#neverisalongtime

Read Chapter 42

-          Are you going to the Silver Lake Conservatory Gala? – Mandy asked Anastasia while they were hanging out at the pink-haired-girl’s house in Hollywood Hills.

-          I think so, Richard wants to go – Anastasia was looking at something on her computer.

-          Wow! It’s gonna be like presenting him to society – Mandy laughed – What are you looking at?

-          Melissa, my realtor, is looking at houses for me and she sent me some, wanna see?

-          Are you going to move? – Mandy asked shocked.

-          I think so. I love my house, I love the view but the neighborhood is being invaded by this litter of new young celebrities and the privacy of the community is at stake, so I really want to leave. Besides I want to live in a place far from anything. Look at this one; I’ve been seeing houses since yesterday and I always come back to this one, it’s in Topanga.

The house was located on the top of a hill with a view of the beautiful Topanga scenery, which was far different than the one Anastasia woke up to every day. This time she could enjoy seeing trees and nature everywhere. It was rustic styled with five bedrooms and five bathrooms, a pool and a spacious basement where she could put together a music studio, besides it was 5,500 sq ft, had a pool and a fully functional vineyard with a wine cellar included. 

-          It costs almost four million dollars, but according to Melissa my house is going to sell for three million and I can easily pay the rest – Anastasia said.

-          The wine cellar is my favorite part – Mandy said.

-          I know! Barbara is going to love it!

-          We can make our own wine.

-          We don’t know how to make wine.

-          We will figure it out. It’s going to be called ‘Rich Bitch Wine’ – Anastasia started to laugh.

-          Stop it! – She told her friend – So, what do you think?

-          Do it! - Mandy said with enthusiasm – Topanga is beautiful, even though it’s far. I won’t be able to see you often…

-          Your exaggeration knows no limits. It’s not as far by car.

-          Almost a one-hour drive.

-          That never stops us from going to Malibu every time we want.

-          Well… I guess that’s true.

-          Besides I’m going to be near my monster twins.

-          Buy it! – Mandy said – I can’t wait to help you move.

-          I give you six months for you to buy the house next door.

-          Well, since I’m getting married I can convince Peyton in three months now – Both laughed.

Anastasia did not waste any time and called Melissa to confirm the purchase. She was feeling so good, getting her life in shape but a part of her couldn’t help but wonder how long it was going to last.

Things with Richard were going great as well, but the schedules were though on them, they could only be together a few days at a time. Soon, An would have to travel to New York to take part in The Meadows Festival with Dead Curse and Richard would travel to London for some concerts.

-          Did I tell you that I bought a house in Topanga? – Anastasia told Richard one night having dinner at her Beverly Hills soon-to-be former home.

-          Topanga is beautiful! We recorded there a few songs on the last record, our producer lives there – He answered – I’m so proud of you – Richard, who was just wearing a black tee shirt, very underdressed for his style, stared at Anastasia directly into her eyes. She just smiled – You just made an amazing record that’s going to take your band to the next level, you just bought another house… I could marry you right now – That took Anastasia by surprise. She laughed nervously. Was he just saying it or being real? It was definitely early in the relationship to talk about marriage and the guy got divorced a year ago. She decided to follow his lead.

-          Well, let’s go to Vegas right now and get married – She couldn’t believe what she was saying but Richard laughed.

-          You deserve so much more than a wedding in Vegas. Besides what would Mandy say if she finds out you got married without her?

-          It’s true. I can’t do that to Mandy.

-          But what do you say if we do a little trip to the desert right now and watch the sunrise there?

-          I can’t believe we are talking about this – Anastasia ignored Richard’s petition.

-          Why?

-          Because you got divorced just a year ago.

-          Darling, a year is enough time and I got over my divorce way long ago. My marriage was a mess, I already told you that.

-          And you want to get married again?

-          Why not? Just because I failed once doesn’t mean I’ll fail again – Richard smiled and his dimples appeared on his face, that always made her weak.

-          I think I’ll take that sunrise in the desert.

-          Grab a jacket then.

This time the vehicle was a lot more comfortable, it was a red roofless jeep Richard had, it was the perfect car for a good desert trip. Thank God she grabbed a warm, thick jacket because nights in the desert were really cold. Richard pulled up in a place away from the road, they just enjoyed the night with a bottle of wine he brought and she just imagined how living with him and making wine in her new Topanga house would be.

They watched the sunrise between kisses. Anastasia was never a romantic person but she found out it was because she hadn’t met the right man to be romantic with.

-          Ready to see the house? – Mandy told Anastasia while standing at the door of her current house.

-          Who is this? – Anastasia realized Mandy was carrying a dog in her arms, a very small Yorkshire terrier.

-          His name is Hercules – Mandy said – Peyton gave him to me yesterday. He said that since we were going to be officially married we needed someone to take care of and practice for kids – Anastasia’s jaw went to the floor.

-          Kids?! Mandy! We are kids!

-          We aren’t. We are 28 years old. It’s time for you to realize that this adult thing is getting over us and we should embrace it!

-          I know… Richard and I talked about marriage the other day…

-          Really? – Mandy said with a confused look on her face – But you’ve only been dating for a couple of months.

-          I know, but… Nothing seems strange with him. I remember one time Josh talked about marriage and kids and I freaked out, and now… I don’t know what’s wrong with me.

-          It’s the 28th, my friend.

-          But seriously… Hercules? – She asked her friend suspiciously.

-          What? It’s my favorite Disney movie! – Mandy handed the dog over to her friend.

-          He’s the cutest!

The house was more than what Anastasia could have expected. Barbara joined them to see the property, and, of course, she freaked out when it was time to check the wine cellar. The kitchen was quite small but it was open and connected to the living room and the dining room. The basement had an independent entry and it had the perfect size for a recording studio. She was over the moon. The place was incredibly beautiful and had a huge garden surrounded by a lot of nature. The only thing she would have to add was a strong, big fence, privacy was her main concern.

-          I’ll see you tonight at the Silver Lake Gala? – Barbara asked Anastasia.

-          Yes. I’m going with Richard – She answered.

-          Great! Can’t wait to meet him.

-          Don’t you dare scare him away – Mandy said to Barbara.

-          Don’t worry. Not after I see the stupid in-love-face you make every time you talk about him – Barbara laughed.

Anastasia wore a red off-the-shoulder dress a pair of also red pumps, while Richard went for black trousers, a black shirt with a white print and a pink leather blazer. They looked amazing together and everybody at the Gala realized.

-          Did you get inspired by my hair for your look? – Mandy asked Richard and he laughed – Meet Peyton – They shook hands. Now it was time to meet Barbara.

-          This is my sister – Anastasia introduce them.

-          I finally meet you – Barbara could say the strangest things sometimes so she was worried – I’ve been hearing such amazing things about you and I was dying to meet you – Richard smiled and Anastasia breathed.

-          I’m so glad to meet you too. You are the favorite sister as I heard – He pointed to An.

-          She is more like my only sister, actually – Anastasia said.

A large group of Anastasia’s friends from the music scene were present and she was happy that Flea managed to gather even more people than the year before, where she gave a speech; she couldn’t believe it had been over a year ago. One of those friends was John Mayer, who was auctioning some guitar lessons and his board price tag was: ‘Priceless,’ that made Anastasia laugh so hard.

-          If I pay for you, are you mine? – She asked John while they were having a drink.

-          I’m yours for free – He answered.

-          Stay on your lane, boy – She said laughing – I’m a taken woman.

At the end she paid 50 thousand dollars for those guitar lessons, but she managed to give them to the best guitar student at the conservatory and she added some lessons of her own for the little boy. That gesture made Richard happy and even more proud of the woman he had by his side.

From a side of the venue, Josh never stopped looking at the couple, which was ironic enough since Lauren was joining him that night, wearing a silver sequin mini dress, flaunting her body for everybody in the room. But that made Anastasia relaxed; she wasn’t feeling guilty for being with Richard in front of Josh for once. As usual, the Peppers performed some songs and Lauren screamed and cheered with exaggeration, grabbing everyone’s attention.

Anastasia was amazed by how easy Richard joined conversations with her friends and family, he wasn’t that sociable but more political and that was great for her. She looked at Josh a couple of times and realized he wasn’t that happy but she didn’t let that ruin the moment for her.

Now it was time for The Meadows Music & Arts Festival in Queens, New York, and time to say goodbye to Richard again. Relationships in this business were hard because all of the time they had to spend apart, it was especially tough when the relationship was starting, but it would only be a couple of weeks, the guys in Richard’s band had children too, so they needed some time off now and then to see their families.

It was specially hot in New York that day, so An wore a pair of high-waisted leggings and a sports bra that read “Not your babe” in the front. She enjoyed the early hours of the festival, had some food and did an interview with an important magazine called “The Music Issue”. The show wasn’t as amazing as others, but the band gave their all. Then, it was time for the Peppers to take the stage but Anastasia preferred go sleep because she had to wake up early next day to attend the photoshoot for the interview she gave at the festival.

She walked out of her hotel room and faced Josh leaving his room too. That was an uncomfortable situation, but deep inside she was happy to see him and, apparently, he was glad too because he gave her a big smile.

-          Where are you going this early? – Josh asked her while they were waiting for the elevator.

-          I have a photoshoot. Promotion begins! – She said referring to the new record.

-          Cool! – Josh looked at the floor.

-          What about you?

-          I’m just going for a walk.

-          Do you want to walk with me to the photoshoot location? – She just asked without thinking.

-          Yes! – Josh answer shockingly and smiling.

That walk was so easy, like the old times. Like when he and she walked through the cities they performed at on the tour. It was her friend Josh again. She told him she was going to move and he was glad to know she was leaving Beverly Hills, “I love your house but visiting you was a pain”, he said laughing and she punched him slightly on his shoulder.

-          I wish I could take my house and put it somewhere else – Anastasia said.

-          Like that episode of The Simpsons where Homer filled Springfield with garbage and they have to move the entire town away? – Anastasia was amazed by that Simpsons reference, because she loved the show.

-          Yeah! And Then Homer says to Marge he is going to Moe’s and he just jumped from trailer to trailer on the highway – both laughed – We’re here – She said while they arrived to her destination.

-          I’m going to have some coffee near here and maybe visit a museum. Give me a call if you need something – He told her.

-          Alright – She hugged him and it felt like both wanted more than a hug but Richard’s face appeared on her mind violently, so only the hug happened.

I just wanna take a moment to thank everyone for the feedback I’m receiving here and on Instagram.

Anastasia_Truman  ❤️️

Thanks again to everyone who reads the fic, much love to you all! ♥

Read chapter 41

-          I’m so happy you’re here – Richard told Anastasia during one of his many visits to the recording studio in Las Vegas.

-          Do you realize you’ve told me that every single day since last week? – They had already been working there for a week – Not that I’m complaining, say it again – Anastasia said smiling.

-          I’m so happy you’re here – This time Richard’s words came along with a small kiss.

-          You are very cheesy for a grown-ass man – Mandy said as she sat down in a big couch behind the new couple.

-          Look who’s talking? Miss Romanticism – Anastasia told her friend. Eric and Nick were trying new drum beats.

-          When are you leaving? - Richard asked.

-          In a couple of days – Anastasia answered – I’m not going far though. We are going to keep recording at Rancho de Luna, have you heard of it?

-          Of course, near Joshua Tree. We have recorded there before. It’s an amazing place.

-          I should have known because of your love for the desert.

-          It’s a Vegas thing. You guys are pretty much done! – He said referring to the album.

-          Yeah, we want Josh to just have to adjust things here and there when he comes.

-          Josh? – Richard asked.

-          Klinghoffer, he is co-producing the album – Mandy answered this time.

-          Guess I won’t be visiting you at the Rancho then.

-          Why? – Anastasia asked, surprised.

