Naughty Professor - A Standalone Teacher Romance by Claire Adams (61)

I was a little bummed by Jackson’s reaction, but my involvement wasn’t up for discussion. If I got offered the job, I would take it and that would be that. With that in mind, I changed the subject and did my best to cool off a little. “How are things going with Cindi?”

Jackson cringed a bit, taking a bite from his burger. He simply chewed on his food in silence, not bothering to respond.

“That well, huh? I asked.

“We broke up...again,” he shrugged. He and Cindi had been on again off again for the last year.

“I’m sorry.”

“I think it’s for good this time. She wanted to move in and I didn’t think it was a good idea since we are always breaking up. I mean, you just reach a point where you have to say, 'enough is enough.' It couldn't just carry on like that forever.”

I reached over to squeeze his hand, and he smiled at me.

“I’m fine, Nay, really. I really don’t know why I keep going back to her, anyway.”

“It’s called being lonely,” I told him.

He laughed. “Maybe that’s it. And, I know her, and I’m comfortable around her.”

“Exactly,” I nodded and took another bite of my burger, as well as a gulp of soda.

“Maybe I’ll find the right one, eventually,” he shrugged again. “I don’t know, there's gotta be a girl who's perfect for me out there somewhere, right? There has to be. I'm just holding out until I finally meet her.”

We ate in companionable silence for a little while until both of us were finished. Then we headed back to my brother’s car. I felt a little bad that I’d brought up Cindi, but I was glad he wasn’t still going on about what a dick Owen Young supposedly was.

I hadn’t gotten any negative vibes from Owen personally, and I considered myself to be a fairly good judge of character. I loved my big brother and valued his opinion, but I didn’t agree with him on this. I was going to wait and make my own judgments.

Instead of me walking home, Jackson drove me to my place, chatting about other random stuff like what Grace was up to and what he was currently working on. He didn’t bring up Owen again, and I was glad that he didn't.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Owen

 

“, you feeling okay?” Talon asked just after we finished up a song.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” I said a bit defensively. “Why are you asking? Does it seem as if something’s wrong with me?” The moment the words left my mouth, I realized why he might have asked.

“You just seemed a little off on the last song. You sure everything’s all right?”

I knew he was right, but I didn’t feel like getting into it. “I’m fine, man, seriously. Why don’t we just do that song again?” I suggested. Talon nodded, but then my phone went off.

“Owen Young,” I answered.

“Mr. Young, this is Sally from Touring Unlimited. I was calling to confirm the dates you requested for the tour bus. We have you down for the first week in September.”

I let out a sigh. I had called them over a month before and set it up, and I knew I’d told them the beginning of August. I’d even double checked it. “No, that’s incorrect. We need it the beginning of August. First week of August. I'm pretty sure I specified that quite a while ago.”

“Oh…I’m sorry about that, Mr. Young. Let me see if we can change the reservation.”

I pinched the bridge of my nose as she put me on hold. The other guys watched me curiously. No one made a sound. The silence grew more and more uncomfortable with every passing moment. It took Sally over two minutes to return to the line.

“Mr. Young? If it’s okay, I’m going to call you back once we get this straightened out,” she assured me. “I'll do my best to sort this out.”

“Fine,” I sighed, shook my head, and then hung up and watched Jeremiah place his guitar on its stand.

“How’s the search for an assistant going?” he asked, clearly aware of the frustration I was currently experiencing. “You any closer to finding someone who’s gonna fit the bill?”

“Actually, man, I met a really good candidate yesterday. Her name’s Nalia. She’s supposed to be stopping by today to meet you guys, to get a feel for the band and how we operate. So, instead of asking me about her, you’ll get to meet her for yourselves and then you guys can ask her whatever questions you might have.”

I looked down at my watch. It was only fifteen minutes later than the time I’d told my secretary to give her. It was no big deal. I figured she should be arriving any minute.

“Did you still want to run back through that first song?” Talon asked. I nodded and we started over.

I tried to get my head in the right place, but couldn’t help wondering why Nalia hadn’t shown up yet. We made it through the song, but I knew I was still a little off. It was really hard to focus; I still felt like my mind was in a million different places at once. Still, we pressed on, running through a few more songs. We had to; we had to be super tight for this tour.

“Okay, I’m going to call the agency to see where she is,” I finally said as we finished another song. It was nearly 2:45. I called Mike, tapping my foot impatiently on the floor as I waited for him to answer the call. “Hey, Mike, have you heard from Miss Dean? She hasn’t shown up yet,” I asked when he finally picked up after what seemed like forever. He put me on hold to check with his secretary.

“No word from her. Which seems odd compared to how on top of things she’s been so far. We’ll try to reach out to her and see what’s going on,” he said. “Just hang tight and I'll get back to you as soon as I know what's going on.” I sighed and thanked him before hanging up.

I stared out at the studio window, trying to swallow my disappointment. I didn’t get it; she’d seemed so interested in coming by today, and I'd had such high hopes for her. It was fine, I tried to tell myself. It would simply mean going back to the drawing board again, unfortunately. I wasn’t looking forward to having to do more interviews, though. In fact, I was loathing the thought.

The others were watching me as I stood there, so I tried to shake it off. Regardless, we needed to practice, whether Nalia showed up or not.

“All right, let’s finish practice guys,” I said, doing my best to round them back up. “We've only got a few more songs to get through, then we're done for the day and can all just chill.” Everything else seemed to be going wrong. I wanted to finish practice at the very least, just so that something felt like it was moving in the right direction.

Talon counted us in for the next song and the others joined before I hit the vocals. I tried to push away all the worries and stressors in my head and simply focus on the music instead. That helped some. Music always helped me relax and take my mind off things that were bugging me, and that song went a lot smoother than the first few. I loosened up a little, got into it like I remembered doing back when I first started the band, eventually putting every ounce of my heart and soul into it — truly singing my heart out.

It helped that the song was about loneliness, something I knew plenty about. I tended to write about what was relevant to me and, unfortunately, being lonely had been a major theme in my life. Singing about it was a way to get all the pain and angst out.

We finished up the song and went right into the next one. I was feeling a bit better, we were sounding better together, and I was finally focused fully on the music. By the time we hit the last song, we were jamming smoothly and rocking hard.

For the first time all day, we were right in our element. It was amazing; this was how things had been when we had first started out. A sensation I wasn't sure I'd ever be able to experience again, but there I was, feeling it once more.

“That sounded amazing! I cannot wait to go on tour, man!” Jeremiah smiled. “Wow, I mean, it's been really great jamming again and getting back into the music, but now... Now I feel like we're really in the pocket, you know? We're totally hitting it again the way we used to. Man, this feels epic!”

The others were equally as pumped, Jay and Talon high-fiving over his drum set.

“We totally owned it!” Talon exclaimed with a look of pure joy beaming from his face. I could see how pumped he was and how important this was to him. That, at least, made me feel better. And to tell the truth, I was really pumped about it, as well. It really felt as if all the pieces were falling into place — musically, at least.

But that left the business side of things a little unstable. My mind kept wandering back to thoughts of Nalia. I looked down at my watch and saw that it was now quarter past three. The guys were starting to pack up. Nalia must have decided against coming. I couldn’t think of any other logical explanation for her being so late and not at least calling to let me know.

Fuck it, I thought. It looked as though I would just have to find someone else. It was a huge bummer. I really felt like I had lucked out finding her. She seemed so perfect for what I needed. What the band needed, I reminded myself.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER TWELVE

alia

 

couldn’t believe it. I had finally lucked out and had a second interview for a job I really wanted and, of course, I get stuck in traffic. That’s just how my luck works. I should have known that things couldn’t just keep going my way – there always had to be a snag.

I’d tried calling the agency multiple times to let them know so they could at least tell Owen why I was late, but the line kept ringing busy. What kind of company doesn’t have multiple lines?

My frustration was rising with every minute and every inch traffic crawled. I tried them again and again, and I was near tears when the busy signal blared in my ear once more. All I could think was that this was going to end in disaster, and that I'd gotten my hopes up all for nothing. Would I really have to come so close to this opportunity just to have it snatched from right under my nose? Would I have to go crawling back to Allison for a job at the dive bar, penniless and with my tail between my legs?

Hell no. I’d starve first.

I texted Grace, whom I had told about the interview the night before, and she called me a few minutes later.

“Okay, calm down, Nay. Just get there and explain about the pile up and the traffic. It’s all over the news, so it isn’t like they can’t verify you’re telling the truth.”

“Yeah, but this is my first impression for the rest of the band. I even left early! To make sure I had enough time to get there!”

“Exactly! You can’t control the traffic, so quit freaking out,” she tried to calm me down. “I mean, there was a huge accident with an eighteen wheeler. You couldn't have predicted that. You did your best to be there on time, but sometimes these things happen, and I'm sure they'll understand. Like I said, it's been all over the news. Hell, the footage from the freeway looks downright terrifying! The eighteen wheeler is still on fire.”

“Ugh, I really want this job!”

“I know you do, and you’ll still get it. Is there another way you can get there? Can you get off the road you’re on?”

I looked around at the bumper to bumper gridlock. “Not a chance, I’m not going anywhere with how bad the traffic is. I'm completely blocked in, and there's no exit for at least a mile. And it might take an hour just to get to the exit – I'm not even joking.”

“Well, I’m sure things will start to clear up soon, and you’ll be able to make it there and explain what happened. It’ll be fine. The fire department and the traffic police are working on sorting it all out. I’m sure Owen Young understands how traffic can be.”

“God, I hope so,” I sighed, staring at the parking lot of freeway traffic. I could just barely see the smoke rising from the scene of the accident and the emergency vehicles that were cleaning it up. They were starting to open one lane at least. Maybe Grace was right, and they would understand.

“Call me afterwards?” she asked. “And good luck getting there. I'm sure you'll be fine.”

“Of course.” I hung up the call and then waited as the cars started to inch forward a little bit more. Oh, thank God, I thought. I just needed to get past the bottleneck and I’d be almost there. My GPS showed that I was five minutes away.

It was another half an hour, though, before I finally got past it and traffic began to move again. It was after three already, and I hoped they were still at the studio and hadn’t finished practice yet. I was driving like a bat out of hell, even though I was already late and another few minutes probably wouldn’t have made a difference.

Five more minutes later, I was finally in front of their building. I hurried out of the car, not bothering to check myself in the mirror, and ran as quickly as I could in heels toward the door.

When I got inside there was a pretty, young woman sitting behind a desk up front, she smiled at me. “How can I help you?”

“Hi, I was supposed to be here over an hour ago but there was a huge accident that blocked all the lanes on the freeway. I was supposed to see Owen for a second interview. Is he still here?”

“Oh! You must be Miss Dean. Yes, they’re all still here. I think they're packing up, but they usually hang around and chat for a bit before they leave. They should still be back in one of the rehearsal spaces, though. Come on, I’ll take you back. So sorry about the traffic. It can be such a beast sometimes,” she said, her voice unbelievably chipper and sweet.

“Thank you so much,” I offered her a smile despite how frustrated I felt about my commute there. She put her phone to voicemail then got up and motioned for me to follow her. She led me down a few different corridors to a door at the end of a long hall. It looked like a recording room with a booth full of expensive looking soundboards and equipment. Past it, there was a window and another door leading to the practice space where the guys were packing up their equipment.

