Page 143 of Can't Always Get What You Want

I glance over my shoulder.

He’s talking to the guy beside him. Laughing at something on his phone. Being a normal human being.

Kind of annoying.

On stage they’re presenting an award for Best Comeback or Most Improved—I don’t even know. I can’t hear anything over the pulse pounding in my ears and the boredom beating down on me.

Another glance.

So casual-like…

He’s watching me.

Shit!

Shit, shit, shit!

This is so dumb. He probably flirts with every girl in here tonight at some point. Men who look like him usually do.

I sit up straighter. Adjust my neckline. Pick up my water glass because I need my hands to do something other than guzzle wine. The last thing I need to do is get drunk!

“Dude. What did I tell you?” Gio mutters, leaning toward me without even looking up from his bread plate. He stuffs a hunk in his mouth and chews.

I blink innocently, fighting the urge to roll my eyes. “I don’t know, Gio—what did you tell me?”

“Nova,” he says, voice low but stern. “You’re not as slick as you think you are. I see you looking at him.”

My stomach does a little guilty twist. “So?”

He finally lifts his gaze, leveling me with that big-brother glare that could curdle milk. “So? Don’t bother. It’s not happening.”

“What is your problem? Jeez, what are you—the Stare Police?”

That makes us both laugh.

“Listen, I’m miserable. Can you be supportive and commiserate with me? Please? For one night, that’s all I’m asking…”

My salty mood softens. “I’m sorry. You’re right.”

I’m here for him.

Not for myself.

I sit up in bed, gasping, glancing around my empty room. Why am I dreaming aboutthatnight? It was years ago. I didn’t evenknowLuca then. Not really. He was just a guy in the background of my brother’s career.

And now?

I may have ruined everything.

32

luca

I’ve made up my mind and have a plan.

Not a good one. Not a smart one. But it’s mine, and I’m holding onto it with white-knuckled resolve as I towel off sweat and avoid the mirror.

I’m done hiding.

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