Page 32 of Falling for the Rockstar

“It’s a deal,” she replies. “Why did you really come over?”

“What? Did you think I was lying?”

“Yes, it’s a good chance I did. But you turn down an invitation for sex with what I can only guess is an attractive woman, that’s where I’m lost.”

“Myka, you said I have to tone it down some and if I ever needed you—”

“Yes. I’m aware of my words. Just never thought you would actually take me up on my offer. And how did you find out where I lived anyway?”

“Brianna gave me your information when I called her.” I take another bite of my food. “Now, why have you been avoiding us?”

“I-I haven’t. I’ve been busy.”

“Mm hmm. Bri said you’ve been holed up in your place since the presser. Is it you and Cornelius?”

“Drop it, Simon.” She stabs her food and takes a bite then shoves her plate away. Tears stain her beautiful face, and I rush from my seat to the empty chair on her right and pull it closer to her, embracing her.

“Oh, Myka. I didn’t mean to push. I just figured you two had a big fight.”

“He dumped me that day at the presser. Do you know how bad it is to get dumped while at work?” She sobs louder and into my shirt.

Not that I mind getting wet, just not from tears of pain. I console her, stroking her head tenderly and allowing her to spill her emotions over my chest until she pulls away.

“I’m sorry,” she sniffles. “We spent four years together, engaged to be married in two, yet in one night, none of that mattered. Why are men so selfish?”

“We’re not selfish, love.”

“Uh, yes you are. Especially you Mr. fuck ‘em, give them two-hundred dollars for a cab ride, and move on to the next one, while hoping there isn’t another paternity claim filed.”

“I don’t do such a thing. Maybe if you were a little less alpha female and let loose of those reins you hold on tightly to, you—” I bite my tongue before I say anything hurtful. That’s not what I want to do to her.

“I what, Simon?” she asks, her arms folded across her chest.

“Nothing.” I can’t find the words to express what I wanted to say without causing her more pain. It’s clear he hurt her heart as bad as one could. Not even one of my funny quips would help in this moment. Instead, I stand and pull her to her feet, taking her into my arms once again. Hoping to soothe away her ache.

“Come on, let’s finish this lovely meal you cooked for us.”

“I cooked for me, and you invited yourself over.”

“Po-tay-to, po-tah-to, it’s all the same.”

She smiles and takes a forkful of food into her mouth.

I return the gesture and start on my journey of not only completing this meal but hopefully winning her heart.

* * *

MYKA

Simon’s unexpected and unplanned visit was oddly the thing I needed to get out of my feelings and back on the playing field. This morning, I leave my place, grab my juice, and walk into my office like I am the boss. I hold my head high, and my curls bounce with each step I take. All eyes are on me as I strut down the aisle, waving at them as I pass.

“Good morning, Amber,” I utter through a wide smile.

“Uh, Myka,” she begins. “There was a package delivered last week on your desk.”

“Oh, that may be the comp CDs for Heartthrob. Let me go open them. I have a teenage fan club waiting on new swag.” I rush past her into my office, and on the desk isn’t what I expected. A stuffed teddy bear with a gold hat and shades pokes his head from the open top. Upon closer examination, this isn’t a box of CDs but all my things from Cornelius’ place.

“He, uh, dropped it off last Friday. I didn’t think you were coming in today and had planned on storing it in the closet in the junk room until you were ready.”

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