“More than that, I wanna know, what brings you here, of all places, tonight?” Kellan put his arm across Poppy’s shoulder. “I thought you’d be out with the guys at a bar, partying as usual.”
“Um, ouch.” I faked a flinch.
“Oh, stop teasing him.” Poppy smiled at Kellan. “What brings you to the ballet?”
“Murphy asked me to meet her here and here I am,” I grinned. “But the bar is where I’m heading next.”
“I said it, didn’t I?” Kellan shook his head with a laugh.
“Kellan, leave him alone. He just graduated, he deserves to have some fun.” Poppy jabbed Kellan in the ribs.
“What’s new with you guys? Other than the baby, that is.” I decided not to continue the partying conversation. “How long are you in the states?”
“We leave in a few days. Auntie Victoria has kidnapped the baby, so we get to be grown-ups for a bit,” Poppy smiled. “I think she’s practicing for Mia’s and Parker’s baby.”
“Oh, I don’t think your little one is any less special to her.” I looked at my cell for the time.
“Now it’s your turn. What’s up next for you?” Kellan asked pointedly.
“I’m not really sure. I’d like to get into the family business, like you.” I waved to Murphy when she made a face at me. “Thanks for that opening to talk to you about joining the Hawthorne crew.”
“I don’t think now’s the time for that discussion,” Kellan said. “Call me when you’re done partying, then we’ll talk.”
“That’s not fair. You had fun in college, too.” I caught myself getting mad. “I’ve heard the stories.”
“I think you have me confused with Sawyer. The second half is starting.” Kellan put his hand out. “Call me later in the week.”
One thing I’d just learned was that I wasn’t going to have Kellan’s full support. He clearly thought I was like Sawyer, but I’m not and I have to figure out a way to prove it. I was ready to leave but I felt an urge to go backstage to see if the tyrant was still screaming at everyone. I walked around backstage. I didn’t see the guy, but I could hear him down the hall.
I wonder if the audience can hear him. Murphy needs to do something about that.
I sent Murphy a text.“I’m leaving now. I’ll try to come back.”
“Who you kidding? lol. Once you get to the bar with the guys, you won’t be leaving.”
“You know me so well, at least the old me. But I’ve changed.”
“Come tomorrow night like an hour early and I’ll show you around.”
“Mayyyybeeeeeee.”
I sent my driver a text to pick me up then slid my cell in my pocket. I’d already decided I’d be back tomorrow night to see how the crazy tyrant was treating people. I was a little concerned for Murphy’s well-being.
ChapterFive
SABRINA
Istood close to Yury as he greeted everyone. It was amazing to me how he acted around other people.
If they only knew just how horrible he really is.
I was pulled from my thoughts when Yury pinched my back. It was then that I heard my name.
“Good evening.Do you come to the ballet often?” I fumbled my words. “My apologies, my name is Sabrina.”
“Yes Sabrina, we are avid ballet lovers. I personally thought you were magnificent,” the lady smiled. “I often say to my husband that I can’t imagine doing some of the things you can do. It’s so beautiful.”
“Thank you so much. It does take a great amount of practice.” I looked to Yury when his stare became harsher. “Thank you for your compliments.”