Nothing big, I promise. Just something for my girlfriend
A girlfriend? That was a shock since he probably hooked up with more women than I did.
I rubbed the back of my neck, trying to decide what to do. Donnie and I had been close at one point, and while our friendship revolved around partying, that didn’t mean it still had to be that way.
I can try to stop by later
Thanks. I’ll owe you one
A few minutes later, Cash finally responded:
I can’t get away until nine.Will that work?
Sure. We can meet in my room so we have some privacy
Sounds great. Can’t wait to see you
After reading his message, I knew I was sporting a goofy grin, but I didn’t care. The feeling was mutual.
Me too
Since I had almost two hours to kill, I decided I’d check in at the hotel so I could shower and change and then meet up with Donnie. I was about to text him to let him know I’d be there soon when my text notification went off yet again.
Mom: Why didn’t you tell me you were coming to Boston?
Fucking social media.
Uh … surprise!
Where are you staying? Will we see you while you’re here?
I shook my head and chuckled, knowing I couldn’t get out of visiting them.
I have plans tonight, but I’d love to see you and Dad tomorrow
Okay sweetie. See you then
The Sapphire Loungelooked the same as it had when I’d visited eight months ago. Instead of taking me to Donnie’s office, the bouncer led me to a table in the VIP area. When I’d been at the club before, I had looked forward to watching the show, but this time, Ibarely glanced at the stage. Knowing what went on behind the scenes with the drugs and random hook ups, it no longer felt like my scene.
A few minutes later, Donnie walked over with a large bag in his hand and the usual cocky smirk on his face.
“Hey, man.” He clapped me on the back before sitting across from me. “Glad you could stop by.”
“No problem. I had a little free time.”
He chuckled. “I imagine it’s difficult for the rock star to make time for his old friends.”
I ignored the dig. “So, what’s the favor you need from me?”
He pulled a vinyl record and a rolled-up poster from the bag, sliding them across the table. “I sort of messed up with my girlfriend the other day. She happens to be a huge Surrender fan. In fact, I met her at your concert, and I thought if you could sign a couple of things for her, it might help smooth things over a bit.”
“Gotta admit, I was a little surprised when you mentioned a girlfriend.” I snorted. “Weren’t you the one who always said you wouldn’t settle down?”
“Pretty sure that was you. But I’m a one-woman guy right now. Turns out getting with a social media influencer is pretty good for business as well.”
Well, that made more sense. My stomach churned a little at him admitting he was using a woman he was dating. Feeling bad for her, I grabbed the Sharpie he was holding and scribbled my name on both items.
When I was done, I made a show of looking at my phone. I had about twenty minutes before Cash was supposed to show up at the hotel. “I’m supposed to meet someone soon, so I should probably take off.”