Page 88 of Dreaming About Forever

“How do you feel about your parents after this?” the woman asked.

Alicia searched her heart. Surprisingly, the emotions were tempered. She definitely didn’t have any hate or ill will.

“I’ve gone through many emotions since this happened over a month ago, but I think I just feel sorry for them now. Stacy and I have always been generous with our parents, and we were willing to give them most anything freely. All trust was broken when they decided to take things into their own hands. Now, I just feel sorry for them.”

There were so many more things she wanted to say about her parents, but the complexities of her relationship with them would take away from her concise answer. She pitied them because they were missing out on healthy relationships with her and Stacy.

The second reporter thanked her for her time and was escorted out by Lillian. Alicia reached for her cup of water as the next interviewer entered.

Ted Ferguson, who hosted one of the top entertainment media outlets, walked in. He was a household face, and his bosses must have pulled all the stops to get their top reporter to the hospital in time for the exclusive interview.

“It’s great to see you, Miss Carver, and you’re looking well considering all you’ve gone through lately.”

Alicia held her expression. Ted’s words were meant to be friendly, not condescending. He was notorious for networking in the more affluent circles, and he wouldn’t dare step out of line right now. “I’m feeling much better.”

Truly, she was. Her body seemed to be responding well to the last round of medications the doctors administered.

“We’ve heard about your health and your parents. Can you tell us about the breakup with Ashton Warner?” Ted asked.

Alicia had been tight-lipped about the breakup, even when Ashton hadn’t pulled his punches. Even now, she didn’t have any desire to drag him through the mud.

“I understand the situation created by my parents evokes a certain amount of caution. Our relationship wasn’t on the rocks at the time of the breakup, but I don’t think he was prepared for the onslaught. We’ve gone our separate ways, and I wish him the best.”

Ted gave a small nod. “That’s very diplomatic of you. We’ve seen so many rumors thrown back and forth, no one was sure what to think of the breakup.” He leaned back and crossed an ankle over his knee. “Now, can you tell us about the new man in your life?”

Alicia’s gaze flicked to Jordan. He gave her a wink, which only served to set her blood on fire.

They’d talked about what she should say, and now, she had her chance.

“I’ve been spending time with someone new. After the Stars, I came out here to spend some time at a ranch. I just wanted to get away from the mess with my parents and Ashton before the tour started. I met some wonderful people here, including Jordan Taylor, my security agent.”

Ted placed his foot on the ground and leaned forward. “You mean to tell me you’re dating your bodyguard?”

Alicia chuckled. “Be careful, Ted. You’re supposed to only get two questions.”

Ted threw his hands in the air. “You’ve been hiding a whirlwind romance with your bodyguard. How can I not ask questions? We all want the scoop!”

Alicia’s smile was so wide her cheeks ached. “It’s very new, and while things are going well, we’d love some privacy. Relationships are difficult in the spotlight.”

Ted looked over his shoulder. “Is that him?” he asked, pointing at Jordan.

“It is,” Alicia confirmed.

Ted leaned closer to Alicia and held a hand up beside his face, making a show of sharing a secret. “Can I interview him after this?”

Alicia held her hands up. “That’s up to Jordan.”

Slapping his hands on his thighs, Ted straightened. “Well, we wish you both the best.”

Ted shook Alicia’s hand before turning to Jordan. “I hope we’ll be seeing more of you in the future.”

Jordan glanced at Alicia. “I’m sure you will. I’ll be accompanying Alicia on her tour in a few months.”

Ted tilted his head back and let out a hearty laugh. “This just keeps getting better and better.”

Alicia’s chest warmed at Jordan’s words, and she had to agree with Ted. Things kept getting better and better.

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