Lead (Stage Dive, #3)(100)
The bass player collapsed on a chair in the corner, Killer still yapping at his heels. “Yo.”
“Now that fair Lena has tamed the mighty Jim, you’re the last of us swinging single.”
Ben laughed. “And you can bet on me staying that way.”
“Oh, come on.” Ev climbed up onto the couch beside David, throwing an arm around him. “Look at all the deliriously happy couples in this room. You’re not even tempted to settle down?”
“No,” the man answered simply.
“No one special you want to tell us about, Benny?” enquired Mal, giving him curious looks.
“No.” Ben crossed his arms over his barrel like chest. “I’m happy doing my thing, having fun. Why limit yourself?”
The women booed him. All except Lizzy who suddenly popped up from her place on the couch.
“I have to get going. I had a big day.” The girl threw an arm around Anne, giving her a squeeze. “Congratulations, again.”
“Thank you. Again,” laughed Anne. “I’ll see you for breakfast tomorrow?”
“Sure thing.” She gave the room a wave. “Night everyone!”
“Hang on, we’ll catch a cab back with you,” said Lauren, disentangling herself from an obviously amorous Nate. They’d both had a few drinks, neither were fit for driving. When Anne and Mal moved into the condo her sister had taken over her old apartment. Given Mal had paid the rent up for the next year, it would have been a shame to waste it. Lizzy had been only too happy to give up her small dorm room in favor of a rent–free, slightly larger apartment.
“’Night,” I said, waving to the party of three departing out the door.
Ben watched the group leave with a frown on his face. Curious.
But I was quickly distracted by Jimmy bussing his nose against my cheek. “You didn’t tell me you love me, Lena.”
“I love you, Jimmy.” I smiled and kissed him on the lips.
Since discovering love, he’d set out to become somewhat of a connoisseur of the emotion. I have to admit, I was definitely reaping the benefits, sexually and emotionally. The damage his mother had done was slowly being healed. His relationship with his brother was better than ever. He’d let me find him a new therapist and he was learning to trust and be open in all sorts of ways. Actually, I think we both were and it was a good thing. It wasn’t always easy, but we both persevered because it was worth it to us. Our dedication to sticking together now was absolute.
“Take me home?” I asked.
Jimmy smiled, both dimples on show. It always made my stomach tumble and my sex melt. What happened to my heart couldn’t be described.
“Whatever you want, Lena.”