-          He clearly doesn’t like me – Mandy and Anastasia looked at each other – Last time we met, in Chicago, he wasn’t the nicest guy.

-          Well, Josh is a little weird like that – Mandy said – Don’t take it personal. Tour had us all angry by that point.

-          Yeah, I understand. I was thinking – He looked at Anastasia – That maybe you’ll want to come to have lunch with Elijah and me tomorrow.

-          Are you serious? – Anastasia was in shock. Meeting his son wasn’t something to take lightly.

-          Yeah. He really wants to meet you.

-          But Richard… I mean, I would love to! But he is your son. You can’t just introduce any girl to him like that – She said.

-          But you are not any girl, you are my girlfriend – Anastasia’s and Mandy’s eyes opened like plates, he never called her like that before, he didn’t even asked her. He didn’t need to, for her was kind of tacit. A big smile appeared in her face and her eyes shone.

-          Well, as I said I would love to, boyfriend – She answered and Richard gave her a big kiss, a kiss that made Mandy uncomfortable.

-          Get a room! – She said laughing.

-          I’ve been watching you kiss Peyton for seven years, deal with having to watch Richard kiss me – Anastasia said, laughing.

-          I have to go. I promised Elijah I’d take him to the movies – Richard said – I’m going to say goodbye to Nick and Eric.

-          I can’t fucking believe this – Mandy was still laughing while Richard was inside the recording boot.

-          Did you hear that? – Anastasia said to her friend – I am Richard Austin’s motherfucking girlfriend! I must have done something amazing in life to deserve this – Anastasia walked towards Mandy and took her friend by the arms – He is Richard fucking Austin! – She said shaking her friend but stopped when Richard came back to the room.

-          I love you. See you tomorrow – He took her by her waist and gave her another kiss – Bye Mandy!

-          Bye Richard! Have fun at the movies – He disappeared behind the door – Let me tell you something – Mandy said to Anastasia – You’ve been through such a rough path in love, you fucking deserve this. You deserve someone that treats you right and gives you nothing but love and that person is Richard. Life is always surprising us, darling. Take him; take this because you have been so patient in this disastrous love life that the Universe has put you through. I can’t assure you that Richard is the man of your life but he respect you and love you endlessly, I can see that – By this point tears were running down Anastasia’s face – And always remember this, Jesus did not die for you to be a sidechick – Now Anastasia was laughing with tears on her eyes.

-          Why are you making An cry? – Eric asked entering the room.

-          Because she is just the sweetest friend anybody could ask for – Anastasia went to hug her friend in the couch.

-          Richard officialized all this shit and called her his girlfriend today – Mandy told Nick and Eric.

-          What?! – Nick said smiling – That’s amazing!

-          Poor Josh – Eric said as a joke.

-          Stop pulling the Josh card – Anastasia said – He couldn’t decide if he wanted to be with me or not and Richard is offering me something strong and real.

-          We should celebrate! – Nick talked again.

-       But I can’t stay up until late; I’m going to have lunch with Richard and his son tomorrow.

 It’s almost as if Anastasia said “let’s stay up until late” instead. The foursome enjoyed a wild night of alcohol and clubs in Las Vegas and now her head was going to explode. She called room service for some pills and lots of water and did her best to hide the tiredness of her face with makeup. She let her hair down, put on a black Rolling Stones t-shirt, checkered gray pants and black vans, and big dark sunglasses to top it all.

 Elijah was a sweet blonde kid, wearing glasses and a Foo Fighters tee. The first thing he told her was how much he liked her band.

-          He is into loud rock right now, the Foos are the band of this week but it changes… a lot – Richard said and Elijah smiled – We are going to a place called Cantina Laredo because food choices change every week too and right now Mexican is the favorite – Anastasia was inside Richard’s SUV while Elijah was in the backseat asking her a bunch of music questions to her.

-          So, are you going to be a musician when you grow up? – Anastasia asked Elijah while they were eating at the restaurant.

-          Yeap! Like daddy – Eliajh answered.

-          Would you let him? – This time she asked Richard.

-          He can be whatever he wants to be but he must be the best at it.

-          You can teach him – Anastasia said.

-          Would you help me? – That question took her for surprise. Answering to that was like a long life commitment but something inside of her made her talk without thinking.

-          Of course! – She saw Elijah’s smile again and Richard’s too – This reminds me of when I started asking dad to take me to the studio with him. That was the beginning of the best thing I could find in my life – She looked to Elijah – Music makes everything better, never forget that.

-          I won’t – The kid answered.

For some reason that situation, being there with Richard and his son, didn’t feel weird to her. It actually made her realize that she wanted that, she wanted something to hold on to, a family, a strong bond, a stable love and maybe Richard was the one who would give her all that. She felt calm in that moment and she didn’t have any doubts about anything.

Richard was such a good father, always answering his son’s questions and helping him do mundane things. They went to a kid’s indoor playground after lunch and she had a lot of fun playing with Elijah. She was already trained for that, she took care of the twins with Barbara while Justin was nowhere to be seen, so being with kids wasn’t a strange ground for her. They ended the day at Richard’s house, which was beautiful, really well kept for a single man. He had a dog, a small dark French bulldog called Pete, and that was the main reason for them to be there, so Elijah could play a little with the dog.

She helped Richard cook dinner, and even though the panorama was unusual for somebody like Anastasia, she felt like she could fit perfectly in such lifestyle.

ooo

Anastasia and Mandy were driving to Rancho de Luna for the first day of recording sessions with Josh. An was nervous, she hadn’t seen him or even spoken to him since the past month, this was weird but she trusted Eric when he said that Josh wanted to do this.

As soon as they parked, An saw his car and a bunch of memories of her inside that car filled her mind and nostalgia made act of presence.

-          Josh’s here – Anastasia said.

-          How do you know? – Mandy asked.

-          That’s his car.

-          Oh, right! – Mandy said realizing how stupid she was – I have an idea! Let’s break the ice with a little joke.

-          One of your jokes?

-          Yeah! Let’s make him laugh so he forgets you ditched him.

-          I didn’t ditch him! He just didn’t make up his mind!

-          I was joking!

-          I hate your jokes.

They entered the place and there he was, sitting in front of the console, with his headphones on, fiddling on his laptop.

-          Thank the Lord you are here! I have a terrible dilemma – Mandy asked Josh and he smiled taking his headphones off – Listen, the meal that joins breakfast and lunch is called brunch, but how would you call the meal that joins lunch and dinner? “Diunch” or “Lunchnner”? – Josh looked so confused by Mandy but he decided to go along with her question.

-          What about “early dinner”?

-          But how do you know it’s not a “late lunch”?

-          Well… In that case, “lunchnner” sounds better.

-          Thank you Josh, this is why you are here, you have all the answers.

-          I wish I did – He said now looking to Anastasia – Hi! – He smiled and she felt guilty for some reason.

-          How are you? – She asked.

-          Great! Really happy to be here – He said smiling some more – We are waiting for Nick, he’s on his way – Eric was already inside blasting the drums – I have to say that I’ve been listening to what you guys have done and it’s amazing. These are stadium anthems. Pure rock. I love it. How was Vegas?

-          Amazing. Inspiring – She didn’t need to say more. Josh smiled and put his headphones back on.

The relationship between Josh and Anastasia was polite but not extremely friendly during the recording process. Josh had brought a lot of British bands to the table that definitely inspired the sound Dead Curse wanted to portray. An saw him happy, relaxed, music had an amazing effect on him as on her, and that environment helped them get along again, but the relationship, for sure, wasn’t what it was before.

The place also helped Josh get loose. He was a desert fan too and Joshua Tree was one of his favorite places in the world. He, Anastasia, Nick and Eric would go hiking in the mornings, then Josh would take them to places to eat and served as a tourist guide, not that any of them needed it, they all knew the area pretty well, but Josh was happy doing it and everybody just let him be.

At nighttime, they would record and produce and that was when everybody was at their happiest moment. Making music was something they all like to do and every song they made sounded stronger than the last one, so the excitement was in the air and the musical self-esteem was high, really high. By the end of that week the album was completely done and the smiles on everyone’s faces were big.

-          I can’t thank you enough for doing this – Anastasia told Josh one afternoon while she was playing with the guitar he gave to her on her birthday inside the recording boot.

-          Don’t worry! I’m glad I decided to do it – Josh told her, while sitting on one of Nick’s amplifiers.

-          This place is great for recording! – She was trying to find any topic of conversation.

-          Yeah. How was the Las Vegas place? – He asked.

-          It was cool, small, warm, it actually has great technology. Elton John recorded there.

-          Cool! It’s weird I never heard of it before.  

-          Actually it was Richard the one who told me about it.

-          Oh… right – Josh lowered his voice. Things started to get weird.

-          How’s Lauren? – For some reason that question popped in her brain and her mouth spit it without permission. He seemed shocked but answered anyway.

-          Fine. She is releasing her album real soon, around October – He said. That let An know he and Lauren were still an item.

-          Oh! We are planning to release the album on October 31st.

-          Your favorite day of the year – He smiled.

-          You know how much I love Halloween – She smiled too and he stared at her, like he didn’t want to forget her smile.

If things weren’t strange enough at that point, everything was about to go to hell when a familiar face appeared behind the crystal that separated the control room from the recording boot. It was Richard. Josh’s attitude took a 180° turn, his expression went blank and the air got heavy. Richard entered the place smiling and Anastasia smiled back, he was wearing a blue short-sleeved shirt with white stars and a pair of jeans that fitted him perfectly, black boots gave the final touch to such sleek look.

-          I wanted to surprise you – Richard said after giving Anastasia a big kiss on her lips.

-          You sure did! – She answered awkwardly – You remember Josh, right?

-          Hey, man! – Richard said.

-          How are you? – Josh was showing himself much more polite this time.

-          Great and you?

-          Good, having fun making an amazing record.

-          Yes, what I heard in Las Vegas was magnificent, can’t wait to hear it all.

-          It’s gonna knock you out – Josh said with half a smile – I’ll leave you two alone, I’m going out with Nick and Eric.

-          Alright – Anastasia said and watched him walking out – Why do you look so hot? – Anastasia asked Richard, he laughed.

-          I want to look good for you.

-          You are doing a great job.

-          You look amazing too.

-          I’m wearing an oversized Dodgers sweater and Vans, no makeup and my hair is a mess.

-          If I say you look good you take it and don’t say a word back – He put a finger in her lips and for some reason she thought that was incredible sexy – Do you wanna go out for dinner tonight?

-          Yes, but first let’s go to the house we rented here near so I can change, I’m not going out looking like this, at least a little bit of mascara I need.

They shared another kiss and joined the rest of the gang at the control room.

-          We are going out tonight to celebrate finishing this record – Mandy told Anastasia and Richard.

-          We already make plans for dinner – Anastasia answered.

-          But we’ll join later – Richard told Anastasia.

-          Yeah… ok – She said looking at Mandy.

Josh didn’t stop lookng at Anastasia the entire time they were there, so she hurried up in getting out and going to the house so she could change clothes. She put on a pair of black jeans with a mustard knit sweater and a pair of black ankle boots. Her blue hair was loose and her makeup minimum, she wasn’t great at makeup actually, that was Mandy’s thing.

-          Now you look even more beautiful – Richard said when he saw her.

-          Oh, stop it! – Richard hugged her tightly without noticing and she felt his warmth, his endearment. That man loved her; there was no doubt about it.

They ended up going to a place called Pie For The People that served New York Style pizza, “To remember our first date in New York”, as Richard said. Anastasia still had trouble finding this situation realistic, he was still Richard Austin, a face that used to be up a wall in her room back in the mid-2000s. And that day, in particular, she was having trouble understanding Josh’s attitude, he acted so polite and decent. She was glad, but she knew he was keeping some feelings and that always make her uncomfortable.

