Page 95 of How to Love a Rockstar

“He’s cute but he can’t compare to my sexy Cash.”

I’m not getting into a discussion about who’s sexier – Cash or Dylan – with the woman who’s been in love with Cash since she was a teenager.

“Let’s lock up. I’m starving,” I say instead.

Once the library is closed down, we leave and amber down Main Street toward the house Indigo shares with Cash.

I sigh as we climb the stairs to the porch. I would love to own this house. I can imagine evenings spent on the porch swing reading while Dylan plays his guitar next to me. And – some day – watching our kids run around the yard while we barbeque out back.

Indigo snaps her fingers in front of me. “Where did you go?”

“Just daydreaming.”

She smiles. “I love how happy you are.”

“I am. I really am.”

“Let’s go eat a ton of junk food and watch a silly movie to celebrate.”

I giggle as she leads me into the house.

It’s not long before we’re settled on the sofa with a bottle of wine and a platter of nachos watching a romantic comedy.

“Ugh.” I groan. “This heroine is too stupid to live.”

When Indigo doesn’t respond, I glance over at her to discover her sound asleep. I switch off the television and cover her with a blanket before tiptoeing out of the house.

It’s still light out as I leave Indigo’s home. It’s barely a five-minute walk to my apartment building, but I’m in no hurry. It’s a beautiful June evening. Thanks to years of allergy shots, I can smell the grass and blooming flowers. Maybe I shouldn’t hate needles as much as I do.

I’m nearly at my building when I hear feet pounding my way.

“Virginia? Virginia Hale?”

I glance over my shoulder with a smile ready to greet whoever it is, but the smile dies on my face when I realize it’s not one person. It’s a whole swarm of people. Assuming paparazzi are actual people. I have my doubts.

“Are you dating Dylan fromCash & the Sinners?”

“How long have you been dating?”

“Is the band finished with their album?”

“What’s the big announcement they’re going to make tonight?”

I don’t have time to answer any questions or even say ‘no comment’ as the questions keep coming – rapid fire style.

Click!The light from the camera nearly blinds me. I hold a hand over my eyes as I blink to regain focus.

I don’t get a chance.Click! Click! Click!Several cameras are aimed at me and snapping away.

I scan the area to find someone who will help me get rid of these pests. The people of Winter Falls do not approve of the press messing with their residents. But I can’t see anything beyond the crowd in front of me. I push onto my tiptoes but it doesn’t help any. I’m surrounded and cut off from any possible help.

“I-I-I…” I stutter as the crowd seems to close in on me and fear grips me. They’re too close! I need to get away.

I whirl around toward the apartment door but the path is blocked by more paparazzi. Oh god. I’m never going to make it. I’m going to die here on the ground surrounded by these vultures.

You’re the strongest person I know.

No, I’m not, Dylan. I’m scared out of my mind and all alone out here.

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