Wake: Fighting Fate, #4

By Maree Green

Emily Henderson is the preacher's daughter.
It doesn't matter that she no longer lives with her parents—or the questionable circumstances surrounding her sudden need to move when she was thirteen. To the townsfolk of Sunset, Texas, that's just simply who she is.
But to Emmy, the lesson she learned all those years ago is one she's never going to forget. If there's anything she can be sure of, it's that all men are ruled by lust, and they definitely cannot be trusted. And her best friend's planned New Year's Eve trip to Las Vegas is not going to change her mind about that either.
She's even willing to bet her money on it.

Aiden Campbell is a rock god.
As the dark and mysterious bassist for the newest rock sensation to hit the billboards, life is as good as he'd hoped it would ever be. The band's headlining tour is a success, radio play is on the rise, and his twin sister has finally learned to manage her anxiety without him. By all reasoning, he should be feeling on top of the world. So why can't he get past the aching feeling that something is missing?
As much as he knows the full rockstar lifestyle of alcohol, drugs, and women can't take the pain of it away, he's sure the band's gig set for New Year's Eve in Vegas will at least numb it for a little while. He's even willing to bet his money on it.

But fate, it seems, has other plans for them.

When unforeseen circumstances land them both in a locked room together just minutes to midnight, the last thing either of them expect is to find the one person who holds the key to releasing the pain of their pasts. The only trouble is, once released, are either of them prepared to face what comes next?
As both their worlds—past, present, and future—set to collide, they both realize that hiding is no longer an option, and decisions need to be made. But will they allow fate to control them, or will they finally take the reins and fight for what they want?

TRIGGER WARNING!
Trauma from sexual abuse.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Density Lane Press
• Release date: Mar 1, 2017
• ISBN: 9780992501563

Maree Green

Maree Green is an author of sweet and sexy New Adult and Contemporary romance, and romantic suspense. Her books contain a fairytale quality for those who love stories about strong female characters who are simply a little down on their luck and want their knight in shining armor—or at least a hot guy in a rock star's tour bus—to swoop in and give them the HEA they deserve. When she's not writing, she can be found working with her husband on their property, looking after a menagerie of animals, and exploring as many creative challenges as possible.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Emily

Teddies.

No, not the cute, fluffy little things kids liked to sleep with—that would be an entirely different story altogether. I was talking about the barely there, lacy little numbers women liked to wear to feel sexy.

Yes, those ones.

Anyway, here I was, having a stare down with one as I spoke. A pink one, in fact. Okay, it was gorgeous—sexy as hell really. One of those high-cut, plunging little pieces that left little to the imagination. It was hot. The picture of the girl on the tag confirmed this many times over. But I still scowled at it with irritation.

Holding it out in front of me, I tried to envision myself in the model’s place, failing miserably as I scanned her sensually pouted lips and sexy bedroom eyes. That would never be me.

Dropping my arms, I raised my gaze to the ceiling and silently cursed my best friend for buying it for me—two freaking years ago. While I was at it, I cursed her again for challenging me to pack it.

With a silent string of swear words, I jammed it in my suitcase, yanking the zipper closed and clipping the straps together before I could curse her again and change my mind. Picking up the handle, I walked through the door, wheeling the case behind me. I made it as far as the front door before I heard the voices.

Daddy and Mama.

Dammit.

If I was concerned about what they had to say, or why they were even here to begin with, I would’ve paused. I would’ve listened with my ear pressed to the door like I used to when I was a child. But I didn’t. Instead, I threw the door open and stepped out onto the porch.

They were standing at the top of the steps, Mama with a Bible clasped tightly in her hands and Daddy tapping his hat casually against his thigh. Standing between us, hands on her hips and posture screaming her readiness to kick ass, was Granny Lynn, and beside her, ready to protect at will, was Buddy, our ever-faithful retriever.

Stepping up to Granny Lynn’s other side, I stood the suitcase up and leveled my parents with a wary gaze. What unfortunate timing. I was just leaving.

Mama’s gaze went to my suitcase before coming back to rest on me. So it’s true. Lucy Ellis said you were goin’ to Las Vegas.

I raised an eyebrow. Did she, really? Is that why you’re here, then? To see me off?

