Page 20 of Introvert

"I'm ready," Hayden said, strumming his guitar, sidling up to us.

I nodded, pulling out my violin and bow."Me too."

Ryker lifted a brow as he joined us. "This a party?"

"If it is, no one invited your surly ass," Santino laughed as Ryker rolled his eyes.

Felix stepped up to my other side. "You talking about me?"

"Could've been, but no."

Haydenshook his head. "One of these days, someone's going toknock that smirk off your face, San."

"And we're all gonna laugh," Elliot added.

"Please, everyone loves me," Santino scoffed, tossing his hair back.

"Is everyone your mother?" Felix asked. "Because yeah, she says she loves me more than you."

"Very funny."

"I try."

"So?" Hayden asked. "Allset?"

"We're just making sure Aurora's good to go," Felix said.

"I'm fine."

"Saw you talking to Mercury," Hayden said. "She get you sorted?"

"Yeah," I said, "but…"

I wondered if I should voice this aloud. Would they get the joke? Or would it just make it awkward?There was a 50-50 chance.

"What?" Ryker asked.

"I'm a little worried."

"About performing?" Santino shrugged. "Nothing to worry about."

"No, it's just…" Time to jointhebanter. "I was wondering,does she dress you guys? Because if so, I'm not sure it's going to work."

A beat of silence.

I thought I'd signed my death warrant with the guys.

Then slowly, one by one,they began to smile. Followed by laughter. My heart lightened.

"Nice," Hayden said with a smile.

"Hilarious," Elliot added.

"Surprisingly cutting." Felix sent me a nod. "I approve."

"I wouldn't want to dress like Santino either," Ryker added.

Santino scoffed, giving a spin in his long trench coat with the frilly collar and sleeves, a glimpse of his bare chest peeking out. Was he even wearing anything underneath?"Please, she was obviously talking about you, Mr. Jeans and a T-shirt. You wish you looked this good."

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