After dinner, they joined the rest of the group at Joshua Tree Salon, a nice pub downtown and she was amazed by how Josh was loosely talking with everyone, included Richard, and acting so relaxed. 

-         Glad you came! - Mandy said - We ordered some food but I guess you two already ate.

-          You know? - Josh looked at Mandy – It’s not a “lunchnner” if is this late – They both laughed. Anastasia was happy that he was slowly turning back in the Josh she knew.

Hello everyone! Here we are once again with another #JoshAN chapter, tho the name of the fic is Never Is A Long Time I don’t use it as muchas I use JoshAn.

Before we go into this crazy love story I want to force you all to follow my girl Zara on Instagram because the author of Be My Getaway revamped her story and now is on whattpad 

♥ Zara IG ♥ Whattpad Story 

Read chapter 40

-          I thought we were done with the whole dating-musicians thing after Josh – Barbara told Anastasia at her house in Malibu.

-          He took you to Palm Springs at two in the morning?! – Mandy screamed. She was there too.

-          Do you have any idea how dangerous that was? – Barbara spoke to Anastasia.

-          How was sex? – Mandy asked and Barbara gave her a hard look – Oh come on! You want to know too.

-          It was elegant – Anastasia answered. That was the first word she thought of.

-          WHAT?! – Barbara and Mandy said at the same time.

-          Yeah… it was nice and sweet and gentle. It was elegant.

-          It was dreamy – Mandy talked supporting her face with her hands and smiling.  

-          What about Josh? – Barbara asked suddenly.

 At that moment, Anastasia realized she hadn’t thought about Josh for days.

-          I hope his thing with Lauren works out – Anastasia answered.

-          Really? – Barbara was shocked.

-          Yeah, I don’t really care. I haven’t talked to him in like a week.

-          My girl just made all her sixteen year old wet dreams true, Barb, give her a break! – Mandy was now hugging Anastasia and Barbara was laughing.

 The ultimate test was to see Josh again and keep her feelings at bay. And it was that time again… to go back on the road. She was tired, and she could see the rest of her band was tired too but something good was starting to happen, she had a bunch of songs ready and the guys in Dead Curse were so inspired to put music to those lyrics.

-          I’m excited. For real, these lyrics are different and I want to make an album that doesn’t sound like any we have done before – Anastasia said in a luxurious hotel in Rome. They were waiting for the Peppers there since they were performing in festivals in Portugal and Spain without Dead Curse. Now Anastasia and company had a week off to spend in the Italian city.

-          A real rock album – Eric said.

-          I feel that we’ve been touring for so long that we need to finally put a stadium-anthem record together – Mandy said.

-          Yeah! I want the same – Anastasia said.

-          I got a bunch of hard guitar riffs to dust off in my pantry – Nick smiled.

-          I feel like a mini Chad Smith and I wanna blast some drums – Eric was laughing now.

 Anastasia loved those moments when the band got together and just talked about their music, each one of them were so talented individually. They brought a lot of equipment and set it up on An and Mandy’s bathroom, it was the place with the best acoustics to record and as soon as each one got their instruments in hand the melodies started flowing in the most natural way.

 By the end of the week, they had five songs ready.

-          I think we should go to the studio on August and finish this thing – Anastasia said while the band was having lunch at a restaurant near the hotel in Rome.

-          Man! Are we going to launch another record this year? – Mandy said smiling.

-          It wasn’t planned but we are in such an inspirational rush! – Anastasia said.

-          We need to take advantage of it – Eric said drinking some wine.

-          I’m so happy! – Anastasia said. Things were going good for her, as long as she had the band and a place to make music she was pleased.

-          The Peppers arrive today here – Nick said after eating a pizza slide.

-          Have you talked to Josh? – Eric asked.

-          Nope – Anastasia said – But I’ve been talking to Richard almost every day – He was well aware of Anastasia while she was away. She smiled and kept looking at her phone.

-          Uh! Look at that smile – Eric said laughing – Your love life is a mess – Everyone laughed.

-          You know, last week I found out that the Hanson guys are still making music and they are all married with a bunch of kids each one. That made me realize that it is possible to have a stable love life while being in this business, so I’m pretty sure that the problem here is me.

-          Don’t say that – Nick said – Things with this Richard guy are going good so far.

-          I know, but… - Anastasia said.

-          But he’s not Josh – Mandy talked looking straight to Anastasia’s eyes. She knew her so well.

-          But I need to move on. Josh is not ready and Richard just makes me feel so good – Anastasia talked and saw Nick smiling.

-          You look happy. You look better and you have improved on your songwriting skills – He said.

-          But none of the songs are about Richard – She laughed.

-          Instead, there are a couple about Josh – Mandy talked again.

-          Well, cut it out with the Josh subject – Mandy’s tone was starting to annoy Anastasia.

 When they came back to the hotel, there he was, at the lobby. Josh. Wearing his Yankees cap with a matching Yankees tee shirt and huge black pants. He wasn’t wearing any outerwear, it was a really hot Italian summer, it kind of shocked Anastasia since Josh was always seen wearing a jacket. It hasn’t been that long since she saw him for last time but she could swear his hair was longer. He turned his head and crossed his eyes with An’s, looked at her for a few seconds and then turned his head away and walked to the elevator with his back to her. She knew what that meant; it meant he was angry, she knew him so well. She thought about going after him but some invisible force stopped her from doing it.

 That leg of the tour felt weird for Anastasia and her band. Live shows didn’t go well, the vibes were weird, the air was heavy and the lack of communication with Josh was driving her insane. Instead, she focused on recording some vocals for the new songs and changing the lyrics for others.

 The only show that was amazing was Lollapalooza in Paris. Dead Curse had always been a festival band so they felt comfortable playing in such stage. But after all, they were happy to play in places they never been before like Riga in Latvia and Reykjavik in Iceland. The tour was practically over at that point. They still had to play in some festivals but not together. By the last day in Reykjavik, everyone was so tired. Anastasia was at the hotel restaurant talking to Richard on the phone, she was having dinner with Mandy but her friend was already on her way to her room. Conversations with Richard were deeper every time and the relationship was definitely growing, she was so comfortable with the situation, she just didn’t have any doubts, it was so different than when she started with Josh and all the things that filled her head at that time. This was the opposite of that, so easy.

 Richard hung up the phone and then An started to walk to her room. On the hallway she saw Josh closing his door, he saw her too and a knot appeared on her stomach, so strong it hurt.

-          Hey – An managed to say and he gave her a half smile – Going out? – Josh nodded – I thought that maybe you wanted to talk. We haven’t talked much these past weeks.

-          I don’t feel like it. I’m going for a walk – He said passing by her on the way to the elevator.

-          Don’t you want me to join you? – She asked.

-          No. I prefer going alone – He answered and the elevator door closed on Anastasia’s face.

 Now he was rejecting her, and for some strange reason that made her feel worse.

-          He doesn’t know anything about my date with Richard in Palm Springs – Anastasia told Mandy when they were both in bed before sleeping.

-          Maybe he just knows that you are better with Richard and he wants to keep distance, for his own sake – Mandy answered – Last time you two talked you had this huge fight – Mandy looked at her friend – What do you wanna do?

-          What do you mean? – Anastasia knew perfectly what Mandy meant with her question.

-          What do you wanna do? – Mandy asked again.

-          I want to be with Richard – Anastasia answered – I feel is the right thing to do right now – Mandy smiled.

-          You didn’t even think about it.

-          I just feel it. I like him… a lot. He is growing on me and it’s like… it’s meant to be – Mandy hugged her friend with a smile – Do you remember all the doubts I had when this thing with Josh started?

-          How can I forget that? I feel so guilty.

-          No! It’s not your fault. But I don’t have any of those feelings with Richard – Mandy smiled again.

-          Richard is so different from Josh – Mandy said.

-          How?

-          Even though Richard is younger than Josh in age, he is such a man – The pink haired friend pronounced “Man” elongating the “a” – You know, like an actual adult man – Anastasia laughed – He even has a kid and all!

-          Yeah Richard is so much more mature that Josh, but what I like about Josh is just that, the youth in his heart, because he is pretty mature too if you think about it, his creativity, his art is mature enough.

-          Yeah, but… Richard is a man – Mandy elongated the “a” again - I know that we’ll be in the studio next month but we need to focus on the wedding planning. I’m going to get married in December.

-          So, has it been decided?

-          Peyton decided it and I love that month so I’ll have a winter wedding in Malibu. I have the first dress fitting in mid-August. I’m so nervous.

-          Can I go with you?

-          I would be offended if you didn’t.

-          I’ll cry.

-          I’ll cry if you cry – Both friends laughed.

 Josh didn’t speak to Anastasia even on the flight back. Truth was, she was stocked to see Richard again. He was traveling to London in a few days to do some promotion for his record so she wanted to spend those days with him.

-          I can stay in LA until Friday because I want to be with Elijah a couple of days before I leave – Richard told An when she called him from LAX to let him know she was in town.

-          Sounds cool! – She replied, getting in the van with the rest of her band.

-          Guess I’ll see you tomorrow – He said.

-          Sure! Let me know when you arrive.

-          Can’t wait – He said and she just could imagine him smiling and his dimples appearing on his face.

 They only spent three days together but they were so special. They had dates, he took her to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery where a company was showing movies from the 80s and 90s at open sky, they had a picnic and watched “The Craft” one of Anastasia’s ultimate favorites. They had wine and ate cheese and ended the night at Anastasia’s bed. Sex with Richard was great, but it wasn’t as wild as with Josh.

-          I don’t want to leave – Richard said in the morning, resting his head on Anastasia’s shoulder while they were still in bed.

-          Go and see your son – Anastasia said stroking her hands through his hair, which was a little bit longer and it wasn’t combed back with gel as he used to have it. It was wild bed hair and it made him look incredible sexy.

-          I know. I’m going to miss you – He moved his head to be at Anastasia’s face level. He smiled. The gold chain he always wear shone when it was hit by sunlight – What are you doing to me, Anastasia Truman?

-          I’m just being cute and lovely for you – She smiled too looking straight to his eyes.

-          You are an expert. This is so strange for me. After being with the same woman since I was a teenager… - He still mentioned his ex-wife now and then and that bothered Anastasia but she could understand that they had a very long relationship.

 An didn’t answer; instead she kissed Richard, with passion, hard, trying to make him not forget her.

-          What are you going to do this month here in LA? – He answered trying to contain himself after that kiss.

-          I’m going to make a new record – She answered.

-          A new record! Already?! – She nodded – Wow, talk about efficiency.

-          We’ve been having a good inspirational rush. We don’t want to wait to put these songs out.

-          Can’t wait to hear them – Richard kissed Anastasia again – I’m going to leave.

 He got up of the bed and started to gather his clothes scattered around the room, he looked so funny doing it and Anastasia smiled. She got up from the bed too, grabbed an oversized sweater over a chair near to her and put it on.

-          I’ll call you – He said at the door of the house.

-          And I will answer – That was probably the cheesiest moment she ever had but he smiled.

-          I love you – He said, sound and clear without stopping to think about it.

-          I love you too – She didn’t even take a second to answer. Richard looked relieved by her answer and kissed her goodbye.

 She went next day to the studio in Hollywood with the biggest smile on her face.

-          Someone is happy today! – Mandy told her when she entered the recording room.

-          I just spent three days with Richard and it was magical – Anastasia was still smiling.

-          Well, Eric is about to destroy that smile – Nick said and Eric laughed.

-          Listen, I was thinking that we need help for the finishing touches on some songs and we need somebody outside this band that can give us an honest and different view – Eric said sitting behind his drum set. Anastasia knew what he was about to say next – I thought that Josh would be the right person for that job.

