Chapter 33
THIRTY-THREE
After returning from my adopted parents’ house, I drop by Lucas’ room.
Although it’s hard to call it a bedroom; it’s more like Isabelle’s with a separate sitting room, a bar area and a balcony leading to the pool.
I smile at him when he opens the door and looks at me with both eyebrows raised.
“Hi Lucas, I was wondering if you could give me a bit of advice?”
“Sure.” He stands to one side and waves me into the sitting room. He moves two guitars from the sofa and leans them against the wall. “Take a seat. What’s on your mind?”
I’m not sure what it is about Lucas but I feel at ease with him.
I’m guessing it’s because of his nonchalant attitude.
He seems relaxed all the time. “I have never been to a party on a yacht before. I don’t know what to wear and to be perfectly honest, being trapped out at sea with people I don’t know is a little concerning.
I have heard rumors about Linc’s entourage and, well, I’m just not that kind of girl. ”
“Oh, man, have you got things twisted.” Lucas’ smile spreads across his entire face and his eyes sparkle with amusement.
“I figure the stories go way back, maybe when the guys were in their twenties. These days they just sit around and drink and talk about old times. I figure that’s what these old-timers do for entertainment.
The ones my age jam—and yeah, there are girls but I’m sure you’ll be fine.
” He chuckles. “The gigs are the problem. Women look at my dad and other members of the band as sex objects. He doesn’t discourage them either; in fact, he plays it up to the hilt.
There are two of the original members left, the others are around my age and they get stuck right into it.
My dad likes his sleep and usually slips away to his hotel room.
I figure he only acts like he’s interested—but really what he does is none of my business, so don’t ask.
” He wiggles his eyebrows and grins. “Since my divorce, I’ve been keeping a very low profile and concentrating on my music.
” He sighs. “I’ve never given much thought about what guests wear on the yacht.
It is quite cool, late at night at sea. The wind picks up and the waves spray the deck.
I usually wear my jeans, a T-shirt and I take a jacket in case I plan on going on deck to get away from the noise.
If I had my choice, I wouldn’t go at all but we’ve worked hard on the songs and if I don’t show, I’ll disappoint my dad.
” He gives me a long considered stare. “It’s weird, I really like you—you’re really hot—shit!
Am I allowed to say that? Sorry!” He laughs.
“The thing is, I don’t feel any chemistry between us, as in, I know you don’t find me attractive. ”
The sudden switch in the conversation surprises me. I smile. “Lucas, you’re a good-looking guy, but I’ve never thrown myself at men. Truthfully, I feel comfortable with you, as if you’re a longtime friend. I find your music mesmerizing and I could listen to you playing all day.”
“Aw, that’s nice. Look, if you’re worried about the old man’s entourage, stick beside me tonight and the guys will leave you alone.” He pushes away from the wall where he’s been leaning. It’s obviously time for me to go.
I need to ask him one more question. “How do you know I’m not interested in you, romantically?”
“Most times, women can’t talk around me and give me doe eyes.
” He snorts with laughter. “But I can have a real conversation with you.” He opens the door.
“I’ll meet you in the piano room at eight forty-five.
I’ll walk with you to the dock. You’ll be safe with me.
” He gives me a dazzling smile. “Just keep away from Oliver. He turns into a werewolf on a full moon.” He winks. “It’s always the quiet ones, you know?”
I stand, shaking my head, and grin at him. “Thanks, Lucas.”