Page 110 of Bluebird

I returned my gaze to Luke, but he appeared distracted.

“Isn’t that your ex-boyf…boss over there?” Luke asked, unhappily.

I followed his gaze, and sure enough, Stefan stood at the bar, observing us.

“Ah, shit, he’s coming over,” I sighed and instinctively Luke edged closer.

“Natalie!” Stefan greeted too enthusiastically. He went in for the hug, whilst I stood there awkwardly accepting it.

“Stefan!” I greeted with a forced smile.

He looked Luke up and down. “Well, haven’t you been busy?” He returned his gaze to mine. “I heard a rumour you were playing tonight.”

I smiled, tightly.

“That duet was pretty impressive. You two are quite phenomenal together. Are you…” He raised his brow and motioned to the two of us being a couple.

“We’re friends,” I bluffed and Luke glanced away uncomfortably.

Stefan chuckled. “Riiight.”

“So, you’re back here looking for the next big thing?” I questioned, trying to move the conversation on.

“I discovered you here, didn’t I?” He winked. “So, I heard you were about to sign up to a new label, and I wanted to see if you would consider–”

“Nope.” I cut him off before he could ask me to come back.

“Not a chance?”

I shook my head. “Not a chance.”

“What about your ‘friend’? Is this a joint venture or is he a predominantly a solo act?”

Unsure as to why he was referring to Luke as if he wasn’t there, I turned to find him gone. I quickly scanned the crowd, but came up with nothing.

“Stay away from Luke, Stefan.”

He lifted his hands in surrender. “Just friends, hey?” he laughed.

“Look Stefan, I have to go. It was…nice seeing you,” I lied.

“I’m sure our paths will cross again soon.” He grinned.

I dreaded the day.

I made my way back to Nate and Amanda on the dance floor, hoping to find Luke with them.

“Have you guys seen Luke?” I yelled over the music.

“No, I assumed he was with you,” Nate responded, wagging his eyebrows.

I rolled my eyes.

“Perhaps he went to the bathroom?” Amanda offered.

“Yeah, perhaps…” I agreed, but something felt off.

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