Aiden starts a synchronized clap with the crowd during the chorus of our twangy anthem, “Pour Judgment.”

And while Rhett belts out the emotion-filled lyrics to our most recent hit, “Safe in These Arms,” I lock eyes with my beautiful wife, softly singing along, promising that no matter what challenges life may bring, these arms will be her haven.

The sight of her tears shakes me to my core. It’s a damn good thing it’s our last song of the night.

After Rhett’s closing speech, I shuck off my instrument and jump out into the crowd with my sights set on my girl.

She’s laughing with tears pouring down her cheeks when I grip her face in my hands and devour her salty lips.

The crowd goes nuts, but I barely notice, too keyed up on adrenaline. Too intoxicated by this woman. “I love you,” I say through a jumble of ravenous tongues. “So much, Li’l Bit.”

“I love you.” She laughs into my mouth. “We should stop. We’re making a hell of a scene.”

“All right, Romeo.” Anika parts the crowd shaking her head as she makes her way over to hand me a beer. “I’d say you more than earned this.”

“Thanks.” I take a long swig, downing more than half the bottle in one gulp.

“I was a little worried about how the crowd would interact with you, knowing you’re married now, but it didn’t seem to be an issue, judging by all of the thongs on that stage.”

“Told ya.” I puff out my chest. “I’m so good I make bitches forget their morals.”

“I can’t with you.” She rolls her eyes. “Go join the guys behind the bar and sign some autographs, huh?” Boss lady puts a hand on my back, nudging me forward.

“You got it.” I give her a salute and place a final peck to my wife’s lips.

“Wait,” Sammi says, yanking me back. She pulls my head down and takes a deep inhale near my lips. Her entire body shivers. “It gets me so hot, smelling myself on you.”

“Had me sportin’ wood all night.”

She giggles, and Anika gags.

“Gross.” My manager gives me a firm shove this time. “Go!”

Chapter Twenty-One

“The Rhett Taylor Band, everybody!” Helen Generous waves a hand, showcasing the band who are already waiting on stage but are only just coming into view as the velvet curtain lifts.

While she dances a little jig around the studio on the way to her chair, the guys stand and wave to the audience. The incessant flirts make a point to catch the air kisses the ladies are throwing at them and nail them with a series of panty-melting winks. The crowd goes wild. It feels like we’re at a concert rather than on daytime television.