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I caressed his cheek, then tucked his loose hair behind his ear. His cock throbbing deep inside me still made my core hum.

I could stay like this forever. Be locked in his gaze, connected to his body.

Perfect.

But he collapsed beside me. Close was just good. He stole a deep kiss from my lips then smoothed his hand over my hair. “Every time gets better and better. I didn’t think that would be possible.”

“There are still so many things we haven’t tried.”

“I look forward to every new experience with you. You blow my mind every time.” He caught my hand and kissed my fingertips. “I love you. We’ve had a few long weeks, a crazy weekend, and a big day. Now all that matters is you’re here. With me. We have a lot of making up to do. So after a shower, we’re gonna do that again, only with you on top. You up for that?”

“You know I am.” I slid my hand around his neck and drew his lips to mine. Kissing him filled me with love, hope...and happiness. I’d come back to LA to start over. I’d never expected to find a new career I was excited about or a love that changed my life. I’d never expected to find Lewis.

I’d learned from my past, treasured my family, and now...I was home.

I was in love.

I was ready to take on the world.

Lewis had mended my heart, my soul, and all my broken bridges.

Chapter 40

LEWIS

Seven weeks later, at the end of August, I sat in a stretch limousine with Tia, Sutton, and the guys, heading toward the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, to attend the MTV Video Music Awards. I fixed the cufflink on my dress shirt and realigned the sleeve of my Valentino jacket. Nerves flitted through my gut, and my palms sweated as we approached the center. Twelve months ago, the idea of attending events like this during my lifetime seemed far-fetched. Now, here I was with my new band. Tonight, wasn’t just about our nomination for Group of the Year—it was my first public appearance with Tia...my girlfriend.

As I raked my gaze over her dressed in a stunning silver satin power suit with nothing on underneath her jacket, my heart swelled...and so did my dick. The diamond-encrusted pendant dangling in her cleavage and the matching earrings made her sparkle like an angel. Just add wings, and she would be.

But the closer we got to the venue, the more Tia paled, like she was about to throw up. Walking the carpet wasn’t the issue. Tomorrow’s headlines were. But she’d promised to not let the gossip upset her.

Only time would tell.

I placed my hand on her thigh and gave it a squeeze. “We’ve got this.”

She clutched my hand and nodded. “Yeah. I know.”

April had prepared us for any difficult or out-of-line questions from reporters about our relationship. We were there to promote our music and the tour—not our love life. But I knew things didn’t always go to plan.

“You ready?” Cole’s eyes lit up as he leaned forward on his seat, opposite Tia. He rubbed his hands together, ready to hit the spotlight. But knowing him, he’d also be looking forward to the drinks, the after-party, and the hot single women. Luckily we weren’t performing.

Sutton linked her arm around Flint’s elbow and gave Tia and me an encouraging smile. “Just follow Flint. He knows how to work the cameras and deflect reporters. He helped me though our first appearance when I was nervous.” Her eyes shimmered as she looked at him. “Our fake-dating stint didn’t stay fake for very long.”

Flint chuckled as he threw Sutton a sexy glance from beneath the curtain of long hair covering his cheek. Damn man was too hot for his own good. “We didn’t even make it through one night. You couldn’t keep your hands off me.”

“Nope.” She kissed his cheek, then wiped her lipstick mark off his skin. “Worth it.”

“We’ll be fine.” Tia fidgeted with my signet rings. “This isn’t my first event. I’ve probably walked more red carpets than you have.”

“I’m sure you have, Tee.” Beside me, Slip didn’t look up from texting someone on his cell phone. I’d lay bets on it being Maddy. She was meeting us at the after-party. “The difference is, we love it. You don’t.”

“True.” Tia linked my fingers with hers and leaned against my arm. “But I’m here for you guys. Tonight isn’t about me. I like that.”

“Oh, this will no doubt include you.” Cole splayed his palms wide. “But we’re all prepared. Put that gorgeous smile on, wave to the cameras and fans, and have fun.”

“Will do.” Tia nodded, but her hand shook in mine.

“We’re here.” Cole slid toward the door, waiting for a security guard to open it.