Annie sighed. Sterling was going to have to learn to keep her hands to herself. When Sterling said “car,” Annie immediately remembered the promise she’d made her sister. “I appreciate your vote of confidence in me and my success. I’m working on getting a manager, and as soon as I do, I’ll have them reach out.”

Sterling laughed. “You really don’t need one. You can trust me.”

Annie again almost choked, but this time over her attempt to cover up a snort of disbelief. She patted her chest. “Oh, that dip was a bit spicier than I was expecting.” Even though she was still hungry, she put her plate down. “I promise that at the end of the tour, I’ll have a manager, and we’ll give you a call. I just realized Bristol is about to take the stage, and I wanted to be down there.” Annie stood and shook Sterling’s hand. “Thank you so much for the invitation. This is a beautiful suite. I will keep in touch.”

Behind Sterling’s fake smile, Annie could see her grit her teeth. “Have fun down there, and come back up after. We keep the suite open for at least an hour after the show.”

“Thank you. I’m sure I will.” Annie wasn’t sure of their schedule. They were headed to San Francisco tomorrow for two shows there. Annie wasn’t opening. Another singer was already booked. She had never been to San Francisco, so she looked forward to the time off to explore. It took a few minutes for her to get out of the suite as people stopped her to congratulate her on a good performance. When she was on the other side of the door, she gave a big sigh of relief.

“Ms. Foster? I’m here to escort you back to the stage or the VIP section. Your choice,” Kimball said.

“I’d like to catch the concert from VIP, please.” She figured Sterling sent him with her to keep an eye out, but after the third time she was stopped by fans, she realized it was for her own safety. People knew who she was. She posed with fans who wanted selfies and felt so important when people worked up the nerve to stop her, but she understood that people could easily invade her personal space quickly. She felt a few hands brush her arms on her way down the stairs to VIP and was grateful she had the escort. “Thanks, Kimball.” He nodded to her and allowed her into the designated VIP section. Annie smiled and waved at the fans who yelled her name.

“Sit with us, Annie.” Vanessa waved her over after several people stood and scooted over to make room.

“Hi. I’m Annie Foster. I’m sorry about pointing you out, but I was just so caught up in the moment. You look like you and Bristol could be sisters.”