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Miranda continues as a cinch tightens around my chest, making it hard to breathe. “So, we’ll start posting about the upcoming event and work on getting the word out. Andie, if we can get a picture of you and your band, that would be great. Sean, we’ll use some of the photos we already have of you with kids.”
I hear Andie respond, but I can’t make out what she said through the beating of my own heart. I try to take some slow, steady breaths.
Miranda pushes a piece of paper toward Andie and then stands. “You two look at the dates and pick one that works. Once we have the date, we’ll be off and running full speed ahead.”
“Thanks. We’ll get back to you shortly with a date,” Andie says softly.
Miranda gives me a long look. “If you need a number for a new agent, I can get you a list of some of the best.”
“Thanks, but I’ve got someone in mind,” I say, trying to get a handle on myself and whatever is happening.
She nods, tells Andie goodbye, and then leaves the room.
The silence is thick before Andie turns in her seat, and I can feel her eyes on me. “I’m sorry–”
“Don’t.” I can’t stand to hear her apologize.
She puts the paper Miranda handed her in her bag and stands. “I’m sorry if I made things worse for you.”
I push up from my chair, completely drained and exhausted. Her eyes stay trained on the floor, but I need her to look at me.
“Andie, besides my brothers, I’ve never had anyone stick up for me like that.”
As if in slow motion, her head tips upward, her eyes searching mine. Without thinking about it, I pull her to me, hugging the shit out of her. Her body hits mine, and every one of my muscles instantly relaxes. The pressure across my chest begins to lift.
I’m not sure what my life will look like after all the dust settles, but hugging Andie, hearing what she said, and having her in my arms feels more powerful than anything I’ve ever experienced.
“Thank you,” I whisper.
Her arms come around my waist, and her stiffness eases. I don’t notice that she smells like peppermint or how soft her hair is against my cheek. I can’t think about the feel of her body next to mine or how she fits perfectly inside my arms, wrapped up, safe, and warm. All of this would lead me to want things I’m not ready for and she’s not interested in.
I loosen my arms, and Andie takes a step back, pushing her hair behind her ear.
“Are you going to be ok?” I hear the concern in her voice, which makes something deep in my chest squeeze.
“Yeah. I should’ve fired him after our last meeting. I’m sorry about what he said–”
She holds up her hand and lays it gently on the center of my chest. It’s not an intimate gesture but supportive and caring. It doesn’t prevent me from wanting to clasp it in mine and hold the warmth and comfort of it for a long while.
“Don’t apologize for something someone else said. My Gem says words can only hurt when they come from someone who actually knows you.” Her lips turn upward.
“How about I walk you out, and we’ll see if we can find a date that works?” I need to get out of here and have a second to take everything in.
“Fine, but no elevators. I got stuck with this guy once, and let me tell you…” She smiles and steps out into the hall. “You know, I should’ve just let Nora take Craig out into the hall last time. She’s small but freakishly scrappy. She could definitely have taken him and would’ve enjoyed every minute.”
“Andie,” I say, stopping her. “You’re a really good person and friend.”
Her head tips to the side, and then she starts walking again. She bumps my arm with her shoulder. “We aren’t friends, Pretty Boy. In fact, I don’t even like you.”
It’s been a shitty day. A. Really. Shitty. Day, but somehow, I leave the practice facility with a slight smile on my face.
______
ME: I need Rob’s number.
SHANE: Finally, kick that dipshit to the curb?
MARK: Still kicking ass and taking names.
