Page 151 of Mine

Richard guided me across the room, the two of us making our way through the crowd. Everyone was dressed to the nines—silk and diamonds, velvet and suits—all with price tags that would make even me feel faint.

“Between you and me, I don’t like your label president. Didn't the two of you get a divorce?” Richard asked under his breath.

“Yes, we did,” I said. “Thank god for that.”

An easy laugh left him. “Why have we been enemies for so long, again?”

“Because you’re a bastard,” I said. “But I’d still rather talk to you than Jeff.”

We slowed as we approached the table we were assigned to. He pulled out my chair, and I gave a nod in thanks, taking a seat. There were four other chairs around the table dressed in black and gold linens. I glanced over my shoulder, spotting an open bar in the back corner that I wanted to take advantage of.

Richard sat down to my right. The chair to my left screeched over the floor and my gaze snapped to Jeff as he plopped down.

“Can't keep ignoring me,” he muttered.

“For fuck’s sake,” I sighed.

“I just don't understand why you won't even text me back,” he said. “Actually, I do. I bet it’s because you’re being controlled by someone, huh? He doesn’t want you talking to me.”

“You’re delusional,” I said. “And you’re acting poorly. This is a work event.”

“I mean, we work together, and yet you keep ignoring me. Which is kind of unprofessional. What’s also unprofessional is the fact that you wouldn't let me bring Ally here?—”

“Are you really going to bring that up now?” I asked.

Richard glanced between the two of us, and then cleared his throat. “How about we talk about something else? Do you have any interesting artists coming up or projects down the line I should be worried about?”

“Of course,” I said, offering him a smirk.

“Oh yeah,” Jeff said. “Pepperhas decided to sign on this boy who is covered in tattoos and wears a mask. And?—”

“That is a gross understatement of who he is,” I corrected. “Salt is a singer-songwriter, and I'm sure you will be seeing more of him soon. I don't know how much you are on social media, but he's been doing well. His music is great. It’ll be a good launch, and that’s all I’ll say.”

“Yes, keep your cards to your chest,” Richard chuckled. “Salt, you said? I think I've heard of him. Janet probably sent me some of his videos. I swear my wife is the reason why we end up signing on all the good artists. Handsome fellow, right? Rose tattoos?”

Jeff’s face was beet red.

“Yes,” I said. “What about you? What secrets are you holding on to?”

“We're getting ready to sign on someone who I think will make some waves. She has a large presence, unique sound. Excellent songwriter. We'll see what happens—you know how the business is. Sometimes you can sign on the best and they flop, other times you sign on a nobody, and they skyrocket in the charts.”

“So true,” I said. “Looking forward to hearing her.”

He smiled. “We should get dinner sometime, outside of all of this. Janet would love to meet you at some point.”

“I’d love to meet her,” I said. “Next time you're in Nashville, just let me know.”

“I could join you,” Jeff interjected.

“You’re not invited,” I said pleasantly.

“Bitch,” Jeff muttered under his breath.

I stared at him and wondered how the fuck I’d ever loved him. Thinking back to all those years ago, I realized that I’d been so caught up in believing him when he said I was his world, I never took the time to make sure his actions matched his words.

Now, I knew better.

“I’m going to get a glass of champagne,” I said, flashing Jeff another dirty look.

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