Mama bristled. Emily, you know it’s called the city of sin for a reason. Las Vegas is Satan’s breeding pit. You must stop this nonsense right now.

I refrained from rolling my eyes. I’m twenty-one now, Mama. I’m perfectly capable of making my own decisions.

Her lips pursed and her nostrils flared. Those friends of yours have been trying to lead you down the Devil’s path for years, Emily. If you go, they will have succeeded.

Cold contempt rose inside me. But Daddy preaches about us all being faced with choices of morality every Sunday, Mama. Are you saying I’m incapable of knowing the difference between right and wrong?

Mama started to shake her head, her mouth opening with a breath.

Emily’s right, Daddy said, cutting her off.

Both Mama and I paused, our gazes swinging to meet his calm one with a surprise that bordered on shock.

The Lord places crossroads in front of us all the time. This is the perfect opportunity for Emily to prove she is finally not so easily tempted by evil.

Mama’s mouth snapped shut, while my eyes slightly narrowed, my body tensing, irritation quickly rising. Did he seriously just say finally?

Granny Lynn took a small step forward, her voice low and threatening when she finally spoke. Yet true evil is forgiven and allowed to walk the earth unchecked.

Daddy’s nostrils flared.

I knew I shouldn’t let it get to me. We’d been playing this game since I’d moved out of their home and into Granny Lynn’s when I was thirteen. But things were different now. I was choosing not to play anymore.

You’ve said what you came to say, Granny Lynn said, taking another small step forward. Now you can go.

Mama’s gaze moved slowly from Granny Lynn, back to me. Sadness and disappointment swam in the depths of her eyes, but I was used to that too. I’d worked hard to understand the disappointment was hers and hers alone.

Giving her a curt nod, I met her gaze with a strength I did not entirely control yet. Mama. Daddy.

With one last look, I watched my parents turn and retreat down the stairs. I didn’t move a muscle as they made their way to their car. Neither did Granny Lynn. Their visits always brought a tension that was hard for us to shake.

My fists clenched as they opened their doors, my resentment struggling to stay buried where I tried so hard to hide it.

They were just about to climb inside when the sound of an approaching car drew my attention. The instant I saw the red SUV burst around the corner, music pumping and horn blaring, the tension inside me broke.

As it skidded to a stop haphazardly across the dirt drive, I grinned. Mama and Daddy were sure to disapprove. Nothing could have made me happier.

I heard Granny Lynn chuckle as five heads appeared through the open windows, squeals of excitement piercing the air. Giving Granny Lynn a quick peck on the cheek, I dashed down the steps.

Yea-har, baby! Tessa called as I jogged to put my case in the trunk. Operation we-have-the-preacher’s-daughter is a success!

Opening the rear door, I slipped into my seat and laughed, barely able to conceal my happiness as Tessa revved the engine.

Granny Lynn appeared at my door, boots dusty and hands on her hips, as usual. If I was fifty years younger I’d make you scooch on over, Emmy Lou.

I loved Granny Lynn. She was the best kind of grandma there could be. She was my mama’s mama. Born and raised here in Sunset, Texas. And she didn’t take shit from anybody, especially not from Daddy. Needless to say, religion wasn’t high on the list of things she had time for.

Laughing, I stuck my head out the window and threw my arms around her. Las Vegas wouldn’t know what to do with you, Granny Lynn.

Her laughter roared. You bet your ass it wouldn’t. Pulling back, she quirked her eyebrow. I thought I’d give you girls a proper send-off.

Sinking back down in my seat, I watched her reach into a bag I hadn’t noticed her holding before. My eyes widened as I saw her start pulling little boxes out and tossing them in through the windows.

I looked down to my lap, where one of the boxes now lay. Condoms. My grandma had just thrown us a bunch of condoms.

Howls of laughter rang out around me.

Granny Lynn! I chided, but I couldn’t stop myself from grinning. You can’t go giving us condoms.

I can, and I did, she said, huffing. I’m not some stuffy old maid. Nothing wrong with some good old-fashioned hanky panky. Like I said, if I was fifty years younger I’d be right there with you. Now you girls get going before you miss your damned plane. And have a happy New Year!

