Brooklyn & Beale (18 page)

He clutched the box of cupcakes, the sound of the cardboard shifting drawing Chloe’s attention back to him. When their eyes met, his heart sank at the thought of disappointing her. Her expression changed as she gave him a sweet smile. It was almost like she knew exactly what he was thinking.

“Jess, you have to be either totally keyed up or flat on your face exhausted. Either way, you haven’t seen Reid in months, so I’m going to get out of your hair and let you two spend some much deserved time together.”

Jess smiled brightly. “I’m totally keyed up. I’ve never been to Paris. I want to see everything.” Jess paused, looking around the lobby before turning her attention back to Chloe. “Do you want to come with us? We can grab a late lunch or something? I don’t know where everyone disappeared to and I don’t want to leave you here by yourself.”

Reid felt like an asshole. While he stood agitated and angered by Jess’s unexpected visit, she was inviting Chloe to tag along with them so she wouldn’t be alone. Jess deserved so much more than he was giving her. She deserved so much more than him.

“Are you kidding me?” Chloe scoffed. “We’re in Paris. The city of love. You two should have some time alone. I’ll be fine. I’m going to my room to relax, then I’ll see if any of the others want to explore. I promise, I’ll have no trouble whatsoever occupying myself. But thank you for the offer.”

Jess leaned forward and hugged Chloe once more, whispering something in her ear that Reid couldn’t understand. Chloe giggled and, with a sharp nod, stepped away. “I mean it,” Jess said, smiling.

“We’ll play it by ear. You might change your mind.” Chloe looked to Reid and smiled. “See you at rehearsals.” Without another word, Chloe spun on her heel and moved toward the elevators. Reid couldn’t tear his eyes away as she slipped inside the doors and pressed the button for their floor. Even as the doors slid shut, she never looked up.

“Well,” Jess sighed, leaning forward and pressing a soft kiss on his lips. “Are you ready to show me Paris?”

Reid looked at the box of cupcakes in his hand and swallowed thickly. “Sure. Let me drop this off at the front desk so they can take them to my room.”

Jess peered at the box and licked her lips. “Oh my God, those look amazing. We should just eat them now.”

“No,” Reid snapped, his regret immediate when Jess flinched. “I’m sorry. These are Chloe’s. I’m rationing her so she doesn’t end up in a sugar coma. We can pick up some fresh ones when we’re out. Okay?”

Jess agreed, her face still colored with hurt. Reid leaned forward and pressed his forehead to hers. He pulled in a deep breath then gently kissed her lips. “I’m really glad you’re here.”

Jess exhaled and gripped the front of his shirt. “Me too.” They stood that way for several moments before she gave him a light push and lifted her chin toward the front desk. “Go. Drop those off so we can explore. I’ll be right here.”

With a nod, Reid headed to the front desk. “Hi,” he said, leaning against the counter. “Could you have these delivered to my room?”

“Of course, Mr. Ryder—I mean, Mr. Higgins,” the clerk corrected with a sheepish smile. “Sorry, I recognized you. You don’t have to worry, though, I won’t tell anyone. Is there anything else?”

Reid hesitated, a heavy sigh passing through his parted lips. “Could you do me a favor? Take that pink cupcake and keep it fresh. At midnight, can you deliver it to Ms. Bennett’s room?”

The clerk eyed him curiously as he jotted down the request. “Anything else?”

Reid motioned for the notepad and pen. The clerk passed it to him and busied himself with calling the kitchen as Reid scrawled out a note.

Happy birthday, Chloe. I’m sorry I couldn’t deliver this myself. I’ll make it up to you, I promise. -Reid

“Attach this, please,” Reid instructed as he folded the paper in half.

“Everything will be taken care of. Please let us know if you need anything else. Have a good afternoon, Mr. Higgins.”

With a nod, Reid rapped on the counter with his knuckles twice before turning and walking toward Jess, ignoring the part of him that felt like he’d completely let Chloe down.