Owen looked pissed and I was initially afraid to go in, but he looked up when his secretary opened the door, and his expression immediately softened into a sweet smile.

“Owen, Miss Dean is here to see you. She was caught up in the traffic jam caused by that big accident I heard about on the newsfeed,” she explained to him. He nodded to his secretary before she excused herself. I swallowed hard as I realized that all the guys had stopped packing up and were watching me.

“Owen, I’m so sorry. I tried calling the agency to let you know, but I couldn’t get a hold of anyone. The number kept giving me a busy signal. And then I tried to call here, but was told you were in the studio and couldn't talk to anyone. There was an accident with an eighteen wheeler and a multi car pile-up that had traffic backed up for miles. I swear I left early enough so that I could get here on time, taking into account that traffic would probably be bad. It's just that that accident really threw a wrench in the plan.”

“It’s okay,” he smiled. “I’m just glad you finally made it. I didn’t think you were still interested.”

“Hell, yes, I’m still interested! I wouldn't have missed this for the world!”

Everyone laughed at my unexpected upsurge. Owen introduced me to each of the guys in the band, and I recognized each one from the internet stalking I’d done the night before. I had thought it would be a good idea to have a little head start on today’s meet and greet.

“So you’ve done bigger tours before?” Talon asked me.

“Yes,” I smiled at him. I couldn’t believe how well I was lying through my teeth, but deep down, I knew I could do this. “This tour won't be much of a problem to organize, trust me.”

“You excited to go on tour with us? Going to be a lot of work,” Jeremiah added.

“Definitely. And, I don’t mind a lot of work. It’ll keep me busy and on my toes. And, of course, I aim to keep all of you guys on your toes, as well. Owen explained to me just how important this tour is to all of you — and to all of your fans, of course. I'm going to do my absolute best to make sure it all comes together as perfectly as it possibly can.”

Owen grinned, sitting back and letting the guys pepper me with questions. I was guessing this was the second interview, to see if the band also liked me.

“You sure you’ll be able to put up with us for three months?” Talon waggled his eyebrows at me. “I dunno how much you know about Bleeding Heart, but we do have a certain, hmm, how do I say this, reputation that precedes us.”

“Yeah. I won’t lie. I’ve heard the rumors. But I feel pretty confident I can manage. I’ve dealt with my older brother for twenty-six years. You guys can’t be any more difficult than he is,” I laughed at him. His grin widened and he looked over at Owen, exchanging a look, to which Owen only smiled back. It had to be a brother thing, I guessed. Still, I couldn’t help grinning at them.

Jay and Talon asked me more questions, although the things they were asking about didn't seem to have much to do with the tour. Most of the questions seemed to be more about getting to know me. After they were done, Owen glanced around at the guys, a wide smile still plastered on his face.

“So, what do you guys think? I’m totally down with the idea of Nalia joining us on tour. Who all’s in?”

All of them answered in unison with a hearty “I am,” and I had to fight to contain my excitement and put on a façade of calm collectedness. Owen looked over at me. “All right, Nalia, it looks like we're all in. What do you think?”

“I’m all in, too,” I smiled at him, trying not to gush. God, he was handsome when he smiled like that.

“Perfect. Early dinner…at my house? We’ll talk about everything and lock down the details.”

“Sounds good!” I nodded, those nervous flip flops in my tummy returning. To be honest, I wasn’t sure if it was the excitement of the new job or that smile that was causing it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Owen

 

was thrilled that Nalia had shown up after all. And damned if she hadn’t worn another outfit that drove me crazy. She had on those tall, black heels again and a black, high-waisted pencil skirt that hugged her hips and ass perfectly with a cute top that showed off her voluptuous chest. I could hardly take my eyes off of her, and I was struggling to keep my fantasies about her from just totally taking over my thoughts.

Damn, I was beginning to think I was going to have to require her to wear baggy clothes if I intended to get any work done. I suddenly wondered if it would be such a good idea having someone so distracting around. How could I maintain my focus on the music and the tour schedule when she was near me?

Then again, where was I going to find someone capable of doing the job and not going all fangirl every time they were around us? I was just going to have to deal with my attraction and do my best to put it aside.

She followed me out to the parking lot, and I couldn’t help looking back at her a few times, just to watch her walk. At one point, I almost walked into a door. If she noticed, though, she was polite enough not to laugh at me. I led her out to my black Porsche and opened the door for her before making my way around to the driver’s side. I slid into my seat and smiled at her until I realized how cheesy I probably looked just staring at her.

Nonetheless, she returned the smile from the passenger seat. I almost melted at the sight of those gorgeous eyes staring deeply back at me. I turned on the ignition switch and gave the powerful motor a good rev, eliciting a grin from her.

“Nice car,” she said. “Didn’t really take you for the muscle car type. Black is one of my favorite colors on cars.”

“Thanks,” I replied, grinning like a schoolboy. “This was the first car I bought after the band signed with Capitol Records. Reminds me of one my granddad had when I was a kid.” I caught myself before I teared up. Talking about Gramps had a way of getting to me. “But enough about my car; let's go!” I said, changing the subject.

The ride was mostly silent on the drive to my place, but I noticed her looking around the car and out at the hills as we drove. When we reached the gate that led to my house, she let out a quiet gasp, and I smiled, knowing she was at least a little impressed by the size of it. This is what happened when you were successful, but didn’t have someone else to spend all your money on.

I liked my mansion, but it did tend to get lonely there at times. Perhaps it was even lonelier than an apartment would have been. I mean, I had a shit ton of rooms, a ridiculous span of land, and just myself to occupy them most of the time. I frowned as I thought about it, but immediately did my best to push the thoughts out of my mind. Why the hell was I feeling so sentimental all of a sudden? Now wasn't the time for thinking of such things.

“And this is my humble abode,” I commented as I opened the door for her.

“Humble, huh?” she teased, grinning at me.

“Okay, maybe not so humble. Come on. Let me show you around.” I crooked my elbow out, offering it to her. She slid her hand in and rested it on my arm. She followed along, taking in everything. I led her through the foyer, showed her the living room, the game room (mostly made for me and Talon to shoot pool and bullshit or play PlayStation), and then I showed her the practice space and the recording studio.

“So, how come you guys practiced at the record company today?”

“It’s more centrally located for the guys,” I answered, leading her upstairs. I showed her the bedrooms and the balcony upstairs that overlooked the backyard and the hills. Then led her back downstairs to the kitchen. “Do you like seafood?” I asked.

“I love it,” she replied, following me into the kitchen and letting out another little gasp as she stepped through the entryway. Even I had to admit it was fairly impressive, considering the professional setup I had going on in there.

I loved my kitchen, and I loved to cook, especially with company. So, making a meal for someone other than myself would be a treat for both of us.

“Great! I picked up salmon and veggies from the store this morning. Want to help me cook?” I asked her, pulling the food out of the fridge.

“I love cooking. Sure.”

I was getting more and more into her by the minute. The more we interacted, the more I wondered if she could have been more perfect for me. Still, I did my best to keep my emotions in check. After all, I had to be professional about this situation. Not that it was going to be easy, but I couldn’t allow anything to get out of hand.

“There’s an apron over on that hook, so you don’t get anything on your blouse,” I nodded toward the aprons just before I pulled out a few pans and utensils. She grabbed an apron, put it on, and then pulled the veggies to the area on the counter in front of her.

“So, what am I doing here? Chopping, slicing, or dicing?” she asked, waving the knife back and forth playfully.

“Well, as long as you’re talking about the vegetables, slicing. We’re going to grill them,” I replied with a chuckle.

She starting to slice them up and, while she was busy with that, I started prepping the fish. I took a break from it after a few moments to pull a bottle of wine out of the wine cooler, pouring us both a glass. She sipped hers and watched me.

“You must really love to cook to have this kind of kitchen.”

“I do. It's a great way to relax and a good way to get creative at the same time. While music is my first love, cooking is definitely high up there among my list of passions. I think if being a musician hadn't worked out for me, I might have even been a chef.” I smiled at her, seasoning the fish and placing them just so into a pan to sear.

“So, are you excited about organizing this tour?,” I asked. “It should be pretty big. We’ve been getting millions of hits since we announced the tour on our Facebook and Twitter accounts, not to mention the band’s website.”

“Millions? Wow, that’s crazy. Though, I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised. And yes, I'm definitely excited. Maybe even a touch nervous, but only because I’m excited. All you need to do is fill me in on details, and I can guarantee you everything will go exactly as planned.”

“We’re going to start on the West Coast. Seattle is the first stop, then we’ll come down the coast, do a show here in L.A., next San Diego, then head toward the East Coast, stopping in Vegas, Dallas, Austin, and a few other spots. Then it’s on to New York for a couple of shows. After that, we'll just take it down the East Coast, with the last show being in Miami.”

“Wow, that’s quite a cross country trip. That’s going to be one hell of a drive.”

“And, that’s why we hire a professional driver and a luxury tour bus,” I winked at her. “Back when we were still indie, though, we would drive ourselves from one gig to the next in a van all day and then played shows that night. Some weeks we had a show every single night. It was exhausting and a pain in the ass.

“A driver is well worth whatever they cost so we can focus on music and resting up for each show. Trust me, the last thing you want to do is have to concentrate on the road when you've been up half the night drinking after playing a hard show and having only had three hours of sleep – every night for a week. Looking back, it was pretty stupid, but we were young.”

Nalia nodded thoughtfully. “I can see how that might not have been the best of situations,” she said with a grin, taking another sip of wine. “But, bright side, you’ve learned a few lessons since then. Like, hire a driver and a few beds on wheels.”

I laughed, “And, an assistant who just might keep us halfway in line.”

“Oh...I have a whip and I’m not afraid to use it,” she announced. Then her face turned a little red. “Wait. That did not come out the way I meant it.”

“Are you sure?” I joked. “Because I might be a little disappointed if you don’t have a whip.”

She tossed a piece of vegetable at me from across the counter and smiled that breathtaking smile of hers. I was rather glad that I had the counter to hide behind because everything about her was getting to me. The kitchen was heating up and it had more to do with her than the heat from the stove.

I finished cooking and we sat at the island on barstools, eating our dinner and discussing the upcoming week.

“Tomorrow and Thursday, we can plan to get together and go over all the details I have down on paper so you can start wrapping up the final schedule, get all of the accommodations together, and start working on the radio promotions and PR appearances for the tour.”

“That sounds great. I can’t wait to get started,” she smiled at me over her nearly empty glass of wine. I poured each of us a refill, starting to feel it just a little.

I watched her, overwhelmed by how beautiful and genuine she was. Not to mention how perfect she was going to be for the tour. This woman was the total package. She came across as being very level-headed and completely together. I had total confidence that she would really have everything under complete control. I was excited to get to work side-by-side with her over the next four months, prepping for the tour then going on the road with her. But, I wasn’t looking forward to having to keep my promise to the band. The more I looked at her and the better I got to know her, the more difficult the idea of keeping that pact began to seem. Still, she was on board now, and I would just have to keep it together for four months. Then it was fair game.