Thanks, Granny Lynn! Tessa sang, shaking her box of condoms.

The other girls chimed in, sending out a chorus of thank yous.

Pressing my hands to my cheeks, I shook my head and gave her a withering look. Thanks, Granny Lynn.

Putting her hand on the doorframe, she looked me dead in the eye. Have yourself some fun, Emmy Lou. Do what you damned well please. You’re a big girl.

I quickly squeezed her hand as the SUV began moving. I love you.

Raising her hand to wave, she nodded. I love you too. Have fun, girls!

Tessa planted her foot, sending the SUV flying down the drive, the ass end sliding out as we rounded the corner.

Anabel howled as she glanced back at the dust we left behind. Yeeeewww!

Mama preacher didn’t look too happy, Emmy, Sadie said, giving me a half-amused, half-horrified look.

Marissa giggled from the front passenger seat, tossing a gummy candy snake over her shoulder. Did you expect anything less? I’m surprised you made it out alive. I thought for sure you’d be tied up and exorcised by now.

Grabbing the candy and biting the tail off, I smirked. They did the exorcism before you arrived. I’m now programmed to reject all forms of sin. I brought chastity belts for everyone. I’ll hand them out when we get to Vegas.

Boooooo . . . The chorus came immediately, while Bethany placed the back of her hand against her forehead, mock fainting.

Scooping up all the candy that was suddenly thrown at me, I hugged them to my chest and laughed. It’s no wonder they think y’all are a bad influence.

We’re the very best bad you can get, honey, Tessa drawled. And we’re goin’ to find some men and get you loose.

I smirked at her in the rearview mirror. Loose, I could handle. Men, not so much. But I wasn’t ready to discount the lure of Satan’s breeding pit just yet, so I was more than willing to let her try. It was New Years’ Eve, after all.

Settling back into the leather seat, I gazed out at the passing scenery in complete contentment. In less than two hours we would be up in the air, on our way to the land of lust and debauchery.

I’d never felt so free.

Chapter 2

Aiden

The bass pulsed through my veins. It thrummed against my skin and pounded out its beat inside my head. Sweat trailed down my temples, the stage lights hot and blinding. Voices, screaming and chanting, blended in with the music, adding to the melodic chaos I’d come to crave so much.

Jace’s guitar merged in and out, our timing unmistakably perfect as Dean’s voice rasped out the last few words of the song. Then, with nothing but raw grit, Matt brought his sticks down on his kit, ending it with an earth-shattering boom. Screams rose to yet another level.

Dean grunted into the microphone. Thank you, Las Vegas! Have a happy New Year! You’ve been awesome!

Flicking my pick into the crowd, I scooped up what was left of the vodka bottle at my feet and gave the crowd a wave before stalking off stage.

Ronnie, one of our new roadies, quickly took the guitar from me as I tossed back another mouthful.

Nice set, man, he said. You guys sound wicked.

I gave the dude a nod. Thanks.

Raising the bottle, I considered just finishing the damned thing. It didn’t seem to be numbing me like it used to. I needed to find something else.

But before I could get it to my lips, it disappeared from my hand.

Turning, I found Jace holding the bottle, scowling at me. Enough, he said. You know it upsets Mia.

I contemplated his words for a moment, shuffling them around inside my head, trying to find their association with me. A tinge of guilt flared up in my gut, but I was quick to swallow it down.

Giving him a nonchalant shrug, I smirked. Whatever, man.

Irritation hardened his features. I knew it pissed him off when I dismissed Mia’s feelings like that, but I didn’t have a choice. Mia was part of the reason I needed to numb myself in the first place.

Matt slapped his arm around my shoulder and started towing me backstage. Let’s go find some pussy, brother. Magical ones that can make us forget our own names for a while.

Throwing my head back, I let out a solid laugh. Sounds good to me.

Scooping up a couple of beers from the ice bucket backstage, Matt mumbled something to one of the new roadies before leading me into our dressing room. Closing the door, he cracked the lids and handed me a bottle. To another successful show!

Tapping the neck of my bottle against his, I sank down on the sofa and drank deep, allowing the taste to cloud my mind.

Matt shucked off his damp shirt and tossed it onto the pile of clothes already lying in the corner. Where did Lash say they were heading tonight?