“Shit,” Chloe sniffled, leaning against the back of the elevator. She closed her eyes as she tried to clear her mind. Seeing Reid with Jess was like standing in the middle of Iceland naked as someone poured a five-gallon bucket of ice water on her head. It was jarring and eye-opening. It was a bitter slap of reality. A reminder that she was veering toward a path that would end in nothing but shame, embarrassment, and heartache.

When the elevator dinged, she stepped out into the hall, her shoulders drooping when she spotted Inky seated on the floor by her door. “Hey.”

Inky pushed off the wall and stood. “Do we need to tiptoe around why I’m here?”

Chloe looked away. “No.”

“Good,” Inky sighed. “I’ll skip all the bullshit and just ask if you want to go get shitty.”

Chloe let out a tired laugh and smiled. “Okay, maybe we should tiptoe a little.”

Inky shrugged. “Jess showing up the day before your birthday when you made plans with Reid has got to suck. I know we’ve had the dogs and bones conversation before, but just because it’s not allowed doesn’t mean the constant attention won’t mess with a bone’s head.”

Chloe took the room key from Inky’s outstretched hand and stuck it in the door. “So what you’re saying is, even though the dog is completely off the table, it’s understandable that the bone might think about things it shouldn’t as a result of the excessive amount of time they’ve spent together?”

“Exactly.” Inky nodded. “At least, I think so. The analogy is way more complicated than it used to be.”

“Tell me about it,” Chloe mumbled as she walked into her room. “Thanks for bringing all my things up.”

“You’re welcome. So me, Lincoln, and Chad are going out to grab a few drinks. I think Tom and the others are going to join us later. Do you wanna come?”

Chloe dropped her bag on the bed and turned to face Inky. “Not now, but will you text me where you guys end up so we can meet up later?”

“Absolutely.” Inky paused. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

“Yeah.” Chloe smiled. “I’m good. We’ll catch up later.”

After Inky left, Chloe set about putting away her things and setting aside her clothes for the following day. She showered, washed her hair, and took extra time with her makeup. Anything to keep her mind off what happened earlier. She spent much of her time debating whether or not to go to the cemetery, but in the end realized she’d be an idiot not to go. With her map shoved in her back pocket, she left the hotel in the direction of Père Lachaise.

For the next several hours, Chloe immersed herself in the rich history of her surroundings. In awe, she walked leisurely down the winding pathways. Large catacombs, intricate headstones, and statues carved from stone towered around her, each engraved with names, dates, and inscriptions from loved ones. The endless sea of gray stone, cracked and weathered by time, created a somber atmosphere. Even the occasional burst of colorful flower arrangements did little to change the mood. It was everything she’d hoped and more. For the first time since Jess had showed up at the hotel, Chloe’s mind was calm.

A serene smile curved her lips as she came to a stop in front of Jim Morrison’s final resting place. It wasn’t like the pictures she’d seen from years before. The bust was gone and metal barricades now surrounded the area. Even still, dozens of flowers and notes littered the grave, proof that avid fans hadn’t been deterred. Chloe pulled out her camera and zoomed closer to snap a few pictures. She paused at one note in particular that read:
Abney was here in spirit. She loves you, Jim.

Chloe imagined someone scaling the barricade to place the note there for a friend. The thought made her smile. After a couple more pictures, Chloe took a final glance over her shoulder before working her way toward the exit. The afternoon might not have gone as planned, but it was perfect nonetheless.

Later that evening when Inky texted about dinner, Chloe declined. Not because she was moping, but the exact opposite. She was content, happy. The last thing she wanted to do was listen to the others speculate about Jess’s unexpected visit. Instead, she spent the evening lounging in her hotel room, eating room service, and watching old black-and-white movies. She fought to keep all thoughts of Reid and what he was doing at bay as the clock crept closer and closer to midnight. Deciding to call it a night, she crawled into bed seconds before there was a knock at the door.

Her pulse thundered in her ears as she made her way to the door. Not bothering to ask who was there, Chloe opened the door. She hated the way her heart sank at the sight of the hotel employee. She should have known better. She did know better.

“I have a delivery for you, Ms. Bennett.”

“I didn’t order anything,” Chloe said, her brows pulled together in confusion.

