Rafi Reyes figures going along with a fake-dating stunt is only fair after Julian Gault saves his life. The young actor is famously cold and snotty, and Rafi's rock band is falling apart in the wake of betrayal. A shiny new romance might be just what both their reputations need. It's too bad they don't actually like each other, but they'll both benefit -- a softer public image for Julian, revenge against his ex for Rafi.<br><br>But as they navigate public events, attend red-carpet premieres, and play cat-and-mouse with paparazzi together, Rafi gets to know a different Julian than he expected -- one who defends horses, takes care of his troubled cousin, and has Rafi's back against his dysfunctional family. Rafi starts to hope he and Julian have something real together.<br><br>But Julian has secrets more painful than Rafi can imagine. With Julian's powerful and controlling uncle scheming to turn them against each other, their relationship must become something much deeper if it -- and possibly either of them -- are to survive.

Star Bright

“I’m fine, Rafi,” Cory murmured as soon as they were alone around a corner.


“You’re dating some rich old perv for his money. What happened?” He pulled Cory gently by the arm, turning him to face him. “I tried to call you after the pictures got out. What happened? Did you lose your job?”


Cory looked almost amused, as if Rafi were being very silly. “Of course I lost my job, Rafi. I was blackballed from the entire religious chorale industry. You think the Voices of Saint Cecilia is going to keep me on after they’ve seen me in fuzzy handcuffs with a man’s cock in my mouth?”


That was…strong language, from Cory. Rafi blushed, as if embarrassed by proxy.


“And my family threw me out,” Cory continued. “So yes, I’m letting Oscar take care of me. He’s very kind to me, Rafi. He treats me—” Cory paused, swallowed, blinked away sudden tears. “He treats me wonderfully.”


“Nothing I’m not willing to give. Happy to give.”


Chapter 21