Chapter 15 The Kiss

Allie

I didn't know what the hell Nico's problem had been the last couple of days. I hadn't seen him at all Thursday, and he'd missed his usual "goodnight text" to Gracie and me. Then, he had been in an absolutely foul mood yesterday morning and had left the studio around lunchtime. I didn't hear from him the rest of the day, although at least he did text us goodnight last night. I hadn't been in a great mood myself yesterday, after having ended things with Liam the night before. After he had sent roses to the office - God, I still hated those things - I'd called him that evening. I'd explained that I couldn't see him anymore, admitting that I was still hung up on my unrequited love - although I didn't tell him exactly who Nico was.

He was disappointed but said that he understood. He promised that we would remain friendly when we crossed paths at the kids' preschool, and I was sure we would. He was truly a good man, and I felt awful that I had led him on, however unintentional it had been.

Maybe Nico had just been nervous about the Grammy Awards tonight? It didn't seem like him, but I couldn't figure out what else it could be. I just hoped that whatever had been wrong yesterday was better today, so he didn't act like a bear with a burr up its butt tonight. I was really excited to go. Nico was nominated for a songwriting award for a song he wrote for a movie soundtrack. Matt, Josh, and Tony were going to support him, as were Michael and his wife Jayne. Nico had asked me to go as his guest a few months ago, and I'd been so excited. I'd never been to a big awards show, and although Nico swore they were "boring as fuck, even when you're nominated" I was still pretty damned thrilled about it.

I'd gone shopping with Jayne a few days after Nico had asked me. I adored Jayne. She didn't have two fucks to give about the typical Hollywood celebrity scene, so we often found ourselves sticking together at whatever industry event we'd gotten roped into. We would try to sit off to the side, giving us a better view to people watch. It was like going to the zoo, only the animals were dressed to the nines and smelled nicer. After a glass or three of wine, our comments got snarkier, and the gossip got juicier. Once we got to the point that we were giggling like little girls, Michael knew he had a very small window to get us out of there before we started laughing hysterically and drawing a crowd.

Since we weren't celebrities, we didn't have designers falling all over themselves to offer to "dress us" for the event. It was probably just as well. Very few of them created clothing for curvy women, or as Jayne so delicately put it, "We're blessed, Allie, and we need to have room for our tits and ass." Yeah, that about summed it up.

I had struck gold at the third boutique we went to. I fell in love with an emerald green mermaid gown, with a V-neck that plunged just enough for "the girls" to pop, yet not enough for them to pop out. A small swath of fabric was gathered on the sides at the waist, providing just enough draping to help camouflage the little tummy pooch that I just couldn't get rid of. A sturdy pair of Spanx would take care of the rest. I hoped, anyway.

To be safe, I'd been careful with what I ate and drank for the last couple of weeks. I didn't exactly diet, but I did pay closer attention to what I ate. I sure as hell didn't want to look bloated on the red carpet. The online commenters were ruthless after these events. Everything from the gown, to the hair, to the accessories, to the color of nail polish I'd picked for my mani/pedi would be closely scrutinized. I didn't want to give those assholes any extra ammunition to pick me apart like vultures fighting over a dead carcass.

We were all booked into a hotel downtown for today and tomorrow. The after-party that the record label was throwing - they had several artists who were nominated - was being held at the same hotel, so it made sense logistically. Michael had arranged for hair and makeup artists for Jayne and me. He was such a sweetheart and loved to pamper his wife. Lucky bitch.

I opted to for a "casual" updo that took over an hour to actually achieve and asked the makeup artist to go with as little makeup as possible. Whatever she did to my eyes made them pop. I wished I'd paid more attention to what she was doing. Oh, who the hell am I kidding. My normal version of "doing my eyes" consisted of a cold cloth slapped over them in the morning to reduce puffiness and swiping on a bit of eyeliner and mascara. If I didn't do at least that much, I would have at least three people comment that I looked tired or ask if I was feeling well during the course of the day. Every damned time. If I was feeling extra fancy that day, I would put on a bit of eyeshadow, but that was rare these days.

I slipped on a pair of gorgeous silver heels - high enough to be sexy, but not so high that I would fall on my face, and the simple crystal tear-drop earrings and matching bracelet that I'd worn for my wedding, and I was ready to go. I took one last look in the mirror and was pretty damned pleased with the result, and with the fact that I was actually ready a few minutes early. I texted Jayne to let her know I was on my way. The seven of us were all meeting in their suite to go down to the limo together.

I knocked on the door to their suite, and Matt answered it. "Wow!" he said with a big grin. "Lookin' hot, Allie."

"Thanks, Matt. You're looking pretty hot yourself." He was wearing black pants, a black t-shirt that I was sure cost more than my monthly car payment, and a fitted navy-blue jacket. Quite a step up from the faded jean and T-shirt combo he usually sported.

