Page 126 of The Bitter Words

“Is that coming from personal experience? I can’t imagine what it was like for you being a child star.”

I shrug. “Growing up in the spotlight wasn’t easy. Most of the crap said or written about me is nothing but hearsay.”

Another extremely good-looking guy comes up to Mateo and pats him on the back. “Mateo, it’s great to see you.”

“You too, Hunter.” Mateo shifts to make space. “This is Livianna Hemings. Livianna, this is Hunter Efron.”

I shake his hand. “Hunter Efron? As in the CEO of Efron Worldwide Casino Corporation?”

“That would be me.” He takes a quick glance over my body. “I love your dress. Is that one of your designs?”

My eyes widen. “Yes, but how do you know about my label?”

“Anyone with a sense of style knows you’re the newest and hottest thing to hit the fashion industry.” He shows me a sincere smile.

My heart swells and I catch a glimpse of Gia sitting alone while I’m mingling with two of the most eligible bachelors of our time.

“Hey, would you two gentlemen mind getting me and mygirlfriend a drink? You can join us. We have a table over there and she’s waiting for me.” I point to Gia.

Both men turn and check her out. They face me and accept my invitation. I tell them what to order and strut away to let Gia in on our amazing twist of fate.

“Jesus to Betsy.” I slide into the chair next to her. “Girl, luck is on our side.”

“Jesus to who?” Gia’s nose crinkles up.

“It’s something my mom says. That doesn’t matter.” I peek over my shoulder to find Mateo and Hunter talking as they keep their eyes on us. My gaze goes back to Gia. “We’re about to have a night of sexy fun.”

“Oh, Livianna. What have you gotten us into?”

“It’s all good. Don’t worry.”

“That means I should be concerned.”

“Why?”

“Does this have anything to do with those two?” She tips her head to the side and tries to coyly motion to the bar.

“Maybe. Is it a problem if I say yes?”

“I should’ve known you’d do this.” She groans and buries her face in the palms of her hands. “Ever since you and Cash broke up, you’ve been like this.”

“Like what?”

Her wary eyes connect with mine. “Please tell me you didn’t take any drugs.”

“I haven’t.” I shrink in my seat and toss the Molly I have in my hand on the floor. It was free, so it’s no loss to me. “Why are you acting this way?”

“I adore you, Livianna, but I don’t want to have an orgy in our suite tonight.”

“Livianna.” Jax steps in behind a chair and lifts a brow. “May I?”

He sits when I nod.

He flashes a genuine smile. “I thought that was you. What a pleasure it is to see you here.”

Well, that’s a surprise. He wants to spend time with us and he seems to be in a good mood. Maybe the timing is right and I can lure him in.

This night keeps getting better. I bite down on my lip and try to hide my elation.