Page 24 of Hollow Heart

I look fucking tired as hell, and I know Sully’s not the only reason.

“You’re fucking Felix Hart. Start acting like it,” I tell my reflection, but he only looks at me like I’m trying to raise the dead.

Maybe I am.

Maybe I’ve been six feet under for so long I forgot who Felix Hart really is.

I shut the water off, heading out the door before Lou can come back and yell at me again.

I turn the corner, slamming into a hard body that nearly knocks me on my ass.

Just as I’m about to yell at whoever isn’t looking where they are fucking going, I notice a familiar rust-colored wet spot, and I look up immediately.

Duncan steadies my arms, the heat from his palms warm and moist.

Up close like this, after everything that’s happened this morning, I’m not one hundred percent certain I’m not going to pop another fucking boner right here.

I look around him at the sound booth, noting it’s empty.

“Hey... uh... Corpse and Eddie left to grab some food, and they are stuck in traffic, so looks like we’re going to be a little behind on schedule.”

My body relaxes as I focus on his words. Guess there was no need to rush...

“I mean, we can get a few songs in while we wait. Get you to learn some more of the material,” I say nonchalantly, if only because I need to do something with my hands.

I need to channel all this fucked up weird energy into something other than my cock.

“Actually, I have to head out in about an hour, so I’ll have to reconvene with you guys tomorrow.”

“Oh,” I say, disappointment ripping through me.

Duncan’s deep gaze softens and he twists his lips, the motion making his beard dance.

My gaze falls over him, and he looks like a sore thumb against the rest of the band.

I know we’re just rehearsing, but when it comes time for show time, he’s going to need to match the vibe of the band to uphold consistent imagery.

I’ll have to talk to Lou about getting him some digs for the show.

Not because Ilikethe guy or anything, I barely even know him. It’s just pure business.

Duncan must sense my disappointment like a psychic can sense ghosts, because his gaze and his voice softens.

“I probably have time for one more song, if it’s a quick one.”

I fight to relax, to show any sign of relief. I want to say yes.

Yes, we can go jam for a bit, and maybe I’ll feel better.

But I also get the sense that something else is on his mind other than performing.

Normally, I’d bust his balls andmakehim do what he was hired to do, but I’m feeling too out of sorts because of my orgasmic bliss.

I shrug. “It’s fine. I’m sure Lou gave you the set list, and if he didn’t, you can grab it on your way out,” I say as I brush past him.

Duncan calls my name, and I stop dead in my tracks.

“You sure?” he asks, almost as if he doesn’t trust me.

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