Page 60 of Blitzing Emily

As they strolled away, Greg, Zach, Damian, and Derrick made a beeline for Brandon and Emily. To say that everything in the lobby came to a screeching halt when they walked through was an understatement. There typically weren’t many defensive linemen taking in the opera. Emily grinned, remembering Brandon’s request the day before.

“Sugar, are there some opera CDs that might be user-friendly? The guys want to listen to some before they go to the auction,” he’d asked. And so Emily had sent Brandon to his workout at the Sharks headquarters that morning with a compilation called “Operatically Incorrect,” a recording of Seattle Opera’sLa Boheme, and the arias CD she had recently finished recording.

Brandon had called a couple of hours later. “They loved yours. They’ll listen toLa Bohemetomorrow.”

Looking at them now, it was clear to Emily that the guys had listened to Brandon’s warning that they must wear black tie, but they put their own spin on it. Damian wore a modern-cut tuxedo with a black shirt and a long silk tie. Derrick wore a retro-looking black suit with a white shirt, a skinny tie, and boots. Greg had on a long black jacket with a mandarin collar. Zach wore a cowboy hat with his traditional tuxedo, which he whipped off his head after a hard look from Brandon.

“Gentlemen,” Brandon said, “we’ll need to go backstage and get ready to walk on while our auction is being held.”

Damian kissed Emily’s cheek. His comment, “You look stunning, love,” earned him a death glare from Brandon. “Would you like another glass of champagne?” Damian asked, as he glanced around for a server.

“Not right now, but thank you. I think I’ll go sit down so I can watch you all.”

Five men immediately offered their arms. She took Brandon’s. Damian was still chatting with her.

“We listened to your CD today.”

“Did you like it?”

“I did. Do you think you might sing that ‘O Mio Baby’ song for me sometime?”

“O mio babbino caro?”

“Yeah.” The other guys smirked at him. He looked a little embarrassed, but continued. “I liked it.” He raised an eyebrow at Zach, who attempted to stifle a laugh.

“The most famous version of that song is sung by Luciano Pavarotti. Have you ever heard of him?” He shook his head. “You might like his CD’s, too.”

“I likedPhantom of the Opera.Do you know Sarah Brightman?”

“No. I don’t know her. I enjoyed her CD, though.” Emily thought for a moment. “I’m singing in a recital next week at Benaroya. I could get you some tickets.”

“Yeah. I’d like that. McKenna, you’re fine if I tag along?” Damian said.

“You’re bringing your own date,” Brandon said.

Greg interrupted him. “Now you’re an opera fan? Don’t get me wrong. I liked Emily’s CD. It’s pretty good. Some of that other one, though, sounded like—shit, it was like cats being run over or something.”

“There was no Mandarin Chinese opera in those CD’s,” she whispered frantically into Brandon’s ear. He let out a chuckle.

“Hey. Rappers are doing standards these days. We might as well branch out,” Damian informed Greg, who was attempting to contain his laughter and failing miserably.

Emily kissed Brandon’s cheek when they reached the seating area.

“See you guys in a little while.”

Everything was going well, maybe a little too well. Emily knew that her relationship with Brandon was outwardly accepted because of the publicity it brought to any production she performed in. Obviously, ticket sales were a good thing. At the same time, she heard the gossip. According to some of her colleagues, she had shamed the opera world and sullied her career. She wasn’t stupid. She knew there must have been endless rehashing of her breakup with James, too.

“Hello, Emily,” said a deep, all-too-familiar voice.

Her stomach lurched.Oh, no, please, don’t let it be him,she thought. She turned her head and looked up into the face of her ex, James Peterson.

Chapter Twelve

JAMES SAT DOWNnext to Emily without asking permission. He motioned to a server for a glass of champagne and then turned to face her.

“Good to see you. How are you doing?” he said.

She fidgeted with the evening bag in her lap. “Fine.”

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