Page 16 of Luci’s Lullaby

I grab my phone and send Em a quick text.

Hey, where are we going?

Tin Roof! ~E

Be there in a few.

Can’t wait! ~E

“I can,” I mutter to myself. Picking up my purse, I go in search of my mom. “Hey, lady. Where are you?”

“Here, sweetheart,” she calls from the back porch.

I step out and spin to show her my outfit. “Thoughts?”

“Gorgeous, as always.” I lean in, kissing her on the forehead.

“I love you, don’t wait up.”

A wicked grin spreads across her face. “I hope I don’t see you till morning.”

“Mom! There are killers and STDs out roaming the earth now! I’ll be home unless Prince Charming shows up.”

She kisses my cheek with a smirk. “I’ll pray real hard.”

“Crazy lady.” I snicker as I take the steps and walk around to my car.

I hit the car alarm and yank on the door. My 2006 Scion still runs good and there’s not a mark on the white body. I’m proud of it. We didn’t get a car until after my brother went to college. We used public transportation for years.

Pulling out, I crank up the music. I prefer pop so when Ariana’s Love Me Harder comes on, I’m in heaven. Besides, we’re going to a place that plays country and old rock, not really my thing.

“I loathe country music.” I shudder. “Gag.”

I park on a side street, easier to get out when I want. Grabbing my phone, I text Emerson to let her know I’m here.

Where r u?

Table in the rt corner. ~ E

Omw.

I take out my driver’s license and some cash. Aksel doesn’t allow me to pay for anything even though I try. He’s such a good guy, just like his dad. I met One not long after moving here.

I flash my ID at the bouncer and go in search of my friends. Tiptoeing, I scan the room finally seeing Emerson waving from the corner table. I wave back with a smile.

Until I hear his voice.

Slowly turning my head, I come face to face with my teen heartthrob. My heart stutter steps as butterflies take flight in my belly. Is there any way for him to get more beautiful?

“Oh my god. I’m sixteen again.” I squeeze my eyes shut, admonishing myself for every dirty thought that keeps playing out in my mind. I open them to find him standing in front of me. “Shit.”

He blinks. “Excuse me?”

“Ummm, I hate country music. I had no idea that’s what was playing tonight.”

His eyes flutter. “I. Play. Country. Music.”

“I suppose you’ll need to win me over.” I smirk.