Nico had been standing by the window when I walked in and crossed the room to me. "You look incredible, Sunshine. So beautiful." he said, looking into my eyes with an expression on his face that I couldn't quite decipher. He leaned over to give me a light kiss on the cheek. "And you smell delicious," he whispered in my ear.

I shivered, the result of both his words and his breath that had skated lightly over the exposed skin of my neck. He shot me a sexy smirk and winked as he took a step back. I wasn't sure why I was getting "Nico the ladies' man", but I wasn't about to complain. I was simply happy to see him in a better mood than yesterday.

"And you look gorgeous, as usual. Very debonair for a rockstar," I said, looking him over. His suit was tailored to fit him to perfection, showcasing his broad shoulders, trim waist, and strong thighs. Fitted black pants, a black dress shirt with a few buttons open to expose the column of his throat, a black and slate gray brocade vest, topped with a black jacket with matching brocade lapels. His dark brown hair fell loose almost down to his shoulders in carefully styled waves, and he was sporting just the right amount of scruff on his strong jawline. He looked hot as fuck.

"Oh yeah?" he questioned teasingly.

"Yep, very sexy as a matter of fact," I told him with an exaggerated leer and eyebrow waggle. He laughed, as intended.

Tony had gone with a traditional black tux, with deep crimson lapels on the jacket, and a matching crimson bow tie, while Josh opted for black pants, a white T-shirt with a deep V neck, and a slouchy-styled black jacket. He wore a black fedora to finish off the look.

Jayne and Michael looked lovely together. He was in a simple black tux with a white shirt, and a yellow tie to match the pale butter yellow gown Jayne had selected. The color looked fantastic against her light mocha-colored skin, and the dress accentuated her generous curves. Michael seemed particularly appreciative of the deep plunging neckline. I knew that she was wearing plenty of double-side body tape to keep the fabric in place so there wouldn't be any nip slips tonight. I was wearing that crap for the same reason. Nico placed a hand on the small of my back to lead me from the suite as we made our way down to the limo.

We arrived at the venue, and eventually worked our way down the red carpet. Sensing my nerves, Nico kept my hand tucked in the crook of my arm and stayed close beside me. Luckily, as a non-celebrity guest I was mostly ignored by the people from the press doing interviews, aside from a quick introduction here and there. When Nico was stopped to pose for a picture, I tried to step out of the way. After the third time, he kept a firm hold on my hand, pulled me close and whispered in my ear, "OK, Sunshine, it's time to smile for your close-up."

We finally got to our seats, and I spent the next two hours celebrity watching while trying not to openly gawk and clapping politely for each winner. It turned out that Nico was right. Awards shows are indeed boring as fuck for the most part. When his category was announced, I held my breath as the names of all the nominees were read. "And the winner is...Nico Peretti, for 'In My Dreams'!" Oh, my God. He won!

There was applause all around us, and he started to rise from his seat. I was smiling widely up at him, when he leaned back down slightly, cupped a hand around the side of my neck, then pressed a quick kiss to my lips. He straightened and made his way past everyone before I could gather my senses enough to say a word. I glanced around me to see all eyes focused on Nico as he walked up the stairs to the stage, except for Tony, who was looking at me with a knowing smirk. Nico was handed his award and began his acceptance speech.

"I've worked hard creating music, but I know there are others who have worked just as hard. The difference is, I've caught some lucky breaks. I formed a band along with Matt, Tony, and Josh, three incredible musicians who are even better friends. We've been guided by our manager, Michael Drummond, who looks after us as if we're family, not just a paycheck. My family has supported me every step of the way, even when they weren't certain my steps were heading in the right direction. And I've been blessed by Allie, who brings sunshine into my life, and by Gracie, the cutest little princess in the world. I'm honored and privileged to stand here tonight to receive this acknowledgement of my contribution to this soundtrack, and supremely humbled to be surrounded by such incredible people. I'm a lucky man, and I thank you."

I sat there grinning ear to ear as Nico gave his speech. Matt, who was seated next to me, reached over and squeezed my hand with a grin when Nico surprised me by mentioning Gracie and me. As he finished speaking, we got to our feet to give him a standing ovation. When he got back to his seat, I reached for him, and he pulled me into his arms for a quick hug.

"Congratulations! I'm so proud of you," I said into his ear.

He let go of me and helped me into my seat, before sitting down himself. He leaned back over and kissed me on the temple, then whispered, "Thanks, Sunshine. I'm so fucking happy you were here with me for this."

In the limo on the way to the after-party, Michael popped open a bottle of champagne. As we all raised a glass, Michael began his toast. "To Nico. Congratulations on an incredible song, and a very well-deserved award. And although you won, I think an even bigger achievement tonight might have been you not cursing during your acceptance speech. Cheers!"

We all laughed and clinked our glasses. I took a sip of champagne and wrinkled my nose. I had never been a fan of the bubbly, but when in Rome and all that shit.

"Seriously, Nico, I'm so happy for you. Your speech was terrific, although would it have killed you to acknowledge the label, or anyone associated with the film?" Michael asked with a laugh.

