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“Mr. Slater, welcome,” Julie says. She’s one of the shop owners. Julie is always flirting with me. She’s one of the few women I’ve encountered during my whirlwind of fame who I haven’t taken to bed. It’s not that I’m not attracted to Julie. She’s your typical LA girl, half-plastic, and dressed to the nines. Any guy would find her attractive. But she’s not someone I can just have some fun with because when things end—which they inevitably will because I don’t want to commit to another woman who tries so hard and is so materialistic—then I can’t shop here anymore. And this is really the only store I like. I can’t risk that for a few rounds of sex.
“Hey, Julie,” I say. I lean in to give her a hug. I know that will drive her crazy. It’s kinda fun.
“What brings you in today?” Julie stands up straighter. She knows it’s been ages since I’ve been there.
I lower my voice and ask, “Can you keep a secret?”
“Anything for you.” Julie lights up like I just gave her the key to the world.
“I’m going to be doing a few shows and I need to look good.”
“You look good in anything, but I’ll help you find some options that would work for performing.” Julie blushes.
“Let’s do it.”
Julie pulls a bunch of pants and shirts for me to try on. I can tell she’s waiting just outside the door as I undress. However, I’m not about to come out and model. After what seems like hours, I’ve made my selections.
“All set? Anything you need a second opinion on?” I knew Julie would try to catch me in my underwear to see if I’m a boxers or briefs guy. I admire her determination, but she’ll never know I prefer boxer briefs.
“I think I’m good. You can just ring me up.”
“Wonderful,” Julie says. She grabs the piles of clothes and looks like she’s about to topple over.
“Let me help you.” I grab the bulk of the items.
“Such a gentleman.”
That’s the first time in a while someone has called me a gentleman. It feels good.
“I’d love to come see one of your shows, if they’re around here.”
Nice try, Julie, but I’m not telling anyone what I’m really up to until I meet my new publicist and we strategize on how we’re going to formally announce the tour and album. Instead, I just smile and tell her, “I’ll be sharing the news soon.”
An assistant at the shop helps carry my bags out to the valet area. That’s one of the perks of my status. I can get people to jump at the chance to help me with anything. I tip him well and thank him for the help as my car arrives.
I feel accomplished. I’m proud of myself for getting out in public again. Sure, I went somewhere familiar, but I went out alone. And no one harassed me. I can get used to this.
For a split second, I consider getting wild and taking a drive to the beach. It’s been so long since I’ve been there. I long to smell the salt air and feel the sand sift against my bare feet. Bask in the warmth of the sun on my body. But as tempting as that sounds, I’ll just get depressed watching everyone there have fun with someone. I’ll be alone. The old pop star photographed walking by himself on the beach. Headlines would make people pity me. And that’s not how I want to get back out in the spotlight.
Instead, I turn towards the direction of my house. Back to where no one can pigeonhole me asJax Slater: Lonely Leo Heart. I’m going to have to bring this up to my new PR team on our call. Hopefully this new guy will know just what to do.
Trash the Dress Online Chat
Alexandra:Where are the hot divorced dads?
Chelsea:If you find some, let me know. I’ll cross the pond.
Leanne:@Chelsea Come to America! You can stay with me!
10
CAILIN MCCALL FINDS OUT SHE’S GOT THE RIGHT STUFF
CAILIN
Gemma answersthe phone after what seems like eternity, but is really only thirty seconds. I yell into the phone.
“Oh my gosh, Cailin. Are you okay?” I hear her drop something in the background.
