Page 21 of C*cky Best Friend
I cross to my chair, the mirror well lit for the application of stage makeup we all have to wear or we disappear under the harsh spotlights. I don’t hear another word Alfredo says. My fingers reach for thick foundation and I go to work.
“Logan, I’m talking to you.”
“Huh?” I glance over and see Jason Cocker has taken Alfredo’s place. Even though I’m staring at a mirror, I didn’t see him walk in. Didn’t see Alfredo leave. Their reflections blended into a blur of who cares.
Jason sits down, long legs spreading as pale green eyes narrow on me with interest. “I asked if you’re okay.”
“Why wouldn’t I be okay, Mr. Cocker?”
He bites his lip and rakes his white-blonde hair with his left hand, wedding ring winking in the warm light. “Did you know Sam and Asher were…”
My stomach does another nosedive as I grimace, “You’ve met him?”
“Never heard of him before tonight.” Her dad stares at me like he hopes that makes me feel better.
“I don’t care what she does. If she’s into him, no big deal.” My dead gaze returns to the mirror, but in it I’m seeing that New York fuckhead pull back from her lips. The glimmer of excitement that was in her beautiful brown eyes twisted the blade though. She wanted his kiss.
She wanted it.
“Logan, if it makes you feel better, Sam is really young.”
I frown, “We’re the same age.”
“Yeah but, and I know it’s hard for people in their twenties to hear this, but life is long, not short. We change over the years, if we’re doing things right.” He exhales, glances over as Sarah walks up. With a shake of his head Mr. Cocker tells her he needs more time. She nods, glances to me, and disappears. His voice is deep and sincere as he explains, “Samantha’s our baby. I know Hunter is the youngest but he was born older. Not my Sam. She’s our innocent. She’s lived in Lexi’s wild shadow all these years. And with Max and Caden being the over-protective brothers that they are, well, she’s young. She needs to sow her oats a little. That’s what Cockers need to do.”
“So?”
He bites his lip in thought, rising and clasping my shoulder. He’s been a second father to me, and there’s love in his firm grip as he holds my eyes. “I’m just saying, don’t give up hope.”
He disappears in the direction of his wife.
Staring at the empty doorway, I snort, pick up the powder and toss it down, disgusted. “If he thinks I’m waiting around for her, he’s nuts.” Covering my face in my hands I groan and take a few deep breaths, dropping them down to find Asher in the reflection. He’s leaning on the doorframe. “Hey Logan. How’s it going?”
“I’m ready. You?”
He eyes me, amused. “Totally.”