Page 70 of Bitter Beats

Then, he reappears and reaches for me.

I slip my hand in his and let him guide me out of the limo. The moment we hit the front steps of the event, photographers swarm. Flashes go off in rapid succession. Our names are called by paparazzi, news outlets, and employees of Mav’s label.

We’re escorted through the chaos until we reach the front doors. Mav keeps his hand wrapped around mine the entire time, his muscular frame blocking me from the photographs and whistling as best as he can.

“You good?” he murmurs when we reach the elevators.

I smile at him. “I’m good.”

He grins. “Let’s have some fun, Mckenna.”

I bite my bottom lip and dip my head in agreement.

When the elevator dings and the space before us opens, we step out like the power couple we’ve grown into.

Fierce, friendly, and united.

“Maverick Tate!” A man comes forward.

Mav grins. “Hey, Leonardo.” He helps me out of my coat before shaking hands with Leonardo. “Have you met my gorgeous girl? This is Mckenna Byrne. Mckenna, this is Leonardo, Red Pilot Record’s CEO.”

“It’s lovely to meet you,” I say, extending a hand.

Leonardo beams. “Wonderful to meet you.” He takes my hand and leans closer to kiss my cheek. “I’m so happy you joined Mav this evening.”

“Me too.” I step closer to Mav, who places a protective hand on the center of my back.

Leonardo ensures we each have a glass of champagne and that our coats are adequately checked before greeting new arrivals.

“Come on.” Mav takes my hand and leads me deeper into the room.

The space is decorated beautifully, with crystal chandeliers and blooms of red flowers. Mistletoe hangs above each doorframe, and a massive Christmas tree stands guard in the corner. It’s tasteful and welcoming, inviting everyone to participate in the festive joviality.

“Allegra,” I breathe out when my friend comes into view.

“You look beautiful, Kenny.” She hugs me hard. Lowering her voice, she murmurs, “How are you holding up?”

“Good,” I say, meaning it.

When my friend leans back, she searches my expression for the truth. Allegra smiles. “You mean that.”

“I do. Things have been…better than I ever expected.”

Allegra squeezes my shoulders. “I’m glad.” But the look in her eyes tells me I’m not off the hook. At some point, Allegra and I are going to sit down and discuss Branson. But I still have no idea what I’m going to tell her.

“Hey, Kenny.” Levi bumps his sister out of the way to kiss me hello.

“Hi, Levi,” I say, giving him a warm hug.

Derek and Jameson greet me next. The band forms a little huddle, with Allegra and me in the center, and conversation breaks out around us.

At one point, Jameson disappears to check on his girlfriend Amelia, who excused herself to use the restroom. Except, too much time has passed. Levi spots a friend, and Mav and Derek are pulled into a conversation with fellow musicians interested in collaborating.

Allegra moves me over to the bar for champagne refills. “Tell me everything,” she breathes.

I laugh, thanking the bartender for another flute of bubbly. “It’s been really good,” I admit. Then, I wrinkle my nose. “I hate admitting this, but I get why you two are so close. Mav’s a good guy.”

“Loyal,” Allegra agrees.

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