Page 110 of Bluebird
I returned my gaze to Luke, but he appeared distracted.
“Isn’t that your ex-boyf…boss over there?” Luke asked, unhappily.
I followed his gaze, and sure enough, Stefan stood at the bar, observing us.
“Ah, shit, he’s coming over,” I sighed and instinctively Luke edged closer.
“Natalie!” Stefan greeted too enthusiastically. He went in for the hug, whilst I stood there awkwardly accepting it.
“Stefan!” I greeted with a forced smile.
He looked Luke up and down. “Well, haven’t you been busy?” He returned his gaze to mine. “I heard a rumour you were playing tonight.”
I smiled, tightly.
“That duet was pretty impressive. You two are quite phenomenal together. Are you…” He raised his brow and motioned to the two of us being a couple.
“We’re friends,” I bluffed and Luke glanced away uncomfortably.
Stefan chuckled. “Riiight.”
“So, you’re back here looking for the next big thing?” I questioned, trying to move the conversation on.
“I discovered you here, didn’t I?” He winked. “So, I heard you were about to sign up to a new label, and I wanted to see if you would consider–”
“Nope.” I cut him off before he could ask me to come back.
“Not a chance?”
I shook my head. “Not a chance.”
“What about your ‘friend’? Is this a joint venture or is he a predominantly a solo act?”
Unsure as to why he was referring to Luke as if he wasn’t there, I turned to find him gone. I quickly scanned the crowd, but came up with nothing.
“Stay away from Luke, Stefan.”
He lifted his hands in surrender. “Just friends, hey?” he laughed.
“Look Stefan, I have to go. It was…nice seeing you,” I lied.
“I’m sure our paths will cross again soon.” He grinned.
I dreaded the day.
I made my way back to Nate and Amanda on the dance floor, hoping to find Luke with them.
“Have you guys seen Luke?” I yelled over the music.
“No, I assumed he was with you,” Nate responded, wagging his eyebrows.
I rolled my eyes.
“Perhaps he went to the bathroom?” Amanda offered.
“Yeah, perhaps…” I agreed, but something felt off.
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