Nalia looked up and caught me watching her. I just didn’t manage to look away fast enough. She tried to hide a smile by taking another sip of wine. I had a feeling she was feeling a little buzzed as well. Her eyes glistened brightly as she studied me, taking another bite of food.

“This salmon came out delicious,” she praised my culinary skills after she dabbed at her mouth with a napkin. “Do you plan on cooking while we’re on the tour bus? Because I’m definitely in if you are.”

“I thought you said you were already in,” I teased.

“I am, but if the food is going to be this good? That’s a huge perk.”

I laughed. For her, I’d gladly cook. Unfortunately, on tour buses, there was usually extremely limited space in the kitchen. Because of this, there was usually a lot of eating at restaurants and fast food joints.

We finished up dinner and the first bottle of wine, so I took out another bottle, pouring us each another glass. I liked having Nalia there, and if I hadn’t been looking forward to the tour before, I certainly was now. We talked more about random things. She told me about her older brother, as well as her best friend Grace, whom I knew of from seeing commercials for the soap opera. We headed back upstairs to the balcony off the lounge and took our wine glasses with us.

“Oh!” Nalia let out a cute little squeak as she tripped in her heels. I caught her around the waist and helped her steady herself. I was guessing she was more than feeling the wine.

I held my arm out to help her as I led her to the edge of the balcony where there was an ideal view of the sun as it set. Everything was perfect out — the weather, the atmosphere, the temperature, the scenery, and the buzzing chemistry between us. She let out a little sigh and without realizing it, leaned against me a little for balance.

“It’s so beautiful.”

Having her so close and so comfortable there with me was more than enough to lower my defenses. I leaned in, my hand still on her hip and whispered in her ear. “You’re beautiful, Nalia.” I let my lips brush against her neck. Everything logical in me knew what I wanted was a bad idea, but logic didn’t seem to be enough at that moment to stop the words from spilling out. “Stay the night with me?” To hell with the pact.

She gasped and pulled away, the look on her face a bit more surprised than I’d expected.

I bit my lip. Had I misread things?

“You’re my boss,” she stated in a rather matter-of-fact tone. Her expression was hesitant, but she didn’t come across as repulsed by the idea.

“And?” I responded, figuring the worst she would say was no.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Nalia

 

I had no idea how to respond. Owen watched me intently, waiting in suspense for my reply, his breathing heavy enough that I noticed. Both of us had definitely had a considerable amount of wine, and as soon as I’d felt his lips brush against my skin, I’d felt an absolutely overwhelming desire to turn and press my lips to his. Hell, from the moment I’d laid eyes on him yesterday I’d wanted to.

Still, he was my boss…and as much as I hated to think of what my brother said about him possibly being true, in that moment, I realized there was definitely a chance Owen might be a player. But the way he was standing there, eyes focused on me, the warmth of his hands burning through the material of my skirt, well, there was no way I could deny that everything about him made me wet. This man was beautiful and sexy as hell, and I’d had a lot of wine. My mind was trying to argue, but the rest of me was screaming, “Fuck it. Just go for it!”

He took a step toward me and threaded a strong hand through the hair at the base of my neck. Moments later, the warmth of his lips were pressed against mine. I wrapped my arms around him, pulling him gently closer and pressing our bodies together. Owen let out a soft groan, opening my mouth with his, his tongue flicking against mine, searching and hungry. His powerful arm came around my waist and squeezed me close so that I could feel the start of a growing bulge in his jeans. It made me whimper to feel the size of him, and I deepened the kiss as both of his hands moved to my ass.

“Mmm, Nalia. You’re so beautiful…and sexy…and....” He kneaded my ass in his large hands, then lifted me up. I was surprised at his strength, but wrapped my legs around his waist as he backed me up against one of the archways.

I moaned, rolling my hips against him, feeling him stiffen powerfully against me. I couldn’t believe I was doing this — and with him of all men. Still, in that moment, it didn’t matter. I just wanted Owen.

He slid me back down to my feet, smiling a dreamy smile at me, then took my hand, kissed my palm, and led me into his bedroom. As soon as we were inside, he was back on me, pulling my shirt off and planting hungry kisses over my neck and chest. I tugged at his shirt and he hastily pulled it off for me, affording me a nice view of his sculpted upper body before he pulled me back against him, kissing me passionately.

“Come,” he instructed, his voice gruff with lust as he pulled me toward the bed. He backed me onto it and pushed my skirt up, slipping a hand between my thighs, stroking me through my panties.

With a moan, I bit teasingly at his bottom lip. I lifted my hips, letting him tug my panties off, which he did with eager haste. I was so wet it was a relief to have them gone, and I could tell by the appreciative smile against my lips he liked it. He slipped two fingers inside me, letting the pad of his thumb work my clit with gentle rhythmic strokes, each of which sent wave after wave of pleasure rippling through my body.

“Take your bra off,” he grunted in my ear, letting his full blown erection press against my thigh. I did as he instructed, reaching behind me and undoing the clasp, letting my bra fall off my breasts. Owen’s mouth went immediately to my breasts, licking and sucking at my nipples. I arched my back, letting out a full-throated moan at the delightful sensations running through me.

“Can I touch you?” I asked, letting my hand brush his full-blown erection.

Owen nodded against my breast and slid his fingers out of me, undoing his jeans and pushing them down with his boxer briefs in one motion. He sprung loose and took my hand, placing it so that my fingers wrapped around his hard cock. I gasped, feeling his size and girth in my grip as he kissed me. I gently stroked him back and forth with a light, playful touch, and he lay down on the bed, kissing and fondling my breasts, flicking his tongue against my now erect nipples.

Slowly, he moved up on the bed so that his dick was near my face. He didn’t have to say a word; I desperately wanted to taste him. I let him slide past my lips and he let out a deep groan as I pulled him in all the way. Owen twisted his fingers into my hair with one hand, the other reaching down between my thighs with softly probing fingertips. I swirled my tongue around him, enjoying his broad girth in my mouth, and using tortuously slow strokes of my tongue.

For this, I was rewarded with another deep groan as he gently thrust his hips toward me. I could feel his desire swelling almost to the point of explosion, but I continued to tease him slowly, drawing the moment of ecstasy out as long as I possibly could. His fingers tightened in my hair when I took him deeper.

“Ohhh, God, Nalia.”

I shivered at the sound of his voice moaning my name.

He pulled me back up toward the head of the bed and kissed me hard, pulling my skirt off my waist before running his hands over my body and down my legs. “God you’re beautiful,” he moaned, trailing kisses down my chest and stomach. “More beautiful than I could ever have imagined.”

Owen pushed my legs apart and flicked his tongue against my clit, sliding two fingers inside of me again. A whimper of pleasure escaped me, and this time, I was the one grabbing at his hair. He lapped at my clit, working his fingers inside me back and forth. The pleasure was so intense, I simply couldn’t hold back the moans escaping from my eager lips. He groaned against me and the vibration ran right through me, making me writhe and twist on the bed as I reached for him.

He climbed up the bed and kissed my lips as he reached for his nightstand, pulling out a condom. He kissed me hard as he rolled it on. When it was ready, tight over his throbbing and sizable length, he positioned himself between my legs. I tried to prepare myself, fully aware of his size, but when he thrust into me, I wailed as he stretched me.

He moaned, kissing my cheek as he slowly moved inside me, letting me accommodate his size. I wrapped my legs around him, moving with him, kissing his lips as we fell into a gentle rhythm. He felt unbelievable inside me. Each thrust seemed to bring more pleasure than the previous one as his thick member continued to push me to the limits of what I could accommodate.

Owen deepened the kiss, wrapping his arms around me as he thrusted harder and more vigorously. His breathing grew heavy, and his tanned skin glistened with sweat from the effort. I dug my nails into his back, moaning and arching my back as I grasped at him. I felt myself getting close to release as I pressed my cheek against his, panting and moaning in his ear.

He seemed to be able to read me and know precisely what to do to heighten my pleasure. He lifted me up so that I was in his lap, then began to thrust even harder and with even more fervor. My moans were uncontrollable as his powerful thrusts slammed into me. I couldn't remember even having felt so full before, having felt so turned on as I was at this moment.

He kissed me hard, tugging at my bottom lip as he maintained the intense rhythm. I could no longer hold back, and I came hard, my muscles tightening around him as my thighs trembled. I felt the pulsing of his cock as he released inside me, groaning into my hair, mumbling my name as he came.

We both rode the waves of pleasure together, holding on tight until they passed. Afterward, he lay on top of me for a few moments, breathing heavily. The feel of his hard, damp, muscular body against mine was amazing. Gently, he laid me down on the bed and slid his condom off, discarding it in the wastebasket before cuddling up behind me. He kissed my cheek and wrapped his arms around me. I turned so I could look up to him.

“This isn’t part of the job, right?” I asked with a mischievous grin.

He smiled and kissed my lips again. “Not unless you want it to be.”

I smiled up at him, not sure what to say. I did enjoy it, but was this really going to be a good idea with us going on tour for three to four months? He seemed to read my unease and smiled.

“You don’t have to say anything. We can see how things go. We have a lot going on with the tour; I know that more than anyone. Still, I won’t lie. It’s going to be difficult not to want to drag you into a room alone. You’re pretty amazing. This was pretty amazing,” he said, gently brushing a strand of hair behind my ear.

“It really was,” I agreed. “But we also have to keep in mind that we both have a job to do. I don’t want anything to get in the way of that. Even intense, mind-blowing connections like this was. You were...wow. So much more intense than I expected.”

“And, you are the most beautiful creature I've ever laid my eyes on,” he responded. “But you're right; we have to put the job ahead of everything else. But whatever else happens, I'm just happy that I'm here with you now, that we experienced this amazing moment together.”

I couldn’t argue with him.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Owen

 

had been two weeks since I’d hired Nalia and, lo and behold, things were running smoothly.

She straightened out everything with the tour bus company, got radio interviews, YouTube interviews, chats with bloggers and vloggers, and she managed to get all sorts of other appearances lined up, as well as accommodations set and reserved. She’d even done stuff I hadn’t even thought of, liking putting packing lists together for everyone. She’d gone to each of the guys’ places and helped them think about what outfits and such they wanted to wear for the tour and created lists of things each of them would need.

She kept everything organized and, as a result, everything was falling into place. She was incredible, beautiful, and sexy as hell to boot.

When I hired her, I expected help, but this had all made my life so much easier than I could have imagined. For the first time in, well, I didn't even know how long, I wasn't stressed out and worried about this tour. And, that is pretty much the only thing I could remember feeling in regards to the business side of the tour since we’d begun preparations for it — a sense of immense worry that things were gonna go wrong, that the guys would fall off the wagon and go off the rails, that we'd let our fans down, that the whole thing would turn into this gigantic, embarrassing fiasco.

But now, with Nalia's help, all of those worries had been put to rest. I finally knew that everything was going to work out like it should. This tour wasn’t just going to work out okay – it was going to be awesome. It was going to be the best tour we ever did. I just knew that the shows were going to rock — and when I say rock, I mean totally rock, tear the roof off the place kinda shit. With Nalia handling everything I'd worried about before – and handling it with such precision and efficiency – I could do what I did best, without any stress in the back of my mind. I would be able to focus purely on the music and the performance.

And it was all thanks to Nalia.

