ass munch, we’re moving camp. Are you coming or should we leave cutlery and dining utensils for the lions when they find you? I know you have a lot of shit to pack, Mr. High Maintenance, but it’s going to be dark soon and I don’t fancy my chances against a fucking wild animal in the dark.

Walking into Jared’s tent, a beautiful, red-headed woman fisted her hands on her hips and scowled at him. Wild animal in the dark? Did this chick have any idea who she was talking to? Jared was the wildest animal I knew. Get him in the dark and you wouldn’t be running for your life; you’d be begging him to devour you.

Who’s that? I mouthed to him.

I’ll be ten minutes. God, must you throw your weight around all the time you horrible shrew. It’s becoming tiresome. I’ve half a mind to offer you to the damn lions.

I stared at him in shock. I’d never heard Jared speak to anyone like this before. Who the hell was this hag?

Leaving his tent, the woman flipped him the bird over her shoulder.

Who the hell was that!?

Jared rolled his eyes. Her name’s Rhonda. She’s part of a group I encountered on my travels. I’ve been traveling with them across the country. Safety in numbers. Well, that and she owns a gun. She’s a handful, but I tolerate her for the sake of sanity and peace in my camp.

I chuckled. How very unlike you. The Jared I know would be desperate to spank some manners into her.

That stung. The moment I said it, I felt it instantly in my gut. I couldn’t deny that I missed the way Jared could make me feel. He was dominant, strong and incredibly sexy. I don’t believe there’s a woman alive who wouldn’t be swayed by Jared’s extreme good looks and charming demeanor.

You took the words right out of my mouth, he said with a smirk. I had to remind myself that I was no longer Jared’s property nor he mine. But that didn’t mean I wasn’t turned on. Maybe some distance, even electronically, would do us both some good.

My phone began to buzz again.

You’d better answer that, and I had better pack before the ‘hag’ gives me another lecture.

I giggled a little at his use of my word. It seemed so un-natural to hear it from his lips. But I had to admit, I was enjoying the fact that Jared was being given a dressing down a little. He needed to loosen up.

Maybe you should be nicer to the witch. She might turn into a princess.

Jared rolled his eyes at me. There was no denying that I missed him, but I certainly didn’t miss that!

Answer your call.

I nodded. I’ll write to you.

We both knew that it was a timeless and half-hearted promise. But if we were truly honest with ourselves, we also knew it was for the best. Giving me a last quick smile, Jared raked his fingers through his golden hair.

Remember to check in with Daniel. I’ll tell him to expect your call.

I rolled my own eyes at him playfully. Yes, Sir.

Shaking his head, in what I could only assume to be exasperation, he said his goodbyes and ended the call. My screen went blank, and I couldn’t help but feel the sadness at not seeing his smiling face looking back at me.

Shaking my head at myself, I picked up my cell and answered the call.

Hello?

Hey, Superstar.

Chapter 3

That’s Rock And Roll

They’re not coming home for my birthday!? Amy yelled, reaching across the table for a beer.

Sliding into the booth, I nodded. Sorry, sweetie. He said they were sorry, but things are pretty hectic right now. They’re leaving San Francisco in two days to head down the coast. He said they’ll be on the road for at least the next month.

Amy’s jaw dropped. "A month! They were away for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and now this! They were supposed to be gone three months and then back for a while before heading out again. So far, it’s been months away and home for a few days. What about Graduation!? I can’t believe it. A whole month on a stinky, sweaty bus with Nick’s feet, Eric’s pits and a slut that calls herself a bass player but we all know she’s just a glorified groupie."

Mel snorted a laugh. It’s been a rough year so far, I’ll admit, so what’s one more month? Anyway, why are you so pissed about it? Jealous?

Amy shot her a serious look. Not even an ounce. I don’t envy any of them having to spend any time at all in the company of that harpie.

Eyeing the number of empty glasses Amy had accumulated, I shook my head and smiled silently to myself. A tipsy Amy was a thing of cursing and filter-less beauty.

Guys, we have no idea what she’s really like. And to be honest, I don’t give a damn what she’s like. As long as she keeps her hands, claws, lips and ass away from Ollie, she can do whatever the hell she wants.

Amy raised an eyebrow. Is that why you call her the would - be home-wrecking harlot, whenever you get off of a call with Ollie?

I stuck my tongue out at her. Semantics.

Mel chuckled and shook her head. Admit it, Layla. It bothers you.

