Page 107 of The Last Dance

‘You’re welcome,’ Ben says as if he’s offended Henry hasn’t thanked him yet.

Henry rolls his eyes.

‘Well, that got weird,’ I say with a laugh.

‘So, you two are all set. Henry can take my place and Ben and I will go on a weekend away. I’ll even keep an eye on the website.’

Henry, still standing in the living room in only his underwear, looks my direction, a hesitant smile on his face. ‘Do youwantme to go with you?’

‘Yeah.’ I nod, the grin growing on my face. ‘I’d like that.’

Claire sits next to Ben, a goofy smile on her face as she watches us. ‘God, you two are cute even when you’re only half awake and half dressed.’

‘You get ready,’ I say to Henry as I grab my laptop from the bar counter. ‘I’ll get packed and I’ll write the Infusion post on the plane.’

I’m writing up the small interview I got yesterday and my feelings on being surprised with a song about me written by my favorite two guys and starring in a music video as I fell completely head over heels in love with my best friend again. The Infusion post will link directly to my post; all Henry has to do is upload the video to their site today. I’msonervous. I know this whole thing has been life-changing for me, but it’s not for everyone else so if they hate it… I can’t even think about that.

He grabs my arm as I pass him, pulling me against him and kissing my lips in a way that makes me wish Ben and Claire weren’t sitting right behind me watching us.

‘I love you,’ he whispers into my ear, sending chills up my spine.

‘I love you too…’

‘Yuk.’ Ben gags as Claire slaps his shoulder.

‘Shut up! They’re adorable.’

‘You two are killing me,’ I say as Henry walks down the hall towards the bathroom.

As soon as the door closes, Claire is literally on the edge of her seat. ‘Well? How was it?’

‘No.’ I shake my head. ‘I’m not talking sex details with Ben here. It’s weird.’

‘No worries, then.’ Ben laughs. ‘I’ll just get his ass drunk in a few days and he’ll spill everything,’ he says with an obnoxious wink.

‘Stop it!’ Claire laughs. ‘That’s not even what I meant. Imeant, what did you think about yesterday?’

‘Oh.’ I can feel myself blushing. Last night seems to have replaced the memory of Henry leaving. ‘It was the best day of my life.’

We were supposed to meet up with Claire and Ben for drinks after the concert, but we barely made it home, if I’m honest.

‘Take notes, sweetheart.’ Claire pokes Ben, who only rolls his eyes. ‘I’m so excited to see how the website does, Ambri. I think you’ve found your calling. It’s like the stories are finding you.’

‘I hope you’re right. I’m really nervous the whole thing will be a dud.’

‘Not. Possible. You’ve put so much work into this. I know it’s gonna be great.’

‘I bet she’s dirty…’ Ben says to Claire, a single eyebrow raised as he stares at me.

‘Ugh…’ Claire and I both groan at the same time.

*

Taylor hugs me so tight I can feel her shaking. The finale starts in ten minutes and she’s so adorable but a complete nervous wreck. I don’t blame her even a little bit. I’m nervous for her! The producers have agreed to let us get a video from side stage to use for the site after the show airs.

I’ve interviewed both contestants, their families, the judges, even some of the producers. I’m overwhelmed with how exciting everything is. Everyone is buzzing with anticipation and the theater is filling with people who’ve scored tickets to the finale of the show. Everyone from family to celebrities are milling about, all smiles, anxious to see who the next big thing in music is. I have a good feeling it’s going to be Taylor.

‘You’re gonna be so awesome!’ I say to her for the hundredth time.

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