Page 27 of Finding Redemption

“Don’t talk to me like that.” I kick the back of his chair. “Besides, I had a spectacular night planned.”

“Yeah, I know. I saw the vats of ice cream.” He rolls his eyes. Fucker.

“Whatever, I’m in mourning,” I huff, crossing my arms in defiance.

“Your sex life,” he quips. I tip his chair with my foot, narrowing my eyes at him. So what if he’s right. He doesn’t get to be smug.

“Smartass.” Or that.

“Easy, kitten. Daddy loves you.” He winks through the mirror as he primps.

“Are you pretty yet?”

“Again, stop your bitchin’. Damn, woman.” His brows hang low over his eyes. “You need to get laid.”

“Well, find me an eligible bachelor.” I glare at him.

He smirks, winking at me just before blowing me a kiss. “I gotcha, baby.”

“Eww, no fucking way.” I shudder. “Gross!”

“Fuck you.” He sticks his tongue out at me.

“No, thank you. We both know where that tongue’s been.” I wrinkle my nose.

He stares at me until we both burst out laughing. “Could you imagine?” he asks.

“No, we’d kill each other.” I stand, walking over to straighten his collar.

He takes my hand, catching my attention. I gaze at him through the mirror before he turns to me. “One day, sweetie, the most amazing man will take you away. And I’ll be here to kick his ass if he hurts you.”

I place a soft kiss on his forehead. “Thank you.”

“What are best friends for?” He crosses his eyes.

“Oh, I thought it was raiding my fridge. Go figure, I’ve been using you all wrong.” I slap the back of his head.

He laughs. “What-the-fuck-ever, you love me.” He stands, grabbing his guitar. “Let’s go see if everyone’s ready.”

He takes me by the hand, leading me to the other side of the hall. The place is packed. We can barely squeeze through the crowd. Women call his name and guys snarl as he passes. One day, Alden is going to be a country music superstar. But right now, he’s just my best friend.

He gives the band a heads-up before pointing me in the direction of my waiting seat. Something catches my eye as I snap my head around. Standing in the corner, Mr. Tall, Blond, and Sexy. Walker Pennington. A tight white t-shirt calls like a beacon.

So does the gorgeous, hot-as-fuck woman standing to his right.

“I knew it,” I seethe.

“Knew what?” Alden asks.

“I figured Mr. Pennington liked them tall and perfect.” I glower in their direction.

“Damn, death glare.” He elbows me. “Don’t be envious.”

“I’m not. He’s an asshole. I feel sorry for her having to deal with him,” I say, heat racing to my face.

“Then you need to wipe that jealous look off your face.” He steps in front of me.

“I’m not jealous.” I wrap my arms around myself, feeling self-conscious about my choice of dress.