“That was great!” One of the guitarists from Fast Cars high-fived her on the way offstage. It felt good. She thought about sticking around for their performance, but it wasn’t for another fifteen minutes.

“Ms. Foster?”

Annie turned to find a young man dressed in a blue suit and a black button-down shirt flagging her down. “Yes?”

“Hello. I’m Kimball. I’m with Top Shelf Records. Sterling Mayfield asked that I escort you to the private suite.”

Since security didn’t stop him, she figured he was legit. Her heart fell. She was on such a high, and the last thing she wanted was to spend the evening with Sterling. She’d agreed last night to appease her but seriously regretted it. “Sure.” Several people along the way yelled out “great set” and “incredible job.” Her heart soared at their kind remarks.

Sterling swooped into Annie’s personal space and grabbed her hand the moment Kimball opened the suite door. “Annie! You made it. Come in here. I want you to meet my father, Tyson Mayfield.” Annie gritted her teeth at Sterling’s touch, knowing full well they’d just had a conversation about consent earlier. Not wanting to make a scene, Annie went along with it and broke free from Sterling’s grasp to shake Tyson’s hand. “It’s nice to meet you. Thank you for the invitation.”

His teeth gleamed when his lips spread into a smile. Annie wanted to shrink back at the smarmy vibes that rolled off him. His dark hair was slicked, and the cologne he wore was so strong that she almost recoiled at its potency.

“Annie Foster. That was quite a show you just put on for us. I’m looking forward to working with you at Top Shelf. We have big plans for you.” Tyson cupped her hand between his.

Annie hated when people shook her hand with both of theirs. It was awkward to pull away, but she did while keeping the smile on her face. “Well, I haven’t made a decision, but I’m excited to hear what Top Shelf can do for me.”

He faked a shocked look and turned to his daughter. “Sterling? You haven’t signed Annie yet? Give this girl everything she wants.”

Sterling stepped into her father’s embrace. “I’m trying. And you know I always get what I want.”

Annie smiled uncomfortably. “Thank you. Do you mind if I head to the bar for a water? I’m pretty thirsty from the performance.”

“Where are my manners?” Once again, Sterling grabbed her arm and steered her to the bar.

Annie ordered a water and looked at the appetizers in the suite. She was hungry, and even though it was buffet style, the food looked untouched.

“Help yourself to the food. The plates are on that counter,” the bartender said. He pointed behind his shoulder.