Nothing in Between: One: Nothing to..., #2.5

ONE

Reality had never been so dreamlike. Going through the motions of the show, smiling and laughing, playing the part, it was odd to think she’d never really done the chat show interview thing before. Maybe being next to Zairn bolstered her confidence. Next to the man she loved. The man she’d announced her love for without knowing if he wanted her back. What a stupid thought, of course he wanted her back. He’d known they were forever long before stupid her figured it out.

Confidence wasn’t exactly a problem for her pre-big-announcement-to-the-universe. Still, knowing Zairn would support her no matter what gave a whole new meaning to the word. This was her life now. With him. Beside him. They were a team. Equals. He’d given her the world. Literally. It would take a lifetime to show him how much she wished to do the same.

And we’re out, a Headset Guy called.

Everyone started moving and talking. The crew. The audience. Talk at Sunset was over for another night. It was time to clear out. Those required to stay silent and still were now free. All were free. Including her.

Pinned to her man’s side, Roxanna Kyst was happy to stay on the couch and let activity flourish everywhere else. The audience prepared to leave, putting on jackets and checking purses. The crew did their duties, probably eager to get home. Everyone had purpose. Hers was to stay right there. At her guy’s side.

Talk at Sunset host, Drew Harvey, shifted to the edge of his seat. Drinks on you tonight, Z?

Yeah, the musician from the other end of the couch spoke up. You got the girl, I say drinks are on you.

Not my decision, Zairn said, squeezing her knee.

All focus landed on her.

What do you say, Future Mrs. Lomond? Drew Harvey asked. Want to invite us to your party?

Sounded like a damper on the night she’d envisioned. Oh, uh, sure, she said, figuring they should be thankful to those who’d facilitated their reunion. I have to go back to the hotel to change first.

You look great!

Yeah, I know, she said, flashing the men a smile. I like to look extra great for Crimson.

Zairn stood, taking her hand to draw her to her feet. We’ll meet you there.

Drew Harvey laughed. If you get your girl back to the hotel, I don’t think we’ll see you ‘til the next time you’re in town.

Zairn scooped a protective arm around her. That’s the hope,

The others stood. We’ll start a pool. See if anyone gets close to how long it takes you to show.

Do that.

As Zairn was about to step past, the host grabbed his arm. You will call ahead about the free drinks though, right?

Zairn laughed. Don’t think I’ve seen you pay for a drink in your life, Drew. Think they stopped counting your tab when it hit five figures.

Jovial laughter followed them to the curtain at the back of the set. In the rear corridor, people hurried around, moving things, talking to this person and that. Bustle charged the air. Though the guy holding her hand didn’t seem to notice.

Ignoring everyone and everything, Zairn led her through the organized chaos and outside to a familiar alley. The one Astrid used when they first exited the building after Roxie’s win.

Just like then, a driver stood next to an open rear car door, waiting for them. Once they were inside, the door closed.

How do they do that? she asked. Know when you’re leaving, or do they just stand there all night? What if it’s raining?

I don’t know, Zairn said, his