"Yeah, it probably fucking would have, actually," Nico snarked. "The fuckwads at the record label didn't have shit to do with this project, and the film people were a goddamned pain in the ass to work with."

Michael blinked at him and gave a shrug. "Well, at least you saved all your curse words for us," he said with a wry grin.

The after-party was an exclusive event held in the large ballroom at the hotel. Jayne and I dashed up to our rooms to make a quick wardrobe change. Our gowns were gorgeous, but they weren't conducive to actually moving around in. She opted for a shorter version of her gown in a deeper burnished gold color. I had selected a fitted A-line dress, with cap sleeves, a scalloped edge on the deep front V-neck and a hemline that fell just below mid-thigh. It was the same emerald green as my gown had been, and I felt fun and flirty wearing it.

Drinks were flowing and music was playing, including what seemed to be Storm Front's entire playlist. I took turns dancing with Tony, Matt, and Josh, none of whom seemed interested in finding other people to hook up with for the evening. I knew why Tony wasn't looking, but I wondered about Matt and Josh. Wishing Becca and Min were here with them, perhaps?

Nico tried to stay close, but as an award winner, he was in high demand. I caught glimpses of him talking to just about every person in the room at one point or another. He came over a few times to check on me, and we were able to get in a few dances together. We had danced together a few times over the years, and I always loved being in his arms. Tonight, it felt even more special though. He held me tighter than usual, pressing his body to mine in ways he never had before. When his award-winning song came through the sound system, he softly sang the words in my ear as we shuffled around the crowded floor.

By 3:00 am, I could hardly keep my eyes open. Too much excitement, too much alcohol, and too much time on my feet. Nico offered to walk me back, but Michael and Jayne were ready to leave, too.

"You stay, Nico. Your adoring public awaits," I said, with a regal, if slightly tipsy, wave at the throngs of people still packed in the ballroom.

"Are you sure?" he asked. "I really don't mind going with you."

"No, I'll be fine, really. Michael will make sure I get back to my room safe and sound. You stay and enjoy the party. It's not every night that you win a Grammy," I grinned.

He nodded. "As long as you're sure."

I reached up to wrap my arms around his neck to hug him goodbye. He put his arms around my waist and pulled me flush against him. I gave him a quick squeeze, and tried to take a step back, but he didn't let go. His right hand slid up my spine to clasp the back of my neck, while his left slipped a little lower on my waist, resting on the upper curve of my ass. He bent his head and kissed me, slipping his right hand around to the front of my neck in a gentle hold as he deepened the kiss.

I could taste the whiskey on his breath as he ran his tongue along my lower lip. My lips parted softly, and he slid his tongue inside and gently explored my mouth. I felt the glide of his tongue along mine, the gentle squeeze of his hand at my throat, the hardening bulge grinding slowly against my lower body. I'm not sure how long we stood there kissing, but by the time he let me go, we were both breathless.

He stared at me for long moments, before whispering in my ear, "Goodnight, Sunshine. I'll talk to you in the morning."

I was still in a kiss-induced haze as Michael led Jayne and I over to the elevator. I was incapable of coherent thought, reliving that kiss on a continuous loop in my mind. What the hell just happened? Sweet Jesus, that man did wicked things to my senses.

Once I was reached my room, I undressed on autopilot, still stunned by the kiss. What the ever-loving fuck was that about? We had never, in the history of ever, had a kiss that included even the tiniest bit of tongue, let alone a body-grinding, spine melting lip lock like that one had been. That man had some explaining to do.

Exhaustion had really started to set in again after the adrenaline rush known as Nico, but I managed to get most of my makeup washed off, brushed out my hair, and even remembered to plug my phone into the charger next to the bed. I drank a bottle of water and took two Tylenol, before sliding into bed. I sighed in pleasure as I felt my body cradled by the deep comfortable mattress. It was like lying on a cloud, and I fell into an exhausted sleep moments later.

It was after ten when I awoke, and I reached for my phone intending to call Hannah to check on Gracie. I couldn't wait to tell her about the ceremony, the after-party, and the kiss. Oh, shit...the kiss! I guess that hadn't been a dream after all. What did that kiss mean?

When I unlocked my phone, it immediately opened on the last app I had used last night, when I had posted a few pictures to my page. And there it was, two side-by-side pictures of Nico from last night. The one on the left was obviously taken right before I left the party. I was wrapped in his arms, his hands on my throat and ass, my face barely visible as he held me close and kissed the shit out of me. The picture on the right was apparently taken as Nico left the party and got on the hotel elevator, sometime around 5:00 am, according to the accompanying caption. His hair was mussed, jacket missing, vest hanging open, his shirt mostly unbuttoned and half untucked, and a tall, slender glamorous redhead, wearing the same shade of red lipstick that decorated his shirt collar, clinging tightly to his arm.

Well, I guess that answered my question. What did that kiss mean? Nothing. Clearly, it meant absolutely nothing, at least not to Nico.