Page 34 of Always the Baker

As we moved through the crowd, I noticed Billie’s eyes darting around, taking everything in. She looked beautiful in the dress we’d picked out, but I could tell she felt out of place.

“Want a drink?” I asked, trying to put her at ease.

Billie nodded gratefully. “Yes, please. Something strong.”

I chuckled and led her to the bar. “I got you. And hey, relax. You belong here just as much as anyone else, but if you want to leave, just let me know.”

As I waited for our drinks, I kept an eye on Billie. She was fidgeting with her dress, looking lost among the sea of socialites. I wanted to rush back to her side, but the bartender was taking his time.

Suddenly, I saw Billie’s face change. Her eyes widened and mouth went into an almost flat line. She’d clearly overheard something, and it wasn’t good. I strained to hear what was being said nearby.

“Who is she anyway?” A woman’s voice carried over the music.

“Just some nobody Brax picked up, I bet. Probably won’t last a full week.”

My jaw clenched. Before I could stop myself, I grabbed my drinks and headed in their direction.

“Y’all got some to say?” I asked, looking from one woman to the other. They stared at me blankly as Billie made her way to my side. “Don’t get quiet now. Y’all had a lot to say when I was at the bar. Wassup?”

They eyed me before walking away as my nostrils flared. I couldn’t stand bully type shit regardless of who it was. A lot of fans felt like they could say and do whatever and I’d accept it because I needed the support but that wouldneverbe the case. Some things meant more to me than fame and money, and respect was at the top of that list.

I turned and handed my sweetheart her glass. “You okay?”

Billie forced a smile, but I could see the hurt in her eyes. “Yeah, I’m fine. It’s just loud in here.”

I knew she was lying, but I didn’t push it. Instead, I set our drinks down on a nearby table and held out my hand.

“Dance with me,” I said giving her my usual charming smile.

She agreed thankfully. As we started to move, I could feel some of the tension leaving her body.

Her body slowly relaxed against mine. Her dark eyes, usually so bright and full of life, still held a shadow of doubt. I spun her around, hoping to chase away whatever dark thoughts were clouding her mind.

“You know,” I said, pulling her close again, “I think we’re the best dancers here. Trophy level, really.”

Billie snorted with her laugh, and it was a sound that was so natural and unique it made me grin.

“Oh yeah, total pros. I’m sure everyone’s watching us in awe.”

I glanced around the rooftop. “Well, they are watching us, but probably because they’re jealous of my moves and how beautiful my date is.”

She laughed, but it faded into a comfortable smile. “I want to kiss you.”

“Then kiss me,” I granted, holding her closer. I lowered myself to meet her halfway for a sweet, gentle kiss.

“Thank you for taking up for me.”

“You never have to thank me for that.”

“Still… that could have gone wrong. Your reputation—”

I sucked my teeth. “Fuck that. I willalwaysprotect you.”

She gave me a quick kiss. “This world of yours is a lot, Brax. The penthouse, the parties, the paparazzi. How am I supposed to fit into all this?”

Her words hit me like a punch to the gut. I’d been so caught up in showing Billie my life that I hadn’t stopped to consider how overwhelming it might be for her. I opened my mouth to respond, but she continued.

“Don’t get me wrong, it’s exciting and glamorous and everything I dreamed about when I was a little girl. But now that I’m here… I don’t know if I can handle it.”

---