The more I thought about her, the more I felt myself being pulled to her. In fact, it was becoming more and more difficult for there to be a moment in which she wasn't running through my thoughts.

We hadn’t slept together since the first time, but I thought it would be better to not let it turn into something else or put any pressure on her. We were about to go on tour in two weeks, and I didn’t want her feeling like she was obligated to me, or that she had to be a certain way with me. And, I certainly didn’t want her to feel she had some sort of ownership over me.

At least, that’s what I was telling myself. Truthfully, I was probably protecting myself more than anything. I already felt something for her and I didn’t want it to take hold.

It just wasn't the right time for this — we had to put the tour above everything else. That was simply the bottom line, and we had to stick to it. Women could be weird when it came to sex and relationships. I just didn’t want any drama with her being upset if fans threw their panties on stage and acted ridiculous, as we’d seen plenty of fans do in the past.

I mean, surely she must know that there would be groupies and that women were going to go wild when they saw us. It's not as if I asked for it or anything; being the lead singer of Bleeding Heart, that kind of thing just happened. I couldn't help it or prevent it, and Nalia was going to have to learn to live with it all the way around. It was going to happen to all of us, and I could only hope she was prepared to handle it.

We were finishing up a band meeting when Nalia came in to go over some last minute items. I wasn’t completely paying attention, as my thoughts kept running back to her naked in my bed. Wow...what a night that had been. I wondered if she thought about it as often as I did. I wondered if she fantasized about me the same way I fantasized about.

“Finally, guys...don’t forget condoms,” she instructed. I hadn't really paid much attention to anything else she'd been talking about up to that point, but that did grab my attention.

“Seriously. Protect yourselves. But, I’ll have extra just in case you aren’t prepared, okay? I'm sure you guys already know this, but I'm going to repeat it anyway: nobody goes bareback. I am not joking. Not even a little bit.

“In fact, it's a great way to either end up with a paternity suit in a year or to catch something nasty on the road, and I don’t need to be rushing anyone to go get treated for Chlamydia. And, I don’t think I even need to mention potentially way more serious things. If you all have a shred of decency among you, you won't be wanting to pass that kind of thing on to your groupies, either. That's just not right.”

All the guys guffawed at her statement but, for some reason, I found her frankness with them — with us — a huge turn on. I guess she already knew exactly what happened on tour. I liked it.

“All right, that’s all I have for now, but will definitely have more when we’re closer to our kick off of the tour,” she assured us before dismissing us all. The guys got up, but I hung back, grabbing her by the waist before she could leave the room.

Before she could object, I pressed her back against the wall and covered her mouth with mine passionately. She kissed me back for a moment before pulling away a little.

“Let’s get together tonight,” I whispered in her ear, crushing my hips against hers. “I know it might not be right, but watching you, I don’t care. I get lonely in that big house.” I kissed her cheek.

Nalia let out a sigh and patted my chest, pushing away from my hold. “I think you’ll be just fine without me. I’m not a sleep-around kind of gal, Owen, no matter how good the sex is.

“Now, if you'll excuse me, I still have a lot of work to do and a lot of things to organize. You, of all people, know how much work is involved in putting this tour together, so I’d appreciate it if you could try not to distract me, all right? I'm here to do my job, not to play around.”

And with that, she left me alone in the room, feeling a bit like an ass and completely disappointed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

Nalia

 

was frustrated and irritated as I left the studio. I wanted to go home with Owen more than anything. Hell, I’d been thinking about him for the last two weeks, ever since the passionate night we had spent together.

But with the two of us about to be stuck for nearly four months on a tour bus working together, trying to make everything come together on this insane schedule and doing my best to keep all of the other guys in line, and insuring that everything ran as perfectly as clockwork, it was simply a disaster waiting to happen. Surely he had to understand that? There was no way we could be professional about this and carry on any kind of illicit physical affair at the same time. It just wouldn't work.

Sure, he was interested at the moment, but I was totally convinced that it wasn’t going to last, especially once we were on tour. Owen Young was one of L.A.’s most eligible billionaire bachelors — a strikingly handsome man who oozed sex appeal. He could very likely have any woman he wanted, and I was just a poor girl from the less-than-middle-class Midwest.

I mean, let’s face it, the man was a rock star. He was accustomed to women like lingerie models, glamorous film celebrities, or sexy pop stars. Those were the types of women a man like him wanted, not just an ordinary girl like me. It was silly of me to get my hopes up and imagine anything else. Real life just wasn't like that.

He’d remember that just as soon as he went on tour and groupies were throwing themselves at him. Then where would that put me? I couldn’t afford to get attached. Not even a little.

And, I sure as hell didn’t want to just be used by him, either. Maybe he really was lonely, but using me to fill a gap wasn’t something I wanted. That was something I definitely was not prepared to do.

But, damn, I had to admit that the sex really had been amazing. A little shiver shook through me just at the thought of it, and I had to snap myself out of it, remembering to put the keys in my car door. I looked back at the building, hesitating, but forced myself to get into the car. I was leaving. I was not going back inside. I headed toward my apartment, calling Grace on the way to see if she was home yet.

“Hey, I need a drink. Want to go to the bar with me?” I asked when she picked up.

“What kind of question is that? Absolutely! Everything okay?”

“Yeah, just a long day at work, is all,” I told her. I didn’t feel like getting into it. At least, not before I had a couple of drinks in me.

“All right. How far away are you? I’ll meet you outside.”

“Twenty minutes. See you then,” I chimed then hung up, blasting the radio and trying to clear my head of all things Owen Young.

Grace was already waiting outside when I pulled up. She got in, and we headed straight for the bar. She didn’t bother trying to pry further, at least not yet, knowing me better than anyone else. We got to the bar and went in, ordering two drafts. I sighed, taking a sip of mine and relaxing some now that I was far from work.

“Hey, look, they have open mic tonight! You should sign up,” Grace pointed to a poster. I shrugged.

“Sure, why not.” Playing always cheered me up. I downed my first beer and immediately started to feel better. The buzz of the alcohol relaxed me and made me feel a bit more carefree. A drink made it easier to get my mind off of Owen and work.

Feeling a bit more on the cheery side, I headed over to sign up for the open mic. They had it set up to one open mic performance followed by one song by the DJ, and then repeat. I checked the list and noticed that there were still a few people signed up before me, so I grabbed another beer; there was still plenty of time before my turn on stage came up.

My cell phone buzzed with a text message as Grace and I sat drinking at a table. Grace’s eyebrow cocked up as I checked the message and sighed. It was Owen.

“Hey, where are you?” the text read.

“The Barfly. Why do you need to know? I'm off the clock, and I've taken care of all my responsibilities for the day,” I responded, maybe a little harsh, but at that point — two beers in — I didn’t care.

He responded back quickly. “I needed you to come back in to work on a situation with one of the hotels, but no biggie, I can handle it.”

Good, I thought, not bothering to reply. I took another long swig of my beer and then shoved my phone into my purse.

“Owen?” Grace asked.

“Yeah, just a little bit of a situation with work and some mix up with a hotel booking. No big deal, though; nothing he can't handle on his own,” I said, shrugging it off.

“So, spill it. What’s going on at work? I mean, you seem a little out of sorts. Have things gotten weird or uncomfortable or something?” she asked, leaning forward and raising an eyebrow at me. I swear I should have never told her about me and Owen sleeping together. I was starting to regret letting her in on that little secret.

“Nothing is going on with work,” I said flatly. “Absolutely nothing. It's all fine, seriously.”

“Are you sure?” she prodded. “Because that tone tells me otherwise.”

I sometimes hated that she knew me so well. “Fine, fine, you're right. Things aren't okay — they're not okay at all. He came on to me again today,” I finally admitted.

“Ohhh…then why are you here?” she giggled.

“Because I have to work with him, Grace! Jeez, doesn’t anybody understand that? I don’t need things getting complicated. And this job really is a lot of work, and it's so stressful. There are a million things to take care of, way more than I could have ever anticipated there being.

“Then you add the stress of trying to keep your boss at arm’s length. It’s just...ugh! I really don't need to be on an emotional rollercoaster with Owen Young on top of everything else.” I turned my attention to the stage to watch the next performance and let her know I wasn’t about to discuss it any further. She took the hint and we both watched the next few performances without discussing work or Owen.

By the time it was my turn, I had long finished my third beer and was feeling a decent buzz. There was a good bit of liquid courage flowing through my veins by the time they called my name. Getting a pat on the back and “good luck” from Grace, I headed straight up to the stage, feeling confident. They had an older, baby grand piano, but it was still in good condition. I’d played it a few other times at open mic night, so placing my fingers along the ivory felt comfortable.

I sat on the bench and adjusted the microphone stand before starting in on a song. It was one I’d written a while back, one of my favorites. I got lost in the music as my fingers pressed down gracefully on the keys. I’ve always felt at home up on the stage, just losing myself in the beauty and intensity of the music, just feeling every ounce of my being connecting with the notes and the lyrics and the soul of the song. I closed my eyes, the words flowing fluidly along with the melody as I poured my heart into the song and let the music carry all of my troubles to a place beyond me. I didn’t even notice how silent the room had grown while I was singing.

When I finished, I opened my eyes and looked up at the silent room, scared for a moment, until cheers, whistles, and hoots broke out. I smiled, Owen far from my mind, absolutely content.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

Owen

 

rejected by Nalia only seemed to make me want her more. It confused me, intrigued me, and drove me nuts at the same time. It wasn’t something that happened to me too often. Or really at all, for that matter. Usually, I was the one doing the rejecting. Maybe that was why the whole thing was so frustrating.

I shook my head, pressed my fingertips against my temples, and glanced back down at her text. The Barfly. I hadn’t been there before, but I was sure I could find it.

Fuck it, I thought. I’m going after her. I had wanted to play it cool, given we were about to go on tour, but I didn’t want to spend the night alone or in anyone else’s arms. I knew I would totally be breaking the pact we had made about not having a physical relationship with the assistant — again — but I couldn't care less about that at the moment. There was no other woman I could imagine being with.

I doubted any other woman could satisfy me like she had, anyway. I doubted they had a chance of coming even close to making me feel the way Nalia made me feel. Hell, the thoughts of her moans alone drove me bat-shit crazy.

I headed out to my car, typing the name of the bar into the GPS as I walked. It was a good thirty-minute drive, but that was not something that concerned me much. I’d much rather make a bit of a drive and at least see her than simply head straight home to a large, empty bed that only made me think of her on yet another lonely night. No, there had been far too many of those already, and I was getting pretty damn tired of it. I wanted her, and that was all there was to it.

The drive went by quickly, and I walked into the bar intending to stay toward the back and search the room for her. Finding her, however, didn’t seem to be much of a problem.

She was on stage, sitting at a baby grand piano. I was taken aback by how stunning she looked up there under the lights that shone just so, giving her hair an almost angelic aura. They sparkled on her skin. I couldn't help but stare at her, completely mesmerized.

When she started playing, all of my thoughts fell silent as soon as I heard the effortless melody and that velvety voice of hers. She sounded amazing. I couldn't remember when I had last been so blown away by anyone in a musical sense. I suddenly remembered she’d mentioned playing, but I hadn’t thought about it much and certainly had no idea just how talented she was.