Lash was The Dark Hybrid’s lead guitar player. He said they were meeting up with Dan at LAX.

Where the fuck is that?

Stretching out my neck, I leaned forward, resting my elbows on my knees. Down at The Luxor.

Matt grunted. Fucking pyramid.

I shrugged just as the door opened. Ronnie gave me a nod before stepping to the side to let two girls slip through. Settling back into the sofa, I watched the girls’ eyes glint with excitement as the door closed behind them.

Hello there, Ladies, Matt said, slinking toward them. What might your names be?

I covered my smirk by taking another swig of my beer. I don’t know why he bothered asking. It wasn’t like he was going to remember their names in the morning.

The girl closest to him brushed her platinum blonde hair over her shoulder. I’m Lucy, and this is Caroline.

I let my gaze run over Caroline’s curves. She was a big girl, but she was damned sexy.

Matt grinned, glancing down at Lucy’s cleavage, his hand brushing against her hip. Well, Lucy, I’m Matt, and this here is Aiden. You girls up for a little private party?

Lucy’s body migrated closer to Matt’s, leaning into his touch. I’d say she was a little more than up for it.

I watched her bite her lip and flutter her eyelashes up at him. It was a performance of a lifetime. We sure are.

His hand slid around her waist. Excellent. How about you and I take our own little party next door, then?

The girl giggled and went with him, no questions asked, leaving her friend standing there with her excited gaze watching my every move.

Sweet Caroline, I said, patting the empty space beside me. Why don’t you come and join me?

Confidence ignited in her eyes as she sashayed her way over to me. Ignoring the space I’d invited her into, she slowly hitched up her dress and straddled my lap.

Not-so-sweet Caroline, I mumbled as she took my mouth with her own. Damn.

Pressing herself down on me, she ground her hips in a slow, circular motion. My dick hardened without a moment’s hesitation.

It’s always been a fantasy of mine to blow a musician, she moaned against my lips.

If I had a dollar for every time I’d heard that line. It was either ‘fuck’ or ‘blow.’ In fact, I’d heard it enough times that I’d started a bet with Matt. Every time we heard it, we put ten bucks into a jar. We needed a bigger jar.

Vaguely, I wondered if there was some sort of groupie handbook that was given out at each gig, outlining how to dress, move, and talk, because I failed to see any differences between the girls I saw backstage, other than height and hair color.

Squirming her way down, she began unzipping my jeans, her tongue already snaking out to moisten her bright red lips. My dick twitched with anticipation. Wrestling the denim over my hips, she quickly pulled my boxers down to release me.

I groaned as she wrapped her hand around me and started stroking, not realizing just how much I needed a release right now.

Slowly, she stuck out her soft pink tongue and licked the length of me, swirling it around the tip before sucking my entire cock deep into her mouth. There was just something incredibly arousing about watching a girl’s red lips around your dick. And even more so when they looked up at you through thick, dark lashes while they were doing it.

I watched her intently as she worked her hand and mouth together, her bedroom eyes watching me through those thick, dark lashes.

It didn’t take her long to bring me to climax. I had a one hundred percent success rate when it came to finishing from a blow job. I loved it.

She swallowed like a true pro, and she even looked like she enjoyed it. Her point score was high.

Releasing me, she licked her lips and wiped her chin with her fingers. Think you can go again?

I contemplated her words, but I was already growing bored. Thankfully, I was saved from having to reject her by a sudden banging on the door.

Aiden! Open the goddamned door!

I sighed. Mia. At least her timing was helpful.

Giving not-so-sweet Caroline an apologetic look, I tucked my dick back away and zipped up my jeans. Sorry, sweetheart. The matron calls.

Pushing myself up to stand, I strolled over to the door and flicked the lock. Mia barged straight in, her gaze sharp and angry as she scanned the girl, still kicking back on the sofa. Jace slowly followed her in, disappointment straining his features.

Anxiety edged its way into my gut from her presence. Desperately needing to ward it off, I snatched up my beer and took a quick drink.

Mia’s eyes flashed with some emotion I couldn’t decipher. I probably could’ve gotten a sense of what it was if I concentrated. Our twintuition used to be pretty fucking strong. But I had a crazy suspicion I wouldn’t like what it was anyway.

