Page 135 of The Bitter Words

The three of them talk as I get myself back in control. We still have another hour and a half before the clock strikes midnight.

I should find someone else to mingle with. The only problem with that idea is I don’t know anyone else here and I refuse to bring in another year alone. I’ve done that too many years in a row.

I rise to my feet. “If you’ll excuse me. I need another drink.”

They all nod as I leave the table. While I’m waiting in line, Livianna gets up with her vodka soda and her purse in hand. I can’t help but watch her disappear out of the event’s entryway.

Where is she going?

I hate to admit it, but I want to know exactly where she is tonight. I’m disgusted with myself and my forbidden desire for her.

Gia joins me at my side. “Hi, Jaxon. Do you mind if I stand with you?”

“Of course not.” I motion to the space where Livianna just went. “Where did Livianna go?”

“That’s why I came over here to talk to you.”

“Why? What do I have to do with where she went?”

“Nothing, but…” Gia’s wary gaze comes to me. “When I was doing press interviews, did anything out of the ordinary happen?”

“No. We talked and watched her brother’s band perform. We couldn’t hear what they were playing, though. I turned to say something to her about it, but I could tell she was reading the captions across the bottom of the screen.”

“Were you able to read what they said?”

I think back for a moment. “Cash made a reference about the song ‘Tainted Love.’ They must have done a cover. Hesaid something about burning down love and anyone else who had a heartbreak over someone to let it go with the new year.”

“Okay, that’s not terrible.”

“Oh, one more thing. Cash announced their new album and told people to buy tickets to their upcoming concerts.”

“Do you remember the name?”

“Easily. It’sDead Lilies.” I shake my head at the juxtaposition of the title. “Rock bands love a dramatic statement, don’t they?”

“Um-hmm.” Gia’s face pales and she turns to leave.

“Where are you going?”

“I need to find Livianna.” She races off.

What is going on with them?

I get my drink, go back to hang out with Mateo, and ponder the incident. What made Gia run off like that? Better yet, what’s going on with Livianna?

Mateo and I move on to a discussion about any investment opportunities either of us may be interested in. About twenty minutes go by and the ladies come back with two flutes of bubbly in each of their hands.

They’re both laughing and whatever had Gia concerned seems to have been taken care of. They place the champagne on the table along with their purses they were carrying under their arms.

Gia glances at the TV screen. “Another hour before midnight.”

“How many more interviews do you have scheduled for tonight?” Livianna scratches at her skin around her wrists like she’s having an allergic reaction to something.

“Three. One when the ball drops.” Gia shows a terse smile. “I’m on deck to do the countdown for Las Vegas. Yay for me.”

Livianna sighs. “You poor thing, but it’s great exposure.”

“Anything for a good review.” Gia holds her head high. “After that, I have a quick session at one with New Stars of Today and another at two with Entertainment Now.”