Page 127 of Fame & Rhythm

Caleb’s grin widens.

“I’ll get your discharge papers,” Indi says, though her smile doesn’t quite reach her eyes this time as she leaves.

“So, tomorrow we’re off to Belfast,” Dad says. “Odyssey Arena. Jet leaves early. Be ready by eight, wheels up by nine.”

We all nod.

“Come on,” Mum says gently. “Let’s get you back so you can rest.”

I swing my legs off the bed and stand, steady enough now. “Yeah… let’s go.”

Ella slips an arm around my shoulders. “Room service?” she asks hopefully.

We all laugh.

“I think that can be arranged,” Mum says as we head out toward the nurses’ station.

***

We arrive at the Hyatt, and I can’t help but notice Aston wasn’t at the hospital when we left.

I guess he gave up for the night.

We step out of the car and head inside, with only a couple of paparazzi lingering near the entrance. No crazed fans, thankfully—I wouldn’t have handled that tonight. We take the elevator up to the top floor. The ride is quiet. When the doors open, we step out and begin to split off.

“I’ll come to your room in a little while, girls,” Mum says, squeezing Dad’s hand. “I just need to grab my things first. Order whatever you want from room service.”

Ella nudges me as they walk away. “Did you hear that? Whatever we want.”

I huff out a small laugh as we head down the hall toward our room.

We turn the corner…

And I freeze.

Aston is standing there, talking to Amber from Red Velvet.

She’s laughing.

Touching his arm.

Flirting.

My stomach knots instantly.

Ella follows my gaze and stiffens slightly as Amber’s hand slides over Aston’s bicep. He doesn’t pull away. He gives her a half smile, tired and distant, but still… there.

Something twists sharply in my chest. Pain.

“C’mon, Annie,” Ella murmurs, tugging my arm.

Aston looks up and sees me. His expression shifts from hope to hurt. He takes a breath and steps away from Amber, heading straight toward me. “Annie?”

“Shit,” I mutter, spinning on my heel. I hurry to our door and press the card against the reader. Ella keeps pace behind me as I shove it open, pull her inside, and slam it shut.

Seconds later…

Knocking. Hard.