I took a long sip of my drink. Placing it back on the table, I looked at them both and licked my lips. They fucked! Of course, it bothers me. Doesn’t it bother both of you to be with Nick? I mean; they had sex. Lots of it. And now, he’s on a tour bus with her! He was away with her for the holidays. We only spent a few days together over our birthdays and she gets to see my boyfriend more than I do! It’s been like seven months since he was home for any significant amount of time. So, yes, it bothers me!

Taking a big gulp of my cocktail, I took a deep breath, sighed and stared at the empty stage across the bar. Ollie’s hectic schedule to get the band ‘celebrity ready,' as Amy put it, was extreme. The distance between us all the time was making my heart ache with an intense heaviness. Benny’s seemed so lonely, quiet and deserted without the guys up there. The band Benny had hired to replace them were horrific. It was no wonder that the whole bar was only ever half full on a Friday night. Mel, Amy and I had made a deal with the guys still to meet up for a drink every Friday and order three extra beers for them. They also forbid us to drink them.

I need to go to the bathroom, Amy squirmed after finishing her third beer.

Me too, Mel said as she shuffled out of the booth.

Sitting alone at our table, I pulled the beer that sat in front of Ollie’s seat toward me and began toying with it. Holding it in my palm, I lifted it and slowly pressed the cold glass to my lips. I was just about to take a sip when a voice from behind startled me.

Hey.

I turned around to see a tall, blonde haired guy standing beside my booth.

Hi, I replied with slight suspicion.

Can I sit down? he asked as he gestured to the empty seats.

I shook my head. Sorry. My friends will be back any minute.

He nodded and smiled. Can’t I join you?

I gave him a rueful smile. I don’t think that’s a good idea.

Giving me a confused look, he slid into the seat opposite me. Was he not listening?

Why not?

I have a boyfriend.

He glanced around the bar. Is he here?

No.

Resting his arms on the table, he leaned closer. Then what’s the problem?

Was he serious? The problem is that I’m not interested. This is also the only, and last time, I’m going to ask you to leave.

He chuckled a little and rested back in his seat. Playing hard to get. I understand. You can’t seem too interested. You got a boyfriend after all. But you don’t have to be cute with me, sweetie. I’ve watched from across the bar all evening, and you look like you could use a little fun.

I gave him a surprised and confused look. Excuse me?

He nodded gently. Looking all sad and lonely. Your friends apparently don’t know how to party. But I do. Why don’t you bail and come hang with me and my friends? There’s a party going on back on campus. We could find a nice, quiet spot and get to know each other better.

He winked at me, and it made my skin crawl. What was with this jerk? Did he not know what the word ‘no’ meant?

The only bailing that will be happening tonight is you out of jail if you don’t leave me alone. I said I’m not interested. I have a boyfriend.

Standing, he reached out his hand and caught my wrist, tugging it gently. Come on, he half whined with a smile.

Trying to pull and wiggle my wrist free, I scowled at him. What the hell do you think you’re doing? I said-

Before I could even finish my sentence, he released my wrist and was sent hurtling across the table in front of me and onto the floor. A forceful and well-aimed fist had come swiftly over my shoulder from behind and caught him square on the jaw. Glasses, bottles and wasted alcohol was spilled all over the table and floor. Hurrying out of my seat, I leaned over the table and stared in shock as he lie there in a heap, pressing his palm to the right side of his face.

Fuck!

I was about to give him a piece of my mind, but the next thing I knew, I was being pulled backward by a very strong and thick, tattooed arm.

Down girl. I think he's got the message.

I know that voice! Spinning around, I gawped in amazement and utter surprise as Eric smiled down at me. Eric!? What the-

He smiled and nodded at something behind me. It hadn’t been Eric that had thrown that punch; I was damn sure of that. He was a lover, not a fighter. Pushing my way out of his arms, I turned and gasped. Standing beside Eric, rubbing the knuckles on his left hand, was the hottest, inked, pierced and furious looking rock star I had ever seen.

Keep your fucking hands to yourself dickwad. She said she had a boyfriend.

Ollie’s eyes were aflame with rage as he glared down at my would-be suitor. The guy on the floor began to struggle to his feet and watching him carefully, Ollie moved toward him. Rushing in front of him, I threw my arms around his neck and wrapped my legs around his waist. His arms snaked around my back, and his face nuzzled into my hair as he held me close and tightly to him. I didn’t care about the asshole currently sprawled out on the floor. Ollie was home. And the desperate need to hold him overwhelmed me completely.

