Trial And Error

Chapter Fifty-Eight

Madison's POV

"Mads, are you ready? The security detail is in position and awaiting our departure."

The musician secured her final earring, catching sight of her girlfriend in the mirror's reflection. Kian stood transfixed, her brown eyes trailing appreciatively along the contours of Madison's light blue dress. The Marine cut an equally impressive figure in her darker blue suit, accented by a light blue tie that complemented her partner's ensemble.

"I thought you were off-duty tonight, Lieutenant," Madison teased a hint of playfulness in her voice.

Kian blinked, momentarily flustered. "I am, I just... wanted to ensure everything was in order for their first major event with you." She paused, collecting herself. "I'm sorry, but you look absolutely breathtaking."

"You clean up pretty well yourself, Marine." Madison's fingers danced along Kian's tie, ostensibly adjusting it, but both women knew it was just an excuse for contact. Lately, the singer found herself constantly drawn to her girlfriend, craving her touch.

"Are you ready for our first public appearance as a couple?"

"Yes, ma'am. Your publisher and Olivia briefed me thoroughly on appropriate conduct and topics to avoid."

"Don't overthink it," Madison reassured her, cupping Kian's face gently. "People already adore you. You'll be wonderful."

Kian leaned into Madison's touch, "I just want to make sure the new team is up to the task," she admitted softly. "Your safety is the number one priority"

"I know, and I appreciate that. But tonight, you're not my security detail. You're my girlfriend, and we're going to enjoy this evening together."

"You know I can't just turn it off. But for you, I'll try."

Madison leaned up, kissing her girlfriend's lips appreciatively. "Thank you. Now let's go, our chariot awaits."

As they made their way to the waiting car, Madison could feel Kian's eyes on her. She knew Kian loved this dress, and she'd chosen it partly for her. Years of performing had made moving in these outfits second nature to the artist, but tonight, with Kian by her side, she felt an extra spring in her step.

Olivia and Lucas would be joining them at the event but in a separate car. Madison had arranged it this way to shield them from the chaos of the red carpet. This event had been a last-minute addition to her schedule, a favor to her record label after the original artist had to bow out due to personal issues. Madison saw it as an opportunity - not just to help out her label, but also to show her fans and the public that she was doing well.

Once they were settled in the backseat, Madison reached for Kian's hand, intertwining their fingers. Despite her outward confidence, she felt a flutter of nerves in her stomach.

"You know," she said, her voice low and intimate, "I'm actually a little nervous too."

"You? But you do this all the time."

Madison smiled, a hint of vulnerability in her eyes. "True, but this is different. This is us, together, officially. It matters more."

Kian squeezed her hand reassuringly, and Madison felt some of her anxiety melt away. "We've got each other's backs, right? Just like always. The lights and cameras don't change that."

As their car pulled up to the event, Madison could see the flash of cameras through the tinted windows. Kian took a deep breath, then turned to her with that determined smile Madison had grown to love.