Page 62 of Snared

“Right through the heart, Charlie, right through.” He pretended to stagger.

“Hey, guys, enough theatrics. This is our album release party, remember,” Aiden said.

“Right, right. We’re getting the crowd warmed up,” Jax said.

Aiden muttered, “The worst showboat.”

I counted them in, then tapped the bass drum pedal before hitting the snare, matching up with Tristan and Luke, their bass player. It was an easy rhythm because the guys had all played together for years, and I’d effortlessly joined in on a few joint performances since I’d become a band member.

I looked around at my bandmates and theirs, feeling beyond lucky. The crowd in front of the stage danced and sang along since it was an older Vikings song, and Josh stood at the edge, his eyes never leaving mine.

I sucked in a breath, my nerves ratcheting up another notch, and let my sticks fly.

This was where I was supposed to be, and regardless of everything going on everywhere else in my life, all that mattered was up on this stage.

And it fucking rocked.

JOSH

Watching her embrace that moment of being on stage and playing with the guys, touching her throughout the night, feeling her shudder when I got too close or pressed my lips to her skin.

It. Was. Killing. Me.

My entire body was on fire, and my cock was irritated at this game. I couldn’t wait for the night to end, and I also dreaded going back to my condo with her. Only her.

I knew it would be a mistake to pursue anything, no matter how many times my dick tried to convince me that I should suggest married with benefits to Charlie.

I took another sip of my scotch and watched my two best bands goof around and entertain the crowd. That was my success up there too, and a sense of pride filled my chest.

“Nice pick, Josh. Still didn’t need to marry her, but she’s hot.” My father’s voice pulled me from my moment, and I glanced over to see him standing next to me.

“I’m not going to do this with you right now, so you can fuck right off,” I hissed. “I would also suggest that you watch yourself because I’m done playing this game with you. Leave my bands, and my wife, alone. I am not you and I never was. Don’t push me. You have more than enough skeletons that still could see the light of day.”

“Is that a threat?” he asked, his face turning red. “Idle threats are beneath you. You’re here because of me. You would do well to remember that. I paved my way in this industry all on my own.”

“As did I. I never used your name to get where I am today. Never needed it.”

“So righteous, aren’t you? Better watch yourself, buddy. I’ve been around a lot longer than you.”

“That only means there are more skeletons, so why don’t you take your latest starlet and head home,” I said, keeping my tone level.

“Enjoy your new wife for as long as it lasts,” he taunted, before walking away from me.

I turned my attention back to the stage to find Bash looking at me. I gave him a nod that everything was fine. And as long as I was in control of the situation, it would be.

I shoved thoughts of my father aside as the bands played a second song, Cameron back behind his kit. Charlie stayed on stage, her grin infectious, as she tapped her foot to the beat.

Fucking hell, she was stunning as she mouthed the words and swayed her body to the music.

After the song ended, Steelwolf left the stage, and Vikings played another few songs. I had a million things I needed to be doing—schmoozing with people here, going back to my office, and going through the shit ton of emails I’d let pile up, working on a new endorsement deal for the band. But I couldn’t take my eyes off Charlie as she teased her bandmates, marveling at how at ease she was with them.

Was it stupid to wish she was like that with me?

I headed over to them and let my finger graze along her waist. Her shiver was subtle, but she didn’t pull away as she sipped at her drink.

“You guys look like a legit couple,” Bash said.

Charlie’s gaze darted around.

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