Page 132 of Hard Rock Tease
“I understand. I also want to get ahead in the industry. I’d do almost anything to make it.”
Of course, that thought reminded me of Jayce and what people might think if they found out about our little tryst, but I pushed it to the back of my mind.
“Speaking of, I started putting together that content you wanted.”
“The cartoon drawing thing, right? That was great.”
“There’s tons more where that came from. The internet is a weird and mysterious place.”
“You don’t have to tell me.”
We shared a grin. This was more like chatting with an old friend than being on a first date. I didn’t feel like I needed to put on a show and impress him. I could just be myself.
There was a lull in the conversation and Neil took the opportunity to lean forward and push a strand of hair that had fallen out of my twist behind my ear. My heart beat a quick thrill. His eyes were crinkled at the corners, a sly smile playing on his lips. He was clearly attracted to me. With his blue eyes, messy hair, and gorgeous face, I was just as attracted to him.
“Can I ask you something?” He leaned back in his chair, letting my hair go.
“Of course.”
“I know I asked you this online, but I was only joking back then.”
I tilted my head, confused. “Okay. What is it?”
“Is there something I should know about you and Jayce?”
Chapter Twelve
Iwent stillas I tried not to freak out at Neil’s question. How did he know about me and Jayce? Or was he just guessing? Did everyone know? My eyes grew wide and I opened my mouth, but nothing came out. I didn’t know what to say. There had been something between us, but there wasn’t anymore. But there could be? Maybe.
Oh god.
The corners of Neil’s lips turned down slightly. He ran a hand through his hair, making it stick up even more.
“I thought so.”
I wanted to explain everything, but I also didn’t want him to think I was making excuses. I looked down at the table.
“How did you know?” I asked quietly. “Did someone say something? Does everyone know?”
“No, no one said a word. I had no idea until today.”
“Why? What happened?”
“Jayce is acting strange around me. At first I thought he was angry, but he also has this look of resignation about him. Then he said something that made me think.”
“What did he tell you?”
“He said if I hurt you he’d cut off my balls.”
I couldn’t help the bark of laughter that escaped. “He didn’t!” I put my head in my hands, embarrassed, but also amused.
“Those were his exact words.”
“Neil, it’s not… I mean, we did have a little something, but that’s over with now.”
Neil looked skeptical.
“We have an attraction to each other, but we both agreed it wouldn’t do either of us any good to get involved. He’s a famous rock star with fans to string along. He needs to play the rock star god. I’m just a newbie in the industry. We don’t need crazy fangirls attacking us.”
