Page 22 of Polly

“I did.” Miguel sighed. “At least this’ll bring extra publicity.”

Flynn muttered in Zack’s direction, “Ha! Told you.”

“But do what I tell you from now on,” Miguel said.

Flynn bit the inside of his cheek, holding back a laugh. “Whatever you say, sir.”

Miguel rolled his eyes and turned back to the rest of the band. “Let’s get good seats. You guys have a great shot at winning tonight. No matter what, you’ve got Song of the Year in my eyes.”

The guys collectively groaned, but they and their dates followed Miguel into the auditorium. An usher showed them to their section. Polly sat a few seats from the end of the aisle. Before he left, the usher commented quietly, “I love your outfit. You look beautiful.”

“Thank you.” She smiled at him and whispered back, “No one’s going to kick me out, are they?”

He grinned and patted her shoulder. “No. The organizers didn’t issue an official dress code. You look great. Don’t let anyone say you don’t.”

“Thank you.”

He nodded. “You’re welcome. Have fun.” He disappeared up the aisle.

As they settled into their seats, Flynn tugged Polly’s hand into his and squeezed.

“You okay?” he whispered.

“I’m good.” She smiled at him.

Flynn flashed her his real smile — not the panty-dropping one he reserved for fans, but a genuine smile that reached his eyes. That made his next statement more special to her.

“Thank you for coming with me,” he said. “It means the world to me that you’re here.”

“Sure thing. I’ve had fun.”

“Good.” He kissed the back of her hand. The unusual gesture struck Polly — Flynn had never done that before — but after her initial shock, the action seemed natural and quickly faded from Polly’s mind.

They waited as more people filled the auditorium, some recognizable faces and some not.

Soon, the seat next to Polly’s filled. A famous, handsome face grinned at her. The blond man extended his hand. “Hi, I’m Gideon Trent.”

Gideon found fame in country music and his latest song hit #1 at the top of the country charts. His manager sat in the seat on his other side.

Polly smiled and shook Gideon’s hand. “Polly Worthington.”

“Ah, Lovely Oblivion.” Gideon beamed. “Nice to meet you.” Polly gave him a shocked look and he laughed. “Yeah, I perform country music, but don’t be fooled. I listen to y’all, and I’m a big fan.”

Polly blushed at the unexpected compliment. “Thank you.”

Gideon nodded. “You’re welcome. Does your band have a nomination today?”

“No, I’m here with a friend who does.” Polly gestured over her shoulder. She flashed a smile at Flynn, who glared at them. “Flynn,” she hissed and elbowed him.

Gideon glanced at Flynn, who scowled and ignored him. Gideon turned his attention back to Polly. “Well, I’m pleased to meet you, Ms. Polly. I’m surprised you aren’t here for a nomination, but I’m sure glad to meet you.”

“Thank you, you too. Congratulations on your nomination.”

“Much appreciated,” he said with a smile.

The overhead lights dimmed.

“Listen,” Gideon said. He reached into his pocket, pulled out a card, and handed it to Polly. “This is my number. My cell is on there. Call me when you get a chance and we’ll do lunch. I’d love to talk music with you.”

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