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Chapter 43 : Funhouse
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2024-10-29 19:42:56Related chapters
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 44 : Be Careful What You Wish For
*Ophelia*The next day, things start feeling much worse in the studio. I reached out to Asher last night, and he didn’t get back to me until this morning.‘Looking into something. Sorry, I didn’t message you back. Call me tonight?’I don’t understand what’s happening on Asher’s end, but I text him back that I’ll reach out. I send him kissing faces, weary of how he’ll respond, until he sends me them back, as well as a few hearts.I don’t think whatever’s going on involves Asher being distant with me. But I still stress as I leave the hotel and return to David’s studio. I was hoping Asher was going to consider coming to L.A. I would love to see him, spend my nights wrapped in his arms, and bring him around to meet everyone.But instead, I’m by myself, still, with no understanding of what’s on Asher’s mind.I grab the biggest coffee I can get for myself, opting to grab one for David as well. He’s been an actual life raft with Mac Daddy, and if anyone deserves praise right now, it’s
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 45 : Robot
*Ophelia*I walk back to the studio slowly, unsure what to think or say. Marilyn’s words keep echoing in my ears.‘Alvin drugged me.’I thought my attitude towards Mac Daddy was just exhaustion. We’ve been working together for a while, but creative differences happen. Now, I can’t help but think back on each interaction since the beginning after hearing Marilyn’s accusation.The issue I’m grappling with is she doesn’t seem untrustworthy, but I don’t know the woman. How am I supposed to trust this random woman’s word? What if she’s just out to get ME? However, I don’t exactly see how that would make any sense.I take a deep breath before I finally walk into the studio, the entire group of people I’ve been working with turning to me as the doors slam behind me.“Oh good, you’re back. Are you okay?” David’s the first to break the silence, coming up to me. His genuine kindness and concern for me and the entire group are heartfelt and touching. I nod, swallowing the lump that’s sitt
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 46 : Everybody Talks
*Asher*Mom doesn’t answer me on the first call or even the second. She’s a busy woman, and I’m well aware that as her son, I don’t get her attention over her clients.As I wait for her to pick up the phone, I remember Ophelia saying something about Maria Slater, involving her being a bitch. We never got into it because we were in the middle of our argument with one another. But it doesn’t mean I don’t care about why she feels that way. I don’t know what happened with the two of them, but for Ophelia’s safety, I’m going to squash whatever it is she’s done. Mom is a good person, but I can imagine she looked down on my girlfriend because no one is good enough for her son. She didn’t hate Courtney because she had a title and in Mom’s eyes, she wasn’t using me.I guarantee she thought Ophelia saw me as nothing more than dollar signs.“Maria Slater Esquire, what can I do to help you?” Mom’s voice finally sparks in my ear, and I sit up in my seat. I’m still in my hotel, my laptop open
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 47 : Painkiller
*Ophelia*We haven’t stopped all day.The digital clock above the door to the rest of the crew states that it’s already past nine. In return for walking out of his session, Mac Daddy continues to complicate everything.“No one leaves this studio! Not until everything is absolutely PERFECT to my standards.”We were only supposed to record two songs today. Now, we’ve been here four hours past David’s usual clock-out time. I’m not the only person who’s being affected by my manager’s attitude.“Alvin, you have studio time for a few more weeks. What is this all about? I have a life outside of my job.”Mac Daddy gets in the man’s face, all of which I can hear through my headphones. “I DECIDE WHEN WE FINISH! I paid for the studio time, David, and if we want our payouts, then we must work HARD.”“You can’t beat a dead horse, Alvin!” he snaps back.“If Miss Ophelia wants to capitalize on her fame with Mr. Slater, a title that she should take more seriously, then she must complete her wo
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 48 : Butterflies
*Ophelia*“I spoke to my mom,” Asher tells me once we’re finally away from the studio. I was beginning to think I’d never get to leave that place. I have nothing against David, but I have no interest in ever going back.“And?” I’m nervous to hear the answer.“Well, for one, she will help with the contract.”I’m surprised, and I guess Asher sees it. “What?”“I know I’m the one who asked, but honestly, I thought she’d laugh my request off.”“Because of the fight you two had?”“It wasn’t exactly a fight, per se.” I bite my lip, Asher’s hand finding mine as he gives me a forlorn look. “It’s more like your mom hates me.”“Oh?”“She wasn’t exactly the nicest to me when we met. During dinner, she kept making all those judgmental comments. She clearly believes that I’m not worth the air you breathe. I didn’t know what to do. Usually, comments and people like her roll off my back. But your mom got under my skin, or at least, in my head.”“Is that why you mentioned her when we had our