-          Do you want Josh to produce our album? – An asked.

-          Yes – Eric said.

-          But Josh is not speaking to me. He won’t agree.

-          He already said yes – Eric said and Anastasia’s chin went to the floor – He is going to be in New York for about two weeks, which will give us time to record so he can come and just adjust everything.

-          Wait, wait, wait… He said yes? – Anastasia couldn’t believe it. Josh’s sudden change of heart was making her ill.

-          If you don’t want to, I’m sure we can find someone else – Nick said.

-          No, no! I want to; I would like it to be Josh. It’s fine by me – It was going to be a strange situation but luckily with all the vocals recorded she wouldn’t have to spend a lot of time with him in the studio, she thought.

 They were trying hard to make the songs work, but nothing was going well for the band that day. Anastasia’s mind was blocked and so was the rest of the band.

-          What if we change studios? – Eric said at night after not accomplishing anything that day.

-          What do you mean? – Anastasia asked.

-          We can go to Rancho de Luna and do some recording there – Eric talked again. The idea of the dessert just made its way to Anastasia’s mind.

-          Richard told me about a studio in Las Vegas – An said.

-          The Battle Born Studios?

-          Yeah, that one! We can try it out too.

-          Yes! Let’s do a trip to Vegas. If we want to make this powerful show-inspired record what better place for big shows than Vegas?

Her I am with another chapter! I never going to stop thanking all for all the support and the feedback! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Read chapter 39

-          Josh is out of control! How fucking dare he! – Anastasia was telling Mandy while both were swimming at Anastasia’s house pool.

-          I have to admit that I wasn’t team Richard before but now I totally support him – Mandy answered lying on a float with the shape of a sea shell – Josh is acting like a baby, so immature. He wants to have it all, he wants Lauren and he wants you but he didn’t see Richard coming.

-          You should have seen him begging me not to leave him and to be patient with him, but I’m done – Anastasia said with anger – I honestly didn’t see Richard coming either but everything happens for a reason.

-          He is so sweet – Mandy said.

-          And dreamy – Anastasia said.

-          And fun.

-          And talented.

-          And easy to talk to.

-          And easy to be around.

-          And so handsome.

-          And so perfect – Both friends looked at each other and laughed – This is exactly like when we were sixteen – Anastasia said – It’s so crazy we’re talking about the same guy.

-          I never would have thought Richard Austin would fall for you.

-          He hasn’t fallen for me.

-          An… the way he put his hand around your waist when you were watching the Peppers, and the way you two sang and looked at each other at the show. At Glasto he looked at you with such lovely eyes. He is incredible but, for now, I’m going to abstain from telling you what to do because I told you to let Josh into your heart and that didn’t go well at all. I’m sorry for that.

-          You don’t have to apologize, neither one of us would’ve thought that Josh would do such things. – Mandy nodded at her friend’s words.

-          Have you talked to him? To Richard?

-          He texts me or calls me every day. He is going to be in Los Angeles next week so maybe we’ll go out or something. He actually has a show at the Fonda Theater, we should go!

-          That would be amazing.

Richard was truly amazing to Anastasia, and after all her love-life-craziness in the past years, it was nice for her to have someone solid around. Richard was so sure of himself and so sure of what he wanted. As he told her, he was going to be in Los Angeles for about a week for the Fonda show and some promotion for the new record, so Anastasia thought it would be cool to invite him for dinner at her place. She told him she would “cook” for him, but what she actually meant was she would buy food to make him think she cooked it.

Richard arrived at An’s house wearing a green tee shirt and a jean jacket with the sleeves rolled up and holding a bottle of champagne.

-          You cooking for me is so special that I thought champagne would be perfect – He said at the door with half a smile.

-          It goes perfectly with the seafood I made – Anastasia laughed because she didn’t cook any of it. She was wearing a jean pinafore dress with high-heeled green velvet sandals and her hair tied up in a ponytail.

-          Your house is beautiful – He said looking and the backyard and the skyline of the city.

-          Thank you – Anastasia said looking at his face, he had a Marlon Brandon kind of aura – Come take a seat, the table’s set and the food is ready.

She decided to go with all kind of seafood, crab, oysters, lobster and more. The food was delicious and the conversation with Richard was easy, intelligent and nice as usual. She learned that Richard’s parents were Vegas natives and he was born and raised there too, his dad use to be a doorman at the Flamingo and his mom use to be a waitress at the same hotel and they met there. He also had two older sisters so he grew up in a very feminine environment; he had one niece and two nephews. His son’s name was Elijah and he was nine years old. He met his ex-wife in high school so he hadn’t been with a lot of women during his life, “Maybe two”, he said.

Growing up in Las Vegas was fun because of the culture, he did a lot of crazy stuff as a teenager, of course, but the glamour and the lights and all the big shows always had his attention and he loved that. His band got together because all the members were neighbors and they knew each other since they were kids; that meant they were tight as friends just as Dead Curse was. He wasn’t proud of the beginnings of the band because as they got famous he developed a very arrogant ego and that brought a lot of negativity to the image of The Genius Sex Poets but all of that was in the past now.

Although he played guitar, bass and piano, he wasn’t that much of a music geek. It was a huge part of his life but now family was his priority. The way he talked about his son captivated Anastasia’s mind. He loved to travel and driving in the dessert, because having grown up in Las Vegas apparently being in the dessert was a huge thing to do, “It’s like escaping, leaving all the craziness behind. I go there every time I need to have a minute and breathe”, he told her. Apparently, he did that a lot during his divorce.

-          I really thought I was going to spend my life with her – He said at the table – But she never got used to this kind of life style, of me not being around as I would wanted. She wanted me to quit and have a business or something, but that’s not me, I couldn’t do that. Music has giving me so many great things and I won’t leave it for anything – Anastasia felt the same, she couldn’t see her doing anything else.

After dinner, he opened the bottle he brought and they enjoyed it on the backyard with the stars as a roof and moonshine as illumination. The natural element conspired to create a romantic aura.

-          I really have to say that you look especially beautiful tonight – He said tucking some of her loose hairs around the ponytail behind her left ear.

-          Maybe is it because I cooked you all that food – She lied and laughed.

-          I always have such a great time with you – Richard, tucking more of An’s hairs behind her hear, he was searching for excuses to keep touching her. Anastasia had a pleasant feeling in her stomach and smiled.

-          I really enjoy your company too. You are so easy going and… I don’t know – Anastasia said as Richard started to get close – It’s like we have this… - Richard brought his face really close to Anastasia’s and talked.

-          … Strong connection – He said before kissing her.

It was the most romantic kiss Anastasia have ever received, so different from Josh’s. So delicate, so respectful. He grabbed her firmly by her waist with his left hand and positioned his right hand on the back of her neck while she hugged him on his torso. Their mouths were doing a dance of their own and after almost a minute she broke the kiss to gasp for air. He looked at her straight to her eyes and smiled, she did the same.

-          I have never received a kiss like that before – She said and he smiled wider – So… so…

-          Meaningful – He said a word that wouldn’t pass through An’s mind but was the perfect word to describe it: meaningful – After everything that happened to me last year – He was still close to her face -  I really thought I wouldn’t fall in love ever again but how wrong I was.

Did he just say that he was in love with her? Anastasia’s mind started to work fast. She definitely had feelings for Richard, but Josh was still in her heart. Josh was with Lauren at that precise moment… and then An got it: she deserved, for once, a man that was just for her (like she told Josh before), and Richard was everything she needed at that moment, the Universe was handing her a pair of arms where she could heal and restore her love life.

-          I’m sorry – Richard broke the hug and gave a few steps back because of the lack of response from her – I think I came too straight – He was ashamed - She grabbed his face with both arms and smiled.

-          I like straightforward people – And kissed him again.

Nothing else happened that night; Richard was too much of a gentleman to let it go further and that actually attracted her more to him. Once in bed, ready for sleep she couldn’t stop thinking about what just happened, Richard fucking Austin kissed her, her teenage crush kissed her. She thought that maybe this is how some Josh’s younger fans fantasize with him, she use to fantasize with Richard and now he just told her that he loved her. That smile stayed tattooed on her face until the day of the Richard’s band show.

By then Josh has texted her at least twice per day but she didn’t feel the need to reply. If he wanted to act like a jealous kid he had to do it on his own, she wasn’t going to play around that attitude. He had Lauren and now Richard was part of Anastasia’s life, she was sure it was time to cut the cord with Josh, especially for her mental stability.

Richard was very happy to have her on the show, Mandy and Mark tagged along. Unfortunately, Steph had to stay in London for work, she was also doing a Major in English Literature and conducting an investigation with the Oxford University, Mark couldn’t choose better.

-          Steph and I decided we want a small wedding in the English countryside – Mark said at the bar inside the Fonda while waiting for The Genius Sex Poets to take the stage – Maybe we’ll rent a house there and spend a whole weekend celebrating. What about you? – He asked Mandy.

-          I’m getting married in Malibu, there’s no doubt about it – The pink-haired girl answered with a smile -  I actually found an amazing venue, a mansion at the shore that is very private, perfect for me to get ready there and have the ceremony and the reception at the same place.

-          I’m gonna give you your honeymoon so think where you want to go – Anastasia said and Mandy opened her eyes big.

-          Are you serious? – She said.

-          I’ll pay for everything – Anastasia was laughing because of Mandy’s reaction.

-          I can’t accept that!

-          Shut up! – Anastasia said – Think where you wanna go and I’ll pay and you can’t say no.

-          God gave me the best best friend someone could ask and I don’t really need to tell you but it’s obvious you will be my maid of honor – Even though Anastasia supposed it, hearing Mandy say it brought her a wind whirl of emotions and her eyes got watery.

-          Oh, stop you two, I’m going to cry too! – Mark said and laughed. Anastasia hugged her friend, nodded and tried to wipe the tears without destroying her makeup - I’m pretty sure Stephanie will ask you to be one of her bridesmaids too.

-          I’m going to cry more! – Anastasia said – Always the bridesmaid, never the bride.

-          Maybe that will change – Mark said pointing to the stage where Richard was coming out through the lights.

He was amazing on stage, not only he moved with confidence, his voice was to die for, so strong, so trained and so different from Josh’s. Mandy and Anastasia knew all the songs except for the new ones; they were listening to the classics since they were teenagers. Richard found An in the crowd even though she was far from the stage, and he locked eyes with her a couple of times giving her a couple of smiles.

After the last song, An, Mandy and Mark walked backstage. Richard, now with his clothes changed, gave Anastasia a tight hug and a big kiss on the lips which took her by surprise, that display of affection in front of his band mates, but she responded in the same way, kissing him back. Mandy was shocked but the rest of the people in that room didn’t seem to care a bit.

-          That was an amazing show! – Mark said breaking the spell between Richard and Anastasia.

-          The new songs are incredible – Mandy talked.

-          That’s all because of Mark – Richard said with a smile, a pair of dimples formed in his cheeks every time he smiled – He and his damn amazing ear for music made them.

-          Time to boost the producer’s ego – Mark laughed.

-          Let’s head to the bar for drinks – Richard said putting his arm on Anastasia’s back, she felt such comfort in that action.

Richard was very sociable, and although he talked with a bunch of people that night, he kept coming back to Anastasia’s side to share a drink with her or to make sure she had everything she needed. He was certainly giving her all the attention in the world and that made her feel good.

-          Anastasia, marry that guy right now! – Mandy was a bit tipsy – No! Forget it! I already told you I wasn’t going to give you any more advice on love.

-          I think we are ready to leave – Mark said and Anastasia saw Richard talking with some friends in the distance. He looked back at her.

-          I think I’m going to stay a little bit more – Anastasia said to Mark – I’ll call an Uber. Can you safely take Mandy back to her place? – She asked her brother.

