Page 22 of Big & Burly Rockstar

Chapter 10

Devon

I pace back and forth in the living-room, loosening the collar of my shirt. Look presentable for once, why don’t you, Pete said this morning when he called me. Usually, that would’ve made me want to punch him. But it’s like I’m in a bubble of happiness that even Pete can’t burst. So I just laughed and agreed to wear the suit he sent over.

I glance at my watch, willing time to go faster. The make-up artist came over an hour ago to help Elli get ready. At first, I sat next to Elli while the woman styled her hair, but when the make-up artist started on the make-up, she kicked me out. Apparently, I make Elli laugh too much for her to apply make-up properly.

It’s insane, but I actually miss her. We’ve only been apart for an hour, but it’s too long. God, I’m fucking whipped. And it’s the best damn feeling in the world.

The sound of female laughter and approaching footsteps has me turning toward the door. I hear the make-up artist say goodbye, then Elli walks in, and the world goes silent. I gape at her. She’d be beautiful wearing a potato sack, but all dolled up like this? Fuck.

Her dark hair falls over her shoulders in soft waves and the dark red dress hugs her curves in all the right places. And that neckline… God save me. The deep V draws my eyes, and I have to force myself to look at her face.

She looks at me expectantly, her grey eyes almost… insecure. As if she isn’t sure if I like what I’m seeing.

“Fuck the party,” I say, my voice hoarse. “We’re staying home. I want to know what that dress looks like on my bedroom floor.”

She throws her head back and laughs, exposing the long, elegant column of her neck. I want to pepper kisses all over that delicate skin until she moans my name.

“I’m serious,” I say, trying to hold back my smile. “I don’t want to share you.” I don’t even want anyone else to see her like that. I don’t give a shit if that makes me a possessive asshole, but Elli is mine. And the thought of other men lusting after her, their eyes roving over her body—it makes me want to break something.

“Pete wouldn’t be happy,” she says, grinning.

“Fuck Pete.”

Her grin widens. “He’s the worst. But we should still go tonight. You know it.”

I close the distance between us and place my hands on her waist. “Fine,” I grumble.

“Don’t be sulky.”

“I’m not.”

“Sure.” She leans in close, her lips brushing against my earlobe as she whispers, “Behave tonight and I’ll suck your cock when we get home. With or without the dress on. Your choice.”

My breath catches. Her words go straight to my dick. “Do you really think that’s the way to get me out of here? Right now, I just want to throw you over my shoulder and carry you to my bed.”

“As much as I’d like that, we can’t.” She brushes a kiss to my lips. “We’ll do the damn interview, say hi to everyone at the party and then we can leave, okay?”

I sigh. “Your wish is my command, princess.” I let go of her waist to offer her my arm, bowing slightly. “Our carriage awaits.”

She snorts before taking my arm. “Is it going to turn into a pumpkin if we’re not back by midnight?”

I nod, my face serious. “Definitely. So we really have to make sure we get back early.”

She chuckles, squeezing my arm. “Fine by me. I’d rather be alone with you, anyway.”

She smiles up at me, and I want nothing more than to crush her against my body and claim her lips with mine. Instead, I adjust myself before stepping outside and toward the waiting SUV. Tonight is going to be a very long night.

Elli

The SUV slows down and I peek out of the window, curious to see where the party is going to be. My heart drops into my stomach. In front of the large, modern building, its many windows sparkling in the light of the setting sun, are dozens of photographers. Memories of that night at the bar surge, and my palms grow clammy. The bright lights, the shouts, it was all so disorientating. I figured this time we’d only have to deal with an interviewer and cameraman, not the loud and aggressive paparazzi.

I look at Dev, whose mouth draws into an angry line. “Fucking vultures. I’m sorry, Elli. I hate this.”

“So do I.” I take in a shuddering breath. “Is there no other way in?”

“I doubt it. Pete will want us photographed as much as possible. The dickhead. I wouldn’t be surprised if he called them.” Dev’s voice is rough with anger. “But don’t worry. You look beautiful. And we’ll just walk past as fast as possible.”

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