Page 122 of Heartbreaker

There might be some double meaning in that statement.

“But…” I want to protest. I don’t play a lot of guitar live, but I can.

I will.

For him.

Withhim.

I unstick, put my performer hat back on and ask the crowd, “Who wants to hear our new single?” They roar before I go on. “It’s called ‘Midnight Snow,’ and it’s coming out on Valentine’s Day.”

Someone brings over two stools and my acoustic, and I sit, Royal beside me.

I gaze over at him, and for the briefest moment, it’s just the two of us.

Back in the cabin.

In the studio.

In his living room.

At Sunday dinner.

The magic is still there and the music is like a physical presence when we’re together, making it almost tangible.

He’s waiting.

The crowd is waiting.

And there’s no doubt what I’m going to do.

I smile, my fingers moving into position easily.

The opening notes fill the venue.

Midnight,” Royal starts the vocals, his voice deep and rich. “When there’s no one but you and me, girl. Snowfall, like an avalanche of pearls. Come and show me…”

And I join in.

There’s no time like midnight when it’s snowing

I look in your eyes, baby, you’re glowing

Show me the moon and I’ll give you the stars

Baby, you know me, and this night is ours.

CHAPTER THIRTY-FIVE

Royal

I’m sittingin the green room, watching the monitor as Jade finishes up the last of her songs, the planned encore, and then another, unplanned, one.

She’s fucking magnificent.

A total natural who lights up the stage, and the crowd is on fire for her.

And, yes, I’m considering myself part of the crowd.

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