Page 140 of Fame & Rhythm

Aston.

His mum.

Johnny isn’t as bad. He’ll talk to me if he has to, but those moments are few and far between now.

I just wish I’d never given in to Aston. If I hadn’t, none of this would be happening.

I know I’m the villain in all of this.

I just don’t know how to fix it.

Dr. Ludwick is helping, even though part of me still believes no one could ever really love me, there are moments now where I think… maybe she is right.

Maybe Aston did love me.

Maybe not everyone is the problem.

Maybe… it’s me.

But none of that changes anything now because Aston and I are over.

We’ve been over for more than a year—almost two. And nothing is going to bring us back together. I’m sure of it.

I step outside to where the party is set up. Sassy and Snaggy are tearing around the yard with Jackson and Harley, Uncle Joseph and Uncle Danny’s boys. Not really boys anymore, more like teens, but still just as chaotic.

I head into the gazebo where Mum is finishing off the decorations. “Need a hand?” I ask.

She glances over her shoulder, smiling. “Nope, all done. Now we wait for everyone to arrive. Food’s sorted, music’s ready… everything’s set.” She pauses, looking around. “Now we have to make your father happy.”

I chuckle. “I know, right? Fifty. You’re basically ancient.”

She scoffs and tosses a napkin at me. “Cheeky,” she mutters. “Now go get changed. Guests will be here soon.”

I glance down at my leather pants and flannelette shirt. “I am changed.”

She raises an eyebrow. “Annie… I love you, but maybe something a little more… dressy?”

I sigh, glancing at the rip in my shirt. “Fine. But I’m still wearing my combat boots.”

“Wouldn’t expect anything else.”

Half an hour later, my hair is curled, my makeup done, and for the first time in a long while… I actually feel good. The black dress fits perfectly, and the colored streaks in my hair make me feel like myself again—vibrant and alive.

Maybe tonight won’t be so bad.

I head downstairs as Ella appears in a flaming pink strapless dress. She looks incredible.

“Wow, Elles, you look amazing.”

She looks me over, eyes widening. “You too. This is the most dressed up I’ve seen you in months.” She loops her arm through mine as we head down together.

The gazebo is already filling up with photographers, family, and familiar faces. Uncle Hux, Macy, Caleb…

Chad jogs past and wolf whistles. He’s changed a lot this past year, broader, stronger. Still scruffy, but it suits him.

“Shut up, you tool,” Ella snaps, flicking his hair as he laughs and disappears toward Caleb.

I shake my head, smiling faintly. “He’s in a good mood.”