Tempting the Crown (The Crown 1)

“Thank you, thank you.” I was on the phone with the head of my label. He wanted to personally call and congratulate me on receiving the highest number of nominations any of his artists had this year.

“We’re so proud, Lexi. So proud.”

“I hope I can bring some home to the label.”

“Doesn’t matter,” he argued. “The nominations are their own reward.” I knew he was lying. Of course he wanted me to win. He wanted every one of those awards in his trophy room.

“Thanks again.”

“Sure thing. Now rest that voice of yours.”

“I will.”

I hung up and walked to the kitchen. My phone buzzed again. I looked at it regretfully.

“Get it. I understand.” Luke rose from the table to refill his mug.

“It will be quick. I promise.” I held up a finger. I’d much rather be spending my morning with him than dealing with all of these bullshit calls.

“Don’t worry about me. I have plays to study. I’ll head to that game room if I can find it again.” He winked and leaned over to kiss my cheek before walking out.

“Hey, Helena,” I answered.

“Girl, I heard you were sick. What am I going to catch? I do not want a cold. Or a sore throat. I spent the entire day with you yesterday and you seemed fine.”

I giggled. “Do you think you could catch Luke Canton?”

“I knew it!”

“No you didn’t. No one knows he’s here.”

“Ok, I didn’t, but I like it. Congrats on the nominations by the way.”

I filled my cup with coffee. “Thanks. I don’t think it’s really sunk in yet. I’m kind of distracted.”

“Yeah, I can see how that would happen with Mr. Sex Machine in the house.”

I almost spit out my first sip. “Helena!”

“Sexy Pants? Sex Master? I don’t know what pet name you gave him.”

“None of those.”

I sat at the table and looked out at the pool. The water was still and blue. I had thought about adding a fountain at one end, but I hadn’t started the planning yet.

“Well, I’m supposed to call you and start talking about the red carpet, and of course what you’re going to wear to perform, but we can do that when you’re alone.”

“Thanks. Couture isn’t on today’s agenda. But I am excited to talk about it.”

“Are you going to take him with you?”

“What?” I had lost focus on the pool.

“Luke? Is he going to be your plus one?”

I hadn’t thought about a date. “I-I can’t do that.”

“Don’t let Jake ruin this. It’s the biggest night of your career. You should take who you want. Take him. But please let me dress him to match you.”