Chapter 15: A Song for Her

The warmth of the jazz bar wrapped around Olivia like a lingering melody, but it was nothing compared to the intensity of Adrian's gaze.

He was watching her, waiting for her to say something—anything—that would confirm what was shifting between them.

But she couldn't.

She wasn't ready.

So, she reached for the easiest defense she had. "This doesn't change anything."

Adrian let out a soft chuckle. "You keep saying that."

"Because it's true."

He leaned in, elbows resting on the table, his voice dropping to a low murmur. "Then why are you still here?"

She had no answer for that.

Thankfully, before she could embarrass herself further, the stage lights dimmed, and a man stepped up to the microphone.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we have a surprise guest tonight. Someone who used to play on this very stage before the world knew his name. Let's give a warm welcome to Adrian Hayes."

Olivia's breath caught as the room erupted into applause.

Adrian smirked at her. "Guess I'm up."

Before she could respond, he stood, making his way to the stage with the confidence of someone who belonged there.

A hush fell over the crowd as Adrian picked up an old acoustic guitar, the kind that had probably seen years of music and memories.

Then, without a word, he started playing.

The first chords were soft, almost hesitant, before his voice filled the space—low, rich, and undeniably magnetic.

But it wasn't just the sound that sent a shiver down Olivia's spine.

It was the lyrics.

She walked in like a storm, never knowing she'd change the sky

Built her walls up so high, she never thought someone would climb

But I see her, even when she won't let me in

And I wonder if she'll ever let herself begin

Olivia's pulse pounded.

This wasn't just another song.

This was about her.

The realization hit like a lightning strike, leaving her breathless.

Adrian's gaze met hers across the room as he sang the final line, his voice dipping into something almost vulnerable.

Maybe she'll never know… maybe I'll never tell… but she's already a song I can't forget.

The last note hung in the air, the silence in the room deafening before the crowd erupted into applause.

Olivia sat frozen, heart racing, because for the first time since meeting Adrian Hayes…

She was terrified that she wasn't just falling for his voice anymore.

She was falling for him.