Page 21 of Flawless Aria

“It’s a fifteen-month world tour. You’ll spend a year in the US and then the last three months playing the UK, Europe, and Asia.” That’s going to put a damper on our wedding plans. Knowing my mom, she’ll want us to get married before leaving.

“Fuck, my son’s going to be two by the time I get home from touring.” Micah’s beside himself, and I feel for the guy. Zander doesn’t say a word and that’s even scarier.

We all wait for Caleb to give us the big speech about music being a tough business, but for some reason he’s silent. This is getting stranger by the minute.

“Many musicians take their families along with them. If that’s not possible, then you can go home during your time off. You’ll have five days off, every leg of the tour. Contrary to what you might think, I’m not a monster.” Son of a bitch. This is def a first, but with all the hell yeahs going around, guess the guys are happy.

“Thanks, Caleb. It’s greatly appreciated and makes our lives a lot easier,” Zander adds.

Caleb is married to Willow from The Sinful Seven, so he gets it. When she’s out touring, he takes care of his son and two girls.

“Here’s a copy of your schedule. Grace will also send you an email in case this one gets misplaced.” He glances at Ace since he’s been known to lose a few from time to time.

“See, I’m folding the paper and it’s going in my pocket right now.” We all laugh because that paper could get washed during laundry day. Gotta love him.

For the next few hours, we go over as much as we can cram in before it’s time for his next appointment. A new solo artist with big dreams and stars in her eyes. Don’t forget the name, Valentina, because I’ve heard her sing. Someday, she will be the next Arisha.

Just wait and see.

“Enjoy the next few months of freedom, boys,” Ace bellows, “because after that, it’s balls to the wall.”

“Fuck off, asshole. Go back to your tiny little home on wheels and we’ll go home to our wives and children.” Ouch, that was harsh, even for Zander.

Ace and Harmony live on a beautiful piece of land out in the woods. Ace has an RV and Harmony has her Sprinter van, Shutterbug. Last time I heard, they bounce between the two. Depending on their moods, since Ace’s is huge. Don’t ask.

“Let’s all get together at my house for one big party before we need to hit the road.” The invite is Zander’s way of smoothing things over.

“Sounds like a plan,” Micah pipes in. “Let us know when and we’ll all bring something so Melody doesn’t need to do everything herself.”

We all climb in our cars and head in different directions. They all have someone to go home to. I on the other hand have a fake fiancée who has a spanking or two coming to her next time we’re together.

ARIA

“I’m sorry,Macy. I have so much on my mind that I completely forgot to call. And, believe me, this is one topic that needs to be discussed in person, not on the phone.” I had every intention of calling her earlier, but now it’s lunchtime and I need to be quick.

“How was I supposed to be your maid of honor when I had no damn clue that you were getting married? Oh, wait. I read it plastered all over the tabloids and through social media. Shame on you, Aria.”

“I know and I feel terrible. When’s your next trip into town?” Hoping it’s soon so I don’t need to tell her what kind of mess I got myself into over the phone.

“Funny you should ask, since I’ll be there in a few days. If you have plans for the weekend with Loverboy, cancel them. You’re all mine! You will start from the beginning, and you’ll keep on talking until you’ve told me every last detail. And you best not leave anything out. Do you hear me?” She’s screaming in my ear. How can I not?

“I hear you loud and clear.” I end the conversation since I’ll be late for work if we keep arguing.

Thank goodness I made it back to work with a few minutes to spare. Silas has been on a tangent since Trent came on board, so we’re all on our best behavior. Even Maggie and Rex, which is like a breath of fresh air. I’m curious if one of them heard the gossip and told them to zip it. I shouldn’t get excited since it’s only been a few days.

Once I’m back at my desk, I get busy working on my new article. It’s a fluff piece, but every once in a while it’s good to throw them in my mix, to lighten up the mood. Who knew that writing about love and relationships could be so exhausting? Since not everyone gets their happily ever after. No matter how many years they’ve been together.

It’s almost quitting time, and I’m just finalizing my edits when Silas knocks. Funny, my door’s already open. Glancing up, I see him standing in the doorway.

“Is this a bad time or can we talk?” He’s so serious that I start to freak out a little bit. A lot if I’m being honest.

“Come on in. I’m almost finished. I was going to send it to you before leaving.” When he closes the door, I get a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. Women’s intuition and all.

“I just wanted to run a few things by you before I make my final decision.” When he slumps down in the chair, I prepare myself for the worst. Either he knows about the fake engagement or about me sleeping with Rex.

“Is this a work-related visit or a personal one?” He doesn’t need to answer since he’s my boss. I’d like to think we’re good enough friends for him to tell me the truth.

“A little of both. Just hear me out, okay?” When I nod, he continues. “Now that Trent has a vested interest in both magazines, I can’t ignore the rumors anymore. Especially since he’s dating your sister.” I swear I turn as pale as the white polar rug that sits beneath my feet.

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