I closed my eyes at the end of the song and then spoke into the mic, "We're the Duds! Thanks for coming out tonight!" I gave one wave and then turned off the mic, the applause overpowering anything I would've said, anyway.

I made my way to the bar, pushing through the crowd. I ended up at Kent's side and ordered myself another shot of tequila. I glanced at him but wasn't going to say anything to him unless he said something first. Kent sat the drinks down and pulled some money out to pay for my drink.

"I'm sorry, Elly."

I pushed his money back to him. "I get free drinks on gig nights."

Kent took the money and put it back into his pocket. "I was listening to those songs and the words. I know some of those were meant for me, Elly."

"And you're apologizing because...?" I stared up to him, not letting him get away with being vague tonight.

Kent looked like he was having trouble finding his words. "For how we left each other before summer. "

"Oh. You mean how you just walked away from me?” My eyebrows lifted in unison along with my voice.

"Yes. For how I left you. I know you were crying as I walked out of your dorm room. That's what I was sorry for."

I threw back the shot and set it gently on the bar as I swallowed.

"No apology needed. I'm good. Singing is very therapeutic. I hope you two are happy together." I reached up and put my hand on his cheek, my thumb grazing at the very corner of his mouth gently. I knew I was playing with fire but I just couldn't seem to help myself. But being friends again wasn’t in the cards.

His face turned just slightly as if he were going to kiss my thumb. It was much like the way he kissed my cheek that night we’d slept together.

I was pulled to the side abruptly, my hand leaving his face. "Stop flirting, Princess,” a male voice purred in my ear.

The man who held me had blonde spiky hair, multiple face piercings, and a mean look about him. He was dressed like a pimp complete with the tall feather in his hat. I smiled at him and wrapped my arms around his neck and stepped close, pressing myself against him. I wanted to be sure that Kent got an eyeful. I wanted him to regret his choice. The choice he continued to make. The wrong choice.

"Make me,” I purred back. He flashed me his charming smile which kicked his looks up at least four pegs. He pressed his lips to the side of my exposed neck.

"Gladly," he growled in his deep, raspy voice. I giggled and looked in Kent's direction. Kent was picking the drinks up and was getting ready to move back through the crowd.