Dangerous Kiss (Dangerous Noise 1)

He's happy as a fucking clam.

This is none of my business. I should keep it to myself.

But I gotta ask. "Would you really have quit the band for Kara?"

"For Kara? No. Kara made me promise not to quit the band. If she asked? Yeah, in a heartbeat." He laughs. "You know what it's like when you love someone. That always comes first."

"Yeah, right." My words are hollow.

I'm not sure I can put anything ahead of music. Ever. I loved Violet when we were together. I want to be with her but I've been working on music since I was fifteen. I can't fuck up again. Not for anything.

Drew's voice is still dreamy. "I loved the guitar as much as anyone could, but music will never compare to family. Kara's always been my family. It's more obvious to other people now that she's pregnant, but she's always been my home. Wherever she is, that's where I want to be."

His dark eyes light up as he watches her.

He knows exactly where shit stands. Kara comes first. Their family comes first.

"Seriously, Ethan, anything you need, let me know. Can't offer much besides my skill on guitar but I'm more than happy to fill in for you."

"I'll think about that."

Drew looks to me and raises a brow. "You alright?"

Maybe. I offer Drew my hand.

He shakes his head and pulls me into a hug.

He steps back with a smile and returns to his fiancée.

I follow.

Kara is complimenting Violet's makeup and commiserating about graduate school. She's about to graduate with her Teaching Credential. She found a job that was willing to defer her employment for a year, what with her being due right when the school year starts.

Violet leans in to whisper something to her.

Kara laughs. "Aren't they always?" She turns to me. "Thank you, Ethan. I… I don't know what to say." She pulls me into a hug then plants a kiss on my cheek. "You're really a great guy. Thank you."

Fuck, I'm blushing now.

Kara steps back and whispers something to Drew.

He shakes Violet's hand. "It was nice to finally meet you officially."

She smiles. "You too."

We exchange goodbyes then the happy couple hurries to the elevator bank.

Violet moves close enough to whisper. "I think the two of them might be in love with you."

"They're thankful."

"It's sweet how you helped them." She pulls me into a hug and rests her head on my chest. "Kara's right. You are a great guy."

My cheeks burn hotter. I don't blush over anything. Fuck, this sucks.

She lets out a long, deep sigh of pleasure as she pulls me closer. "So why are you taking me to LAX?"

I have to laugh. "Damn, gossip travels fast."