Page 85 of Fame & Rhythm

I turn and scan the room, which is packed, loud, and alive, but I barely know anyone.

Ella’s chatting with Guy from Peripheral. Chad’s planted at the Xbox station. Caleb’s prowling, probably scouting his next conquest.

And Aston…

My eyes lock onto him.

He’s with Amber.

I swallow.

She’s older, more polished, effortlessly stunning with her bright red hair and sharp features.

The kind of woman people notice.

The kind of woman men want.

I lean back against the bar, watching as Aston laughs at something she says, then she touches his arm.

My jaw tightens. “What the fuck,” I mutter under my breath as her hand slides to his chest, lingering.

Heat flares through me, sharp and sudden. My stomach twists painfully as she leans in closer, laughing again.

Oh.

Oh, shit.

Jealousy.

I’m jealous.

She gets to touch him, laugh with him, and be close to him, when I’ve been forced to stay away all night.

Because of Dad.

Because of his rules.

Because apparently I don’t get a say.

My grip tightens on the edge of the bar. I’m going to lose Aston before I’ve even had him.

To someone older.

To someone better.

Maybe…

Just maybe, I’m not enough.

Chapter Sixteen

Annie

Tears sting behind my eyes, so I turn away and face the bar, noticing my orange juice waiting for me. I take a sip through the bright straw just as one escapes, sliding down my cheek.

I quickly wipe it away, glancing back at Aston and his new best friend.

The anger fades, replaced by something heavier—a hollow, sinking feeling. Doubt creeps in, twisting tight in my chest. Why did I let him kiss me? We’re about to make it big, and there will be women throwing themselves at him everywhere we go.