Really, Aiden? Are you serious right now? Leighton’s waiting in the green room for you and you’re fucking around?

Jace shook his head. Where’s Matt?

I took another drink before jerking my head toward the back of the room. Back room.

He sighed, his irritation more than obvious, but whether it was the fact that I’d forgotten about the meeting or that I had upset Mia, I didn’t know.

Stalking to the back of the room, he gave the door two hard thumps with his fist. Matt, get your fucking ass out here. Leighton hasn’t got time to wait around for you to get your goddamn rocks off.

While we waited for Matt to appear, I tipped the last of my beer back and dumped the bottle in the trash. Mia’s gaze was like tiny pin pricks on my skin as I retrieved another from the mini fridge.

The far door opened and a disheveled Matt appeared, all bright and fucking happy. The girl—I’d already forgotten her name—bounced out behind him.

Jace barely contained his next sigh. Ronnie, can you please escort these lovely ladies out?

My gaze swung to the roadie I hadn’t even seen standing there. He nodded and gestured to the girls to follow him. Caroline crossed the room, disappointment clouding her eyes. When she reached me, I cupped her curvy ass with my hand. Sorry, sweetheart. Business awaits. Then, purely because I could, I kissed her deep. Thanks for the fun.

Mia scowled the instant they were gone. Jesus, Aiden. What were you thinking?

Matt slapped his arm around my shoulders. Aww, come on, Mi. We were just having a little fun.

Straightening, she leveled her stare on the both of us. You know I don’t give a shit about the girls, Matt. Screw as many as you please. It’s your life. But when it comes to band business, you can’t just play the whatever card. Your actions affect the whole band.

Matt turned his puppy eyes on high beam. Aww, we’re sorry, Mi. We forgot.

Mia shook her head, defeated. Just hurry up. Leighton was already pissed that I had to come look for you.

Matt squeezed my shoulder as she turned and stormed back out the door. Jace, looking more tired than I’d ever seen, paused, words floating on the surface of his gaze, but instead of the expected lecture I was now used to, he simply turned away from me and followed Mia down the hall.

Slapping me on the back, Matt inhaled with a grin. Well, let’s go see what the devil man wants. Then you and I are going to LAX.

Unease clawed at my stomach. I felt too raw. Too exposed. A desperation to fix it, to make the pain go away, gnawed at me. And there was only one way I knew that would do it.

Chapter 3

Emily

Putting the final touch on my lipstick, I stood back and assessed my overall appearance in the oversized mirror. I’d decided to go with a simple look for our first night in Vegas. A short, low-cut dress in a peachy, coral color.

Perfect, Tessa said, her gaze raking over my reflection. That color looks amazing on you. Men will be flocking, for sure.

Giving her a deadpan look, I sighed. Men can flock and do whatever they like. Won’t mean a thing.

Her face fell with disappointment. Oh, come on, Emmy. You can’t swear off men for life. Besides, you promised me you would keep an open mind while you’re here.

A silent scream rang out in my head. Fine. I promise I won’t bite off every man’s head who tries to talk to me. Better?

With a sweet smile, she fluttered her eyelashes. Much. Then she tilted her body, giving herself a quick once-over in the mirror, a slight scowl creasing her brow. God . . . I feel like an albino next to you now.

I rolled my eyes. Hardly. You’re the most tanned person in Sunset—and probably Bowie too—and you know it.

A smirk replaced her scowl in an instant. I am, aren’t I?

Shaking my head, I laughed at her confidence. I honestly didn’t think anyone could say anything to make her stop believing in herself. She was my inspiration.

Smacking her lips together, she gave me a wink and a little pout before sashaying for the door. Let’s go see if the others are ready, she said, throwing the door open.

Tessa and I were sharing one of the three double suites we’d booked at The Luxor. Anabel and Sadie were together in the room across the hall, and Marissa and Bethany were sharing the suite next door. It worked out perfectly, really.

Quickly throwing my lipstick and cell in my purse with the room key, I hurried to catch up with her, only to find everyone already out in the hall, waiting.

Finally! Bethany said, hands going to her hips with attitude.

