Page 86 of Fame & Rhythm

How am I supposed to compete with that?

I’m not special. Not stunning. I’ve got issues—anger, attitude… baggage.

Why would he choose me when he could have anyone?

God, I didn’t think this through at all.

Another tear slips free, and I swipe it away as the stool beside me scrapes loudly across the floor, and Ella drops down next to me.

“Today was incredible. Tonight? Unreal. Best night of our lives, and you’re over here crying into orange juice?”

I sniff. “I’m fine. Probably just hormones or something.”

She gives me a look. “I’m not stupid, Annie. I know you.”

“Oh yeah? What does the prologue say?”

She grins. “Best friends turn into something more. Then the guy gets attention from someone else, and the girl spirals, thinking she’s not good enough.”

I huff out a laugh. “And the epilogue?”

“The sister smacks him upside the head, he realizes he’s an idiot, kisses the girl senseless, and they live happily ever after.”

“If only it worked like that.”

“You do realize he’s not flirting back, right?” she says, squeezing my hand. “He’s not touching her. Not even really looking at her. He’s not interested in Amber. He’s interested in you. He always has been.”

I hesitate, then glance back over.

Now that she’s said it…

Yeah, she’s right.

“I love you, sis,” Ella adds softly. “And you didn’t hear this from me, but… rules are meant to be broken.”

I gasp dramatically. “Who are you and what have you done with my sister?”

She laughs. “Seriously. Dad’s being overprotective. Don’t let him ruin this for you.”

I nod slowly, my gaze drifting back to Aston.

He’s definitely not interested in Amber Leopard Print Pants.

“Right, I’m going to mingle. Go talk to Guy. He’ll cheer you up.”

“Thanks, Elle’s Bells.”

“That’s what family’s for.” She kisses my forehead, steals a sip of my drink, and disappears into the crowd.

I watch Aston for a moment longer. More of Red Velvet have joined him now, and he’s talking mostly with the guys. I smile faintly, then grab my drink and move to one of the red sofas, sinking into it and taking in the room.

Socializing has never been my thing. Crowds? Fine.

Conversations? Not so much.

I prefer observing and watching people.

It’s like Animal Planet, predictable and entertaining. One person always wants the other more, and you can see it all over their face. Like the brunette currently trying to pick up Caleb. She’s pretty, sure, but not his type. She’s trying too hard, and he’s already checked out.