Not that Storm knows the extent of it.
I also can’t tell him because, while I don’t think he would condone it, he’s still Phoenix’s best friend. And he’s in the band.
If the world knew their favorite front man was a fraud, it would jeopardize Sharp Objects as a whole, so I have no doubt he’d suddenly be on board with me being canned.
Loyalty and all that.
“I know he hurt you.”
Phoenix did more than hurt me.
He obliterated me.
“I can’t stop you from leaving,” he continues. “Shit, I can’t even blame you if that’s what you decide to do, but I…”
“You what?” I urge when his voice trails off.
“Phoenix isn’t the same.” Exhaling, he drags a hand down his face. “He’s been in a bad place and I can’t pull him out of it.” Dark eyes hold mine. “I thought it was the accident, but looking back, that was just the catalyst. His head’s been fucked for a while now, and he’s one mistake away from becoming the person he never wanted to be.”
“His father,” I whisper, ignoring the pang in my heart.
He nods. “I know I had no right to make Chandler hunt you down—especially after the way shit ended between you two—but I was desperate.” His massive shoulders rise in a shrug. “You helped him before when he needed it. I guess I was hoping you could do it again. Because he sure as shit ain’t listening to me no more. Or anyone else, for that matter.”
I feel bad for Storm because it’s clear he cares about his best friend. However, I have no desire to help Phoenix.
“I don’t care if Phoenix screws his life up.” Bringing the water bottle to my mouth, I take a sip. “I’m only here because I need the money.”
I don’t know what to make of his expression. “Right.”
I’m about to get up and leave, but his next statement makes me freeze.
“What’s going on with you, Lennon?”
When I peer up, genuine concern illuminates his face.
I like Storm, so I don’t have an issue confiding in him, I just don’t want Phoenix to be privy to it.
“I don’t want this getting back to Phoenix.”
Because it’s none of his damn business. He doesn’t deserve to know the private details of my life.
“It won’t. Whatever you tell me stays between us. You have my word.”
His tone is so earnest, I believe him.
“My dad is sick.” I force myself to breathe through the crushing ache gripping my heart. “Two years ago, he was diagnosed with early-onset dementia. He declined rapidly though, and I had to drop out of school to take care of him.”
“Damn.” His face crumples. “I’m sorry.”
Me too.
He shifts his feet, looking all sorts of uncomfortable now. “You want a hug or some shit?”
A laugh breaks free because while I appreciate the offer, the poor guy looks worried that I might take him up on it.
“I’m good. Thanks.”
He visibly relaxes. “Thank fuck.” Stuffing his hands in his pockets, he says, “We have a show tonight and then we’ll be on the tour bus. Stay in my room until soundcheck at seven.”
I’m grateful he’s giving me a place to hide out, so I don’t have to deal with the shithead. “I appreciate it.” That’s when I realize. “I left him handcuffed to the bed.”
Storm chuckles and I notice the tattoo on the side of his neck. It’s a giant middle finger. “Yeah, you did. But let him sweat it out a little longer.” A peculiar look crosses over his face. “That reminds me. I’ll be right back.”
He disappears into the bedroom, but returns a few moments later…carrying long black straps.
“What are those?”
“Not every headboard is handcuff friendly,” he explains as he hands them to me. “This is an under-the-bed restraint system. It goes between the mattress and box spring.” He gestures for me to stand. “Come on, I’ll show you how to set it up.”
Suffice it to say, I know exactly who gave Chandler those handcuffs now.
CHAPTER 28
LENNON
“I love you!”
“I want to have your babies!”
“I’ll let you stick it anywhere.”
My belly swoops as I watch him take the stage for the final performance of the night, his slim, toned frame slithering like a snake about to devour its prey.
Cigarette in hand, despite the stadium’s strict no-smoking policy, he grabs the mic in a crude gesture that earns more cheers from the crowd.