e rest of the table has grown quiet.
I definitely should have had my father or Wes comb over the papers before I signed. I assumed it was a standard release. I assumed wrong.
“Mrs., what’s your name?” I question placing my palm firmly on the table in an attempt not to slap her.
“Call me Charlotte.”
“Charlotte, my father happens to be one of the most successful attorneys’ in Nashville, and I am sure he can find something that will squash the power you seem to feel you have over me.”
“That’s cute, sweetheart. Then you should know to have your attorney look over any papers before you sign anything that is legally binding. Now take your seat and listen. We’re about to make you a star.”
“Jameson?” I look to him knowing better than to count on his support.
He won’t even meet my eyes. Bastard.
Reluctantly, I return to my seat.
“Ahem,” Mr. Grant clears his throat. “Now back to business. When you pick a mentor, you will choose Jameson. Once live voting starts, we’ll start leaking photos making you appear cozier than the other contestants. A budding romance about to fully bloom. The public will go wild. Once you win the audience over and they want the two of you together…we reveal your shared past. The tabloids will go nuts.”
“I’m getting married in three weeks,” I grit fuming, and flashing my ring at them. It’s a lie, but these people don’t need to know I just called the damn wedding off. These people don’t own me. I’m not for sale
“Viewers will fall in love with your story. Teen lovers torn apart by tragedy, reunited and falling in love again,” Charlotte says talking over me.
“Did you hear me? I said I’m getting married in three weeks.” Panic sets in. I can’t be on this show and working side by side with Jameson as my fucking mentor. No way. No way in hell. I suck in a breath afraid my heart is going to burst. Tears build behind my eyes. When I get angry enough to cry that is when you know I am truly pissed off.
“Not now you aren’t,” she responds as though she is talking about cancelling a magazine subscription.
“Fans will love knowing he named his band for you. This is going to do wonders for both of your careers. I can see it now. Websites dedicated to your love story. They will be wearing t-shirts that say Peyson on them. Our ratings will be through the roof. You don’t have to worry about winning or not. You’re getting a contract at the end of the show either way, and of course, the very first tour you’ll be on is with Jameson’s band. You’ll be the opening act.”
The sound of her voice drowns into the background as I remember the day that he chose the name, Jameson’s Addiction.
Flashback
Jameson officially moved in with his Aunt and Uncle three months ago. We are what my Nana calls going together. She’s so funny. My dad is less than thrilled to learn I have a boyfriend, and Barb had the nerve to tell me not to get pregnant when I stayed over at their place last weekend. As if. Jameson and I are careful. I know sex is a big deal, but I trust Jameson, he’s just…perfect.
Although lately, he’s so focused on his new band, he hardly has time for me anymore, not that I mind. Ruby Jane and I listen to them practice. They are getting really good. I’m trying to convince Jameson to enter battle of the bands. It’s the big competition they host at the high school and the winner gets their song played on one of the big radio stations.
He thinks they need more practice while I disagree.
I’m not going to argue with him though. He can get testy when it comes to his music.
His Uncle Rodney has been allowing him to use his old storage shed in the backyard for rehearsing.
Ruby Jane and I are sitting on the back patio trying to come up with a good catchy name for the band.
The guys have shot down all ten of our ideas so far.
Ruby Jane marks another name off the list while I rack my brain for new ideas.
Jameson comes out from the shed all sweaty and gross from practice. The rest of the band files out behind him.
He comes in for a hug and I squeal while trying to shove him away. He rubs his damp hair against my cheek. Ugh! Boys are so nasty sometimes.
His sister puffs up with her hands on her hips and then she kicks his shin for messing with me.
Thea steps out on the patio and tells the guys it’s time for them to get home.
I should go home too, but Jameson asks if I can stay for dinner.