“It’s from another hotel guest, ma’am.”

Chloe stood motionless until the guy lifted the silver domed plate toward her. Blinking, she pulled it from his outstretched hands and said thanks before stepping back and letting the door fall shut. She walked back to the bed and set the plate down. She knew what she’d find when she lifted the top. What she wasn’t sure of was if seeing it would make her feel better or worse. Rolling her eyes, she lifted the top, and as expected, a single cupcake sat in the middle of the plate. She grabbed the folded piece of paper along with the cupcake and moved the domed plate to the table. Taking a bite, she closed her eyes and exhaled. If nothing else, at least this part of her surprise was pure bliss. After another bite, she read Reid’s note. Her vision blurred as tears forced themselves to the surface. She blinked and looked away, refusing to cry on her birthday. Instead, she finished her cupcake, crawled into bed, and thought about anything other than Reid and Jess.

Reid paced the length of his hotel room. Over and over, he raked his hand through his hair, unable to tear his gaze away from the beautiful girl sleeping peacefully in the bed. With a frustrated groan, he threw on some clothes and slipped out of the hotel room. In quick strides, he moved down the hall and knocked on Tom’s door. It only took a minute for Tom to open the door and usher Reid inside.

“Did you know?” Reid asked, not bothering with formalities.

Tom nodded, his expression remorseful.

“And you didn’t think that was something I should have been told?” Reid spat.

Tom crossed his arms over his chest and lifted his brow in challenge. “First of all, I only found out a couple of days ago. Second, why are you so angry that your girlfriend surprised you by showing up in Paris? Haven’t you been asking her to come visit since we left?”

Reid dropped his chin to his chest and gripped his hair. “I don’t like being caught off guard.”

“That’s the whole point of a surprise visit, and it still doesn’t explain your anger.”

“It’s just—”

“Cut the bullshit, Reid,” Tom interrupted, his voice hard. “You’re pissed because Jess showing up ruined your plans with Chloe.”

“Chloe has nothing to do with this.” Reid could hear the lie in his words.

Tom laughed. “This has everything to do with Chloe. You two are together all the time. You have all these inside jokes, and I see the way you look at her. Hell, you guys act more like a couple than most couples. Don’t forget, I was there when you and Jess split. I saw what it did to you. Are you willing to lose her all over again because of your infatuation with Chloe? I get it, man; Chloe’s a cool chick, and if that’s the direction you choose, then whatever. I just want you to make sure you know what you’re doing, because if you fuck things up with Jess again, she’s not going to take you back. Are you prepared for that?”

Reid shifted his weight and frowned. He knew his feelings were changing, that something was shifting, but he wasn’t ready to admit that to anyone else. “Yes, Chloe and I are close, but not like you’re implying. Do I think she’s attractive? Hell yes. She’s fucking gorgeous. We have a good time together, and she’s someone I trust.” He looked away and cleared his throat. “She’s helped me get through a few rough spots.”

“Rough spots? What are you not telling me?” Tom’s voice was laced with concern, all traces of anger gone.

Reid rubbed the back of his neck and exhaled. “I’m just saying that I’ve been tempted to do things that I have no business doing. Chloe was there for me.”

“Reid,” Tom exhaled as he dragged his hand down his face. “What does Chloe know?”

Reid lifted his gaze, his eyes locking with Tom’s. “Everything.”

Tom’s eyes widened. “Everything, everything?”

“All of it. And then some.”

“Holy shit,” Tom whispered. “Why would you do that?”

“Because I trust her.”

Tom blew out a heavy breath. “This is more complicated than I thought. Damn, Reid, you don’t even see it, do you?”

“Don’t start your psychoanalysis shit with me. I know how it looks. I’m not stupid. But I swear to you, it’s not like that. I’m with Jess.”

“Well then, you should get back to her. I’m sure she’s wondering where you are.”

Reid looked at the bedside clock and sighed. “Sorry I snapped at you. I’ll see you at the venue.”

“Don’t worry about it. See you later.”

Slipping out of the room, he headed down the hall, slowing as he passed Chloe’s door before shaking his head and going to his room. Seeing Chloe was the last thing he needed to do.