Marissa gave her a nudge and laughed. Don’t listen to her. We only just walked out our door.

Sadie leaned out over the balcony railing, her head tilted back as she gazed upwards. This whole pyramid thing is freaking me out. Did you notice how the elevator went diagonally?

Anabel rolled her eyes and started walking toward said elevators. We’re staying in a ginormous pyramid, Sadie. The elevators can hardly go straight up and down when the building doesn’t.

I know, Sadie pouted. It’s still weird, though.

Tessa pushed the button to go down and leaned against the wall to wait. Where does everyone want to eat? I vote T&T.

I frowned. How did they even know what options we had? What’s T&T?

Giving me a cocky smirk, Tessa put her hand under her chin in a gesture of innocence. Tacos and tequila, baby!

Oh, man. I was going to be in some serious trouble if tequila was going to be involved.

As the elevator doors opened, Marissa stepped in and hit the button for the first floor. Okay, T&T, but after that we’re going to LAX. No argument. I’m not missing Alium. I had to cut a bitch to get those tickets.

Alium? Who the hell was Alium? I was just about to ask, but quickly discovered from the conversation that Alium was apparently a DJ. I had no idea how I was so out of touch with this.

It’s a pity we missed The Dark Hybrid. I would’ve loved to have seen them live, Anabel said, a dreamy lilt to her voice.

Sadie sighed. Oh my God, yes. I can’t even pick a favorite. Have you seen the latest promo shots? Feigning gasping for breath, she started fanning herself with her hand. So freaking hot.

I heard that new band was here as well, Bethany said. The fate one.

Tessa gasped. Ooh, Fighting Fate! I love them!

I gave Tessa a withering look. Is it bad that I haven’t heard of these people?

Oh, come on! she said, rolling her eyes. You’ve heard of The Dark Hybrid. Don’t play all innocent and shit.

Yeah, I said, throwing her a deadpan look. But Alium? Fighting Fates?

The elevator came to a stop and we started piling out. It doesn’t matter anyway, Tessa said. We missed them. They both played down at the Brooklyn Bowl earlier tonight. If I had known that when I booked, I would’ve made sure we arrived this morning, but that’s life, I guess.

After being seated in the taco place, we bought a round of sangrias and ordered our meals. The music was just right and the atmosphere was electric. Everyone was in high spirits. It was exactly what I needed.

Although I wasn’t exactly sure about the wisdom of six small-town girls busting out in Vegas on New Year’s Eve, I had to admit it was amusing to watch my friends flirt with all the apparent male hotness walking around. It was like observing five sex-deprived females in a male strip club. It was a catastrophe waiting to happen, and I couldn’t wait to watch it all go down.

We’d been there for about three hours when Tessa leaned into me and kissed me on the cheek. Are you having fun, Emmy? This is way better than our usual hangs, isn’t it?

If I understood her slur correctly, she was referring to The Rack, the pool house we occasionally went to in our hometown. While it wasn’t the flashest of places, the people there were good and the honky tonks were all right. It’s definitely different, that’s for sure.

She grinned. Oh yeah, she was lit. Are you loose yet, Emmy? Cause I feel looooooose. I need to get me a man.

I couldn’t help laughing at her a little. I’m sure you’ll have no problem getting yourself a man, Tessa. And that was the truth. At five foot eight, with long blonde curls and eyes the color of a perfect winter’s day, she was the epitome of every man’s wet dreams. Many a boy in Bowie felt sad about missing out with Tessa.

Marissa leaned over the table and banged her open hand down in front of us. I think we should go to LAX now. Alium’s on in an hour, and I want to get a good spot.

Sounds good! Tessa declared, swiping her hand with a flourish. Unfortunately for me, she managed to connect with my glass, sending it straight into my lap.

I froze, my mouth popping open in a silent scream as I stared at the remainder of my sangria, pooling in my dress.

Oh my God! I’m so sorry, Emmy! Tessa said, attempting to fix the mess she’d created, while Marissa ran to get more napkins from the bar.

I thought I might’ve had a chance to clean it up good enough, but when I felt it start soaking into my panties, I knew I had to go change.

Nudging Tessa with my shoulder, I reassured her with a smile. It’s fine, Tessa. You know I don’t care. You girls go to LAX. I’ll go change and meet you there.

