Drea

Three weeks have passed since I almost had sex with Laz. He’s been nothing but the picture of professionalism since then. We’ve been working alone together every day in the dance studio, and I’ve learned a lot about keeping rhythm, perfecting crisp dance steps, and engaging the audience. Laz absolutely knows what he’s doing, and I’m truly blessed he believes in my talent enough to devote the time to make sure I’m good enough for this group.

I’m thankful for his help because it’s made a huge difference when it comes to being in the studio with Laurie.

It just sucks that I can’t stop thinking about what it would be like to sleep with him even though I know we can’t. It’s hard not to daydream about a man like Laz Rawlings.

I really anticipated bonding with Candace during this experience, but I fear it might have done more harm than good to our relationship. While she hasn’t been mean to me or anything, things feel different between us. I’m trying my hardest to give her some space, like Laz suggested, and allow things to work themselves out.

I sit quietly next to Candace during breakfast and listen as she carries on a conversation with Annamea about different hairstyles the two of them envision for the look and feel of the group. It’s odd, considering how I thought the two of them weren’t going to get along since they were both battling for the lead position. I guess, since Laz appointed me to that spot, it’s taken the stress off and made it easier for the two of them to get to know one another because they both seem to have a common enemy to compete with for the lead now.

The moment Laz strolls into the room, my back straightens as he grabs my full attention. We’ve come to expect Laz to address us at the beginning of each day, and if I’m being honest, it’s my favorite way to start the morning because I get to openly ogle him.

He’s looking extra sexy today in a baseball cap and faded jeans paired with a fitted gray T-shirt that hugs every curve of his sculpted chest. It’s just too damn bad that he’s off-limits.

“Good morning, ladies.” He addresses the room as he steps behind Cam and Laurie, who are seated directly across from me. “Since we’ve had some time to work with all you, I think I’ve seen enough to make my decision on the final cuts for this group.”

My heart instantly leaps into my throat as I think back on all the voice and dance sessions I’ve had since I’ve been here. While I wouldn’t blame him for cutting such a shitty dancer like me, I really, really hope he won’t. Being here has made me realize how much I want to make music my career, and I am sure an opportunity like this happens only once in a lifetime.

I briefly close my eyes as panic threatens to choke me. This could possibly be the end of my dream.

His eyes scan the faces in the room. “I’ve discussed things over with my team, Cam and Laurie, and we’ve concluded that there should be no more than four ladies in this group, which, unfortunately, means that two of you will not be moving forward with us.”

Out of nowhere, Candace reaches over and clutches my hand. Without any hesitation, I turn my hand over and lock fingers with her, letting her know that I fully understand her fear and feel the same way. It’s nice to know she still depends on me for support even though things between us have been a little rocky lately.

“There’s no easy way to do this, so, Donna and Olivia, the two of you will not be staying with us.” Laz lifts his chin when he makes eye contact with the two women. “While we believe the two of you are talented, sadly, we don’t feel that either of you would be a good fit for the group.”

Olivia chews her lip, trying hard to hold in her emotions while Donna does nothing to disguise the fact that she’s crushed as her sob echoes in the large formal dining space.

As if on cue, Robert enters the room, and Laz’s gaze flits in his direction as he tells the two women Robert will help them pack and carry their luggage to their vehicles.

Everyone’s quiet as the women head out of the room. It feels wrong to erupt into any type of celebration, knowing their hearts were broken right in front of us.

When the room is clear, Laz says, “As for the rest of you, congratulations. You’re the official members of The Vixens.”

Candace turns to me and wraps her arms around my neck, squeezing me tight. “Oh, my God, Drea! We did it. Both of us! I’m so sorry I’ve been an asshole. I was scared I wasn’t good enough, and I didn’t know how to handle all my fear. Really, I was happy for you but sad for me at the same time. It was wrong of me to be jealous. Obviously, there’s room for both of us, but with how amazing you are, I was worried they wouldn’t need me.”

I hug her back as tight as I can. “You don’t have to be sorry. We’re sisters. I think you’re pretty amazing, too. There’s no one else I would rather have in my corner.”

She pulls back and smiles. “Ditto.”

We both laugh after she uses a phrase from one of our favorite romance movies. It feels good to have my sister back.

“As a reward”—Laz’s voice grabs my attention—“I booked a show for you tonight at a local nightclub. You’re going to perform a cover song, one you should all be familiar with. Laurie is here to firm up your routine, and Mickey, Cam, and I will help you get ready for tonight’s vocal performance.”

My eyes widen, and I freeze.

Perform? Tonight? Already? I’m not ready. Surely, I heard him wrong.

“Don’t you dare,” Candace’s voice says in my ear. “You’re going to be great. Don’t freak out. Backing out this time isn’t an option. I need you. This group and Laz need you.”

The thought of letting down so many people who are depending on me isn’t one I want to entertain. Even though the idea of standing in front of a crowd and baring my soul scares the absolute shit out of me, disappointing Candace and Laz freaks me out more.

“I need you all to be dressed to kill at eight, so we can make it downtown on time. This will be the first time we reveal you to the world.” He pauses and takes the time to make eye contact with each one of us, and my heart races when his gaze locks with mine.

I wish I didn’t crave him the way I do. It’s difficult when you’re in lust with your boss and know nothing can ever happen between the two of you. It would be so much easier to quit, but I can’t find it in me to walk away from my dream.

I’m just going to have to find a way to deal with it.

“Let’s give them something to discuss, ladies,” Laz instructs.

I swallow hard, doing my best to combat the butterflies banging around in my stomach.

“We want everyone to be buzzing about this hot, new girl group.”

Tonight is going to be one of the biggest tests of my life. I pray I won’t screw this up. People are counting on me.