Page 101 of Before the Encore

“It makes complete sense,” Bonnie announced, ecstatic. “You’re a Leo Moon. That’s why you’re so obsessed with me.”

Madison quirked an eyebrow. “Obsessed with you, huh?”

Bonnie’s legs were hooked over hers on the sofa, a laptop balancing on her knee. “Leo moons are big romantics. It also channels into your creative side and why you’re such a captivating performer.”

“Okay. Say more.”

“And your sun is in Gemini, the communicator of the zodiac. You’re ruled by Mercury, so—”

Madison blinked. “Wait. What?”

“Shush! Listen.” Bonnie giggled when Madison tickled her feet, the sound lighting her up inside. “Stop!” Bonnie kicked Madison in the ribs, and she dropped her hand. Bonnie’s hair fell across her face, cheeks pink, gorgeous mouth pulled into a smile. She scooted closer. “As I was saying…because you’re ruled by Mercury, the planet of information and intellect, you’re quick-witted and charming. Basically, you’ve got the gift of the gab, which is no surprise.”

“So…” Madison ran her hands up Bonnie’s calves, appreciating their soft curves. “I’m smart, witty, charming, and a romantic? No wonder you’re obsessed with me.”

Bonnie rolled her eyes. “Did I mention that because your sun is in Gemini, you share a dualistic energy? That’s why one day you’re a dick and the other you’re all sweet and soppy.”

“Say less.” Madison scrunched her nose. “Enough about me. What about you?”

She tucked her hair behind her ears. “Well, I’m a Virgo Sun, so I’m also ruled by Mercury—”

“Sounds like Mercury is being a third wheel to me.”

Bonnie laughed, then kicked her again in the ribs. “Listen, you Gemini menace.”

“Alright, alright. I’m listening.” Madison wasn’t sold on the ideology so far, but watching Bonnie all excited and passionate was enough reward in itself.

“But because you’re an Air sign and I’m an Earth sign, we use the energy differently.” Bonnie eyed her over the laptop. “You’re more spontaneous, and I’m more practical.”

Madison nodded. “Makes sense.”

“Because our shared ruling is Mercury, it forms an astrological square that brings tension. Early on, Virgos can find Geminis too noncommittal or annoying”—Bonnie scoffed, glancing up from the screen—“that’s putting it lightly. And Geminis can see Virgos as too structured or boring.” A smile lifted her mouth. “But that charged energy can also cause a lot of sexual tension.”

“Now you have my attention.”

“With compromise, Virgos learn spontaneity and Geminis gain focus. When we strike that delicate balance, we can make an undeniable power couple.” Bonnie glanced up expectantly.

Surprisingly, some of the gobbledygook added up. Madison let the information swirl as she traced the freckles up Bonnie’s calves. “So, we’re yin and yang?”

“Exactly!” Bonnie flipped the laptop closed and slid it on the coffee table. Then she wrapped her arms around Madison’s neck. “I knew you’d get it.” She kissed her, and Madison smiled into it, her arms sliding around her waist and swallowing every delicious curve.

Bonnie’s phone sprung to life, vibrating across the table. Madison groaned when she broke their kiss, leaning over to see who was calling.

“It’s Scarlett. I should probably take this.” Bonnie plucked it up, swiped to answer, and wandered out onto the balcony.

Madison watched her. Wearing little lilac shorts and her baggy T-shirt, Bonnie was a knockout. She’d never felt like this before. The depth of it scared her, but the time they’d spent apart only affirmed how much she wanted Bonnie. When she was here, the apartment felt like home. When she was here, Madison felt whole.

Yin and yang.

Lightning and thunder.

She smiled to herself.

But then Bonnie’s shoulders slumped, head hanging like her body had been deflated. Her voice broke, dripping with disappointment. A quiet acceptance took place. Then she hung up the phone. She stayed outside for a moment, her phone limp in her hand, looking out at the grey London afternoon.

When she stepped back inside, Bonnie let out a sad sigh. “Scarlett called. My new album didn’t get nominated for the Grammys this time.”

Madison stood, closing the distance and wrapping her arms around her. Bonnie relaxed into her, her body a heavy weight. “I’m sorry,” Madison whispered into her hair. “Can I make you a drink?”