Page 22 of Rockstar Daddy's Second Chance

Just then, we hear the elevator ping, and it echoes through the suite, breaking the moment. Cass grins and turns toward Emily. “That must be Sam. He’s swinging by to take Cassidy and me to the studio.”

Cassidy’s eyes go wide with excitement, and she spins toward me and her aunt. “Dad says I’ll get to see all the equipment. I’ve never been to a sound studio.” Then her eyes flick to Emily with a slight frown. “You could go with us.”

Sam steps inside, giving a casual nod to everyone, but when his gaze lands on Emily, something shifts in the air. It’s barely perceptible, but I can sense it—a charged current that’s instantly stifled. Sam’s usual confident swagger falters for just a second, and Emily’s gaze sharpens.

“Emily,” he says with a neutral nod, though his eyes linger a moment too long.

“Sam,” she replies coolly, crossing her arms and raising a brow as if challenging him to say something more.

“How’s everything going, Cupcake?” Sam murmurs deadpan.

Emily rolls her eyes, ignoring his comment and the nickname.

Cass chuckles softly, casting me an amused look as if to say, ‘Here we go again.’ The way Sam’s eyes linger on Emily, paired with her stiff posture, makes the tension between his sister and Sam almost palpable. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out there’s more to their history than meets the eye. The air practically pulses with things unsaid.

But neither one of them makes a move, and after a long silence, Emily waves her hand, shooing them off. “Don’t let me keep you.” Then she gives her niece a heartfelt hug and says in acheery voice. “Cassidy, we’ll get together tonight. You go—have a blast at the studio.”

Cassidy grins, looking overjoyed as she glances from Sam to Cass and then to me. “Thanks, Auntie Emily! Bye, Mom!” And with that, she practically drags Cass and Sam out of the suite, her excitement so contagious I can’t help but smile.

As soon as the door closes, Emily turns to me, letting out a breath. “That’s Sam. Always has a way of showing up exactly when I don’t want him to.”

I raise a brow, amused. “It sounds like there’s a story there.”

“Oh, please. There’s no story.” She rolls her eyes, waving her hand dismissively. “He makes a joke of everything. Sam and I have known each other a long time—long enough to know we’re better off keeping a distance.” But the faint blush that colors her cheeks suggests otherwise.

Changing the subject, she brightens. “So, what do you say to a spa day? Courtesy of my rich brother. I’m sure we can set up an appointment. Let’s treat ourselves while they’re off doing the music thing.”

“A spa day sounds amazing,” I admit, feeling the tension drain just at the thought of a massage.

She beams. “Perfect. I’ll grab my things, and we’ll go.”

“Shouldn’t we call first?” I ask her with a slight frown. “Are you sure they’ll be able to fit us in?”

Emily gives me a sly grin. “No worries. Having a famous brother does have its advantages,” she quips with a careless shrug.

I can’t help but laugh as I willingly follow her into the elevator. On the way down, I find myself relaxing for the first time in days. Emily’s easy chatter and confidence are infectious, and for a moment, I let myself forget the weight of everything hanging over us. Maybe a spa day is exactly what I need.

Eleven

Kendrick

A short while later, we’re at the spa, and it’s nothing short of opulent. The understated elegance draws Emily and me into a tranquil world far removed from the city’s relentless noise. We step through frosted glass doors into a marble-floored foyer, where soft ambient lighting illuminates the space with a warm glow. Gentle instrumental music fills the air, blending with the calming scents of eucalyptus and lavender.

A sleek receptionist greets us, her voice a soft murmur as she asks courteously if we have an appointment.

Emily answers with a confidence I envy. “No, it’s a last-minute decision, but you’re always very accommodating.”

The receptionist gives us a small smile. “Name, please?”

“Emily Wild.” Cass’s sister stands patiently while the receptionist types it into the computer.

Her smile widens as she politely nods. “Of course, Miss Wild. We do have an opening,” she says smoothly. “Let me check you both in.”

Soon, we’re ushered down a quiet hallway to a private lounge area. The decor is refined and minimalistic yet lavish, with oversized lounge chairs. I look around in wonder, taking it all in. It’s like a foreign world–one that only the rich and privileged ever get to see. It’s far from anything I’m used to.

The space itself feels like it was designed to help us leave everything behind. As we settle in, an attendant brings over two crystal goblets of infused water, complete with slices of cucumber, mint, and a hint of lemon.

Emily raises her glass to me with a grin. “Here’s to a day of pure indulgence,” she whispers conspiratorially, clinking her glass against mine. I can’t help but smile as I lean back, wrapped in a fluffy robe, letting the serene, almost reverent atmosphere sink into my bones.

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