Sitting on top of a vanity in the band’s lounge area at the venue, Chloe tried her best to make Greer go away. “Why are you doing this?” she whined, her face twisted into a pout. She was certain she looked every bit as idiotic as she felt.

Greer laughed and adjusted her party hat. “It’s your birthday, and since the evil king isn’t here to lock you away in a tower like some modern-day Rapunzel, I’m taking full advantage of the situation.”

Chloe gave him a wry smile and kicked her leg out, barely missing his shin. “Don’t be a dick.” She reached up to pull off the silly hat, but Greer grabbed her arm.

Stepping between her legs, he held her arm away and gave her a look of disapproval. “Am I going to need to tie your hands behind your back, or are you going to behave and let me have my way?”

Chloe’s eyes widened and she slapped her free hand over her mouth to stifle the abrupt laugh that burst from her chest. Greer leered at her, his smile cheeky. It only made Chloe laugh harder. “You’re insane.”

“And you have a filthy mind. You were totally thinking about me tying you up. Admit it.” Chloe opened her mouth to protest, but her words were cut off when another voice rang out.

“Well, I see Greer hasn’t changed a bit.”

Chloe leaned around Greer, her stomach sinking when she spotted Reid and Jess standing in the doorway. Jess wore a wide smile and her eyes danced with mirth, but Reid looked as though he was contemplating murder. Their expressions couldn’t have been more different.

Still holding Chloe’s arm, Greer turned toward Jess and winked. “Does that mean you’re ready to dump that loser for me?”

Jess laughed. “It seems like you already have your hands full.”

“Literally,” Reid added, his voice flat, his gaze locked on where Greer held Chloe’s arm.

Chloe cleared her throat and tugged her arm free. “Hey, guys.”

“Hi, Chloe.” Jess smiled as she crossed the room. “Happy birthday!”

Chloe returned her smile. “Thanks.”

Jess grabbed a nearby chair and pulled it in front of Chloe before falling into it with a sigh. “Jet lag is a bitch.”

“I told you to stay at the hotel and get some rest,” Reid said, moving slowly toward the group.

“And miss your show? Are you kidding?” Jess’s eyes widened with mock outrage. Her tone was playful, but Chloe couldn’t help but notice the way her knuckles whitened from her grip on the chair.

“That’s the thing about being on tour. There’s show after show after show to look forward to.”

“Damn, bro. There’s goes my theory that getting laid would mellow you out. You’re still just as broody as ever. How do you put up with this guy?” Greer asked, his tone joking and lighthearted.

Chloe would have given anything to be somewhere else. She didn’t want to think about what Reid and Jess had done the night before. She didn’t want to see Jess’s pink cheeks or the sweet smile she wore when she peeked up at Reid. Most of all, she didn’t want to feel the pang of jealousy that burned like acid.

“Chloe, do you have plans for your birthday after the show?” Jess asked, obviously wanting to change the subject.

Chloe shook her head while Greer nodded. Chloe looked over at him, her brows pinched. “I have plans?”

“Yup. You sure do. You ditched us last night. It’s not happening again. We don’t have to do anything big, but we’re going out for a drink later. Inky won’t take no for an answer.”

Chloe rolled her eyes. “I didn’t ditch you last night. I’d been walking all afternoon and I was exhausted. And I’d love to go out after the show for a drink.” Chloe’s gaze flickered to Reid. His expression was blank, his eyes impassive. It made her feel ridiculous for her flash of jealousy earlier. Reid was just her friend. Steeling herself, Chloe turned to Jess.

“Do you guys want to come with us? I know you said you were tired, but the offer stands.”

“That’s the spirit,” Greer bellowed, his arm finding its way around Chloe’s shoulders once more. “We’ll all go, one big, happy family.” He reached over and tugged at the hat still on Chloe’s head.

“Oh my God,” she laughed, batting his hand away and pulling off the hat. “I’m not wearing this.” She waved the hat in Greer’s face, pulling it out of his reach when he made a grab for it.

“You’re no fun.”

