“You don’t know that.” Annie voice was low and not convincing.

“I do. So many people love this life and would give anything to have what I have. The funny thing is that I would give up everything to be like them.”

“When was the last time you got out in the real world?” Annie thumbed behind her.

Bristol smiled. “Vegas. And before that was The Night Owl. And before that, it was three months prior where a kid was hurt because a bunch of people rushed after me. I wanted the fortune and fame, and I got it, but it cost me everything.” Bristol took Annie’s hands, thankful she didn’t pull away. “I want you to have everything you want, but just know it comes at a steep price.” Annie stared at her for a long time before speaking.

“So rather than tell me, you hid behind Lizzy.”

Bristol leaned back in her seat, breaking their physical connection. She was tired of getting pulled in every direction. “I’m really bad at communication. I can’t tell you the last time I had a relationship.” When Annie didn’t say anything, Bristol continued. “I don’t really know how to have one. I’ve been touring for years, and I’m home in spurts. Relationships are new to me.”

“But that’s an excuse.”

“How many relationships have you had in your life? Count them. Don’t forget everyone in middle school, high school, college, if you went, after college, last year. Count them out.”

“That’s not a fair question.”

“It is, and I’ll tell you why. You still had everything. Awkward school dances, prom, crushes at school. I didn’t. I never learned how to date. That’s not an excuse at all, but we didn’t have the same experiences growing up. I see you, and my palms get sweaty, and I feel weak, and my stomach flops around.”

Annie smiled. “That happens when I see you, too. But why wouldn’t you want to explore those feelings further with me? We could be great together, or we could crash and burn, but we won’t know until we try.”

Bristol braced herself for the hardest part of the conversation. She steeled her heart. “I can’t be on this journey with you. I think you’re wonderful, but your life, your decisions, everything you do in this industry would consume me. I would question your decisions and tell you what to do, and I don’t want that for you or myself.”

Annie nodded solemnly. “I get that, but you’re not giving me enough credit. And I don’t understand what this has to do with Top Shelf, specifically. Tell me the truth about them. Right here and now.”

“Everyone has different experiences with them.”

“Then tell me about yours. No bullshit. Just what happened,” Annie said.