-          Like the old days! – Mark answered – Say bye to Richard from us.

-          I will – Anastasia said and waved goodbye as her friend and Mark leave the place.

At that moment, Richard went back to An’s side.

-          What happened to Mandy and Mark? – He asked.

-          Mandy wasn’t feeling well so Mark took her home.

-          And you decided to stay – He smiled again and the dimples appeared again she felt the pleasant tingling in her stomach again.

-          Yeah… - She didn’t know what to answer.

-          Listen, I had a crazy idea – Richard smiled again – I have my motorcycle parked outside, what do you say if we ride to Palm Springs and spend the entire day there tomorrow? – It sounded like an amazing plan.

-          Yes! Sounds amazing! What time do we leave? – She didn’t get the whole idea.

-          Right now!

-          What?! That’s crazy! Richard, Palm Springs is two hours away! – She said but she wasn’t worried at all. She actually wanted to do it – Well, let’s go now, then! – He smiled and kissed her.

 Now, An was wearing his leather jacket and riding his Indian Chief Dark Horse motorcycle through the 10 Route, leaving Los Angeles behind and entering the dessert, that place Richard loved. This was crazy, it was almost two in the morning, it was dark and that gave a special aura to the road, but she didn’t care about it, she felt safe with him. Anastasia had forgotten the last time she rode a motorcycle, probably when she was thirteen.

She was hugging Richard tight and saw him smiling; he stroked her arms from time to time. They arrived to the Palm Springs’ Marriott Hotel at almost four in the morning.

-          Thank God they had rooms available because I didn’t plan any of this – He said laughing and opening the door to the suite with an amazing view to the pool. Everything was so peaceful at that hour.

-          This is crazy. We both had drinks at The Fonda – Anastasia said entering.

-          I only had one drink – He put his arms around her - I told you, coming to the dessert is like escaping, leaving the craziness behind…

They looked at each other; she knew what was going to happen. All the thrill of that night was reaching its peak. She loved that Richard acted that way, so impulsive, so unpredictable; she saw it when he appeared at Glastonbury Festival just to see her and now she was standing in front of her teenage crush naked, ready to give herself to him, not worrying about what happened to both in the past. The connection she had with Richard made her feel like she knew him during her whole life, in a way it was, but this was deep and special and the best of all she was happy.

She woke up feeling Richard’s lips on her neck. He was such a gentleman and treated her like she was a china doll, delicate. Although Richard was younger than Josh, the way he acted and talked and made love to her was so much mature. She was over the moon.

-          I want to spend the day at the pool – Richard said smiling.

-          Do you realize we didn’t pack anything? – She rolled over only to faint at his dimples.

-          We can fix that, one call to front desk and they can bring us bathing suits and everything we need – Yeah, Richard’s band was in a much higher position, he was definitely more famous than her so in the hotel they knew who he was.

He did his thing and the hotel gave then swimming suits from one of the boutiques inside, she had the most relaxing day at the pool and the spa. That night they made their way back to Los Angeles. She was hugging Richard on his motorcycle feeling like a whole new Anastasia. This was solid; she could feel it and the most important thing of all: this time she was calm about the future.

Hello everyone! I’m back and I’m so sorry I kept you all waiting for this new chapter but here it is! This chapter is so sweet and I hope you all like it!

Remember to check Anastasia’s Instagram that is on fire:

Anastasia_Truman  ❤️️

Thanks to everyone who reads the fic, much love to you all! ♥

Read chapter 36

Next morning, Anastasia woke up feeling in heaven. She was trying to process the weekend she just had. Not only she met her lifetime crush, she worked with him and they shared a drinking session. Cloud nine was such a small place for all the joy and happiness she was feeling. She even managed to get Josh out of her head for a while; the constant knot on her stomach was fully undone while she was in Las Vegas.

She brushed her teeth, tied her hair up in a bun, took a quick shower and grabbed a long Pilots tee shirt (Her dad’s legendary rock band), put it on and went downstairs, When she was walking through her living room she saw a pink spot on her kitchen that wasn’t normally there, she smiled and walked towards her best friend.

 -          I’m gonna take all of your keys back. I’m tired of you all sneaking into my house! – Anastasia said smiling.

-          I woke up extremely happy this morning and I wanted to have a great breakfast but Peyton wasn’t there so I came here to have breakfast together – Mandy said turning around to see Anastasia but the midnight-blue-haired girl notice that her friend wasn’t, in fact, happy. Mandy showed a serious face.

-          What’s wrong? – Anastasia asked. She really wanted that breakfast.

-          This is wrong! – Mandy said showing a little orange jar on her right hand.

 Anastasia understood everything then. Mandy found her Xanax jar and it was empty. But it wasn’t because Anastasia took them all. After that afternoon with Josh in Orlando she never took another Xanax, instead as soon as she got to LA she threw the pills on the crusher on her kitchen sink but she never got rid of the jar. How stupid she felt in that moment. If she explained that to Mandy, her friend wouldn’t believe her because of the addiction she had on the past.

 -          I’m sorry. I took them on the tour but I swear I won’t do it again – Anastasia told her friend.

-          I’m so disappointed and so angry right now, An – Mandy said – You know that if you have any issue, any problem you can come and talk to me and I will help you find a solution, I will cheer you up! Don’t go back to Xanax. It cost you a lot to get out of it years ago – Mandy’s face showed her rage.

-          I’m sorry. I swear that it was just one time – Anastasia was begging her friend for comprehension.

-          I just feel so mad that you didn’t come to me – Mandy said.

-          Sometimes I think I’m a load to you.

-          Never! I don’t want to see you bad – Mandy walked to Anastasia and gave her a tight hug, Anastasia embraced her friend like there was no tomorrow. They had a long time without giving themselves that kind of hugs that goes straight to the soul.

-          I’m fine. Believe me, especially after this weekend! – Anastasia said with a smile.

-          I’m going to serve breakfast and you have to tell me everything – Mandy said.

 The two friends had some eggs, bacon and waffles and Anastasia told Mandy every single little detail about her weekend in Las Vegas.

-          I saw the picture on your Instagram with the red wig – Mandy said laughing – I miss your red hair, which was the beginning of your witch-to-be look.

-          I know! I looked amazing, don’t you think?

-          You did! But how is he? – Mandy wanted to know.

-          He is even better than I imagined. He is so sweet and so nice. He is not that cocky asshole we saw on stage or videos. We had dinner, we made the video and then we had some drinks and we talked about everything you can imagine, especially his divorce – Mandy opened her mouth big.

-          He got divorced? – She was shocked.

-          Yes! He has been divorced for around a year – Anastasia said sipping some coffee from her cup – Their new album is about that… Oh! – She almost forgot – He kissed my hand twice!

-          What a gentleman! – Mandy said

-          It was incredible! And I had a great time with Steph too.

-          Time is always great if you spend it with Steph! – Mandy laughed – I’m so happy for you! You got out of the drama for at least three days.

-          I know – Anastasia smiled – I’m still over the moon! – Mandy smiled too.

-          I gotta go because Peyton’s mom is in town and we are going to have lunch and then we hit the stadium for the game tonight.

-          Sounds fun! – Anastasia said.

-          It is fun! My mother in law is so sweet. I’m so lucky.

-          You are, my friend, you are!

-          I’ll leave the dishes to you.

-          That’s the problem with people sneaking into my house to make breakfast… I have to clean later.

-          I love you! – Mandy closed the door behind her.

Anastasia sighed, looked at the mess Mandy had left in the kitchen and began to clean it. But she was still happy, even doing the dishes. She heard her phone ringing and something inside told her that it was Josh, she left the dishes half done and ran to answer the phone and, in fact, it was him calling.

-          Hey! – He said.

-          Hi – Was all she managed to say.

-          I was about to do some grocery shopping and I decided to call you to see if you wanted to join me – That was weird – If you aren’t busy, of course.

-          No. I’m not busy – Anastasia said – pick me up.

-          That was easy – He said as a joke but it made Anastasia feel a little bit ashamed – I’ll be there in ten.

 She ran upstairs to change into more appropriate clothes for leaving the house. She chose a pair of black joggers and a black tee shirt with the word “witch” in front, just as the one she used to wear onstage sometimes. In exactly ten minutes Josh was blowing the horn in front of her house.

-          My favorite witch – He said looking at her tee shirt.

-          My favorite… guitarist? – She said mocking him and laughing.

-          At least I’m your favorite something.

-          Don’t be silly, you are my favorite in so many things like… - She mimicked the process of thinking – Like… You are in one of my favorites bands, does that count?

-          You are so funny today! – He said faking a smile.

-          Why are you buying groceries if we’re leaving on Friday again? – Anastasia said.

-          I’m tired of eating out – He answered.

-          Did Lauren leave? – She had to ask because the matter was in her head for a long time that morning. He looked at her before answering.

-          Yes. She flew back to New York last night.

-          Cool – An wasn’t going to prolong subject. Josh looked at her again like waiting for a further answer but she didn’t give it to him.

Josh drove to a grocery shop in downtown Santa Monica. It felt so weird for Anastasia do mundane things like groceries with Josh. She was buying some things for herself too and they looked like a couple buying food for their home. And the atmosphere was so tense, as if Josh wanted to say something and he just couldn’t get it out of his chest, at the same time that they were there trying to choose if coconut shampoo smelled better than aloe shampoo.

-          Aloe doesn’t have any smell – Anastasia said – And you know how I love coconut.

-          You know what was cool? Those kid’s shampoos that smelled like watermelon or bubblegum – Josh said.

-          Yes! Let’s find those! I used to use the watermelon one and my hair smelled great the entire day!

-          Are we actually going to buy kid’s shampoo? – Josh said laughing.

-          Yes! – Anastasia confirmed it laughing too.

-          You’re crazy!

-          You already know that – She found the shampoo – Take the watermelon one and I’ll take the bubblegum one – Josh looked at her with an incredulous look – I’m being serious.

-          Alright… I’ll take it – He was laughing.

-          Your hair will smell amazing! – Anastasia said smiling.

-          Let’s have lunch together! – Josh said suddenly – I’ll cook you something. What do you want to eat?

-          For real? – Anastasia was accepting all his propositions that day like it wasn’t a big deal but inside of her it was a huge deal, indeed – Mmm, I don’t know… What about some grilled steaks and roasted veggies?

-          Sounds good. Deal.

-          At your place? – Josh looked at her straight into her eyes like if the answer was obvious.

-          Of course!

Josh started cooking the steaks at the grill in his beautiful backyard, the only place that wasn’t filled with instruments, while Anastasia was cleaning and chopping some peppers, tomatoes, onions and corn cobs to roast then in the oven. Not only they went to shop for groceries like a couple, now they were cooking lunch like if that parallel universe where Josh having a girlfriend and An having experienced a weekend with the love of her teenage years didn’t exist.

-          Did you have fun this weekend? – Josh asked suddenly when they were seating at his dining table. It felt like a release, she knew he’d wanted to bring it up the whole day.

-          More than you can ever imagine – She answered.

-          You really like his band – Josh said looking and the food on his plate.

-          I do. Well, it was one of those bands you like when you are a teenager. I use to love them then I lost track of what they were doing, but now Mark is working in the studio with them.

-          Cool – Josh said, the same cold way An replied to him when he told her about Lauren a couple of hours ago – And what did you do? – He went on with it.

-        We mostly filmed, but in our spare time we had dinner with Richard, the lead singer…

-        ‘We’?

-          Yes, Mark and Stephanie were there too. They got engaged! – The situation was as weird as you could get.

-          That’s amazing! – Josh said – They seem so in love.

-          They are! They were born to be together.

-          Yeah. Some people are – He stopped eating and kept looking at her – What else did you do in Vegas?

