Lib Novel Page 67
She smiles.
Even though I know we’ve broken some rules and probably made a mistake to give in to our desires, I can’t seem to muster up an ounce of me that cares.
Chapter Fifteen
MURPHY
“They signed me!”
It’s the first thing Viv says when I answer her FaceTime. I squeal and start doing a happy dance. I experience a brief pang of envy, though it takes a firm back seat to the excitement I feel for my friend.
“Are you fucking kidding?” I shout.
“No! I’m not fucking kidding!”
“Oh my god, when did this happen? When I didn’t hear from you after your meeting, I figured you were licking your wounds.”
Her smile looks like it hurts her face with how wide she’s grinning, the joy radiating off her.
“They said they loved me at the meeting, and they had me do some studio time this week. They’ve been drafting up paperwork, and I just signed it all today!”
“Holy shit!”
“I know, holy shit!”
We both squeal, and I dance around my room as Vivian does the same.
“I’m so proud of you, V. Seriously. You’ve worked so hard for this.”
“There’s more.”
“How much is your signing bonus?” I ask, not even sure that’s a thing.
She rolls her eyes. “No, stupid. I’m talking about you.”
My smile freezes, not sure what she means.
“I told them that I have an amazing friend who is an incredibly talented songwriter, and after they heard ‘Sweet Shame’ and ‘Lonely Girl,’ they said they wanted to meet you.”
I blink a few times, feeling … Honestly, I don’t know what I’m feeling.
“Viv …,” I start, my voice trailing off.
“Look, I know you always wanted to perform. But maybe this is a way for you to stay connected to your music without having to cross paths with that sicko again, you know?”
Her voice sounds so hopeful and the expression on her face confirms it.
“I’ve always told you that you’re one of the most incredible songwriters I’ve ever known.”
“Like you know so many.”
“I’m serious, M!”
I scratch at my cheek, my body suddenly vibrating with an energy that feels unfamiliar.
“Look, I’m not sure. Can I think about it?”
Vivian sighs, her disappointment clear. “Of course you can, but I don’t know how long Todd is going to wait around on you, so don’t take your sweet time, okay?”