Heartbeat — Emma Jay

DelaneyWhen my band snags the chance to open for Obscure Magic, one of the nation's biggest acts, I seize the opportunity with both hands. Life has taught me to grab every moment that comes my way, and this is one I won't let slip through my fingers.But the spotlight brings its own set of challenges, thrusting my band and me into the pressure cooker of high expectations. I'm learning to adapt, to let go of my easygoing nature and face the hurdles head-on.Amidst the chaos, there's one enigma that catches me off guard--Callan Montgomery, the bass player of Obscure Magic. He radiates annoyance whenever I'm around, and yet he's always there, ready to guide me through the maze of new fame.I can't make sense of his behavior toward me, yet at the same time it intrigues me.I've taken things at face value for a long time. Maybe it's time for a puzzle.CallanRock star life is a wild ride. I love it all--the music, the lifestyle, and the allure of romance. Unlike my bandmates who've settled into committed relationships, I'm not ready to give up the freedom that being a rock star affords me. I mean, let's face it, the ladies wouldn't be flocking my way if I were an insurance salesman.But then, Delaney Janicek enters the picture as our opening act for the next eight weeks, and everything changes. Delaney is not only breathtakingly beautiful but also incredibly talented, with a zest for life that oozes sexiness. Her very presence ignites a desire within me that I can't ignore.Yet, getting involved with her feels like a risky move--one that could potentially shatter my ego and break my heart. The possibility of rejection from someone like her seems almost unbearable. So, I push her away, shielding myself from the potential pain.But as the tour progresses, the sparks between us refuse to dim. The more I resist, the stronger the pull becomes. It's a battle between self-preservation and the yearning to experience a connection that goes beyond superficial pleasures.I grapple with the fear of vulnerability and the price of protecting my heart. Can I overcome my own insecurities and embrace the possibility of something deeper with Delaney? Or will my self-imposed barriers cost me the chance at an extraordinary love?