Page 38 of Luci’s Lullaby

“Here’s the thing, there will be no surprise pregnancies and you will curb that appetite you have. I understand the occasional one-night stand, but you’re a professional now—act like it.” She narrows her eyes at me.

“I’ll take it into consideration.”

She leans forward, her breasts in my face, and whispers in my ear, “There’s plenty of places to get what you need.”

“I-I get it.” I quickly glance at her, feeling the urge to shift in my seat.

She smirks. “I hope you do.”

“Oh, excuse me.” I pretend to grab my phone through my pocket and jump up, taking it out. I speed text Reese, hoping to get a way out.

Sam surveys me as I wait across the room. “Is there a problem?”

“My attorney, she needs to speak to me.” I point at my phone like an idiot.

She licks her lips, crooking her finger at me. “Come join me until she does.”

My phone rings, and I almost jump as I answer it. “Hello-hey, yes. Just one second.” I look up at Sam. “Was there anything else?”

She forces a smile. “No. Please feel free to call me if there’s anything we need to do with the contract.”

“We will definitely do that, thank you.” I stumble out of the office. “Thank you!”

“What in the hell?” Reese asks.

“That woman has more than music on her mind, she’s got sex on the brain.”

“Congratulations, you’re perfect for each other.” Reese giggles.

I smash my mouth together as I push the elevator button a hundred times. “I’m not laughing.”

“You should be, I’m funny as hell.” She cackles.

I drop my cell when a hand lands on my shoulder. “Shit.”

“It’s me, chill,” Aksel says.

I lay my hand over my heart as he picks up my phone. “What the hell?”

“I’ll explain later.” I take my cell as the door opens.

“Sounds good, later.” He jerks his head as I push the down arrow. “Oh hey, don't forget this.” He shoves the fest schedule into my hand.

“I gotta go, I’ll holler at you later.”

Reese snickers. “Alright, love ya.”

“Sure you do.” I end the call, resting my head on the wall.

I have one other person I need to call. I dial his number, thrilled to give him the news. Two rings and he picks up.

“Hey, little brother.” Cidney sounds happy.

“Guess who is playing the Carolina Country Music Festival next month?”

The line’s silent for longer than I expect. “Are you kidding?”

“Nope, I signed the contract a few minutes ago.”

“Congratulations! I’m proud of you, Alden.” My chest swells; it’s all I’ve ever wanted, to make him proud.

“Thank you, Cid.”

“I’ll tell Shelley as soon as she finishes her conference call.” Shelley’s an attorney, and Cid will be by the end of next term.

“Sounds good. I’ll get the information for tickets.”

“We can’t wait. So proud of you, Alden,” he always tells me twice. It’s no wonder I think my shit doesn’t stink.

“Love y’all.”

“Love you.” He ends the call and my chest bursts with pride.