Page 18 of Shattered Rhythm

After I’ve eaten my first few tacos and my hunger is slightly satisfied, I slow down so I can talk to Liv.

“So how was the study date? Did the assignment go well?”

“It was good, but we’re still working on the group project. Next week, we have to present our choreography. How about you? Are there any gigs coming up, or do I just have to go back to the café to listen to you?”

I smile. “I do play there every Monday afternoon, but next Friday, I also have a little gig in a bar downtown with my band, Dirty Velvet.”

“Oh, wow! That’s exciting. Can I come?” she asks, giving me puppy dog eyes. I chuckle and look at River, but my twin’s focus is only on her.

“I don’t know, River, would you mind bringing Liv to my gig? I don’t want her to sit alone in the bar,” I say, knowing exactly what he’s thinking, and it’s hilarious. He hates going out, but he would never turn that opportunity down.

“Sure, I’d love to. I can pick you up so you can drink if you want,” he offers, and she smiles.

“I don’t drink in public,” she says, and Jaxon nods his approval while I hide a smirk. “But I am so looking forward to it,” she adds.

I must say, I am too.

“Are you going to play covers again, or do you guys have your own songs?” she asks, unknowingly bringing up a sore topic.

“We’ll play covers. It’s easier to get booked if you play what people know and want to hear,” I say, trying to defuse the question. She nods and takes a bite of her taco.

“Makes sense,” she says, with a full mouth.

I try not to laugh. She’s adorable.

“What’s your favorite song?” I ask, trying to change the subject.

She smiles and shakes her head. “I’m not going to get mocked for my song choices by the next big rockstar. My poor self-esteem can’t handle something like that.” She’s silly.

“Try me,” I dare her, looking straight into her eyes over the table. Her cheeks turn red.

Interesting.

“‘Drops of Jupiter’ by Train,” she says, which surprises me. I’d have thought a dancer would stick to something more modern or danceable, but honestly, I like that song too.“So what’s the verdict?” she asks, a hint of insecurity in her voice.

“Sounds like you’re a dreamer,” I say.

“What’s your favorite song then?” she asks.

“Easy. ‘Hurt’ by Johnny Cash,” I reply.

She tilts her head, thinking.

“What?” I ask.

“It suits you, but we have to find you a happier alternative. It’s nice and all but so fucking depressing,” she says, making River snicker.

“If you say so,” I reply with a smile, then take another bite of my taco.

* * *

River

After throwing away our trash, we walk back along the beach to the studio. I feel a bit disappointed that our time together is already coming to an end. As we walk, Liv looks out at the ocean with a wistful expression before turning to me.

“I’ve never dipped my feet in an ocean before,” she admits, and I come to an abrupt halt, surprised by her admission.

“You’ve never been in the ocean?” I ask, confused.

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