Page 92 of Fame & Chaos

What if seeing all those women screaming at me reminded her of why she left in the first place?

The ache in my chest grows heavier with every second.

I quickly open our messages again.

Me: Indi, are you okay? I’m getting worried now. Please just tell me you’re alright.

I hit send and stare at the screen like I’m trying to force her to answer through sheer desperation alone.

The bartender places the beer in front of me, but I barely even notice.

Then, suddenly, my phone beeps, and relief crashes through me so hard my shoulders sag. I unlock the screen.

Indi: Sorry. I had to leave. I’m not feeling very well. I saw some of the show, though. Sorry, I didn’t stay to talk.

My stomach twists painfully.

Something about the message reads off.

I type back immediately.

Me: Are you okay? What’s wrong? Do you need me to come look after you or bring you painkillers or something?

I hit send and wait for her to reply. Which she does soon after.

Indi: No, I’m okay. You have fun at your after-party, and I’ll talk to you another time.

Is it just me, or is she being really short with me? I rub the back of my neck and chew on my bottom lip.

Me: Indi, if you’re sick and need some help, I really don’t mind. What’s your address? I’ll come over right now and make you some tea and something to eat.

I hit send.

I would much rather be looking after her if she’s feeling unwell than be here at an after-party without her. My phone beeps.

Indi: Honestly, Caleb, I’m fine. I’m just heading to bed, and I want you to have fun at your first after-party. I promise we can talk tomorrow, but for now I need my bed. Have fun, okay?

I scoff and shake my head.

Have fun? Yeah right!

How am I supposed to enjoy myself knowing she’s sick and won’t let me help her? Tonight sucks!

Me: Okay, but I am here if you need me. Just call or message, and I’ll come right over. I promise xo

I hit send and finally look up from my cell and take a much-needed sip of my beer. My phone beeps again.

Indi: Thank you. You sang well tonight. Have fun :)

I huff out a breath before smiling despite myself. Even though I’m disappointed as hell that she isn’t here with me, I’m still ridiculously pleased she complimented the show. At least she liked my singing.

Then the realization smacks me straight in the face.

“Saving Grace.”

That’s why she left.

The song practically screamed to the entire venue that I still love her. Of course, that would scare Indi half to death.