Page 51

The soft sound of heels on the stairs draws my attention, and when I turn toward the staircase, everything inside me stops.

Laney descends slowly, one hand on the railing, the other holding the edge of her dress. And holy hell...

She’s a vision.

Black satin hugs every inch of her body, the mermaid silhouette molding to her curves like it was made for her. The halter neckline draws the eye to the long, exposed line of her throat, and the daring cut-out that runs from the base of her neck to her sternum reveals just enough to make my pulse spike. The thigh-high slit offers a glimpse of a toned leg with every step she takes, her black satin pumps clicking softly against the wood.

I swallow hard, taking a step forward like I’m drawn to her by gravity alone. “Jesus, Laney...”

Her cheeks flush, her lips painted the deepest red I’ve ever seen on her. I take her hand gently, spinning her in place, reverent. “You are... the most stunning thing I’ve ever laid eyes on.”

She laughs shyly, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, and all I can think is how this woman—my woman—has completely wrecked me.

Lyrics form in my head, unbidden. Soft curves in satin and fire in her eyes, stealing my breath with every step. Hell, it might be the start of a new song.

I lean in, intending to kiss her, to taste that damn lipstick. But she ducks her head with a smile. “Not the lipstick.”

I gently grip her chin, tilting her face up to mine, voice low and rough. “Fuck the lipstick.”

And then I kiss her. Softly. Just a whisper of lips, enough to make her breath hitch. But I pull back before it deepens, smirking. “Later, I wanna see it smeared all over my cock.”

Her eyes darken, and she gives me a slow, seductive smile. “If you play your cards right.”

A chuckle rumbles out of me, and I offer my arm like a gentleman—barely holding back the urge to toss her over my shoulder and skip the damn gala altogether. “Come on, darlin’. Our chariot awaits.”

I lead her out to the waiting limo the label sent and, as the door closes behind us, the space between us crackles with something electric.

She’s mine tonight.

And God help anyone who looks at her for too long.

Because I’ve waited long enough.

And I plan to make every second of this night count.

The limo slows to a stop in front of the venue, and I already don’t like what I see through the dark glass. Paparazzi. Bright flashes. Red carpet. This isn’t what I agreed to.

I clench my jaw, willing myself to stay calm. Reggie swore this would be a low-key appearance, just a quick show of support for the label, shake a few hands, smile for a couple of cameras. Bullshit. I make a mental note to call him first thing tomorrow—and maybe wring his damn neck while I’m at it.

I exhale slowly and smooth a hand down my jacket. Composed. Controlled. That’s the game.

The driver opens the door, and I step into the chaos.

Flashbulbs explode immediately, a chorus of shouting photographers calling my name. I square my shoulders, give a small wave, and then turn, offering my hand back into the car.

Laney’s hand slides into mine, warm and trembling slightly. She steps out, poised but quiet, the light catching in her hair,her black satin dress clinging in all the right places. The moment she’s upright, the crowd loses their damn minds.

“Eddie! Who’s the girl?” “Eddie! Is this your new girlfriend?” “When’s the next album dropping?!” “You excited to be back on tour soon?”

The noise is deafening, but I keep my face smooth, my grip on Laney’s hand firm. She inches a little closer, and I immediately let her hand go and wrap my arm around her waist, drawing her in until her hip is pressed snug against mine before I reach down with my other hand and thread my fingers through hers. I lean down, murmuring against her temple, “I’ve got you, darlin’. Just breathe.”

She gives a small nod, her fingers curling into mine like a lifeline.

I face the cameras again, wearing the easy, polished smile I’ve perfected over the years. The one that says I’m in control, even when I’d rather be anywhere else.

“I’m excited to get back on the road,” I say, voice smooth and strong. “The tour’s shaping up to be something real special.”

“And the new album?” someone shouts.