Page 14 of Holding On

He keeps his hands to himself now, so he isn’t a complete moron.

“Of course, privacy is so important, especially for two big names like you guys. Do you have plans to do anything special this summer together? We know that Roman is playing in the upcoming Music Fest in Nashville, and you’re going to be in town, so can we expect to see you join him, maybe on stage?” She draws out the word stage like she’s talking about a schoolboy crush. There is no world where I would ever collaborate on a song with that man after seeing who he really is.

“That would be so fun! I’m not sure if my touring schedule will allow for that, but I will definitely let you guys know on my socials if that’s something we can swing.”

Allie rolls her eyes and gives me a thumbs down. Checking her watch, she holds up two fingers, letting me know I’m almost free from this interview.

“The chemistry between you two is just off the charts. I think you two would dominate whatever you could do together. If what we see is any indication, the chemistry behind closed doors has to require a flammable warning!” She giggles.

I gag.

“Maybe we can continue that conversation after we wrap up here, because girl, we want to know the details and if his BDE is the real deal! Hahaha! Thanks so much for taking the time to visit with me, Tinsley. We adore you and can’t wait to see you soon in concert. You guys can find Tinsley out on tour this summer; we have her links on our socials, and maybe, if we’re lucky, she and her boyfriend Roman Cash will gift us some kind of collab!”

Let it go, woman. Sheesh. “Thanks so much for having me; I appreciate you and all of your listeners!” My smile falls as soon as the producer chimes in to let me know it’s over, and the DJ comes on as though we’re going to actually continue the call.

“Okay, we aren’t live anymore. I have to know, is he as good in bed as we all hope he is? I’m a girl’s girl, give me the deets!”

I rear my head back from the phone and look at Allie, who steps in like a pro. “Thank you so much for having Tinsley today; she’s already stepped away for another call, but she really appreciates you. Have a lovely day!” Allie is the best buffer.

Allie reaches to end the call on her phone as the DJ squeaks, “Oh, shoot. Maybe I can give you my personal cell and Tins can—” Click. Allie hung up on her, and I don’t hold back my laugh.

“Yeah, like you’re going to ooooo and ahh on the phone with her about the amazing Roman Cash. Maybe you guys can get together and braid each other’s hair too,” Allie deadpans. “I think she wanted to be your bestie—uh, rude—role is filled with her amazing cousin and another mega pop star, babe. You can’t rock with us. Application denied.” Allie scowls at her phone as though the woman can see her.

Now it’s my turn to giggle. “Down, killer.”

My cell vibrates, and I think maybe Fiona caught my interview on the satellite radio station, but no, it’s the second biggest piece of trash in my life.

Roman

Srsly? Babe. That’s ur best effort? Wtf.

Roman

Preston is pissed and I can’t blame him. U could’ve been more complimentary on that interview. No one is going to believe us if u don’t put in the effort.

Roman

Six weeks is too long w/out a photo op. Preston said Rick suggested a public date. It’s a good idea. That DJ was right, u should come to Music Fest in August. It’d be sick. I’ll have Preston call Rick.

Me

Don’t call Rick! That’s not necessary, Roman.

Roman

Can I trust u to show up then??? I know Rick will make sure ur sweet ass is there.

Each and every time Roman’s manager Preston and so-called Sober Coach has called Rick, it results in the same outcome, and I really don’t want to try and hide new bruises in the summertime. One summer, Rick left finger bruises along one of my forearms two days before a concert, and I had to wear long sleeves while performing in ninety-degree weather outside. Allie sees the bruises, but she knows that I’m legally stuck with Rick. If she were to confront him, he would remove her from my team, and I can’t lose Allie. She’s the only person on my team that I actually trust. Even my bodyguards report to Rick—no one else is looking out for me beyond what money I can make them.

Me

Don’t call Rick. Please. I’ve asked you that multiple times.

Roman

Then don’t make me and be a good little show pony… but I do like when u beg. We could have fun w/that babe.

Me