Page 82 of Christmas in Mistletoe
Fran stared at Ruby’s gorgeous face, her shiny lips. The same ones that had accused Fran of using her.
Fran wasn’t going to be won over so easily.
“I just want you to know that I’m sorry.Really sorry. I reacted badly, and I accused you of something that was a bit ridiculous.”
“A lot ridiculous.”
Ruby hung her head. “Okay, a lot. But I want you to know that this is my issue and it’s all about trust. I know I need to deal with it. I also know that you have always had my best interests at heart, even when I really didn’t deserve that. Again, I’m truly sorry. For everything.”
Fran heard what Ruby said, but she wasn’t budging just yet. Ruby spoke a good game, but words were cheap.
“I saw Delilah lent you her car again.”
If Ruby was about to have a go about that, it would be the final straw. Every muscle in Fran’s body stiffened. “She did. She gave it to me, actually. As a thank you, and a sorry.”
“She gave you a Porsche?”
Fran nodded. “She also told me I didn’t have to accept it if it was going to cause issues with you. But if you can’t take me being in contact with exes who are still my friends, then we’re not going to work.” She hadn’t planned to say that, but it was true. Delilah was in Fran’s life, like it or not.
Ruby stared at Fran for a few moments. “Look, I know you’re pissed off with me and you have every right to be. You’re not trying to manipulate me. I get that. Delilah did what she did, and in the cold light of day, I’m grateful. I’m getting so much interest, it’s blowing my mind. My song is in the charts. I’m making money. That’s amazing.”
Fran kept her game face on. “It is.” Ruby acknowledging that was a good thing.
“I’ve only glanced at the emails quickly. I’ve been too busy here. I’m not making any decisions yet because it’s Christmas, so they can wait.” Ruby looked Fran in the eye. “I know I messed up, but I really want to try again. I missed you so much this week. I missedus.” She paused. “If you’re willing, I’d love for you to look at these offers of festivals and collaborators with me. To give me some advice. You know the business better than anyone and I’d love some help to make the right decisions.” Ruby’s lip wobbled, and she took Fran’s hand.
Confusion rippled through Fran. Ruby might be the biggest bundle of insecurities she’d seen in such an accomplished artist, but it came with the territory. All artists were a curious mix of confidence and self-doubt. Ruby just needed to work on the former. She was tough enough. She just needed belief. Fran could help her.
What’s more, holding Ruby’s hand waseverything. Whatever they had was still there, beating loudly inside her. It hadn’t gone away in a week. Perhaps their relationship did just need a plaster cast, and some time.
“I’m not sorry about that video going viral.”
Ruby shook her head. “Neither am I.”
“Good. Also, just to be clear, I don’t want to sign you anymore, either. You’d be a nightmare. I already have enough of them on my books.”
The corners of Ruby’s mouth twitched at that. “We’re on the same page, then. Plus, I’m still not signing with anyone.”
“I charge a £500 a day consultancy fee for my help, too,” Fran added.
Ruby’s eyes widened. “Oh. I…”
“I’m kidding.” Fran finally allowed herself a half-smile. “Damn, you’re easy to wind up.”
Ruby’s gaze was uncertain. “And you’re very forgiving.”
“You’re not forgiven quite yet. I want to know that any advice or nudging I give you, you’re not going to throw the ‘pushy music exec’ line at me. I am who I am. I want to help make you a success.”
Ruby nodded. “I know that. I promise, no music exec jibes. They’re banned.” She squeezed Fran’s hand. “Just know, this week has been hell. I’ve hated what I said to you and I’ve been battling myself. I’m my own worst enemy, I know that. But time away from everything has given me perspective. I’ve talked to the trees and they think I should get out of my own way. Even my dad told me he doesn’t want me back here next year helping out. He wants me to forge my path. Pursue my goals.” Ruby gave Fran a grin. “Feel the fear and do it anyway, as someone wise once told me.”
Fran held Ruby’s gaze, hope blooming in her soul. “They sound very wise.”
Ruby nodded. “Terrifyingly beautiful, too.” Her gaze sank to Fran’s lips.
Fran snapped her fingers. “Stop looking at my lips. We’re not done.”
Ruby sat upright.
“I need you to mean what you’re telling me. To stop hiding behind limiting excuses. You could do many things, but the one you’re best at is being a singer-songwriter. Lean into that one.”