Just watching how feverishly she got into her playing struck a chord with me. Not only was the song soothing, but it was also as beautiful and moving as she was. I could tell by the way she performed it that she had written the song. It didn't just have her name and touch written all over it, it was her – it was an extension of her.

Suddenly, I realized something about this woman; she was just like me — stuck in a life that doesn’t make sense because music was her world, it was her heart and soul, it was the blood that her heart pumped through her veins. I knew because I felt the same way when I played. I’d never been so ready to get back out of the office and on the road as I when I first played with the band again, and it seemed she had similar desires.

It was strange to watch – I couldn’t recall ever coming across another person who seemed to feel the music with as much passion as I did. It was something that had come as a bit of a surprise to me when the band had made it big and I began to meet more people in the music industry. I had even dated a famous pop star once that I kind of expected to have that connection with musically, and she’d had an amazing voice, but she had been far more about the image and the fame than the music itself. Needless to say, that relationship didn’t last too long.

Watching Nalia on stage, I could tell right away that she was entirely different. It was easy to see that music was like religion to her, or something even more than a religion. It was the essence of who she was.

I smiled, watching her as she finished and those beautiful brown eyes opened back up, surveying her audience like someone who had just woken up from a trance or had just had their eyes opened to a beautiful truth. People began applauding and cheering. I could tell it wasn't just polite applause and praise; it was genuine amazement. The crowd totally loved her. They could see her passion and talent as clearly as I could, and they were totally impressed.

A look of absolute contentment spread across her face, making her absolutely breathtaking. Carefully, she exited the stage, a broad smile on her face as she headed to a table where a friend was waiting. I simply sat and watched her in silence, still in awe of her amazing, soulful performance. Just when I had thought she couldn't surprise me anymore, she had done just that.

Without hesitation, I headed straight over to her, slipping my arm around her waist and pulling her toward the dance floor as music began to play. Her friend let out a gasp and stared after us, but I paid her no mind. I pulled Nalia against me, moving in rhythm with her as a slow song played. She stared up at me in shock.

“What are you doing here?”

“I wanted to see you,” I told her honestly, as I slipped my arms around her waist. She narrowed her eyes at me but slid her arms around my neck. “I didn’t know you played the piano so well,” I smiled at her. “What else can you play?”

A slow grin turned up the corners of her perfect lips. “You.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

Nalia

 

couldn’t believe that Owen had shown up. He was saying all the right things, and I was feeling pretty high from the elation of playing my heart out on stage – not to mention kinda buzzed from the drinks I'd had — but that still didn’t mean I was just going to give in to what I was fairly certain he was there for.

With a smile, I shook my head as he tried to get me to dance, and I pulled away from him and headed back toward the table and Grace, who was staring at me wide-eyed. She was apparently in as much shock as I was that Owen was there. I didn’t have to look back to know he was right on my trail. Why had he driven all the way to my side of the city? Judging from the time since I'd responded to his message and when he'd shown up and surprised me, he must have left soon after receiving my text. The question I wasn’t quite so sure about was...why?

When I reached the table, Owen saddled up next to me, taking the seat across from Grace. I introduced them to each other, and they both shook hands. “Grace Nelson, actress and best friend, meet Owen Young, rock star and boss.”

“I’m a big fan of Bleeding Heart! Seriously. I'm super excited to hear some new stuff from you guys,” Grace told Owen. I frowned at her for gushing at him. She was supposed to be backing me up, helping me stand my ground, not boosting his ego.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Grace,” Owen smiled at her. “So, you're an actress, huh? What area do you work in, film or television?”

“Oh, just a daytime soap.”

“Which one?”

“Ha, if you watched them, you'd know!” she laughed.

He laughed in response. “True, I guess you’ve got me there. I really don't have much time to watch TV these days. Although, now that Nalia is doing such an amazing job, maybe I will find a little time to check out a TV show or two. Maybe I'll even see you on your daytime soap.”

She chuckled. “Please don’t feel obligated. If I have my way, it’s just a stepping stone to bigger and better things. Kind of like my girl here,” she changed the subject. “Did you enjoy Nalia’s performance up there?”

“Immensely.” Owen’s gaze flickered to me.

I kept my mouth in a hard line, trying to ignore the shiver that moved through me as his eyes brushed over me. He just wants sex, I told myself. Don't fall for this sweet guy routine. It's just flattery to soften you up, win you over, and get you into bed. Still, it wasn’t like that was such a bad thing. I mean, I’d had fun, too. Hell, if I was going to be completely honest with myself, it had been mind-blowing. Amazing. Seriously, some of the best sex I'd ever had.

No, I mentally slapped myself. Quit thinking about it. You are not going to give in to him and just get used like he probably does with all of the girls he takes home. You're here to do a job, not just hop into bed with a rock star.

“Would you ladies like another round?” Owen asked.

“Sure,” Grace answered before I could say anything in protest. “Let's get this party started!”

As he walked to the bar, I narrowed my eyes at her. “What the hell are you doing, Grace?”

“What? Come on, Nay. He obviously likes you. You already shot him down, but he still showed up here anyway. If nothing else, he’s certainly persistent, and you should really give him a few points for that. Besides, he's so hot.”

“Seriously? Come on, Grace, I thought you were on my side,” I frowned at her.

“I am, I am, but it is okay to have a little fun, too, ya know. Jeez, most girls would totally kill to be your shoes right now!” She gave me a nudge in the side. I started to respond, but Owen returned before I could, so I just shut my mouth and smiled as he slid a drink in front of each of us.

“Thanks,” I said into my drink, still keeping my eyes on him. He frowned, watching me. I considered that it was possible I might have been being a little hard on him, and maybe Grace was right. Owen and I had had fun the last time things got intimate between us and, oddly enough, things hadn't been weird between us afterwards. It wasn’t like he was using me if I enjoyed it as much as him and didn’t expect any sort of attachment or conditions from it. I mean, we were two, mature adults just enjoying ourselves and each other, right?

He leaned in close and whispered into my ear. “You were absolutely stunning on stage. Your passion up there seriously set me on fire. And when I say that, I mean totally on fire. All over.”

I tried to force back the smile that threatened to spread across my lips. Instead of smiling or saying anything in return, I simply directed my gaze up – and was immediately met with a stare that churned every butterfly I hadn’t even known was in my stomach. “Thank you,” I mouthed, my eyes never leaving his.

“I think you'll regret it if you don't spend the night with me,” he whispered back. “We could have a truly amazing time together tonight. Trust me on that.”

From the corner of my eye, I could see Grace raise a questioning eyebrow at me and flash me a cheeky smile.

I didn’t say a word. I only searched his stare and nodded my head.

“I’m guessing you two are gonna be going soon?” Grace asked, holding out her hand for my keys. I flushed, a little embarrassed, and fished my keys out of my purse for her. In my state, it was probably best if I didn’t drive, anyway.

“I’m sorry to steal her away,” Owen said to Grace, placing a palm gently on my lower back. Warmth pooled in me at the light touch of his hand, and my cheeks flushed once more. “But I promise you, she's in good hands. Very good hands.”

She waved a dismissive hand at both of us. “It’s no problem. You two get out of here and go have some fun,” she said with a grin.

“You sure, Grace? You'll be fine here all on your own?” I asked. She simply gave me a knowing smile and waved me off toward the door.

“I think that’s our cue to go. Come on.” Owen’s fingers intertwined with mine as he led me to the exit. Giving up, I followed.

We are just having some fun, I told myself. It's not going to be anything more than that. Just some fun between two people who happen to be attracted to each other.

He led me out to his Porsche and opened the door for me. Before he loosened his grip around my waist to allow me to get in, he gave me a slow, teasing kiss, flicking his tongue into my mouth. When he pulled his lips away from mine, they lingered barely a breath from my mouth. My heart raced. He then placed a soft kiss on my forehead before helping me into the car.

As he settled in on his side of the car, he flashed a pleased, content smile at me. Yes, he really had driven all the way there because of wanting me. I found myself wondering what he had meant when he had said it was lonely sometimes being him.

Owen started up the car and pulled out of his parking spot, then put his hand on my knee, gently caressing.

“I know I already said it once, but you were amazing up there on stage,” he said, letting his hand slide a little higher up my thigh. A light shiver ran through me. As we stopped at a light, he leaned over to kiss me, one hand brushing up my arm and against my breast. I couldn’t say for sure if it was intentional, but it definitely sent my pulse into overdrive.

“You looked and sounded like an angel up there. You’ve got a lot of talent, you really do. It was easy to see that the music was everything to you. And, watching you perform with such passion and intensity was possibly the hottest thing I’ve ever witnessed.” His breath tickled my neck as he spoke.

“The light’s green,” I giggled. He laughed and pulled away, but he quickly placed his hand on my thigh once more, a little higher this time, brushing just under the hem of my skirt.

“God, your skin’s so soft, and you have killer legs. You know when I like them best, though?” He flashed me a sideways glance, giving my thigh a gentle squeeze.

“When they’re in heels?” I guessed.

“Not a bad guess, and that is quite impressive, but no. They're definitely my favorite when they’re wrapped around my head.” A devious smile crossed his lips and I blushed a little as heat pooled between my thighs at the mental picture that embedded in my mind. Yeah, I liked my legs like that, too, come to think of it. His hand began to slide slowly higher up my inner thigh, the tips of his fingers brushing softly against the outside of my panties. At the thrill this touch stirred up, I let out a small gasp. His devious grin only grew.

“Shouldn’t you be paying attention to the road?” I asked, a little breathless as his fingertips continued to caress me teasingly through the silky fabric.

“I’m good at multitasking,” he told me, and then let out a gruff, sexy laugh as we hit another red light. He took the opportunity to slide two fingers under my panties. The heat between my legs was growing more and more intense. I was more than a little wet. I spread my legs a little to allow him more access and bit my bottom lip, stifling a whimper as his fingers began to work their magic on me.

As the waves of pleasure started to build inside me, growing more and more with every second that passed, I reached across and began caressing the crotch of his jeans where a large bulge was already starting to press against the fabric.

“Mmm, now that might make it hard for me to focus on the road,” he smiled that crooked grin of his.

Just as a tease, I leaned over toward him. He moved his arm to give me access and started to fuss with his zipper. Clearly, he thought I was leaning over to give him head.

Instead, I leaned over and brushed my lips against his neck then softly eased them up to his ear and whispered. “Light’s green,” I smiled playfully.

“Humph. Tease,” he grumbled jokingly and returned his attention to the road.

“Oh, a tease, am I?” I raised an eyebrow at him.

He glanced over and nodded. “Yes. Yes, you are. Don't try pretend like you aren't.”

My smile widened into a mischievous one. I leaned back in my seat, then moaned as realistically as I could, “Ohhh, Owen, mmmm! Don’t stop!”

The car swerved to the side before Owen recovered, his cheeks flushing this time.

“Shit! Not while I’m driving,” he laughed nervously, then swallowed hard. His hand returned to my thigh, kneading the flesh there with playful pressure. “As much as I love the sound of you moaning my name, that’s enough to make us end up in a ditch. And I'm sure neither one of us wants the night to end like that, now do we?”

“Maybe you shouldn’t call me a tease, then.” I cocked an eyebrow.

