Page 125 of The Twisted Beats

I break away and smile. “Promise me you’ll always be mine.”

She pushes herself upright, bringing in a rush of breath. “I don’t know what that was about, but okay. I’ll always be yours.”

The room erupts with cheers and claps.

I grimace. “Fucking hell. We had an audience for that.”

“Like you say. Who cares?” She laughs. “Let’s get out of here and celebrate the New Year’s Eve we never got to.”

“Now there’s a plan I can get behind.”

I take her hand and pull her up to her feet. As we’re leaving, I notice people taking pictures of us. I stand tall, with my chest out like the luckiest man alive.

That is until someone says, “Bet these photos will sell for a lot given the headlines about them. I’m sure we can get top dollar.”

My entire body tenses. I spin and get ready to give them a lot more than they bargained for.

Chapter Twenty-Six

LIVIANNA/LILY

Then

The Room That Was Never Ours To Keep

Some nights don’t belong to us…they only borrow our hearts before they vanish.

“Lily, I don’t think we should be staying here.” Callum and I step into the opulent lobby of The Beckett Brand Whispering Pines after I had to talk him off the ledge from hitting someone. It’s by far one of the nicest hotels in California.

“Look at it this way, love. Your car is in safe hands and being protected from all that bad snow.” I hold in a smile.

Callum and his car. I get the sentiment, but I secretly wonder if he loves it more than me. Not really, but he has a special place in his heart for that silver speedster.

We stroll up to the check-in desk with Callum’s jaw set tight. The Beckett Brand Whispering Pines is a secret spa resort known to celebrities and the wealthiest clientele.

Because it’s in Big Bear and not Aspen, none of the local elite wants others to know about it for fear it will become somekind of tourist attraction and ruin the privacy that comes with it.

Callum shoves his hands in his pockets and paces behind me as I check in. His gaze darts around the soaring ceilings adorned with intricate crystal chandeliers that cast a warm and inviting glow.

Even I have to admit, this place is beautiful. The marble floors gleam, featuring an elegant design that draws the eye toward a grand staircase, stylishly curving upward.

Luxurious seating areas are strategically placed throughout, offering plush sofas and armchairs in rich emerald hues. Exquisite coffee tables topped with fresh floral arrangements complement each arrangement.

The walls are lined with tasteful artwork, including original paintings and sculptures by renowned artists. Soft instrumental music plays in the background, enhancing the serene atmosphere.

Concierge staff dressed in tailored uniforms stand ready to assist guests with personalized service, their inviting smiles reflecting the hotel’s commitment to excellence.

The setting sets the perfect tone for an unforgettable stay. One I plan on taking advantage of.

“Good evening, Ms. Hemings. It’s delightful to have you staying with us.” The male concierge grins as he types on a keyboard. “As we explained to your father, we don’t have any regular rooms available, but we’ve upgraded you to the presidential suite at no extra charge.”

Callum rushes to the counter and slams his palm down. “Wait. How much is that?”

The concierge’s eyes widen and his gaze slides between me and Callum. “Sir, I just explained there’s no charge for the upgrade. We hope you can accept this due to the lack of availability of our other rooms.”

“But how much would I need to spend if I was paying for it?” Callum’s cheeks turn red.

The concierge peers at me as if asking if he should answer or explain to Callum it’s complimentary. The guy probably thinks since I’m a star I’m used to being upgraded, that my not very well-known boyfriend has no idea how the system works. He’s not wrong.