-          Well, we had lunch and when we were done filming the video – She stopped for a moment, doubting if she should continue talking but she liked to push Josh’s buttons and deep inside her brain, and her heart, she was angry for the time he spent with Lauren – I had some drinks with Richard… just to celebrate – Anastasia felt as if Josh’s stare was piercing her brain.

-          Cool – he said again before giving a big bite to his corn cob.

They didn’t say another word until the plates were empty.

 -          That was so good! – She said taking the plates from the table – Here, I’ll do the dishes – She took a plate from Josh’s hands.

-          Wanna watch a movie or something? – He asked her – I don’t know if you have any plans but…

-          I don’t have any plans but why don’t we go to the beach? – She asked him.

-          The beach?

-          Yeah. Let’s go and just lay on the sand. It’s a nice day out – She was finishing cleaning.

-          Alright. It’s a good idea.

And so they went. On the way to Venice Beach, Anastasia’s phone began buzzing and as she grabbed it she saw a couple of messages from Richard, she felt bad about reading them while on Josh’s car but the curiosity was huge.

“Hey. Hope you are well, I just wanted to tell you that I’ve seen some scenes from the video and you look beautiful”. She read the first.

 “You will be the first to watch it when is out”, the second one said and she smiled like a child.

 -          Do you smile like that when you read my texts? – Josh asked.

-          What? – She thought she heard wrong.

-          You read that text with such a smile on your face – She heard right.

-          Is that a wrong thing?

-          No. It’s the face I make when I read your texts – He was impossible.

-          I’m going to leave the facial expression I make when I read your text to your imagination – She said but Josh didn’t take it as well as she thought. He started to drive faster, as he did when he was angry. She decided not to reply to Richard right away.

They arrived at Venice Beach and the beach was mostly empty, which was always something amazing to catch. Josh brought a big towel with him so they could sit on the sand.

-          I love this place so much – Anastasia said.

-          Why? – Josh asked looking at the sand.

-          Why? – She looked at him – There is such beauty in this place. So many things happening, so many people from so many places around the world. There’s the city and there’s the beach…

-          It is a place with so much falseness – Josh said still looking at the sand. He didn’t catch Anastasia’s eyes even though she was looking at him. She knew he was angry.

-          There’s falseness everywhere, not just here. But you need to only see the good. All the people that move here to make their dreams true…

-          How many actually achieve that?

-          What’s wrong? – Anastasia was done – I only wanted to get some peace at the beach shore. I mean, look! The beach is empty; do you know how rare is that? And you are there, looking at the sand being angry for some reason…

-          I’m not angry – He looked at her straight to her eyes for the first time since they arrived to the beach – It’s just… I don’t know. It’s hard to explain.

-          I’m here to listen.

-          I know but I also know you won’t be there for too long.

-          What do you mean? – Anastasia was confused.

-          I feel like I’m losing you, An – He said without breaking the eye contact.

-          Losing me? From what?

-          From whom…

-          Josh, is this because of my weekend at Vegas?

-          It’s about everything you will do. I feel like I can’t make up my mind and I know you won’t here forever, I know that if somebody appears and wants to take you he’s going to do it because I can’t make up my fucking mind.

-          I’m going to ask you something crazy – He looked back to the sand – By any chance did you read my writing notebook that Eric has because he’s making notes for some new songs? I wrote a song called ‘Make Up Your Mind’ and it’s about you – Josh looked at An again – I promised myself that I wasn’t going to write songs about any other guy but this thing that I have with you has turned into a fucking roller coaster – She laughed.

-          Would you be mad if I did?

-          Well… I know Eric didn’t give you permission to read it because he knows I don’t like people to sneak into my lyric notebook – He looked at her again – But no. I wouldn’t be mad about it.

-          I’m sorry. I just couldn’t resist. I’m so jealous of the way you write songs that I wanted to see if I could learn something. I guess I got more than what I was looking for.

-          That will teach you to stay away from other people’s notebooks – Anastasia laughed but Josh looked to the floor one more time and she just hugged him – Look at me – She said to him without breaking the hug. Their faces were so close – I don’t know what’s going to happen, you don’t know what’s going to happen so why not just enjoy this moment, right now, without worrying about an uncertain future? – He just looked at her with the tenderest eyes and that gave Anastasia the push to kiss him. It wasn’t a long kiss but it was meaningful, it was one of those kisses that made both smile after, and they did. She saw Josh smiling for the first time that afternoon – Let’s enjoy today and this beautiful sunset.

Sunsets in California were something out of this world. The sky turned into so many shades of blue and pink and red, it didn’t matter where in the state you were, at sunset it was mandatory to stop and look at the sky for a few minutes. Josh put his arm around Anastasia while she rested her head on his chest to view that show the sky was giving to them. After that she remembered the ice cream shop she discovered with Mandy last time they were there and Josh obviously agreed to go and get one.

-          Guess I should take you home – Josh said while getting into his car.

-          Yes, you should – Anastasia laughed – I need to start packing because we aren’t coming back to LA before going to London and I need to pack a whole shitload of things.

-          I’m so sad I’m going to miss Glasto – He started to drive.

-          You can watch it, there’ll be a livestream!

-          Really? I need to plan that. I’m so damn proud of you all, how far Dead Curse have come.

-          I know. I will probably cry on that stage. It has been a personal dream for a long time.

-          You deserve it. You all do. I’m so jealous of what you guys have with DC.

-          You have that with Dot Hacker.

-          It’s not the same. I mean it fulfills me… to a certain point.

-          You’ll never be content with anything you do, will ya? – Josh shrugged.

Anastasia wanted to ask Josh if he wanted to stay the night at her place, but she felt that with everything that happened that afternoon it was enough Josh for a day. They shared another kiss in the car once they were in front of her house and it was a much more passionate one. To her, it felt like he didn’t want to let her go, the way he grabbed her lips with his lips woke up a bunch of emotions inside of her, but it had been enough for that day.

I’m so so sorry for not posting yesterday. The amount of work I had was insane! But here it is: Chapter 36!

I wanna let you all know that I’m gonna be traveling next week so is very possible that I wont post next week. Sorry for that! I’ll still active on Instagram, tho. 

Hope you all enjoy this chapter ‘cuz I loved it!

Remember to check Anastasia’s Instagram that is on fire:

Anastasia_Truman  ❤️️

Thanks to everyone who reads the fic, much love to you all! ♥

That Thursday she woke up early and full of energy, she was living a dream. She asked Mandy to come with her but the pink haired girl preferred to stay in Los Angeles with Peyton, An understood her and didn’t get mad about it; at least Mark was going to make her company and he was taking Stephanie with him. She was nervous, she didn’t know why, she had met some of the greatest names in music before: Bowie used to read with her when she was little, McCartney was always there on Christmas at her father’s house to party, even Elton John says she is his niece, but this was different, she was going to meet her lifetime crush.

-          This is weird! – She said to Mark at the lobby of the Palms Hotel in Las Vegas – A hotel room just for me… Alone!

-          You have been in hotel rooms alone before – Mark said to her taking the elevator.

-          Not in the last year – She answered – I stayed with either Mandy or Josh, never alone.

-          How is the Josh thing going? – Stephanie had to ask.

-          He is in Los Angeles with his girlfriend and I’m here to meet my longtime crush and to get drunk with you – She said clapping hands with Stephanie.

-          I don’t agree with the last part – Mark said as the elevator doors opened at their floor. The penthouse – You have two hours to get ready and then we’ll meet at Nove for dinner with Richard.

-          Thank God I packed my good dresses.

An could see the entire city from her room, it was almost nighttime and the lights from the casinos and hotels were starting to shine. Las Vegas was an amazing city; it was an escape for her and her LA friends when they were in high school. She had a bath, put on a short black deep neckline loose dress with a dark blue velvet bralette underneath and killer black stiletto heels (with red soles, of course). She met Mark and Steph, who was glowing in a silver long sleeve dress, and took the elevator together to the restaurant. Nove was located at the top of the Fantasy Tower in the hotel and it mainly served Italian food. They walked into the fine decoration and to a table, next to a giant picture window where they had a panoramic view of Las Vegas. There was Richard Austin, looking as dapper as he could with a pair of black skinny jeans, a black t-shirt and a leather jacket, his hair was combed back and his brown eyes were shining with the help of the restaurant’s lighting.  He got up from his chair to receive them.

-          Hey! – He said stretching Mark’s hand – I’m glad you all made it!

-          Yes. We’d never say no to a trip to Vegas – Mark said  – This is my fiancée Stephanie – He introduce her with such pride – And this is my little sis, Anastasia – She was shaking.

-          Not so little! – Richard said laughing but then he took An’s right hand and kissed it. She automatically blushed – Let’s take a seat – He moved a chair so Anastasia could take it, such a gentleman. Better for her she got to sit next to him. She was in heaven – I already ordered a bottle of wine so I hope there’s no problem with it.

-          I never have problems with wine – Anastasia said and Richard smiled but her brother gave her a hard look. She and Stephanie laughed.

They talked about any topic one can possibly imagine and Anastasia realize that Richard’s cockiness was just a stage thing, he wasn’t like that at all in real life; he was nice and sweet and had this manly man portrait perfect for his 36 years of age. Something Josh didn’t have, he still looked like he was 25 in her eyes.

-          We went to Italy last year with the tour and I swear you can’t find pasta like the one you find there but I have to say that this is so close! – Anastasia said talking about the Amatriciana pasta she was eating at the moment.

-          I have to agree – Richard said – Where in Italy?

-          We went to Turin and Bologna, beautiful places, not so great to play… at least for us – She said after sipping from her wine glass.

-          Why? – Richard wanted to know.

-          We didn’t connect with the audience there – She answered.

-          So, we’re here for business – Mark said breaking the spell of the conversation between Anastasia and Richard.

-          Right! The video! – Richard said – I’m so glad that you had the time to do this because I’ve been following your career and when I saw you on Mark’s Instagram I knew I had to have you on this. The song is a satire of being this extremely confident rock star but the video story is about two hotel workers that enter one of the rooms and rob the guests while they are out. The thing is that you’re going to be singing in the video and going to be like the master planner of everything, I’m just there to help you. But we are going to be a couple and I must warn you that there may be a kiss… or two – Her mind was about to explode, she would get to kiss the guy of her dreams? Life was perfect.

-          I must warn you that I’m a terrible actress – She said to him.

-          You are not. I’ve seen your videos – She felt ashamed that he saw her in Dead Curse’s videos – I’m a diehard Dead Curse fan.

-          No, you are not! You’re just saying that! – She laughed.

-          I am! Ask your brother – Richard said pointing to Mark.

-          All he did in the studio was saying how much he liked your voice and the way you wrote your songs and how magnificent everyone sounded in that band.

-          You guys are a work of art – Richard said.

After dinner, Richard excused himself to go home and have some sleep since they were going to start shooting early the next day. Mark was tired too but Stephanie and Anastasia decided to stay a little bit longer at the bar.

-          Let me see that ring! – Mark gave Stephanie a Claddagh ring; it was an Irish tradition since her family was from Ireland. The ring was silver and had two hands holding a diamond in the shape of a heart. Claddagh rings had lots of meanings but wearing it with the point of the heart towards the fingertip on the left hand meant engagement.

-          Oh God! He thinks about every freaking little detail!

-          It was perfect! – Stephanie said.

-          I wanna hear everything about it – Anastasia said to her smiling wide.

-          Not only did I meet U2, which is my favorite band in the universe, but he proposed to me while they were performing “Where the Streets Have No Name”, which is my favorite song from The Joshua Tree – little did Steph know it was all Anastasia’s idea – They played the record in order so “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” followed and I swear I could have died in that moment and I’d be gone happily.

-          Now we have a wedding to plan!

-          I have no idea what I want – Steph said drinking champagne.

