After our delicious Mexican treat with Six and his daughter, we retire to Julian’s bedroom to listen to his grandfather’s CD. This is why I love old songs. They evoke feelings of nostalgia and serenity.
“He used to be in a band,” Julian says, referring to his grandfather. I’m leaning against his chest on the bed.
“The Outlaws, yes. He was the vocalist.” I run my palm across his chest. “Hey, I enjoy getting to know more about you.”
“How did you find it? Meeting my family?”
“I like your mom. Adam and Carter are pleasant, so I’m not surprised you’re such a gentleman. You have a wonderful family, Jules.”
His mouth curls up. “Jules?&rdq
We’ll be leaving in a few hours, but Rachel isn’t home when we get back to the mansion. Carter, on the other hand, is there, formally dressed, and is about to leave. “Mom is having lunch with her friends, and I’m going to the office. I have an appointment with Andrew,” Carter says. “Your business partner? Good luck. We’ll be leaving shortly.” Julian pats his brother on the shoulder as we walk past him. “Later, Jules.” Carter gives a salute and exits the house. I follow Julian to the stairs, becoming increasingly intrigued. “What do you mean business partner? Is he really leaving SEG? You said he’ll be judging the competition, right?” “Not until he established his own firm. And, yes, he is still a member of the panel. Other departments are also competing this year. Carter is looking for new talents, preferably singers, actors, and dancers.” “Interesting. More opportunities, then.” “That’s right.” Julian walks into his bedroom and opens the door. He instantly cups my face, inhale
Lora’s beautiful features show signs of restlessness as she embraces me. Kristoff gives me a genuine nod, and we sit.“It was so unexpected,” she says, glaring at Kristoff. “This is your fault, you dipshit!”“Don’t worry,” I say. “I’d already talked to Mr. Melnard. He’ll find me a place, and Mr. Pitch insisted on paying for the rent.”Lora’s face glows with relief. “Thank God! But where will you stay in the meantime?”I give Kristoff a quick glance as he waits for my response. “So, um... My boyfriend offered, so I’ll ask if I can stay for a day or two.”“This is your fault!” Lora smacks Kristoff on the arm.
“You will tell me the next time something like this happens,” Julian says firmly.I wasn’t planning on telling him when I arrived at his penthouse half an hour ago, but Lora convinced me I should tell him about my apartment issues. I also wanted to talk about the car, but he was mad, so I decided to do that later.I get that he’s concerned about me. He’s shown me many times that he cares about me. He is, however, still my professor. Our relationship is already forbidden, and keeping it hidden is our top priority. How can we do that if someone from school sees me here, let’s say, Kristoff?“I already explained why,” I reason.“That’s not an explanation.” He paces back and forth from the living room wi
When Julian climbed into bed last night, I felt his arm wrap around me, but I was too tired to notice what time he got home.But I awoke alone in bed this morning. Julian is already preparing breakfast at the dining table.“Good morning,” I say. As usual, he looks more appealing than the food.“Come here. I was about to wake you up.” He gestures to me and pops a small piece of tomato into his mouth.Instead of sitting, I approach him and wrap my arms around his body.Hmm. He smells like he just got out of the shower. It was a mixture of mint, citrus, earthy, and pure masculine notes...“You didn’t wake me up when you came last night,&rdquo
“Can I drive this? She’s breathtaking.” Lora admires my gleaming new Volvo. I told them I’d drive it to Kristoff’s place after our classes. I’ve mostly driven Lora or Kristoff’s car in Whitlock, but I’ve also taken cabs.I’m thankful to have Julian and my benefactor in my life. But my boyfriend giving me a car is too much. He was under no obligation to do so. I don’t think I can argue with him about it, though, because he’ll still do it.But I’m thrilled about it. I will not be left out or have to wait for a ride with my friends.“Let’s just meet there,” says Kristoff as he walks to his car.Lora’s car is parked across the lot.
Julian was in his study when I arrived at the penthouse. I made him a cup of coffee and prepared some cookies I had purchased earlier so I could contribute a little to his place. As I approach the front door to his study, I see him rubbing the back of his neck and bending it from side to side.“Tired?” I ask, setting the tray of snacks on his desk.When he looks at me, his expression relaxes. “Thank you. How was your day?”“Good, and thank God, I finished my song. Lora and Kristoff helped.”“Really?” He smiles. “Would you mind showing me?”“I’ll practice the whole thing later, so you’ll hear it anyway. Besides, you’re preoccupied. What is that
Whitlock Main Performance Hall corridor is teeming with students getting ready for their performance. Even at this early stage, this event is monumental for everyone involved. Each performing arts department — drama, singers, dancers, instrumentalists, songwriters, and composers — is assigned a day and time to perform. And today, songwriters, composers, and singers are gathered together.Nobody knows what’s going on inside the hall. Only the performer/s are allowed, while the six panelists observe and evaluate each performance. I already know three of them, so I’ll learn the other three when it’s my turn to perform.Julian is also present, but only as an observer.There are ushers at the entrance and an assistant who will call out names when it is their turn. Lora and I and the re
Each performance took an entire day to finish. I’ve waited with everyone else, hoping for a miracle that my name, or someone deserving, will be called. Regardless of the outcome, another meaningful moment in my life lies ahead.Mr. Melnard will see me tonight.There are over a hundred people in attendance in the performance hall, waiting for the big winners and awardees to be announced. They stated that a special academic award would still be given to those who delivered outstanding performances. Still, only one from each class will advance to the finals—the one who would compete against St. Agatha Academy’s champion.Lora and I are holding hands. She probably wishes for the same thing. Kristoff is quietly sitting on my other side, his gaze fixed on the stage. Not until Ben taps him on the shoulder