I missed you so much, I half sobbed.

He smiled against my neck. I missed you too. Like crazy.

Nuzzling into my neck, Ollie inhaled deeply. He lifted his head and moved to kiss me but was interrupted by a hand reaching out and landing forcefully on his shoulder.

What the fuck!? You wanna take this outside dude!?

The blonde had now pulled himself from the floor and was desperately trying to square up to Ollie, which, considering I was currently tangled around his body, was incredibly difficult to do. Gently placing me back on my feet, Ollie stood in front of me and gave the guy a long, hard stare.

Sure. It’s not my glass jaw that’s about to shatter.

Deciding that I was not allowing my big reunion with Ollie to be marred by a bar brawl, I seized his arm firmly and pulled him back toward me.

Don’t, Ollie. It’s not worth it.

Turning his head sharply, he frowned at me. Layla, he was trying to drag you out of your seat. And now, this asshole decides that he wants to have it out. I’m not about to walk away.

Gazing back at him, I pleaded with my eyes. Ollie and I had always seemed to be able to communicate without even saying a word. It was an invaluable connection that we had mastered.

Layla… Glancing back at the guy briefly, he nodded at me. Raising a hand, I brushed my fingers along the scar that was hidden beneath the short length of hair that had grown since the fire. The idea of him being struck on the head terrified me. Ollie wasn’t as indestructible as he thought he was. Pressing his hand against mine, he closed his eyes and let out a long sigh.

Fine. You win.

Placing a gentle kiss on his cheek, I smiled.

Fucking pussy, the blonde smirked as he turned to walk away.

That did it. Pulling his arm from my grasp, Ollie climbed on to the booth seat and began charging at the blonde. But Ollie didn’t even reach the guy before he was once again laid out on the floor. Standing over him, with her hands on her hips and an extremely satisfied grin on her face, was a long-legged, red lipstick and fishnet wearing woman I recognized immediately.

Whoa! Fuck me, Shaye! Where the hell did that come from? Nick yelled loudly as he strolled across the bar to stand beside her.

Asshole was trying to rile up our rock star. Last thing we need is that shit coming back to haunt us.

Catching my eye and clearly noticing the look of distaste on my face, Ollie climbed back over the seat and stood beside me. He slipped his arm around my waist and kissed my cheek.

Relax, he whispered.

Eric nodded and nudged Ollie on the arm. She’s right. Our label would go fucking nuclear and Charlie would wear our sacks as earrings! We don’t need any bad press right now.

Holy shit! What the hell happened!? Striding fast to our booth, Mel stared at the mess that was currently surrounding our table.

I left you for five minutes and-

Ollie! Amy squealed as she hurled herself at him at speed, causing him to stumble slightly and remove his arm from my waist.

Mel gawked at the members of DOA, who stood scattered around our booth. And then, her eyes fell on Shaye.

Well, looks like they’ll let anyone in these days. Can’t you read the sign outside? No dogs allowed.

Plastering on an obviously forced and sarcastic smile, Shaye skirted around the clutter on the floor and slid herself into our booth. Picking up one of the tipped and scattered beer bottles, she examined it before taking a huge mouthful.

Sweet. Beer always tastes better when someone else pays for it.

Mel scoffed at her. Well, sloppy seconds are clearly your thing, she quipped gesturing at Ollie.

Rolling my eyes, I watched Shaye with a distinct interest.

Sliding in beside her, Nick grinned widely at the rest of us. So, ladies, you missed me?

I never imagined that I would ever be saying this, but for once, I was grateful for Nick’s mouth.

Letting go of a protesting Ollie; Amy raised an eyebrow at Nick as he draped an arm around Shaye.

I was brought up by a man who hunts for a hobby. I never miss, she snickered back at him.

Wow, kitten has claws, murmured Shaye, smirking at Amy.

Moving toward her, Mel glared daggers. Better a kitty with claws than a bitch in heat.

Getting up out of her seat, Shaye stared back at Mel.

Well, you’d know all about sniffing out a bitch. Seems you surround yourself with them. What is it they say? You lie with dogs; you’re gonna catch fleas.

Fisting my palm, I stepped between the two ladies. And what is that supposed to mean!?

Ollie immediately reached out to pull me away, but moving beyond his grasp, I continued to glower at Shaye.

Smirking, she took another large gulp of the beer she had taken from the table.

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