Page 16 of Savage

The blonde bombshell stepped out, dressed in red, wowing people to silence for a few moments. Long, blonde shiny tresses cascaded down her bare silky skin, with a face of a siren, and cleavage that could tempt a saint.

“Holy shit, didn’t she just give birth, like, a month ago?” I heard myself say as my eyes gathered in her beautiful, shapely figure. “She’s so stunning.” I was having a moment to myself, and River lightly chuckled as he studied my awe-struck expression.

He gave my hand a quick squeeze. “Easy there, petal. You’re making me jealous.”

He was teasing me, surely. Then again, I’d go gay for Emma Anderson any time.

Bass Cole sauntered towards his wife. Penetrating eyes admired his companion as he possessively placed a hand on her lower back and whispered in her ear. Emma took a peek at him, beaming with pride before the organizers spoke to them, ushering them towards the red carpet.

“God, I love them.”

Then it hit me.It’s our turn.Fuck.

Sweat broke out of my pores as I suddenly felt faint, thirsty, and needing to pee. I was a train wreck waiting to happen.

“Don’t let go of my hand, whatever happens, don’t ever let go.”

“Cheer up, babe. I got you.” River brought my hand to his lips, kissing every tip before kissing my nose. “I’m not letting go, so relax. Tonight’s all about having fun.”

Easy for him to say ’cause he’s been to countless events.

Our moment arrived, and before I dared to blink, we were being ushered towards the daunting red carpet. Racked with ceaseless anxiety and nerves, I clung to my man, hoping I didn’t seem desperate as I smiled and nodded, nervously answering questions when directed at me.

River smiled for the cameras while he dipped his head close to my ear, whispering silly things that made me laugh, easing my anxiety.

River made it look effortless. Under the flashes and the bright lights, he transformed into one of Hollywood’s beloved stars.

I gawked, praising him while he interviewed for his upcoming movie and album. He was collected, unapologetically straightforward, and sexy as sin. The fifty-year old woman who interviewed him was entranced, mesmerized as she smiled and batted her lashes at him, giggling and blushing as she tried to compose herself to no avail.

Oh boy, I thought as I tried to hide a smile and gave his hand a light squeeze. His hand responded in the same manner, telling me he was about to wrap it up. He knew my jealousy knew no bounds, fifty-year-old or not, the jealousy didn’t differentiate. My man knew it, too.