“Raven totally misses you. You haven’t spent this much time apart ever. Peyton is a nice distraction for her. Come on. Eat your lunch. I want to go shopping for an outfit for tonight. I mean, I’m going to be sharing space with up-and-coming musician Annie Foster and her best friend Bristol Baines. I have to look stunning.”

“Maybe I should find something new, too. I don’t want to recycle outfits when I’m playing only fourteen more shows,” Annie said. She always tried to look good, but Vegas had an energy that made Annie want to not just look good, but look her best.

* * *

Charley gave her a low whistle when she walked out of the bathroom. Annie did a slow turn and struck a pose. “What do you think?”

“I think you’re stunning. That dress is amazing.” Charley twirled her slowly and clapped. “Gorgeous girl, are you going to be able to play the guitar in that?”

“I hope so. Bristol mentioned something about hitting the high-stakes room after the concert, and I don’t want to have to come back up here to change. You know I hate to miss anything. Also, you look dapper. Sexy.” Annie straightened Charley’s tie even though it was already straight.

“I never get to wear this.” Charley opened the suit jacket and spun. “Plus, it has real pockets. If you need me to hold anything for you tonight, let me know. I’ve got tons of space.”

Annie gave Charley her phone and a compact.

“This is it?” Charley held the small stack and flipped it over.

“My ID and credit card are in the case with the phone. I don’t want to worry about a clutch because the minute I drink, I’ll forget it at a table or in the bathroom.”

“I get it. Are you ready?”

Annie nodded. The energy around her gave her a rush of excitement she’d never felt before. The tiny hairs on her arms rose as goose bumps tingled up and down her. The wave of them scattered over her skin, causing her to shiver. Maybe it was because they were in Vegas, or maybe it was because they were hanging out with Bristol later, but either way, she knew she was in for the night of her life.

Chapter Ten

It was hard not to stare. A form-fitting dress that landed mid-thigh on a figure like Annie’s was going to draw attention. It certainly caught Bristol’s eye as she watched from behind the curtain. Annie’s voice was perfect for a smaller venue. It was rich and smooth and reminded Bristol of a warm summer sunset. By now, everybody knew to expect Bristol to join Annie onstage for her last song. Their excitement was palpable and made Bristol smile. She wished she’d had worn nicer clothes for their song or tried harder with her hair.