Page 48 of A Country Kind Of Love

Peyton’s confused when she eventually leavesthe studio.

“What just happened?”

“The real question is, did you enjoy it?”Jesse asks.

“Once I stopped having heart palpitations, yes. I think I did.”

Jesse reaches his arm around Peyton and smirks like he knows something she doesn’t. “Exciting times.”

9

Peyton hears that Nashville is undergoing a pizza renaissance, and now she has to test the theory. She Googles the best pizzerias in Nashville, and she’s spoilt for choice. The sudden urge for pizza at 11:55 p.m. naturally narrows her options. She calls Cleo who is wide awake, full of adrenaline, and ready for some food after a local gig. She promises to meet her by a place called Two Boots near Music Row.

Peyton rounds the corner onto Division Street, and there’s Cleo. She’s leant against the wall of a building painted with a graffiti-style mural across the front. The mural depicts a giant microphone hanging from a crane. The way she leans against the wall would make for acool photo.

“Hold still. One second.” Peyton pulls her phone from her pocket and snaps a picture. Cleo smirks and poses playfully.

“Oh yeah... nice... sexy... the camera loves you.” Peyton bursts out laughing.

“Let me see.” Cleo walks over and places a hand around her waist. “Oh, I love that. Maybe that could be my album cover.” She plants a kiss on Peyton’s lips, then another,and another.

“Calm down you crazy girl.” Peyton jokingly pushes her away. Cleo glows. “Your gigwent well?”

“Amazing. It was so good. I feel like I really connected with the audience,” she says excitedly.

“I’m so happy for you.”

“And...” Cleo’s phone starts to buzz. “It’s just Hank. I’ll callhim later.”

“Why is Hank calling you atthis time?”

“The guy doesn’t sleep. I’m positive he’s addicted to cocaine, but that’s not my business.”Cleo shrugs.

“What was I saying? It’s gone now... Anyway how hungry are you?” she asks.

Next to the graffiti covered wall a classic red, white, and green Italian pizza sign sticks out from the building.

“I’ve got on my stretchy pants; does that answer your question?” Peyton jokes.

“Got it! We’ll order three.”

“Three pizzas?” Peyton laughs.

“Trust me. This pizza is insane; you’ll want some forbreakfast.”

Cleo reaches down and clasps Peyton’s hand in hers. Cleo wears a lot of rings, silver mostly, with gemstones. They are cool and intricate; she hasn’t asked about them yet, but she likes the way they feel; it’s like a mini massage forher fingers.

“Are you fussy about pizza?” Cleo asks.

“I will eat anything other thanAnchovies.”

Cleo frowns. “Who has Anchovieson a pizza?”

“My dad. They’re disgusting. It looks like a family of slugs.” Peyton cringes.

“Eww.”

“Exactly.”