Page 164 of Movers and Shakers

“Um.” I struggled to come up with an answer. The only thing that made sense was one reason that was very untrue. “We talked about it, and he said she was . . . too much.”

This was a terrible excuse. Worst one I could have thought of.

“Really? He seemed so ready . . . Never mind. I’m sure you don’t want to hear about his ex.”

“No, it’s okay. I know how he felt. We’re all good.”

Ruth hummed. “Okay, then. If you’re cool with it, then I have nothing to worry about.”

“It’s really sweet that you called,” I said. “Most people would have just kept it to themselves.”

“I’m definitely not that kind of person. Not when someone could get hurt, that is. And besides, I like you. I think you’re good for him.”

“Thanks,” I said. I rechecked my watch; I was running out of time. “Can I maybe call you later? I have a work thing to do.”

“Oh, shoot. I do too. I was too busy making sure my brother wasn’t an asshole that I forgot about my next ass to kick. I’ll keep your number if that’s okay.”

“Yeah, of course. We’ll talk soon.”

I hung up after saying goodbye, nervous about how close Ruth was to both sides of me and how much Barry had been seen with Lila.

This was getting messyagainand I had no idea how to begin cleaning it up without telling everyone who I was.

Thankfully, I was distracted by Lila’s phone ringing this time.

“Hey,” I said to Malia, trying to put on a happy smile, pushing away my thoughts. “Nice to talk to you for the second time today. How did talent scouting go?”

“For once, very good. Are you free to meet me right now? I know this was supposed to be a phone meeting, but I think Justice found the perfect guitarist.”

I peered into the living room where Barry was lounging, practicing chords as if they were second nature. I waved to get his attention and pointed to the door. He nodded and grabbed his hat.

“Yeah, Barry and I will be there as soon as we can.”

Mickey Richardson had dazzled everyone else around me. He was a man with greasy black hair pushed back, reminding me of an unwashed Blaze. His face made me wonder what he was truly thinking about.

With the way his eyebrows kept wiggling at me, I wondered if the thoughts were appropriate.

But he knew how to play all of Lila’s songs.

“I think he’s the one,” Justice said, leaning over to me.

Something in my chest turned. I wasn’t so sure, but after working with almost a hundred people throughout my career, I knew we had to choose someone, and fast.

And I knew I was being influenced by how his wiry frame and flirty expression reminded me of my ex.

“Yeah, I think he could work.” The lie felt wrong on my tongue, but when Justice turned to ask about his availability, I gave him a smile.

Mickey’s eyes were on me and they felt hungry in the grossest way. I looked away, unable to keep eye contact.

It’s just his looks. Everyone else likes him.

Mickey wound up having the perfect availability and could start immediately. I hid my disappointment.

“Welcome to the band,” I said. “We’re lucky to have you.”

“No, we’re lucky to haveyou.I can’t wait to get started.”

I looked back down, ignoring my instinctual reply to his words, and instead, turned to Barry. He was in the very back of the auditorium. His lips were pursed and I wondered what he thought of this new man.

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