Page 40 of Dark Ugly Places

Outside the front door, she gazes up at the restaurant sign that says Empire and cringes. A pretentious name for a hole in the wall. What an embarrassment. Bambi’s stomach growls with the scent emanating from inside—something warm and doughy. She smooths her hands over her waist, making sure her fitted white dress isn’t creased. Jason takes her to the side before they go in.

“Let’s stick together in there, make a good appearance.”

Bambi smirks, unable to help herself. “I know.”

Jason leans in and tilts his lips up to her ear. “There are press inside.” She tingles, snowfall along her shoulders and spine.

He tries to hold her hand. Bambi yanks it back, but it’s too late. He’s caught her two fingers, so Bambi lets him.

“You’re not still mad about the other night …” he coos.

“I’m not mad; I just want to get this over with.”

“Just fake it, babe. You’re good at that.”

Bambi turns on her smile as Bruce, an older man with a fake tan, receding hairline, and sportscaster white teeth, spots them through the door. He waves and comes toward them, followed by a camera. “Of course,” she says, feeling emboldened because they are out in public. “I forgot how much you like it when I fake it.”

“Don’t be a bitch.”

“Don’t be an ass.”

Jason yanks her hand, jerking her whole arm sharply as the camera turns toward them. He smiles large, his leading-man smile.

Bambi marvels at the way his whole energy shifts as he turns on his charm. It makes her feel sick.

“Hi, Bruce! Great place you have here!”

“Welcome to Empire!” Bruce almost shouts, angling toward the camera. His teeth are even whiter up close. “We are happy and excited to have film star Jason Redfern here and his wife, Bambi.”

Bambi waves at the camera gingerly and blows a little kiss. The camera stays on them, and she hangs on Jason like it’s the red carpet.

“So, Jason, tell us about your latest film coming up.”

Jason steps forward, letting Bambi go. “Well, we just wrapped on The Hurting Game, starring myself, of course, and the beautiful Lauren LaMonte. And next up, we are shooting Without Her in Europe for the next eight weeks.”

“Without her? Without LaMonte?” the journalist asks.

Jason smiles and strokes his hair back. “No, no, it’s the name of the film. It’s a psychological thriller about a man whose wife mysteriously goes missing in Paris. I play a very complex guy, the husband. Great script. Amazing cast. I feel so blessed to be part of this film.”

Bruce nudges the camera guy on the arm. “And are you excited for Empire’s grand opening?”

Jason smiles. “It has been an incredible journey for me, personally, watching him make this latest restaurant happen.”

“And what does your wife think of Empire?”

Jason’s eyes gleam, that movie star charm oozing from him. “I think she likes it. Right, honey?”

Bambi gives a little smile. “I’ll let you know in an hour or two.”

Bruce clears his throat. “Okay, thanks so much, guys. Drinks are over there by the bar. Please, enjoy. Have a great time. I’ll catch you in a few.”

The camera turns, capturing more people entering behind them.

Jason pulls Bambi past a few familiar faces she doesn’t want to stop and talk to. “Why did you say that?” he whispers.

Bambi shrugs. “Because it’s true.”

Jason’s eyes widen, and he grips her arm harder. Bambi stiffens beneath his grasp. “I don’t need this from you tonight,” he whispers, his face relaxed like he’s saying nothing at all. “Don’t do anything stupid, okay?”