“Point taken,” Owen grinned. He leaned over, kissing me hard at the next stop light. “I do hope to hear you moan like that in a little bit, though. You have no idea what that does to me.” He pulled my hand to his crotch, where I could feel a rather impressive bulge had formed.

“Oh, I think I might actually have a pretty good idea what that does to you,” I said, pulling my hand back as one of his started to caress my breasts. “By the way, light’s green again. Why do I have to keep reminding you of that? I thought you said you were good at this multitasking thing. You weren't telling lies to me, were you?” I laughed cheekily.

“Shit.”

I laughed again, and he pulled away again as a car honked behind us.

“I can’t help myself around you. You’re so distracting. Man, I can't get my mind to focus on anything else.”

He kept his hand on my thigh as he drove, caressing, kneading, and teasing me with his fingertips at nearly every stop until the gates around his house came into view. He gnawed at his lip, giving me a smoldering glance as he parked the car.

I licked my lips, tugging the bottom one between my teeth just thinking about what was to come. He smiled broadly at me and shook his head, coming around my side of the car and opening the door for me. “Don’t let me fall for you, Nalia,” he said, breathless. “Seriously.”

I raised an eyebrow, staring up at him, and grinned. “Maybe you already have?”

He laughed, mumbling, “Cheeky little thing, aren’t you,” before picking me up and pressing me against the side of the car, grinding his hips into me, his growing erection rubbing against my panties with delectable pressure.

I smiled, brushing my lips against his earlobe and moaned, low and sweet. “Ohhh, Owen, mmmm!”

“Oh, hell yeah; that’s music to my ears,” he groaned, his dick stiffening with a throbbing tightness against me. He pulled his mouth away from mine and then moved, throwing me over his shoulder, carrying me caveman-style to the front door as I shrieked and laughed. “You’ve done it now,” he chuckled, swatting me on the ass as I squirmed and wiggled playfully. “I warned you about that moaning.”

“Put me down!” I giggled, still squirming. His hand squeezed my ass.

“All that wiggling around isn’t helping your case any, young lady,” he added as he laughed and tossed me onto the large, plush sectional in his living room. It had a huge ottoman in front of it. It made the sofa nearly as big as a regular bed.

“Now, take off that little skirt of yours,” he commanded. “It’s been driving me nuts all day. Distracting as hell. All I've been able to think about is what I know lies under it. God, girl, you have no idea how crazy it's made me seeing you in that.”

I smiled up at him and hooked my thumbs into the top of my skirt, wriggling out of it like a snake shedding its skin, revealing the silky, red panties I had on. He let out a pleased sound at the sight of them and stroked the outside of his jeans, his erection straining against the denim. I squeezed my knees together and bit my lip, sitting up on my elbows as I watched him.

Owen kept his gaze glued to mine, pulling his shirt over his head to reveal his fit, chiseled abs and those perfectly shaped pecs as the muscles shifted in his arms. I let out another soft moan, unable to help it at the sight of his body, including those cut lines going down his hips on each side.

Without prompting, I pulled off my own shirt to reveal my tanned skin and a matching red bra. His breath hitched as his gaze burned over me. He undid his jeans and shoved his pants and boxer briefs down, stroking himself as he stepped out of them, his gaze staying on me all the while.

“God, you’re beautiful, Nalia,” he groaned before he climbed on the couch, his erection dragging against my thighs and my stomach as he hovered over me. His mouth tenderly covered mine, and our tongues began a slow, tantric dance. I reached my hand between his thighs, caressing his hot, fully erect hardness, swallowing his moans against my lips. My blood was so hot in my veins now that it felt as if I might burst into flames at any moment. The moisture between my thighs was almost dripping down my legs.

No, there was nothing wrong with this. Nothing at all. We had an amazing sexual chemistry, we were both attracted to each other, and sometimes it was nice to feel the touch of someone else’s body. It was that simple. There was no reason to let this get complicated. There was nothing more to this than two people simply having a good time, right?

I reached behind me, unclasping my bra. He groaned as it fell away from my breasts. Taking one nipple between his lips, he gently began sucking. His hand kneaded my other breast, with the pad of his thumb stroking my nipple. I arched my back to meet his touch. This time, I moaned, but the sound was quickly swallowed up by his mouth as he kissed me again.

“God, that sound,” he whispered against my lips. “I want to hear more of it, I have to hear more of it; it's driving me absolutely fucking wild.”

With that, he kissed me harder, stroking my tongue with his and tugging my bottom lip between his teeth before kissing his way down my body. He stopped just above my panties, letting his hot breath tickle my stomach, making me wet with anticipation. Owen rubbed my thighs with his hands, then curled his fingers around the sides of my red panties, slowly tugging them down, planting gentle, teasing kisses against my skin along the way. I arched my back off the couch, spreading my legs as he pulled my panties out of the way.

For a moment, he didn’t do anything — just sat there, looking with warm, appreciative eyes over my nakedness, and my legs spread out before him. It was almost as if he was studying a piece of art in a museum. Those beautiful eyes of his full of awe and wonder. If nothing else, I knew this man wanted me.

I watched him, my chest rising and falling hard with shallow, anticipating breaths. His gaze met mine momentarily, and he smiled a sweet, gentle smile. Reaching between his legs, he gently began stroking himself with one hand as he admired me. I tilted my head at him curiously, turned on by whatever was going on, almost ready to beg him to touch me. But he leaned forward, still touching himself, and spread my lips with his other hand, ever so gently flicking his tongue against my clit.

Immediately, my head fell back at the teasing lightness of his tongue. I moaned his name, shivering it out, pleading with him to do it again with one simple sound. His tongue flicked out again, tasting my wetness and circling my clit as light as the wisp of butterfly wings. It drove me crazy with desire, and wave after wave of pleasure gushed through my entire body every time his tongue touched me. I reached down, slipping my fingers through his hair and trying to push him down, but his hand came up, catching me by the wrist and holding my hand against my stomach, his mouth moving, hungry. His tongue lapped at me, and he sucked at my clit, driving me close to the edge until I felt dizzy with lust.

“Oh God, Owen!” I moaned, my legs clamping around his head. I felt him laugh between my thighs, the vibration producing something halfway between a laugh and a moan from me. He came up for breath, that devious smile on his face as he licked his lips.

I shook my head at him as he stood up, digging into his jeans for a condom. He pulled one out and slid it on, watching me with a lustful gaze and motioning for me to stand.

“Turn around and kneel on the couch,” he said breathlessly once I was standing. I did as he asked, kneeling on the couch with my elbows resting on the back of it. I spread my legs and stuck my ass out, looking back at him over my shoulder. He came up behind me, running one hand lightly over my back and hips and positioned himself against my opening. I pushed my hips back, teasing him, and with a grunt, he slowly slid himself inside me.

Once again, I couldn't help but cry out. The size of him…his girth seeming to stretch me out fully. It was almost painful trying to accommodate him as he slipped his engorged length inside me, inch by glorious inch, but the sensation of being completely filled brought a pleasure that was indescribable. In the back of my mind, I briefly wondered how I was managing to fit all of him inside me. Then he plunged into me again and all I could do was lose myself totally in the moment, in the ecstasy of it all.

“Oh God, Nalia,” Owen growled, his voice strained. He started slowly, pumping his hips as he thrust into me, as though he didn't want to rush it. Every stroke he made with that massive, steel-hard cock of his sent a shiver of pleasure rushing through every fiber of my being. One arm came around my waist, squeezing me against him as he picked up the pace. I was wildly turned on by his taking complete control and almost dominating me totally.

He kissed my neck and shoulder, thrusting deep into me, one hand dropping between my legs and rubbing my clit. My muscles tightened around him, and my thighs trembled as I got close to the edge of release, moaning his name.

As impossible as it seemed, I would have sworn it felt as if he was growing even larger as he pumped inside me, filling and stretching me even more with every thrust. Heated desire boiled through every inch of my body. He kept up the pace, pulling me back against him, my back pressed against his chest.

“Come for me, Nalia. Please, I want to hear you come,” he whispered close to me. That was all it took for me to come undone. I cried out, my body tensing as I felt my release. He hugged me back against him, moaning and shuddering as he came as well until both of us collapsed onto the couch, panting and sweating together.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER NINETEEN

Owen

 

heart continued racing for several minutes as Nalia laid against me, still trying to catch her breath. As the ecstatic high of the orgasm slowly started to subside, I finally eased out of her and kissed her shoulder gently. I pulled off my condom, walking to the bathroom to toss it in the garbage bin and grab her a robe.

“Here, in case you want it. You hungry?” I asked her holding out the robe.

She looked up at me, a dreamy, content look on her gorgeous face. "A little bit, yeah. I think I might have worked up a bit of an appetite.” She stretched out, taking the robe from my hand. I watched her with a smile as she wriggled into it. God, she was beautiful, and she was one hell of a lover. The thought of her moans made me shiver, even moments after I had just heard them.

She stood up next to me, wrapping the robe around her, her hair falling in messy waves over her shoulders. I had to fight the urge to grab her, kiss her again, and pull her back down to the couch with me. Instead, I picked up my jeans and slid them on before I motioned for her to follow me into the kitchen. We padded down the hallway on bare feet. I was looking forward to a bite to eat, but part of me just wanted to turn around, pick her up, and take her back to the bedroom for round two. Of course, round two was going to require energy and that meant food for fuel.

Once in the kitchen, I pulled open the refrigerator doors.

“How about ice cream?” I asked, looking at the cartons in the freezer. “I’ve got rocky road and chocolate fudge brownie,” I told her, looking back at her as she settled herself on a stool at the island.

“Mmmm. Chocolate fudge brownie,” she answered with that content, dreamy look still on her face. I pulled the carton out, as well as a couple of bowls and scooped out two scoops for each of us, then slid one bowl across to her with a spoon.

“So when you aren’t working and doing an amazing job, or playing the piano, what else do you like doing?” I asked her, curious to find out more about the wonderful enigma that was Nalia. I took a bite of my ice cream, savoring its cold sweetness spreading across my tongue as I waited for her response.

She scrunched her brow thoughtfully as she took a small spoonful of ice cream, licking it off the spoon in a way that made my mind go to naughty places all over again, then she shrugged.

“I like going to the beach. Going surfing with Grace,” she offered. “I really do feel a sense of relaxation and peace when I'm by the water. I always have, ever since I the first time I visited the ocean.”

No wonder she had such a beautiful tan. She must spend all her free time at the beach, I thought, looking down at her tanned cleavage. The thought of her in a bikini, tanning in the sun did something to me.

“I like going dancing and running, too,” she added. “Grace and I had a great time dancing a few weeks ago at this club in San Diego, actually.”

“Oh yeah? I go up to San Diego to see an old friend every now and then. We sometimes hit the clubs, even though I'm not much into it these days. Which one was it?”

“Oh, I dunno if you've heard of it. Le Venin?”

I chuckled. “Yeah, I know that place. It's the one that’s decorated like what I imagine a vampire bar would look like.”

She laughed. “No way, that's what you think about it? Seriously?”

I shrugged. “I don't know what it is about the place. Maybe it’s all the red and black velvet. It just always gave me that kind of Dracula vibe.”

