“The jet is already preparing for your arrival, and a car is on its way to the staff entrance of the parking lot.”
“God, you’re brilliant.” Blake kissed her forehead, his eyes wide with shock. “I guess I better get out of here.”
“Yeah.” She chuckled. “You better. I told her I’d get you to the airport straight away.”
“What about my luggage?”
“I’ll handle everything. Just get yourself back home and send our love to Gabi.”
He nodded, accepting fist bumps, arms punches, and other masculine shows of affection from the band and crew. “I’ll see you all back home.”
Ryan pulled her close as Blake ran for the stage exit. “He’s right, you know.”
“Hmm?” She cocked a brow, leaning into his hug.
“You’re brilliant.”
“I’m glad you finally noticed.” Her smile was wide, her glossy red lips hypnotic as they brushed against his, without pause, without reservation. Just the way he liked it.
His cock stirred and he broke their connection to ensure he didn’t have to walk back on stage with a tent in his pants. “How are you feeling?”
“Better.”
“Liar.” She’d stressed herself into an ulcer. Even after Julie had signed the divorce settlement and the media had quit hassling him and Felicity, she still hadn’t relaxed. She wasn’t herself and he couldn’t wait to get them back to New York for some much needed recuperation time. “You need to see a doctor.”
“I’ll do it once we’re home.”
Home. Her apartment. The place they would soon live in together. The concept always added an extra beat in his chest.
Mason came up beside them, a bottle of water in his hand. “When the two of you are finished sucking face, do you mind adding to the conversation about our missing bass guitarist?”
“We could play with a man down.” Mitch wiped the sweat from his face with his shirt. “It’s only for one show.”
Leah nodded. “You could. Or you could give Hannah the opportunity. She knows the set.”
“Since when?” Mason took a gulp of water.
“I had a discussion with her weeks ago about the possibility of this happening. Blake’s replacement was always going to be at least a few hours away, and it wasn’t like the baby had a strict schedule for arrival.”
“Have you called her?” Sean asked.
“I have, but she’s aware you might not approve.”
“I vote for whatever brings us closer to the after party.”
“Me, too.” Ryan squeezed her tighter, demanding her attention. “And the hotel suite after.”
Mason made gagging noises. “How long until she’s ready?”
“Not long. Go and explain what’s happening. Hopefully by then she’ll be here.”
“And what about Sidney? Did her flight arrive on time?”
“Yes. She’s with Melody, organizing the caterers for the after party. Which reminds me—” She placed a kiss on Ryan’s lips and stepped back. “—I have to double check the alcohol order. We can’t be short on booze.”
Reluctantly, he let her go, her warmth slipping from his fingers, her scent slowly leaving his lungs. “Be waiting for me after the show.”
She gave him a wicked grin, one filled with promise even through the tired bags under her eyes. “You’re so demanding.”