Chasing Him - Kat T. Masen Page 0,55

head only slightly, I see Charlie watching me bewildered. I pretend I don’t notice, focusing my attention back onto Julian.

Julian: I want you back here no later than 2am. That gives me plenty of time to make sure you can’t walk.

I accidentally laugh out loud, covering my mouth the moment I realize I’ve done so. Since I’m speechless, I send him a smiley face.

“Okay, I’ll bite. What’s with you two?” Lex asks, not even bothering to look our way as he continues to type. He’s sitting between us dressed in a black Armani suit and crisp white shirt. He isn’t wearing a tie, his shirt slightly unbuttoned. Women everywhere throw themselves at Lex. It’s been like that his entire life, blessed with good genes and, unfortunately, a stubborn attitude to accompany it.

Neither one of us says a word, and thankfully, the limousine arrives at the event shortly after.

We hop out to be met with cameras flashing like a light show. Every paparazzi and his camera are desperately snapping away, hoping to cash in, and with any luck, a possible wardrobe malfunction.

Eric and Tristan are standing at the entrance, both looking smart and almost matching. I have to admit, Tristan is one good-looking guy. According to Eric, he needs a major wardrobe makeover and a few sessions at the gym. I only met him after Eric sunk his teeth into him, so I can’t comment. One thing that never struck me before is the similarities between him and Julian. Of course, I know they are related, but I swear with a nicely fitted suit, you can really tell they are family.

We greet them hello, Tristan pulling me aside sensing the animosity between Charlie and me.

“What’s going on with you and Charlie?”

“She knows I’m seeing someone and is annoyed I won’t tell her who.”

“Fair enough. You can’t hide it forever, Adriana, and I know Julian well… he won’t allow it for much longer.”

“I know.”

Inside the event, celebrities gather in groups as the DJ mixes fresh beats. The room is decorated in a modern theme of blacks and reds which gives it a sensual feel. The space is dimly lit, only the bar illuminates the room because that’s where all the important stuff is held, including some much-needed alcohol.

Eric can’t keep still, dragging Tristan around to introduce himself to actors. A few people come up to chat with Tristan since he has done a few acting gigs, and word is getting around Hollywood.

Lex and Charlie are busily chatting to some people I don’t recognize. I hate being the third wheel or fifth wheel, in this case, making my way to the bar to drown my sorrows. Three martinis later, the party has livened up. I make my way to the dance floor to dance with Tristan. It doesn’t last long, though, Eric claiming him and getting into a kissing frenzy in the middle of the dance floor. I turn around, and a familiar male is standing in front of me. I recognize him from one of those crime television shows on cable. He isn’t too much taller than me, dirty blond hair with deep green eyes. He asks me if I want to dance. Sure, why not?

We have fun but maybe he’s a little too touchy-feely, and just when I probably should’ve told him to back off a little, my cell vibrates. I excuse myself, much to his annoyance, and open the text message.

Right there on my screen is the picture Julian took of us lying in bed just before I left the hotel. I’m wrapped around his body with my face against his, both of us smiling into the camera. I knew at this moment, I don’t want to be here or anywhere for that matter, not without him.

I make my way over to the table where Lex and Charlie stand. Both of them have shots in front of them, taking turns as they laugh. Lex drapes his arm around Charlie, pulling her in as they passionately kiss. He leans into her ear and whispers something to which she laughs. Watching them makes me realize who fucking cares if Julian is part of my life. They have each other, they are happy.

Lex slides over a shot, and I don’t hesitate to drink it. He motions for a bartender to hit us up with another round. It’s very rare to see my brother let loose, and judging by the way he’s all over Charlie, he has had quite a bit to drink.

This party