“You know, I thought exactly the same thing the first time Grace took me there. Grace said I was crazy. I never thought I'd hear anyone else say that about Le Venin!”

We both laughed. It was cool to talk to someone who seemed to see things in a similar way. And between the surfing, running, and dancing, I wasn’t surprised she had the amazing and sensual body she did. She took great care of herself, that had been obvious even before I managed to get her clothes off.

I took another bite of ice cream, pondering over what else I wanted to ask her. For the first time in longer than I could remember, I wanted to know everything about a woman. I wanted to know what made Nalia tick. It wasn’t just because she was sexy as hell; it was because she was interesting, beautiful, and funny.

One thing was for sure: she had my attention. And I was pretty sure it wasn't going to be on anyone else for as long as she was around. As much as I didn’t want to admit it to myself, the only woman in my head was the one in front of me.

“So what was your childhood like growing up? Were your parents very encouraging about your music?” I asked.

She froze, an odd, unreadable expression grew over her face, then she shrugged.

“I have an older brother, Jackson. He was always very supportive of my playing. Between him and Grace, I’ve got a lot of support,” she smiled, a bit hesitantly.

I smiled. “Is he super protective of you like I am with Talon?”

“Oh no. He’s wayyyyyy worse,” Nalia laughed, then pointed her spoon at me. “And, he hates Bleeding Heart. Not the music, but the band itself. When I told him about the job, he told me I couldn’t take it. To put it bluntly, he pretty much said you guys were a bunch of douchebags.”

I laughed. “Wow, well, I’m glad you didn’t listen to him. Maybe I’ll send him front row tickets to all our shows. Ya know, bribery. Maybe that will get him to like us, see that we're down to earth guys, that we don't have shitty attitudes and rock star egos.”

Nalia narrowed her eyes, grinning. “That’s not the reason he hates you guys. It’s more regarding your reputation with women. He was worried about... Well, you know, with your reputation, about me getting hurt.”

I raised an eyebrow. It was true, I’d had some flings here and there over the years, but if anyone was known for getting around, it was my younger brother. He had a tremendous talent for sleeping with girls then pissing them off. Although, I guessed that with the internet and gossip mags and tabloids, there were probably all sorts of false stories about me floating around. The paparazzi would say anything to sell their stupid magazines.

“My reputation? Me, personally? I didn’t know I had one,” I laughed.

“Oh, according to Jackson, all of you definitely do,” Nalia nodded, taking another spoonful of ice cream. “And, as far as my brother is concerned, you’re nothing but a womanizer who might break my heart. He’s just worried I’m going to end up falling for you, and then getting hurt,” she added, her eyes meeting mine.

I smiled, holding her gaze with a challenging look. “And, are you?”

She stared back, her smile widening, then shook her head. “Nope. I knew there was a chance this might be difficult, but I’m good. I’m here, first and foremost, to do a job for you, and that’s exactly what I plan to do. I'm not going to let anything get in the way of that.”

“And the sex?” I cocked an eyebrow.

Her eyes beamed with mischief as she laughed. “Just a wicked hot bonus.”

I grinned and leaned across the counter to kiss her. The ice cream tasted sweeter on her mouth than my spoon. She giggled, wiping ice cream off her chin as I pulled away.

“Mmm, you taste good.” I winked at her. “Incredibly good. I think it’s possible I could eat you all day.”

“So do you,” she winked back at me, then took her spoon, rubbing some melted ice cream on her chest. “Still hungry, Owen? Has your appetite been satisfied yet, or are you still hungry for more?

“Ohhh, you really are a tease, aren't you?” I laughed as I put down my spoon, coming around the island with my eyes locked on hers all the while.

“It’s only teasing if you don’t back it up.” Her perfect lips curved into a smile as she tilted her head back, waiting for me to move in. I leaned down, licking the ice cream off her silky, soft skin and felt my desire stiffening below with an almost painful desperation. It was going to be a long, hot night.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER TWENTY

Nalia

 

“ on, guys, let’s get your stuff loaded on the bus!” I shouted over the commotion the guys were making with their hooting and hollering. To say they were pumped about going on tour was an understatement. As each one of them arrived, there were more chest bumps, high fives, laughs, and cheers – and what seemed like way more testosterone than I could deal with. And to top it all off, not one of them was listening to me.

I had known that keeping this bunch of guys in line was going to be a challenge. I just hadn't realized exactly how much of a challenge it would turn out to be right off the bat. I could see myself being a frazzled, burnt-out wreck by the end of this tour. I really hoped that this wasn't what it was going to be like for the entire trip. How the hell would I be able to survive that with my sanity intact?

Talon was currently thrusting his hips and slapping the air in an obscene mating display while the others guffawed at him. I sighed and looked over at Owen who was laughing and obviously not going to be any help at all, even if he wasn’t joining in along with the others. If this really was a preview of the months to come, I would have my hands full and then some.

I sighed, took a deep breath, and prepared to get my attitude on. These guys would need strict discipline, and I had to let them know that I wouldn't take any crap from them.

“Talon, get your gear loaded. We need to get going soon. We have a sixteen-hour drive ahead of us to get to Seattle by the morning, and your messing around is gonna make everyone late. You can screw around as much as you want on the bus while we're driving, but right now, you're on my time, and I won't let you mess up this schedule. Now come on, get to it!”

Talon stopped what he was doing and gave me a look that I would definitely classify as defiant. He obviously didn't like being told what to do – especially by a woman.

“Come on, guys, let’s load up,” Owen finally said, backing me up. Perhaps he hadn’t remembered just how long of a drive we had until I mentioned it. There was a general grumble between the others, but they did as Owen said, obviously used to taking orders from him. I could totally understand now why he needed an assistant. Dealing with all of them, as well as all the ins and outs of planning out a tour, was downright exhausting.

“All right, so our plan of attack is to sleep on the bus tonight, work with the lighting and sound crew around lunch, then rehearsal from two to three, and then we'll be on stage at nine, as soon as the opening act has played. We have a seriously tight schedule to keep, so I need your gear loaded under the bus and your bags and anything you’ll need tonight loaded inside,” I told them once they were somewhat listening. There were more groans of protest at the schedule.

“Hey, you guys were just chest bumping and high-fiving about going on tour moments ago; did you forget touring is work, too? You've got thousands of expectant fans all pumped for this show. Now, do you guys want to let them down by being late or putting on a sloppy performance? No, I'm sure you don't. So, let's get a move on.”

Owen snickered at my gentle reminder, and I smiled to myself. The others quit complaining and finally started loading their stuff on board. I checked my watch and saw that we had another thirty minutes before we were scheduled to leave.

I was still waiting for Jackson to bring a bag I’d forgotten in my rush. I wouldn’t have asked him if it hadn’t been necessary, but that bag contained all my makeup and toiletries. I wasn’t thrilled at the prospect of having my brother come out and be face-to-face with the band he loathed me going on tour with, but Grace was working, so he was my only option if I wanted my makeup — which I did.

“Dude! Yes! Champagne!” Talon bounded off the bus holding a green bottle of champagne. He was followed by Jay, who was holding an identical bottle. Both immediately popped off the corks and began spraying them around. I sighed and looked at Owen.

“Maybe I should have told the caterer no champagne,” I said.

“Nah, let ‘em have some fun,” he insisted. “I’ll make sure we get off on time. And don't worry, these guys can handle their liquor. They'll be fine to rehearse and play, and I'll keep a tab on things and make sure they don't get too out of control.”

I shook my head, watching the guys jump around with the champagne bottles. As if right on cue, my brother pulled up. His face said everything when he got out of the car and saw the guys being idiots. He was definitely still not cool with me going. He eyed the others disapprovingly and then finally shot Owen a look of disdain as he walked over. Talon and the others noticed him, stopped their champagne fight, and came over to meet him.

“Hey! You must be Nalia’s big bro! I’m Talon, this is Nate, Jay, Jeremiah,” Talon introduced the guys, and they all went to shake hands with Jackson. He hesitated, but shook their hands, wiping the champagne on his jeans.

“Jackson Dean. Yes, I’m Nalia’s older brother,” he said, puffing his chest out a little.

Owen stepped forward past me and put his hand out. “Owen Young. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Jackson.”

Jackson flashed a tight-lipped smile as he shook Owen’s hand. “Wish I could say the same.”

I cringed at his words, but Owen was unfazed by it and kept a pleasant demeanor. “I get it, man, I understand. You're not really crazy about your little sister touring with a rock band full of guys. There are plenty of rumors about us and our history, but I want to assure you, that stuff is just tabloid gossip. Seriously, don’t worry. I’ll keep an eye on Nalia on the road.”

“That’s exactly what I am worried about,” Jackson’s gaze went to me then hardened back on Owen. “I’ll fuck up everyone here if anything happens to her, and that’s a promise.”

“Jackson!” I narrowed my eyes at him and grabbed his arm tugging him back toward his car.

“What? I’m just being honest,” he said loud enough for everyone to hear. “I want them to know not to fuck with you.” He stopped, his jaw set tight as he glanced back toward the guys who were all standing there looking a little dumbfounded.

“Jackson, this is my job. I’ll be fine. I can take care of myself while we’re on tour.”

“You’re my little sister, and I’m allowed to be protective of you. Especially around guys like these,” he hissed, handing my bag over.

“Seriously. I’ll be fine. I promise,” I told him, giving him a big hug and not missing the daggers he was shooting right at Owen. “I’ll call you from the road. Honestly, Jackson, there really is no need to worry about me or get bent out of shape. I'm a grown woman.

“And remember, I worked in that god-awful dive bar with all those drunken creeps, who were way worse than any of these guys could be. Believe me, I know how to handle myself. I don't need you looking out for me, as much as I appreciate your concern.”

“I'm just saying be careful. And if anything happens, you know you can call me.” He gave me a serious look. “Anything at all. I mean it. I'm not intimidated by these guys.”

“I know. I know. I love you, Jack.”

“Love you, too, sis.” He kissed my forehead then got into his car, all the while still glaring at Owen until he pulled away. Once his car disappeared down the street, I turned around, my face flushed with embarrassment, and I trudged back toward Owen.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

Owen

 

looked completely mortified at her brother’s behavior, but I didn’t mind. In fact, I liked that someone was so protective of her and cared about her like her brother did.

I couldn't blame him. After all, if I had a sister and knew she was going to be in a bus for three months with someone like Talon, hell, I'd be upset, too. It was only natural for him to feel the way he did, especially after all the damning garbage he'd probably read about us in tabloids and gossip mags.

I cared about her, too, and felt a duty to protect her out on the road. Hell, if I were only running the record company, there’s a solid chance I’d be doing everything in my power to get Nalia to go out with me on a more serious level. But with the band going on tour, it just wasn’t a good idea. Such things would have to wait until after the tour was over.

But with these four months of madness ahead of us, who could say what might happen between Nalia and me over the next few months? Who could predict where things might be between us at the end of the tour? All we could do was live for the moment and take each day as it came for the time being.

“I’m so, so sorry about that,” Nalia apologized. She swallowed hard, her cheeks crimson with embarrassment as she walked back over to me. “He’s just really protective of me. He always has been, ever since we were little kids.”