“Are they always like this?” Jess giggled, hooking her finger in Reid’s pocket and pulling him closer.

“Yup.” Reid’s clipped tone and one-word answers made it clear that Greer’s antics were pushing his buttons. Chloe had no doubt that was the exact reaction Greer wanted. This time, however, Chloe wasn’t going to step in the middle.

“We’d love to come.” Jess looked up at Reid and tugged on his jeans to get his attention. “Is that okay with you?”

Reid looked down at Jess, his shoulders slumping at the sight of her hopeful expression. “If that’s what you want to do, then that’s what we’ll do.”

“Thanks,” Jess answered. “Can we go see Inky now? She has a couple of shirts from the opening band that she’s holding for me.”

Reid looked at Greer. “Hey, man. I need to talk to Chloe about a few things with the show. Will you walk with Jess to where Inky is setting up?”

Chloe tensed. She wasn’t sure why, but suddenly the thought of being alone with Reid made her nervous.

“No problem.” Greer smirked, his gaze locked on Reid. The knowing look in his eyes made Chloe fidget. “Just remember, when Jess falls madly in love with me, you have only yourself to blame.”

Reid laughed, but it sounded off. Hollow. “I’ll take my chances.”

Jess looked at Chloe. “These two must be loads of fun on the bus.”

Chloe smiled and swallowed hard. “One big, happy family.”

“I can’t wait,” Jess snarked with a grin.

Silence filled the room once Jess’s and Greer’s voices faded down the hall. Chloe’s eyes were downcast as she fumbled with the hat in her hands. It was the most awkward she’d felt around Reid in a long time. She hated it. She peeked up at him, but he wasn’t looking at her. His hands were shoved deep in his pockets, his shoulders hunched, and his eyes moving over everything in the room except Chloe. It was maddening.

“So what did you want to talk about?” Chloe asked, unable to stand the uncomfortable silence anymore.

After several seconds, Reid looked at her. His hair was more disheveled than usual, and dark circles Chloe hadn’t noticed before rimmed his eyes. All of Chloe’s apprehension faded in an instant as concern crashed over her. Without hesitation, she stood and closed the distance between them.

“Are you okay?” she whispered, her thumb tracing the purple line under his eye.

Reid blew out a heavy breath and covered Chloe’s hand with his own, holding her in place. “I’m sorry I missed your birthday.” The soft, remorseful tone of his voice made Chloe’s heart ache. She hated that he felt so bad about not going to the cemetery, especially given the reason. She also hated that she didn’t hate it nearly as much as she should have.

“You didn’t miss my birthday,” she said with a smile. “You’re here now.”

Reid leaned into her hand and his eyes fell shut. “You know what I mean.”

A throat cleared and Chloe jerked her hand away as if she’d been burned. Tom stood in the doorway, his expression unreadable. “I saw Greer in the hall. He said you two were talking about the show tonight. I wanted to see if there were any changes you planned on making.” His gaze drifted to Reid, his eyes challenging. “Are you making any changes, Reid?”

Reid’s face hardened and his hands balled into fists at his side. “No. Everything is exactly as it should be.” His tone was clipped, angry. Chloe suddenly got the feeling they weren’t talking about the show.

Tom’s eyes flickered to Chloe. He must have seen the confusion on her face because his aggressive stance disappeared immediately. “Sometimes change is the right thing. Happy birthday, Chloe. You guys are gonna kill it tonight.” With a nod, he turned and left the room.

“What the hell is going on?” Chloe blurted out, her eyes fixed on Reid. “Why is everyone acting so weird?”

“What are you talking about?” Reid countered, averting his gaze.

Chloe exhaled heavily. “Never mind.” She didn’t need to hear him say it. Just like the fans and the media, Tom and Greer thought something was going on between Chloe and Reid. It didn’t matter that they were around them every single day and saw that nothing other than friendship existed; they were suspicious. It made Chloe feel dirty. As much as she cared for Reid, as much as she found him attractive, she would never cross that line. That wasn’t her. She would never be that girl.

Reid nudged her foot and smiled when she met his eyes. “I brought you something.”