Bristol watched Annie’s face light up at Sterling’s words. Top Shelf was a popular recording company that many stars wanted to sign with, but what they didn’t know was that Top Shelf liked to bleed their stars until there was nothing creative left in them. They were bulldogs when it came to business—forgetting that they were dealing with people who had emotions and feelings. It was all about money—who could fill the stands and stadiums and bring them the largest profit?

Bristol wasn’t going to sign a new contract with them. With the tour ending soon, she knew Lizzy was fighting to keep them at bay by telling them Bristol was busy writing a new album. She wanted to finish the tour and walk away from music, at least for the next few years. She sighed when she realized she would love Annie’s life and Annie would love hers.

“Bristol, when are we going to get new music from you? I heard you dropped a new song for your fans. Daddy wants you to come in after the tour and work out a new contract.” Sterling’s voice purred, and Bristol bit back the bitter retort that sat at the end of her tongue.

She was working on a new album, but Top Shelf wouldn’t get their greedy little hands on it. Denny would never produce another of her songs. And Sterling wouldn’t be able to brag that she landed it. “I know we have a meeting scheduled once the tour ends. We can talk more about it then, not tonight,” Bristol said.

“Oh, I know Lizzy doesn’t want us discussing business. She thinks it interrupts your process.” Sterling rolled her eyes. “We’re anxious to get together and discuss your contract. Maybe you should come in with Annie and chat with my father while I give Annie the tour of the place.”

Bristol pushed away the glass of celebratory champagne. She wasn’t in the mood to deal with Sterling. The happiness that had filled her just minutes ago was replaced with a darkness she had been running from since the tour started.

“I doubt I’ll find the time.” Bristol made a big production of looking at her watch. It was hard to see the hands, so she guessed. “Well, it’s getting late, so I should probably go upstairs and get ready to leave.”

“I’ll go, too,” Annie said.

Sterling put her hand on Annie’s. Bristol noticed. The urge to rip Sterling’s arm off her body was strong.

“Oh, stay for a bit. We just opened the bottle of champagne,” Sterling said.

Annie looked at Bristol. “What do you think?”