Page 126 of Brutal Little Secrets

“What do you need, Annie?” Hawk pulls my attention.

“The show must go on.” I try to gather the riot of feelings flowing through me. Embarrassment, fear, humiliation, but also relief. Fuck, I don’t have to pretend anymore. Olivia set me fucking free and probably would hate to realize that.

“I don’t have to pretend anymore.” I meet Hawk’s gaze, and he smiles. Leaning forward, I touch my lips to his. Just a graze, but his lips curve into a smile against mine.

He holds my head when I try to pull away. “Does that mean I can flirt with you during practice?”

“No.” I search his eyes with a smile. “We’re still professionals.”

He leans in and kisses me briefly before straightening. I glance at Mia.

“I didn’t want it to be you.” I blow out a breath. “But?—”

“But we’re both a little broken from what we’ve been through.” Mia touches my hand. “No hard feelings, and you’re still my bestie. We’ll get there. Trust is earned not given.”

Hawk

Me:

He called her a whore

Screamed it at her during rehearsal

Damon:

Fucking Olivia

Cam:

Do you need backup?

Sending videos now

Me:

He left

We need to move up our plan

This can’t stand

Damon:

Start today

Thursday night

Cam:

What if she gets hurt?

Damon:

She won’t

Cam:

He could target her