I wanted to ask her why. I wanted to know if there was a reason Jackson was that way — if it was just him being her older brother or if there was something more that gave him a motive to be extra protective of her. Perhaps something from their past, from growing up… But I didn’t want to pry, either. It wasn't my place to ask questions about that kind of stuff. Not at this stage, anyway.

“It’s okay. Really. I get where he is coming from,” I told her. “I mean, I know it's pretty different, but you know how protective I am of Talon. So, like I said, I do get where he's coming from, and I respect him for it.” Her expression eased some, though her cheeks still were a little red. “Come on, let’s get the rest of this stuff loaded up and on the road. Guys, bus!” I whistled at them.

The others piled into the bus and headed toward the lounge area in the back. Nalia hung back at the front, but I nodded for her to go back and hang out with them. I was staying up front in one of the booths to get some work done that I needed to knock out before the next day.

The guys were already powering up the PlayStation and the TV, and were most likely chowing down on the food and drinks the caterer supplied. As long as they didn't get too wasted and trash anything back there, I didn't really care how they passed the time. And, of course, as long as none them harassed Nalia, I was happy.

I opened up my laptop, doing my best to ignore them. I still had a business to run and tons of emails waiting for me to respond. For a brief moment, I wondered if I'd still have started this record company if I'd have known just how crazy a workload it would be. Still, I was proud of myself for what I had accomplished, and in the end, that made all of the hard work worth it.

I had a few contracts to read through, marketing plans to approve, and who knew what else would come up while I was out of the office. I was glad that this bus had a mobile office on it. Even with Nalia's assistance, there was still a lot of work I would need to get done while on the road.

“Nalia, you have to hear this story about our last tour,” Talon started, but I did my best not to pay them any attention and focus on my work.

“Oh my God, no, he didn’t?!” Nalia giggled, and my ears perked.

He wasn’t telling her anything I had done, was he? I wracked my brain trying to remember if I had done anything dumb or stupid on the last tour, but that had been over five years ago. I mean, of course there had probably been a few incidents, and perhaps more than just a few groupies, but that had been a different time.

Besides, I'm sure anything I’d done hadn't been anything over-the-top crazy. I frowned, but persevered on, rereading the same email I had been reading a minute ago and looking over marketing material for one of our new bands.

“Ewww, that’s disgusting!” Nalia squealed, and the guys broke out into laughter. I stopped and looked in their direction, but I couldn’t see them behind the curtain, aside from Nalia’s legs next to Talon’s. Talon was making weird sounds, no doubt imitating something of a sexual nature.

I sighed. No, forget them, just focus on this work, I told myself. I had too much I had to get done to get distracted. I got through a few more emails when I heard Nalia giggle again right along with Talon.

“Don’t! I’m ticklish!” Nalia squealed in uncontrollable giggles, and when I glanced back, I saw her legs flailing with Talon’s looking like he was leaned over her. The little shit was flirting with her; I just knew it. I clenched my jaw, staring at my laptop screen as their giggling continued. Finally, I slammed it shut, stomping toward the back of the bus.

When I pulled the curtain back, just as I thought, Talon was leaned over Nalia tickling her sides, a big stupid grin on his face. Everyone froze and looked up at me as I glared at him.

“Do you think you could take it down a notch or two? Some of us actually have shit to do, and I can’t concentrate with you being loud back here like that,” I said, not masking my annoyance with him. He sat up, frowning at me. Nalia adjusted herself, sitting up straight.

“Dude, take a chill pill, Owe. Come on, we were just having a little fun. And, I thought you were going on tour to get out of the office, not bring all of that boring-ass shit with you. Come on, man, don't you wanna have a good time, like the old days?”

“I still have to run a record company whether I'm on tour or not, and considering that record company is funding this tour, you shouldn’t give me shit about it.”

“Yeah, well, maybe I wouldn’t if you’d get that stick out of your ass.” He flashed me a shit-eating grin that made me want to throttle him as the other guys snickered at his comment.

“You know, maybe if I didn’t have to deal with all of your shit on top of everything else, I wouldn’t have a 'stick up my ass,' as you so eloquently put it. Shit, man, it’s always just fun and games with you since you’ve got your big brother to clean up all your damn messes and bail you out every time things go pear-shaped – which they always fucking do with you.”

His smile faded in an instant. I knew I shouldn’t have said that but I was pissed off, even though I knew I didn’t really have a legit reason to be. Maybe I didn’t like the fact that while I was busy working and keeping everything on track, he was back here goofing off and, above all else, hitting on Nalia.

“Owen, not cool, dude,” Jeremiah shook his head at me. I sighed and turned to go back to the front. “Seriously.”

“Whatever, just keep it the fuck down. I have to work.” I flung the curtain back and headed back toward the booth I’d been sitting in. Footsteps followed behind me, and I fully expected Talon to be on my ass. Instead, when I spun around to tell him I was sorry, I bumped into Nalia. The bus turned, and she fell against my chest before righting herself.

“You okay?” she asked.

“Yeah, I’m fine. Look, I just have a lot of stuff to do while they’re all having their fun, and to be honest, it's really frustrating.”

She offered me a sympathetic smile. “Let me help you with it. Maybe we can get it done quicker together.”

I didn’t want to make her work right now; I wanted her to get to relax some. But truth be told, I wanted her there with me, and I really could use some help, too, even if I didn’t want to admit it.

“Maybe. I guess I do have some phone calls that need to be made. You could help me with that while I get through these emails and marketing proofs.”

“Sure thing, boss.” She winked and scooted into the other side of the booth. At that moment, I wanted more than anything to kiss her. Not just for being helpful, but for how sexy and cute she was. But we weren’t alone, and I really did have a ton of work to do.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO

Nalia

 

came out of the bathroom dressed much more comfortably in a pair of yoga pants and a t-shirt. It was getting late as the drive wore on and everyone was starting to crash. Being on a bus so long really did take it out of you, even on a huge, luxury touring bus. A couple of the guys had already crawled into their bunks a little after midnight, but Talon and Jay were in the back playing video games and lounging. I didn't know how, but Talon just seemed to have energy for days. Nothing seemed to make that guy tired. I grabbed some snacks from the kitchen area and headed to the back of the bus to bring them to them.

Talon looked up when I pushed the curtain aside, and I tossed a bag of chips to each of them, and then took a seat next to Talon. They were playing Grand Theft Auto, and random explosions and sirens blasted out loudly from the flat screen TV. He paused the game and thanked me, tearing open his bag of chips.

“How are you doing back here?” I asked, still a little worried after his and Owen’s little fight earlier.

“I’m good,” he said, watching as Jay drove a tank around, crushing cars and gaining more stars in the game. “Owen just needs to chill. He’s always so serious. I mean, he kinda always was the more serious one, and I guess that's why we ended up doing so well – because of his focus and discipline – but he used to at least know how to have a little fun. Now, it seems like he's just permanently pissed off and stressed.”

“Well, he does have a lot on his plate with the record company,” I said in his defense. “But I think maybe as the tour progresses and he gets back on stage, he’ll loosen up a little more and enjoy himself.”

Talon gave me a curious look, and I wiped the smile off my face, but it was too late.

“Owen likes you, doesn’t he?” he asked. “That’s the real reason he was so pissy earlier. It was because you and I were laughing and carrying on.”

“I don’t know,” I dismissed his assumptions, even if it was impossible to hide anything when you were all stuck in a big, but still confining, bus together. “I think he was just stressed and worried with the tour just starting out and his business being left on its own without him at the helm, ya know? I mean, you guys all know just how important that record company is to him, and up to this point, he's never physically been away from it. There's a lot for him to worry about. Probably any laughter at that moment would have set him off.”

“Yeah, maybe you’re right,” he agreed, though I wasn’t sure he was buying it one hundred percent.

“So, are you excited about tomorrow night, or, rather tonight to be technical, since it’s well after midnight?” I asked, changing the subject from Owen and me. Even if there were anything going on, the two of us weren’t and wouldn’t be an item. Not for the duration of this tour, at least. Still, maybe Talon would flirt a little less if the thought was there.

“Yeah, I can’t wait for the show. It’s going to be great.” He smiled a broad, genuine smile that told me he really was a true performer — he lived for it. Well, that and the ladies, from what I’d heard. “It's been far too long since I've been on stage with these guys. Bleeding Heart really is the greatest thing that ever happened to me. I don't know what I'd do without this band.”

“Well, perhaps you should get some rest soon so you’re ready for a long day of prepping, don’t ya think?” I raised an eyebrow at him.

His smile turned mischievous. “Hmm, you and Owen make good tour moms. Trying to keep us acting responsibly, huh? Just wait till after the show tomorrow night. If you think playing video games is crazy, you ain’t seen nothing yet.”

“I know, I know. You told me those stories earlier.” I shook my head. “I’m about as prepared as I can be. Just, please, try and get some rest,” I encouraged him then got up and went over to Jay.

“How are you doing?” I asked. I wanted to make it a point to make sure each of the guys was in the right mindset and doing okay while on the tour and Jay, in particular, wasn’t much of a talker aside from when he was hanging out with Talon. Owen had told me they were best friends and that Jay was the one that had come to him when Talon wasn’t doing so well and suggested getting the band back together to help his brother get clean again.

Jay flashed me a shy smile, only glancing away from the game. “I’m doing all right. Excited about tonight, but not enough to sleep yet,” he winked, having overheard my little lecture to Talon. “Tell Owen not to worry, though; we’ll probably crash soon,” he said.

I smiled and patted his shoulder before getting up. “Stay out of trouble, you two. And use the rocket launcher to get rid of that chopper, if you have one.” Both of them looked back at me, then grinned. Yeah, I might have played GTA with my brother enough times to know a thing or two. I winked at them as I closed the curtain behind me.

Owen was lounging on a sofa when I arrived at the front of the bus. He was staring out the window, his forehead wrinkled in deep thought. Quietly, I slid down next to him, holding out a bag of chips. He waved off the chips, putting them aside, but then he wrapped his arms around me, pulling me close. I smiled, relaxing against him, not caring if the other two caught us cuddled together at the moment or not. I was too tired to keep the charade up. And, regardless, it seemed that those two were so absorbed in Grand Theft Auto that they wouldn't be leaving the sofa any time soon. I didn't think I had much to worry about at this particular moment.

“What’s on your mind?” I asked, gently prying. After all, just like with the others, it was part of my job to make sure he was doing okay, too.

“I just feel bad about earlier. You know, for snapping at Talon like I did. Shit, I really had no reason to do it, but I just... I just blew up and acted like an asshole, didn't I?”

“He’s still up, you know. You could just go apologize to him,” I suggested.

Owen shook his head. “I rather talk to him alone, not while he’s with Jay. He wouldn’t appreciate that. I’ll catch him tomorrow and have a little heart to heart with him before we meet with the sound and light crew.”

“Good,” I nodded. He pulled me a little tighter against him, still staring off. There was a lot more going on behind those blue eyes, I was positive of that.

“I was really hard on him. It’s not completely his fault with what happened before, with the drugs. The band and I are really all he has. Without the band, and with me always being busy with the record company and not there for him, all he had were the drugs. So in a way, with me not making time for him, I kind of caused it. I was so focused on my own damn shit that I couldn't even see my little brother's life spiraling out of control.”