Page 49 of Flawless Lyric

Who knew when I scheduled my appointment that I’d need it more now than ever? I’m hoping between the wine I’m going to have at dinner and the spa that I’ll be relaxed and ready to take on that eighteen-year-old daughter of mine.

When strong hands run up and down my body, I try to relax. Easier said than done since I had no idea the therapist was going to be a man. Maybe I should have inquired about that. Too late now. Either it’s the scented body lotion that I chose or his magical hands, but I feel the tension leave my body almost instantly. It’s totally insane. At this rate, I won’t need a glass of wine at dinner.

I’m a bit embarrassed when he has me turn over and he begins massaging my arms, then my stomach and my legs. He’s careful to avoid my breasts and my nether region, which I’m thankful for. Those bits are covered, and they will stay that way thank you very much. By the time my hour is over, it was well worth the money and the tip I gave him before I left. I enjoyed it so much, I’ll def be doing this again back at home. Hopefully I’ll have an experienced therapist like this one.

When I get back to my room, I take a quick shower. Then I spend the next few hours reading while waiting for Novalee to get home. If she hates me for initiating the divorce, how will she feel after I tell her I’m in love with one of her favorite rockstars?

21

MICAH

Lyric:Wish you were here so we could pick up where we left off.

After leaving Mom’s,I checked my messages and saw this message waiting for me. I mulled it over for all of two seconds before I decided to make her wish come true. I should have just insisted on going with her in the first place. We could have spent the whole flight together and booked an adjoining room when we got there. That way, she could have snuck into mine whenever the coast was clear. It would have worked out perfectly.

Within minutes of receiving the text, I had booked a flight, packed a bag, and was on my way to the airport. Which I almost missed but it’s now five thirty, Cali time, and the plane’s now landing. I should have plenty of time to book a room, take a shower, and wait to text Lyric. I don’t want to interfere with her mother-daughter time, but I do want to let her know I’m here if she needs me.

Since I only had a carry-on, I beat the majority of passengers out the door and ordered an Uber. After giving the driver the address to the Biltmore where Lyric’s staying, I send her a quick text. Oh, and she did change my contact info to ‘Fast Hands’.

Fast Hands:Your wish is my command. I just landed and on my way to the hotel, Beauty.

I’m not disappointed when she doesn’t answer me right away. I understand she’s here to spend time with Novalee. In fact, they might be out to dinner or doing some therapeutic shopping. I know all about that form of therapy from my sisters. My mom not so much, since cooking is her happy place. She’ll never admit it, but she’s disappointed her daughters didn’t inherit her love of cooking.

When my driver pulls up to the curb, I make sure to put on my cap and sunglasses. I’m cleanshaven since I went to Mom’s, but I’m not taking any chances on being recognized. No way I want to be photoshopped on the front page of an annoying tabloid tomorrow morning. Just because a wannabe photographer sold a grainy picture to said paper.

Nope, not this guy.

Walking into the hotel, I go directly to the desk. It’s times like these I’d like to have a fake ID, but only fans of Rebel Riot would know me by name. Fingers crossed this one doesn’t.

“Welcome to the Biltmore. Can I help you?”

“I’d like to book a room for a few nights. King if at all possible.” I don’t care about any other amenities. I’m not sure if I’ll be spending much time there.

“Of course. Any floor preference since I have one on the fifth and seventh floor?”

“Fifth is fine.” She’s smart since she doesn’t engage in conversation when she realizes I’m not much for talking. After she punches in all my info, she hands me my key card.

“Have a wonderful stay, Mr. Monroe.” I cringe and can’t help glancing around. Most patrons are oblivious to what’s happening around them.

“You as well.” I head straight for the elevator and hit floor number five. Wondering what floor Lyric’s on. I’m sure I’ll know soon enough.

When the door opens, there are several people waiting to take the elevator. I don’t make eye contact with anyone, but as I step off something seems wrong. The doors are closing as I turn around and I get a glimpse of a familiar face and then he’s gone. My imagination must be playing tricks on me. What can I say, it’s been a long day? I’m sure I’ll be wide awake as soon as I see Beauty.

Throwing my bag on the bed, I grab my phone. There’s a new message from Lyric and I’m surprised I didn’t feel it vibrate inside my pocket.

Lyric:Novalee ghosted me. I’m having a drink at the Royal Oak downstairs. Join me.

That little bitch! I knew it. She’s so selfish and doesn’t care about anyone but herself. Lyric has her hands full with this one and if she doesn’t put her foot down soon, she will be in deep trouble.

Fast Hands:I’m coming, and you will be too!

Lyric:I’m counting on it.

I’m smiling like the cat who ate the canary while I’m in the elevator. The couple that’s here with me must think I’m crazy. I am. Crazy in love, so sue me. As soon as the doors open, I make a break for it. I follow the signs and as soon as I see an arrow pointing to the Royal Oak, I pick up the pace. You might think I haven’t seen her in months when it’s only been a few days.

As soon as I walk inside, I glance at the bar and I’m surprised she’s not there. Weird. Maybe she finished her drink, and she went to the ladies’ room. I’ll grab a seat, order a drink, and wait for her.

“What’s your pleasure?” Normally this is where I’d come back with a cheesy pick-up line since the bartender’s cleavage is on display. But now that I have Beauty, I’m saving all of my pick-up lines for her.

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