Tessa jumped to her feet. I’ll come with you. I feel bad.

Don’t be silly, I said, pushing myself to stand. I’ll be fine. You go to LAX and make sure we get a good spot. I’ll call you when I get there.

She pouted. Okay. I really am sorry, Emmy. You can wear anything of mine you want.

Giving her a quick hug, I made my way to the elevators and started planning my Supergirl change in my head as I ascended. I was definitely having a quick shower, that was for sure. The sticky feeling in my pants wasn’t pleasant.

I started stripping as soon as the room door closed behind me, kicking the soiled clothes into the corner of the bathroom before stepping under the spray of a nice hot shower. I didn’t linger. I just spent enough time under the flow to wash what needed washing and got out again.

My true problem came when I got to my suitcase. I didn’t know what else to wear. It took me forever to decide on the dress I’d just discarded. I couldn’t even decide on what underwear to put on because it depended entirely on what clothes I was going to wear. Men seriously had no idea how difficult it was being a girl sometimes.

Throwing open Tessa’s suitcase, I scanned her clothes, trying to find something that might speak to me. My search stopped on a light pink bodysuit. I’d seen Tessa wear it before. When it was on, it looked like a loose fitting, low-cut blouse that you tucked into skinny jeans.

I picked it up and contemplated my ability to pull it off. Even though Tessa and I were practically the same size in clothing, we had completely different body shapes and usually wore completely different styles and cuts.

Glancing at the clock, I decided to throw caution to the wind and just do it. What the hell did I care anyway? But what kind of underwear would I wear with it? My girls had no chance of being contained in one of Tessa’s fancy bras, and none of my bras would work with such a low cut.

And then there it was. My pink lacy teddy, draped over the edge of my suitcase, taunting me. I scowled and rolled my eyes. Of course, it was perfect. I’d never hear the end of it from Tessa if she knew I was wearing it, though.

Tossing the towel to the side, I bit down my pride and slipped the teddy on, pausing to take a quick look in the mirror. Surprise was the first thing that hit me. With my hair and makeup done, I actually didn’t look too different from the model on the tag.

Then reality came back. Whose benefit was that look for anyway? My guess was, men. And I had no interest in primping myself up for a man. Ever.

Ripping the tag off, I pulled the bodysuit on and struggled into my skinny jeans. I was dying to look in the mirror again, but I wanted to put shoes on before I did.

I knew when I’d seen Tessa wear the top before, she’d worn her matching pink pumps, but I wasn’t sure if I could go to that extreme. However, we were the same size in a shoe, and I knew for a fact that they were worn in very well.

Slipping them on, I took a deep breath and held it as I slowly moved to stand in front of the mirror.

Holy mother of mercy.

I blinked at the girl staring back at me. I could hardly believe it was me. Was I really going to wear this out? In public? My heart thumped weirdly. I kind of liked the idea of allowing myself to be a different version for a night.

An incoming snapchat brought me out of my internal debate. It was from Marissa—a picture of her and Tessa right in front of the stage. The caption read: Front and center!

Shit. Throwing the cell on the bed, I quickly tidied up the mess I’d made and ran for the door. Don’t think, I said in encouragement. Just go!

Chapter 4

Aiden

Sitting at the back of the room, I listened to Craig Leighton drone on as he beat himself on the chest with all his self-proclaimed accolades.

The guy really was a dick. He may as well have been tossing himself off right there in front of us. I didn’t know how I hadn’t seen it when we’d first met him. I hated to admit it, but the stars I had in my eyes at the time had most likely blinded me.

I knew Matt could see it now too. The deadpan look on his face gave it away, but Jace and Dean were still too caught up in the need to keep playing by the rules. Rules that were, for me, fast becoming suffocating. I mean, the dude was dictating our creative style. He’d practically knocked back every sample we’d sent him for our new album, either demanding changes, or just giving us a flat-out no.

It wasn’t just the creative differences that stirred me up, either. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it, but the dude just reeked of slime. I didn’t trust him as far as I could throw him.

Jace caught my eye across the room and scowled. I guess I wasn’t being sociable enough. Too bad for him that I