Page 19 of No Holds Barred

Angelica said nothing as she walked out of the main lobby area and into the small hallway that connected the hotel building to the restaurant. That awkward connection was a problem that she hadn’t quite figured out how to resolve yet. It was one she probably needed to talk to Hope about, but she hadn’t wanted to do that either.

Hope was sitting at one of the larger tables with Dawn and the one other kitchen staff member. Angelica couldn’t for the life of her remember the man’s name. Her brain hadn’t beenworking well lately. They had papers strewn out in front of them, and everyone had their heads bent as if they were studying.

Angelica cleared her throat to get Hope’s attention. Cadence noticed and came over while Hope continued to talk.

“Did you need something?”

“Josef sent me down to have a conversation with Hope, one I’m sure he wants on the record.” Angelica pointed at Hope. “Is she busy?”

“She can probably take a break from that. Hope?” Cadence turned to Hope, beckoning her over with a wave of her hand.

So much had changed since their first season of filming. Never would they have managed such easy communication with Kyle in the mix, and while last season had been slightly better, sometimes having a woman in charge was exactly what they needed. Angelica crossed her arms over her belly and held herself tightly.

Hope seemed concerned when she walked toward them. She’d have no idea why they were there, but Angelica didn’t want to fight. She simply didn’t have the energy for it.

“Is something wrong?” Hope asked.

Angelica shook her head. “Josef wanted me to have an on-screen conversation with you about Dawn.”

“All right?” Hope looked confused. “About what?”

“About her lack of experience.”

Hope snorted lightly. “Well, that’s an obvious one.”

Angelica shrugged slightly. “Want to do it now?” Why did she sound so breathy? Her head was close to spinning, too. She clenched her fists tightly, digging her nails into her palms to keep herself upright and focused.

“Sure.” Hope nodded toward Cadence. “You got this?”

“Yeah.”

It hadn’t taken long for Hope and Cadence to find a rhythm to their filming. Rex had been right about pairing them togetherfor the season. Angelica, however, was still struggling when it came to working with Hope. Though she anticipated it wouldn’t be that way through the entire season, because every time she looked at Hope, she couldn’t help but hear her voice.

You’re not worth it.

Angelica’s heart pattered rapidly, and that clamminess came over her again. “Can we talk in the kitchen? Away from… ears.”

“Sure.” Hope led the way, pushing open the door.

The kitchen reeked of chemicals, and it was overpowering. Angelica blinked wildly as she stepped inside and shook her head. “Wow, does it smell clean in here.”

“Ali and Dawn cleared everything out and then Dawn and Toby spent most of this morning scrubbing it top to bottom. Under all the grease and grime, the kitchen’s not in half bad shape.” Hope stopped right by one of the prep counters and leaned against it. “What did you need to talk about?”

“Oh um…” Angelica blinked again, her head spinning. The scent was overwhelming, and it was making it so much harder to concentrate.

“Ange?” Concern filtered through Hope’s voice.

“I’m here to talk about Dawn.” Angelica blinked hard, but her vision kept swimming. “She uh… she doesn’t have a lot of experience…” Angelica stopped talking and took a deep breath. Maybe she hadn’t gotten herself together since she’d left reception. Maybe?—

“Ange!” Hope’s hand was around her waist and pulled her close. “What’s going on?”

Angelica shook her head. “I’m just dizzy. The smell in here…”

“Come on. Sit down.” Hope moved with her, pulling Angelica toward a small table just outside of the kitchen.

Angelica could barely see anything because her vision was just filled with dark spots. Hope pressed a hand against Angelica’s cheek and clucked her tongue. The sound was so loud.

“Cadence, go get me some cold water for her.” Hope’s voice was strong, pulsating through Angelica’s head.