-          We’ll figure it out – Anastasia said to her. Barbara is perfect for those things, ask her for help!

-          She was over the moon with the news! – Stephanie talked again.

-          Because we all love you so much, sweetie!

-          What about you? This guy was flirting with you blatantly!

-          No, he wasn’t! – Anastasia laughed.

-          He was! Believe me; I know it when I see it.

-          Should I tell him that I used to have his face plastered on my bedroom wall when I was sixteen?

-          Oh my God! No! – Stephanie was laughing hard.

-          You don’t know where that may lead me! – Anastasia was laughing too. In that moment she received a message on her phone, she looked at the screen and saw it was from Josh, “What are you doing? I miss you”. She didn’t reply. She hadn’t told him that she’d be going to Vegas for the weekend, it didn’t matter because he was with Lauren.

-          Is it Josh? – Stephanie asked and Anastasia nodded – Forget about him - The girls got up to pay for their drinks and started to walk to take the elevator back to the floor where their rooms were located - Try luck with Richard! – Anastasia laughed hard.

-          Richard is married and has two kids and that’s a territory I won’t enter – Anastasia said entering the elevator.

-          He is not! He got divorced when they started to record, actually many songs on the album are about that.

-          Didn’t know that! – A smile appeared on Anastasia’s face – Do you think I have a chance with him? – Anastasia said while walking to the hallway.

-          Look at you! You have a chance with any guy you want!

-          Do you realize I use to have wet dreams about him when I was younger?

-          Even better, you know what to expect!

-          Shut up! You sound like Mandy – She was laughing hard – I’m going to sleep. I have a video to film tomorrow – She hugged Stephanie in front of the door of the room she shared with Mark – I love you!

-          Love you too! See you tomorrow!

She entered her room, changed into her pajamas, removed her makeup, put on a face mask and grabbed her phone to read Josh’s messages again, she thought if it was a good idea to reply to him, it was midnight but she was sure he was awake so she decided to text him.

An: Sorry for the delay. I’ve been busy. I’m in Vegas for the weekend, working on some stuff – She sent it.

Josh: Wow! Vegas? You didn’t tell me anything – He answered back, she couldn’t tell if he was angry or not.

An: Sorry, it was a last minute thing – Why did he care? He was with Lauren, she thought.

Josh: Fun stuff?

An: I’m filming a video for a band.

Josh: Which band? – He always had to ask everything.

An: The Genius Sex Poets, they’ve been my favorite band since I was 16, so this is like a dream come true.

Josh: That’s a very stupid name for a band – She knew he was laughing even if she couldn’t see him – Where did they get that from?

An: From The Killers’ video “Mr. Brightside”, that’s the name of the fictional band on it.

Josh: I’m not a fan of The Killers, at all – He was being arrogant.

An: I love them! They also got their name from a fictional band on a New Order video.

Josh: The battle of the fictional band names. I’m stuck in the Joy Division era.

An: Not everyone has the luck of having a drummer with a grandmother called Dorothy – She said it because that’s the story behind Dot Hacker’s name.

Josh: He is your drummer too!

An: I like my band’s name better.

Josh: You know? I thought Fleetwood Mac was your favorite band.

An: Well, you have lots of favorite bands too, but this is different, I’ve had a platonic crush on Richard the lead singer FOR YEARS.

Josh: Mm… ok – He was definitely mad now – When are you coming back?

An: Is Lauren gone? – She had to ask. She didn’t expect him to text her while she was there.

Josh: No, but I miss you even with her next to me.

An: You know that’s fucking confusing, huh?

Josh: Yes, I am aware of that…

An: I’ll be back on Sunday, probably. If the filming doesn’t extend.

Josh: Good to know!

An: I’m going to sleep since we start shooting tomorrow early.

Josh: Dream of me. Love you – Anastasia felt that message so awkward she didn’t even smiled.

An: Love you too.

 Next day she woke up early, tired and angry thanks to last night conversation with Josh. She didn’t expect him to write to her while Lauren was in town, she actually didn’t want him to do it. She didn’t want to think about it, to think about him. Above all that she was happy, it had been a glorious night: meeting Richard Austin, her platonic love and thinking about him asking her to be on his band’s video, it was a dream come true.

She put on a pair of jeans and a Red Hot Chili Peppers t-shirt, she had tons of them after the tour, this one was white with the logo in red and black. She paired the outfit with black vans and she hit the road. They were filming in the same hotel so Mark led her to a room in the third floor where the production was being held. She saw Richard and he hugged her like they’d known each other for years (she was shaking), then he introduced her to the rest of the band. She had seen them live so many times before but never got the chance to actually meet them, she never idolized anyone but this was a big moment in her life. |Then it was time to meet the director, a friend of Richard’s. He explained the story to her: she was going to be a cleaning girl from the hotel and Richard was going to be working at the reception. After spotting a rich couple that was staying there, they decided to rob them. Anastasia’s character was going to be in charge of the operation and she was going to be singing like it was her song. She was excited and agreed with everything. It was then time to start and the first step was hair and makeup.

-          We were thinking about changing the color of your hair but we wanted to consult it with you first – The director told her – We have a couple of wigs – He pointed to a corner when they had a caramel wig, a blond one and a red one. She chose the red one as soon as she saw it.

-          I had red hair once, years ago – Anastasia said.

-          I would have liked to meet you then – Richard said smiling. And she blushed. “What is wrong?” She thought. She didn’t use to blush that often.

A hair dresser put her wig on and a makeup artist did magic on her face and after wearing a cleaning service uniform she was ready to film. She had time to hear the song on repeat while she was getting ready so now she knew it as if she’d written it herself.  

First day of shooting went great. An and Richard were having great chemistry, which got more intense next day when they had to film in one of the hotel rooms, where they were stealing the jewelry and cash from the “rich couple.” On the script she would get to try on one of the wife’s gowns, a beautiful green dress that contrasted heavenly - or more like devilishly - with the red hair. Of course she took a million pictures and selfies during breaks.

In that part of the video they had to dance and enjoy the clothes and things from the guests they were stealing. Anastasia had to try on Swarovski necklaces and diamond earrings and she was in heaven. They had a bunch of fake cash and she kept throwing it to Richard, they were having fun until a part of the video where he hugged her after a dance and he put his face close to hers, it was pure tension, she looked into his eyes and he looked back into her big, turquoise eyes and almost, almost kissed her but the director yelled “Cut!” breaking the spell.

-          Thank you so much for doing this – Richard said after shooting was done.

-          You don’t have to thank me, I had so much fun doing it! – She had so much fun two days had gone by without her thinking about Josh.

-          I think I’m going to hit the ‘Ghostbar’ at the Ivory Tower – Richard said looking at her straight – Would you like to join me?

-          Yes! – She said without even thinking about it. Mark and Stephanie were enjoying the city so she didn’t have to worry about them.

The Ghostbar was a beautiful place, extravagant and fancy just like every other place in Las Vegas. They got a spot at the actual bar, Richard ordered a Margarita for her and a beer for himself. She liked that, him taking charge. But she didn’t know why.

-          Mark told me you guys where touring right now – Richard said.

-          Yes! We’re opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers – She said.

-          That’s why you’re wearing that tee shirt? – She laughed and realized she wasn’t properly dressed for such a fancy place like that.

-          I have a ton now! Nah, but I’m a fan, I love them.

-          They must be fun people to tour with.

-          I thought they were going to be wilder – Anastasia had a drink from her Margarita glass, it tasted like heaven – They are all fathers now and are into this natural vibe. I was expecting Flea running naked around at every venue – He laughed.

-          I like the Peppers! Haven’t seen them live in a while though. You guys are going to play Glastonbury soon, right?

-          That’s a dream come true…

-          We played there a couple of times before and there’s not a better crowd in the entire world.

-          I know, I’ve seen you guys in Glasto a bunch of times.

-          Oh, are you a fan? – He laughed after drinking some beer.

-          The biggest! I used to have your face plastered on my bedroom wall when I was sixteen – She stopped – And I can’t believe I just told you that – Richard started laughing hard – Not in a creepy way, though!

-          That’s awesome – Richard was still laughing – I would like to say the same but you weren’t around when I was a teenager. I would love to have that beautiful face on my wall without a doubt – She couldn’t help but smile.

-          Thank you – She drank more of her cocktail.

Being with Richard was so easy. They talked about everything; even his divorce and about how hard it was to have a real relationship being a musician, even harder with somebody that’s not in the same business. He had been separated from his ex-wife for almost a year, and was the father of a boy. An told him that she knew people that managed to have successful relationships being in this industry (Eric, Mandy and even Mark) but she totally understood him because for her father it had been a hard issue all of his life; even though it had something to do with the fact that her father was a fucking man-whore sometimes.

They connected, and connected well. At the end of the night he thanked her again kissing her hand and they even exchanged numbers.

She came back to her room with a big smile on her face. It wasn’t about love; it was about having a great time with an amazing person. She was happy and on top of all she was calm and Josh didn’t appear in her mind – or her phone – for the rest of Vegas trip.

That Sunday she managed to have an amazing shopping spree with Stephanie in some of the most exclusive stores in Sin City. After that, Mark joined them for a late lunch, and that night they flew back to Los Angeles. Once at home she received a text: “Hope you made it home safe, thanks for joining me and everyone this weekend”, it was from Richard and she just stood there, in her kitchen, smiling like an idiot.

Hello everyone! Her I am again, as every Thursday. I’m so in love with today’s chapter! Y’all can even imagine. 

I wanna say thanks for the huge suppor I received after last week’s words. You all are angels sent by the Universe to make me happy!

Remember to check Anastasia’s Instagram that is on fire:

Anastasia_Truman  ❤️️

Thanks to everyone who reads the fic, much love to you all! ♥

Read chapter 34

 -          I’m so tired of this week-on-week-off thing – Josh told Anastasia on the bus on the way to Pittsburg, as he laid his head on her lap, while she was playing with his hair.

-          Yeah. I know what you mean – Mandy spoke from the couch in front of them. Nick and Eric were there also.

-          It’s like you get used to the touring routine and then it’s cut down and then you get used to the home routine and it’s also cut down – Anastasia told them.

-          I never thought we were going to be here at this point of the tour – Eric said.

-          None of us – Josh said smiling and looking into An’s eyes – But the crew love you all so much and people like to see you onstage so…

-          It has been an incredible experience so far, though – Mandy talked again.

-          It’s been a dream come true – Nick said this time.

-          Aw! That was the sweetest thing you could ever fucking say – Anastasia said while everyone was laughing.

-          I’m working on my sweet side – Nick said smiling.

-          Work a little harder – Mandy said.

 The group was trying hard to kill time on the road, they packed the tour bus with a great videogame system, they spent time listening to music, Anastasia was having a big inspirational streak at writing and Mandy consumed her time watching Drag Queen makeup tutorials on Youtube, since she was the makeup artist of the band. Josh and Anastasia kept sharing glances during the whole trip, she knew that as soon as they’d arrive and people or crew started to gather around they were going to be back to friends mode, it was a new situation for her but somehow it wasn’t bothering her, she was even enjoying it.

Tiredness was a real issue and it was starting to show on everybody. They’d been touring for almost a year and people (especially Josh) were starting to get angry about everything and anything. Sometimes he didn’t measure the words out of his mouth and, even if he didn’t meant to, he was starting to treat people around him in not the nicest way. He wasn’t the only one, Flea and Anthony retraced themselves in such a way that none left their dressing rooms, backstage. Chad, on the other hand, was always Chad, he always had a good laugh to share and a joke to make.

One night, in Louisville, Mandy and Anastasia were having a total girl’s night wearing onesies, doing facials, eating pizza, drinking champagne (the best combination) and watching RuPaul’s Drag Race again; they were obsessed with the show. Just the two of them; like the old times. Anastasia loved spending time like that with Mandy.

