Smokescreen

Jake doesn’t try to hide his chuckle gaining him a dirty look from Stella.

“This is not funny. Nothing about this is even remotely humorous. Actually it’s humiliating. Why would you even think I’d agree to do this? Never in a million years would I willingly put myself in a position to be in pictures with you and Erica. I’ll be a laughing stock. Have you seen her?”

Jake’s face straightens and he looks directly at me in confusion.

“What the hell is that supposed to mean?” I question.

“She’s a fucking model! I’ll look like a fool.”

“That’s what you’re worried about? Her looks?”

“That and about a hundred other things.”

Without saying a word, I stalk to her and put both her wine and my beer to the side. Then I lift her onto the counter, wedging my body between her knees.

“No, Max, you’re not talking me into this. I don’t want to be associated with her or anything to do with her. She’s a menace. Nothing you can say will change my mind.”

“Let’s get one thing straight. You are fucking drop dead gorgeous. Absolutely exquisite. Everything about you is beautiful. Never doubt that. You’ve always had a hang-up with her looks, but it’s you who’s not paying attention when you look in the mirror.

“As for not being associated with her, I can understand that. But what about me? What about all the hard work we’ve put into JOS? These pictures are going to make a statement. It’s not just about advertising the athletic wear, it’s about the commitment.”

“Nope, still not buying it.”

“Yeah, babe. You are.” I cup her face softly and put my forehead to hers. “I need this.”

“Max, don’t play me. You know I’d do anything for you, but don’t ask me to do this. Please.”

“Think about it. Don’t say no yet. Give me time to convince you.” My lips touch hers lightly.

“No fair, Max, you’re asking me to do something I’m completely uncomfortable with.”

“Two days, give me your final answer in two days.”

She nods against me and sighs loudly.

“It’s none of my business, but Max is right, Stella. Erica doesn’t even compare when it comes to you,” Jake says.

“You’re right it’s none of your business,” I growl, turning to glare at him over my shoulder.

He grins at me and Stella giggles, squeezing my waist with her thighs. “Thank you, Jake.”

I start to say something else when my phone rings with Dana’s ringtone.

“Hello—”

“Max!” she cuts me off. “Edward dropped to the ground about ten minutes after you left. The paramedics took him to the hospital but it doesn’t look good. They think he had a massive heart attack. None of his vitals were responding.”

“Shit! Which hospital?”

“Emory Cardiac and Heart Center.”

“I’m on my way. I’ll call you when I know something.” I hang up and see Stella’s worried expression. “Edward’s had a heart attack. I need to go to the hospital.”

“I’ll go with you.” She pushes against me trying to get down.

“No, babe, I need you to stay here.”

“Don’t you want me with you?”