Nate gave him a doubtful look.
Toby laughed. “No, she won’t understand, but she’ll get over it.”
That he wasn’t so sure of either.
“Seriously though, will you go back soon? Hearing they’ve gotten Jimmy to fill in for you can’t be easy. He’s a huge rock star.”
“Are you saying I’m easily replaceable?” This was Nate’s band. His father’s legacy. No one could fill his shoes. So why did the possibility that someone might be able to hit him with a small amount of relief?
“No, mate, it wouldn’t be easy. But stay away long enough, and with Jimmy filling in… Well, people can adjust to change quickly.”
Trust Toby to give it to him straight, whether he wanted to hear it or not. “I’m only gone for a few weeks, then I’ll be back on tour.”
Toby nodded and dropped the subject. He pointed to the sheet music Nate had placed on the table. “All ready for your lessons? The parents are excited about the program. You’ll have a full house.”
Playing to a stadium of thousands of people was less nerve-wracking than the thought of teaching a room of primary school kids. What the hell had he gotten himself into? His palms began to sweat, and he rubbed them on the thighs of his jeans.
Toby continued, unaware of Nate’s nerves. “Jade’s gotten the room looking like a concert hall. She’s more excited than the parents.”
The thought of Jade’s excitement brought him back to the night at the beach. She’d been excited then too, but for a whole different reason. He had to push the memory aside if he was to get any work done.
“I hope I don’t let her down.” If his voice sounded a little husky, Toby didn’t notice.
“She wasn’t happy with you the last time I saw you together. Have you kissed and made up since then?” Toby asked.
Nate made a choking sound. They’d done more than kiss, and it was safe to say after he had her naked in his arms, they’d made up.
Leaning forward in his chair, Toby placed his elbows on his knees. “Anything you’d like to share with the class?”
“Dude, you have got to get yourself out of the classroom from time to time,” Nate said, trying to detract Toby from prying.
“Well, is there?” Toby looked at him like he was talking to a sixth-grade student, knowing he was hiding something in his pockets. Did all teachers have that certain skill?
“Am I gonna get kicked out of school if I’ve messed around with the teacher?” Nate joked.
“Dammit, Nate. You can’t fool around with Jade.” Toby didn’t find his joke funny.
“Why the hell not? Anyway, it’s too late.”
Toby’s eyes narrowed. “Because she’s too good for you. And why couldn’t you keep your hands to yourself?”
Nate let out a harsh breath. “Well, thanks a lot,” he said, not bothering to defend his actions with Jade.
Toby shook his head. “I didn’t mean it like that.”
“It sure the fuck sounded that way.” But his friend was right, she was too good for him.
“If you start things with Jade, you’re only going to leave, and that will cement in her brain even more that she’s—”
“Cursed and will never find love. I know.”
“She told you?” Toby asked.
“Yeah, and it’s fucking ridiculous.” Nate blew out a breath.
“We might think so, but she’s dead set certain it’s true, so don’t get involved.” Toby threw him a stern look.
“We only made out. I’m not offering her marriage.”