-          I think if I were a drag queen my name would be “Pussy Galore” – Anastasia said sipping from her glass.

-          Oh my God! I love it! – Mandy said.

-          She would be a retired super model – Anastasia got up from the bed – From the 90’s. She used to hang out with Kate, Claudia and Linda and maybe – she walked to the window – she received a phone hit from Naomi, but she got over it now. She would have that Versace catwalk sass – She started to walk as if the room were a runway, making exaggerated poses.

-          Love that Versace sass – Mandy said while she started to clap and laugh at the same time – Pussy Galore will need a lot of padding, since you are British and God didn’t help you in that area.

-          Are you reading me? – Anastasia said turning around and looking her from her back.

-          The library is open, baby – Mandy was making a reference to one of the segments of the show – She would wear designer clothes.

-          Only big brands. Moschino – Anastasia said – And Versace, of course – This time both friends talked at the same time. Anastasia throw herself at the bed again and they both laughed. In that moment Anastasia’s phone rang and Josh’s picture appeared on the screen, he was calling. Mandy looked at her friend suspiciously – I’m gonna put him on speaker but don’t talk!

-          Hey! – Josh’s voice could be heard – What are you doing?

-          I’m having a girl’s night with Mandy and watching RuPaul’s Drag Race while I pretend I am one of them.

-          Weird, but coming from you it’s perfectly normal – He said – Is there a way you can skip that and come to my room? I got wine.

-          Mmm – The two friends shared a glance – No, Josh. Not tonight. I already told you that I’m with Mandy and we’re already drinking champagne.

-          Are you serious? – He asked and Mandy opened her mouth shocked.

-          Dead serious – Anastasia was mad he asked that.

-          Come on, An! – He said – I know you want to. Come over! – He said raising his voice - I’ll fuck you like I did in Miami.

-          I think I’m missing some kind of cue here – Anastasia was really angry at that point – I’m not some kind of mistress you call to have sex like that, Josh. What the fuck?

-          Fine! – He hung up the call.

-          Good luck with the hand, bro! – Mandy was laughing – What was that? – Mandy asked.

-          A booty call?

-          A sassy booty call, as we say in Drag Race.

-          I feel offended.

-          I’m offended too. Who does he thinks you are? His sex doll?

-          I mean, that’s basically what we have. Our relationship is based on sex, at the moment; but for him to call me the way he did, I don’t know. It was uncomfortable, awkward.

-          Forget about it, let’s continue to watch our queens, they don’t hurt us like boys do – Mandy said to her friend. But as much as that Anastasia tried, she couldn’t shake that weird feeling off her.

 She tried to sleep that night but Josh’s voice didn’t leave her mind alone. She kept hearing that phone call over and over and over again. He treated her like she was some kind of score girl that was going to be ready for sex whenever he wanted. She can understand that he was tired and angry about the tour but that didn’t give him the right to refer to her that way. In her opinion, he minimized her and she wasn’t going to allow that. Not now, not never, especially not him. If she agreed to have this relationship with Josh, where she clearly was the side chick, it was going to be under her rules, and if she didn’t feel like being with him she wasn’t going to.

“How ironic”, she thought; she went from being the girlfriend to being the other woman in less than a year. There was no point in trying, she couldn’t sleep that night. Thank the Universe next day was off and she decided to spend the whole day in bed. Josh’s attitude the night before still bothered her, so at noon she had a shower, got dressed and went straight to Josh’s room. When he opened the door she could tell he had been sleeping the entire day too, his face was bloated and his eyes were red, she knew right there that he drank that wine last night, after all.

 -          I was sleeping – He said at the door – But come in.

-          Yeah. I can tell – She entered the room – Can you tell me what the fuck was going through your mind last night? – She asked turning to be in front of him.

-          I know… Sorry – Josh said walking to the bedroom.

-          Josh, I’m not a fucking prostitute – She followed him.

-          I just had a rough day and I wanted to be with you – He said getting back into the bed – Maybe the words I used weren’t the right ones. I’m sorry – He was grabbed the sheets and blankets and covered himself up to his neck.

-          I’m so angry right now. It seems you’re just ignoring me – Anastasia was just standing there – It’s obvious I’m interrupting your rest, I’ll leave.

-          No! – Josh jumped out of bed and got on his knees over the mattress – Stay. I’m not ignoring you. I’m just tired.

-          I’m tired too… - Anastasia said.

-          Come here, lay with me – Josh said opening his arms – We’ll watch one of those documentaries on Netflix that will make us feel bad about ourselves for a couple of days. We’ll have room service – The smile on Josh’s face was something hard to resist.

 Anastasia just nodded with her head and went straight to him. He hugged her and helped her to get in bed with him. He took his laptop to put Netflix on and they decided to watch a documentary about vegans and how animals were murdered to make food. She loved that, days like those when doing nothing was the norm. She turned her face to see Josh and he was watching the screen of his notebook with the covers up to his neck, he looked so incredible cute, she looked at his jaw line, the thing she liked most, his small brown but bright eyes, his nose that he hated, she liked every inch of it. She got closer and kissed him on the cheek; he turned and looked at her smiling.

 -          What was that for? – He asked smiling still. How she loved that smile.

-          I don’t need a reason to give you a kiss – She said.

-          Good to know – He put an arm around her shoulders and pushed her to him. She rested her head on his chest and kept watching the documentary.

-          Are we clear that this isn’t going to stop me from eating meat? – She said – Yes, the thing is terrible but… dude. I can’t live without meat.

-          You just read my mind – He said.

 Before the documentary ended, both fell asleep in a hug.

Next morning, Anastasia woke up with an arm around her waist and turned her body to see Josh in front of her opening his eyes also, but she had the feeling he’s been awake for a couple of minutes. She just stared into his eyes, looked to his soul and realized the she loved that guy so much, but she needed to put distance between them if she wanted to maintain the relationship the way it was. Truth was she was falling again and falling hard, and she couldn’t afford to go deep in love with Josh again, not at the moment, not knowing that maybe in a couple of weeks he was going to be sleeping with another woman in his bed.

 -          Waking up next to you is the best way to start the day – He said making what Anastasia was about to say even harder to say.

-          Josh – She smiled – I’ve been sleeping next to you almost every night on this leg of the tour – He smiled – And I don’t think it’s healthy for my mental stability – His smile disappeared.

-          What you mean? – He asked.

-          I like what we have now. No attachments, no responsibilities. But the truth is that we used to have a relationship, a serious one, and I loved you with all my heart, and then I thought that I was over that but I wasn’t, I still love you and I can’t do it. Not with this depth and this devotion – Anastasia sat on the bed – Lauren is going to LA to be with you, and then what am I gonna do? – He looked away from her – I’m not cutting this off, I’m just saying that it’s better for me if I have some space.

-          You’re right – Josh said looking into her eyes again – I’m sorry.

-          Don’t be sorry. I know what I was getting into and as I said I’m not ending this, it’s just that I think it’s better if I share some nights with Mandy and maybe go out with the boys, not devoting myself to you as the way I’m doing it right now. I need to know that I’m gonna be ok without you also.

-          But don’t walk away from me – There it was again, that plead. Josh pronounced these words with fear on his voice.

-          Believe me when I say that I couldn’t even if I wanted to – She leaned over him and gave him a small kiss on his lips, he smiled afterwards – I’m going to my room and get ready to go to the venue. See you there!

-          Wait – He grabbed her right arm and pushed her back to him and gave her a much more passionate kiss.

 That tour leg was being quite boring but the shows came out really good even though the crowd in most cities didn’t even know who Dead Curse was. They ended up in Canada, where they performed in Winnipeg, Edmonton and Calgary. Winnipeg went light, but in Edmonton Anthony decided to go around the city with Flea, Josh, Carl and some crew guys. Anastasia, Mandy and Eric decided to join them and it was quite a revolution of people filming them and taking pictures; they went to the farmers market and then had lunch at a Mexican place. Apparently, Mexican food was becoming the norm at the tour.

Despite the bunch of pictures that appeared on the web and that really bothered Josh, the last shows were the best of that part of the tour. Anastasia was keeping her word and didn’t spend much time in Josh’s room, instead, she went shopping with Mandy in Kansas City and went to have a couple of drinks with Eric, Nick and some crew people. They were the best guys she had worked on a tour ever so it wasn’t hard to make time to spend with them.

Then it was time to take another plain to go back home. She needed it, she needed to sleep in her bed and restore her body and soul.

 -          I won’t leave my bed in three days – Anastasia told Mandy during the flight.

 At that moment, her phone made a short sound to alert her she had a new message: “Call me when you’re in LA. You are going to love me”, it was from her brother Mark. She waited to be home and after a bath she called him back.

 -          I already love you but if I’m going to love you more I’m interested – An said when Mark picked up the phone.

-          I have two pieces of news for you – Mark said – First, Steph said yes…

-          Well, duh! – She said after a laugh – I’M SO FUCKING HAPPY FOR YOU AND STEPH! – She screamed through her smartphone. What’s the other one?

-          I’ve been working in the studio with your favorite band since you were sixteen…

-          Oh my God! The Genius Sex Poets? – She opened her eyes big like plates.

-          That’s right! – Mark said laughing.

-          Why didn’t you tell me anything?

-          Because you were going to be busy and wouldn’t have time to be at the studio – Mark answered – Thing is, they are going to film the video for their first single this weekend in Las Vegas and Richard saw a picture of you on my Instagram profile and he wants you to appear on it.

-          Richard fucking Austin? – Anastasia asked incredulous – Shut up, Mark! You’re joking!

-          I’m not! – He said laughing.

-          He has been my platonic love since I was a teenager!

-          I know. I took you to their concerts.

-          I love them so much!

-          The new record sounds amazing!

-          Can’t wait to hear it.

-          So… what do I say to Richard?

-          Say hell yeah! – She heard her brother laughing hard on the phone.

-          We’ll leave to Vegas this Thursday.

 She couldn’t believe it! She wasn’t a person that idolized other people, but The Genius Sex Poets always had a place in her heart. They played rock music with a couple of synthesizers and made some of the catchiest songs she ever heard; they were amazing on record and even better live. Richard Austin was the front man, the lead singer, and he had this amazingly arrogant stage persona that melted her heart every time she saw them in concert, so sure of himself, cocky, his eyes were light brown as his hair, all sleek to the back. He wasn’t tall but his smile could light up the city were they came from: Las Vegas. She used to have a huge poster with his face in her room when she was a teenager, they were definitely one of her favorite bands in life.

I’m here to make your life easy, so If you are starting to read the #JoshAn story here I give you a recap with the links of the 31 chapters published so far.

Chapter 1: And we met again

Chapter 2: Working on it

Chapter 3: Recovering from the past

Chapter 4: Angry released

Chapter 5: Tour life

Chapter 6: The perks of being a Truman

Chapter 7: Russia

Chapter 8: Back to LA

Chapter 9: I’ve wanted this for so long

Chapter 10: Celebrity status

Chapter 11: An English man and an American girl

Chapter 12: The words

Chapter 13: The friends

Chapter 14: Italy

Chapter 15: Separate paths

Chapter 16: Back to normality

Chapter 17: A ghost from the past

Chapter 18: This could mean the end of the tour

Chapter 19: A family thing

Chapter 20: New Year, new disappointment

Chapter 21: Hello old love

Chapter 22: Dot Hacker surprises

Chapter 23: Where everything started and ended

Chapter 24: Hurricane Drunk

Chapter 25: #ThePinkAndBlueDay

Chapter 26: Seeing your face every day (Josh POV)

Chapter 27: Landslide

Chapter 28: A date?

Chapter 29: 90’s babe

Chapter 30: LA – Venice is the new London - Dubai

Chapter 31: I’ll post whatever I want