Page 112 of Jagger

Although I had an indication of what Poppy had collected, the story of their love affair a sweet touch, I found myself continuing to glance at the door to the auxiliary room. I don’t know what I was expecting, but I was glad Cally was staying with Zoe for a little girl party time.

Jagger remained closer as everyone crowded closer to a screen that suddenly dropped down from the ceiling.

“Did you have anything to do with this?” Shephard growled at his brother.

“Do I look like I’m the kind of guy to be involved with something like this?” Jagger shook his head. “No. Hell, no.”

I remained where I was, although as soon as the first slide was presented, I was pushed forward. Jagger wasn’t right behind me and my throat instantly closed.

“Do you want to see how this love affair began?” Poppy continued.

The guests cheered.

“Then please roll the video.”

The lights were lowered, leaving me far more uncomfortable.

I was only partially paying attention as I pushed my way past a few people, finally locating Jagger talking with Hunter. He noticed I was searching for him, giving me a slight nod. At least he was within sight.

I took a deep breath and tried to pay attention, but I couldn’t seem to find a way of concentrating. Maybe it was because my head was aching, the dull throb behind my eyes making it difficult to keep a haze from forming over my eyes.

After grabbing a second glass of champagne, I found a spot where I wouldn’t be noticed. The urge to leave was strong, so much so I was fearful I’d hyperventilate.

I held my purse close, doing my best to shake off the dread almost consuming me. When my phone buzzed indicating a text, I shivered. Even Zoe didn’t have my number, Jagger providing his instead in case there were any issues. Maybe it was Esme with a surprise. I fumbled to grab my phone, doing everything I could to keep from dropping the glass.

But the moment I pulled the burner phone from my purse, the light in the room began to fade.

Unknown:You thought you could run and get away with destroying me. You thought wrong. Get prepared, little bitch, your day of fame is going to be a doozy.

My hand shaking, I lifted my head, once again searching for Jagger. The entire world seemed to be in slow motion.

He noticed me, immediately breaking away from Hunter.

The lights went out, the projector as well, the entire crowd roaring their disapproval.

And Poppy cursing at the top of her lungs.

But the moment the projector popped back on, I braced myself for what was to come.

As my face appeared on the screen, the video Joel had taken in full and very vivid display, I couldn’t move.

Couldn’t breathe.

My new life and the love I felt I’d finally found were over.

Forever.

Scenes.

Memories.

Laughter.

Shock.

Every emotion rolled through me, flashes of light providing a horrible haze in front of my eyes. I could hear my name being called. Feeling faint, I tried to push my way through the crowd.

“Don’t,” Denise said from behind me, grabbing me into a bearhug. “It’s okay. It’s going to be okay.”

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