Chapter 36

Derek continues. “Turns out it worked in our favor, because it was gimmicky and people loved it. Or so we were told. When our first album came out, it was self-titled—”

“I know,” I say with a grin. “I actually have a copy.”

His foot nudges mine under the table. “You do not.”

With a laugh, I assure him, “I do! I know I was busy with school and didn’t get home as often as I probably should’ve, and we were already falling apart by then, anyway—”

“That wasn’t entirely your fault.” He reaches across the table to place his hand over mine. “We were moving in different directions, that’s all.”

“Well, maybe I could’ve tried to keep in touch more,” I concede. “One of the last things I remember is you calling me when you signed the record deal. God, I was…I don’t know, floored? Maybe. I mean, I knew you had a band and you guys played bars on the weekend, but I never thought it was anything all that serious.”

Derek smirks. “Turns out it wasn’t.”