Through the Dark

Chapter 3

Chapter 3

Driving to work felt unbearably awkward—especially with a ridiculously hot celebrity sitting in my passenger seat.

I couldn't even focus on the road properly. And honestly, can you blame me? It's not every day a girl gets to drive alongside the Harry Simpson.

Now, let me tell you something about him. Harry Simpson isn't just some singer; he's one of the most renowned singer-songwriters of this generation. For the past ten months, he's been touring the world, performing to sold-out crowds night after night. He only just returned to the UK for a long, much-needed break.

Today is only his second day back in London, yet here he is, sitting in my car. Why? Because he made a promise to his best friend—who also happens to be my boss—that he'd still honor his commitments. One of those commitments involves recording his next album at our company.

And right now, I'm the one driving him to Shine Records.

*****

"It's kind of weird seeing you without your own car. I mean, I'm sure you have a lot of them," I said, trying to spark a conversation.

"Well, my usual car had to go in for repairs early this morning," he replied casually. "Besides, I didn't really feel like driving today. The weather's nice—I just wanted to enjoy walking."

"Then why did you ask if you could ride with me?" I asked, giving him a sideways glance.

He smirked, leaning back in his seat. "Maybe I just wanted the company."

"Oh... okay then," I murmured, my fingers tightening on the steering wheel, unsure how to respond to that.

*****

After a long, awkward drive, I finally pulled into the parking space reserved for employees. We both got out of the car and headed toward the building.

As we walked through the lobby side by side, I could feel Harry's shoulder brushing against mine every so often. Each time it happened, a trail of tingles ran through me, making it impossible to ignore the rush of electricity between us.

What the hell is wrong with me? I've never felt tingles like that before. 

As soon as we reached the reception desk, a loud, ear-splitting shriek rang out—one that could probably shatter glass. Before I could even react, Stacy Smith, our ever-animated Vocal Trainer, came bounding forward, practically glowing with excitement as she gawked at Harry.

Gosh, Stacy! Calm down, will you?! I thought, cringing at her over-the-top reaction.

"Oh my God! Hi, Mr. Simpson! I'm Stacy Smith, Shine Records' Vocal Trainer—and a huge fan of yours!" Stacy squealed, thrusting her hand out eagerly.

Harry chuckled as he took it, giving her hand a firm shake. "Pleasure to meet you, Stacy. Always nice to know I've got a big fan." He finished the line with a playful wink.

Jerk! I seethed inwardly, rolling my eyes at his shameless charm.

"Hi, Stacy. Remember me? Sammy—your lunch buddy and BFF?" I said, my voice dripping with sarcasm.

"Aww, my BFF is jealous!" she teased, shooting me a grin. "Don't worry, I'll still eat lunch with you."

Harry snickered at her remark, which only made me glare harder. Stacy, of course, wasn't finished. "Oh, by the way, James is waiting for you in his office. Something about a new project you'll be working on."

She glanced at her wristwatch and gasped. "Gosh, I'm gonna be late for my next coaching session!" And just like that, she scurried off down the hall, waving cheerfully at us as she disappeared.