Page 25 of Sebastian's Baby

“You say that like I have her number,” I scoff.

Dr. Helmsley sighs and says, “I don’t know what to say, Sebastian. I do hope that this is a wake-up call for you, though. Nonetheless, let’s get these tests done and take it from there.”

When I leave his office, Daryl takes me home again, and my mind is swirling. The entire world seems askew, and I smile as I remember that I’m having dinner with Heather and Harrison tonight. At leastsomethingis normal.

Object of the Game

The player who pockets all their group of object balls in any order, and then legally pockets the black ball, wins the game.

One must always keep one’s eye on the prize. Avoid distractions, and focus on what is important when taking your turn.

5

LEVEL 2.5 – I Can Forget You If I Want To

Daryl is drivingme home from Dr. Helmsley’s office on Friday afternoon. He confirmed that I did not get an STD from my accident with Lita, but I’ll have to go back for another test in three months, which I would’ve done anyway. My phone rings, and when I see Cooper Powell’s name on the screen, I roll my eyes. He’s the band’s manager and basically the only person I hate more than Blake Stirling.

“Hi, Coop. What’s up?” He hates when I call him that, and I get an immense amount of satisfaction out of annoying him.

“Sebastian. I’m calling to let you know that the case for the drugging is going to trial in two weeks’ time. You can expect some media heat. Don’t give any statements.”

“Aww, but what if I want to give my thoughts and opinions?” I ask him in a whiny voice.

“Save them for your pillow. You keep your mouth shut on this, do you hear?”

As if I’d actually talk to the paparazzi about the worst night of our lives, anyway. “Sure.”

“Good.” He hangs up without saying goodbye, and I stare at my phone.

Last Halloween, we were all drugged at a charity event. Harrison cheated on Heather, and it almost killed them. The police arrested the hotel manager earlier this year. Apparently, his trial is finally happening.

My instinct is to drive straight to Serenity to see Heather at her work, but I don’t know if Harrison knows or has told her yet. I unlock my phone and dial him, but the call goes to voicemail, so I hang up the call and send him a text.

Has Cooper called you?

Daryl has almost reached my apartment when Harrison replies.

Yes, he has. I was on the phone with Heather when you called.

I look up and say, “Change of plans. Can you take me to Harrison’s? Thanks.”

“Of course, Mr. Fox.” Daryl smiles at me in the rearview mirror.

I send Harrison a text.

I’m coming over.

It’s less than ten minutes later that I’m knocking on his door, and he lets me in, looking obviously stressed.

“Hey, Seb. Come in.” I follow him into the apartment, and as we walk toward the living room, he says, “The other guys are on their way, too. We thought we could have dinner here tonight.”

“Is Heather okay?” I ask as I drop onto the sofa.

Harrison looks at me for a few seconds, then nods. “Yeah, she is. I think she just wants it to be over.”

“What about you?” I realize that I probably should’ve asked about him first.

“Yeah, it’s hard. I’m going to see Brendan tomorrow to discuss it.”

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