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- Chapter Thirteen -

Amina

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Ikept reminding myselfit wasgoodthat our dance had been interrupted. That I had no right to be disappointed someone had come along and thrown themselves between Bach and me. But all the reminders in the world couldn’t cool the hungry heat.

My shoulders wore invisible imprints from his fingers. Helplessly, I reached up and rubbed my bare skin. For how intensely Ifelthis absence, there should have been indents in my flesh.

Shuddering, I focused on the scene before me. The stranger—a broad-chested man in a plum suit with tan skin and a widow’s peak—was glowering at Bach. “What did you do to Santino?”

“I’m guessing you’re talking about the chocolate fountain incident, Sherman,” Bach said, yanking out of the guy’s grip.

“He left! Didn’t say a word, just got in his car and drove off!” Sherman said, his face screwed up in rage.

Bach shrugged. “I’m not responsible for what he does anymore.”

“You don’t get it.” Sherman stepped forward, and to his credit, Bach didn’t budge. “Santino was supposed to perform tonight! Thanks to your short temper, he won’t be.”

What did Bach do?I wondered, trying to piece things together. No one else was watching us, they were caught up in the fast-paced music.

Clenching his fists, Bach shot me a look. “Blame your newpartnerfor stealing high-maintenance musicians.”

“I didn't say I was taking Eckland up on his offer.”

“Good for you, keeping those options open. This still has nothing to do with me.”

“It haseverythingto do with...” Sherman bared his teeth, then shut his eyes like he was calming himself down. “This is so you.”

“What is?”

“Being unable to take responsibility. I don’t know why I expected more from a selfish, no-talent thug.”

“Hey!” I snapped, stepping between them. From the corner of my eye I caught Bach’s eyes widen in surprise. “You can’t talk to him like that!”

Sherman’s scowl pulled tight over his teeth. Then... he squinted, sizing me up, his voice getting softer. “You’re Amina, aren’t you?” He didn’t wait for my answer, he looked over my head at Bach. “I saw you on stage earlier. I was surprised you were working with Beats and Blast.”