Page 108 of Bossy Romance

Screech.“Nova Delaney, I’m here for you.”

Who would be making such a loud fuss over Nova? And how would this faceless voice know Nova’s taste in comfort movies enough to quote it?

Unless…

My fingers curl into fists.

This can’t be the mysteriousJax, can it?

Nova and I arrive on the track. My eyes widen when I see a black guy in a suit standing along with a group of five men—each boasting their own wind instrument.

The guy starts grinning when he sees Nova and he gestures to the band. They play a smooth, sultry song that I don’t recognize but has way too much soul to belong to anyone of my complexion.

Jax saunters forward with a bouquet of flowers that probably cost a small fortune and holds it over to Nova.

I barely stop myself from taking the flowers, throwing it on the ground and stomping all over it.

Roberts.

Henry.

And now this ex-boyfriend.

Can men who are in love with Novastoppouring through the cracks? Thanks!

Nova doesn’t reach for the flowers, which is always a good sign, but Jax doesn’t seem deterred. He notices her crutches and waves for the jazz players to stop.

“Nova, are you okay?” Jax launches forward.

I slide in front of him before he can touch Nova.

His eyes trip to me and then jump back to her.

“Jax, what are you doing here?” Nova demands.

“You weren’t answering my phone calls.”

“That generally means I don’t want to talk to you.” She gestures to the band. “What made you think I wanted a serenade?”

“Nova, I messed up. I can’t live without you.”

Her eyes dart to the crowd who are hanging on every word as if this is a live theatre performance or their favorite soap opera.

I wonder what this show would be called.The Young and the Tactless?This guy obviously has no idea who Nova is if he thinks public displays like this will please her.

“I’m sorry you wasted so much effort, Jax, but we’re over. I’m not interested in starting again with you.”

Jax motions to the band. “Play another one!”

The jazz band launches nervously into song. I recognize the tune as ‘I Will Survive’, arguably one of the greatest break-up songs. Ever.

“Please leave, Jax.” Nova motions with her head. “And take your jazz band with you.”

“Wait, Nova, let’s talk about this.” Jax reaches for her.

I grab his hand and shove it back. “She said she’s not interested, buddy. Step away.”

“Who the hell are you?” Jax fumes.

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