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 49 : Gives You Hell
*Ophelia*“You think you have the upper hand here?” Alvin snaps, grabbing my arm and forcibly yanking me into the hallway. The door tries to close but thankfully doesn’t all the way. Otherwise, I’d be trapped out here. “Get your filthy hands off me!” I growl, ripping his grasp away from me. “You continue to lay your hands on me. I’ll call the cops right now.”“I told you, Miss Lane, the cops won’t believe whatever sob story you give them. You are being foolish in letting Mr. Slater ruin your career!”I glare at this delusional man, wanting nothing more to do with him. He’s acting so irrationally right now. “MY career? Do you think Asher’s ruining my career? Have you looked in the mirror recently? Because if anyone is ruining lives, it’s YOU.”“You were doing just fine. Then suddenly, your precious quarterback doesn’t call you back and you take a stance against me. You even turned David and Kent against me, men I’ve worked with for a decade!” He’s clenching his fists, and I wonde
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 50 : Weight
*Ophelia*I’ve always envied those who get to sit up in the family or celebrity box at a football game. The perfect view, away from all the drunk, screaming people who want nothing more than to complain the whole game. I’ve never been able to afford seats to a professional game, so this is a first for me, and it’s incredible.Asher’s parents, Frank and Maria Slater, show up about half an hour after the game starts, shocking me. I’m shocked to see Maria in sneakers, jeans, and a jersey with Asher’s number on it, as I’ve only seen Maria as the dress or suit type. But the dressed-down version makes her seem more friendly and down-to-earth.“Ah, Miss Ophelia!” Frank calls, approaching me with an easy breeze about him. His wife follows behind with a small smile. There’s an air of awkwardness, mainly because the last time we saw one another, it was NOT a pleasant conversation. “How are you doing?”“Mr. Slater,” I smile genuinely. “I’m doing alright.” No way am I going to air my grievance
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 51 : Everything is Fine
*Ophelia*The Ozarks give their extra point kick, the game clock counting down with the knowledge there isn’t enough time for the Bulldogs to catch up. The final score is 24-28, with the Ozarks defeating one of their most formidable opponents yet.But all I’m doing is squealing with Asher’s family, hugging one another as we dance around in celebration. It’s an entirely different world being at the game versus sitting on the couch to watch football. And the adrenaline is substantially higher. I worry I may pass out from the energy I’m exerting. It’s something breathtaking.“And Asher Slater leads his Ozarks to victory once again!” Gale’s voice booms through the family box. “Incredible, absolutely astounding!”“And it looks like we’re not the only ones bursting with excitement,” Brent replies. I turn towards the screen as I watch a replay of Asher’s parents and I screaming, cheering, and bursting into celebration at Asher’s rapid thinking and fast play. I see the pride in my smile,
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The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 60 : Superbloom
*Ophelia*The screaming patrons of the concert hall cause the backstage area to rumble under my feet. That, mixed with my nerves, has me quivering. All my work has brought me to this moment. But I can’t help the ache in my heart not having Asher here but know there’s no time to wallow. Tomorrow is the championship game, and the team can’t go anywhere, even if they want to.I take in a deep breath, shuddering as it exits my lungs. I shake out my hands next and start pacing back and forth.“You okay, Ophelia?” Daphne appears by my side, her phone in hand as always. She’s dressed in a t-shirt with my name printed across it and a pair of jeans, with a blazer thrown on over the ensemble.She reminds me of Carolanne, and I’ve dubbed her my older sister. She’s been so attentive, helpful, and even kind to me. I’ve cherished her advice and compassion, so I know I can share my anxieties.“I’m nervous as hell, Daph. I don’t need to be. I’ve been rehearsing for months and know nothing impedes
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 59 : Anti-Hero
*Asher*“Oh, that’s nothing.” Ophelia declares this so nonchalantly that I hesitate a moment. My phone is blowing up with notifications that have tagged us both. But these aren’t standard messages people are sending. There are threats, violent thoughts, and desires. I don’t normally interact with my social media accounts. This, though, is much different.“No,” I slowly start. “Nothing is someone just saying they don’t like you. These messages aren’t nothing, Ophelia.”“It’s been happening for months, Asher. I’ve just turned off all my social media notifications.”I rear back like I’ve been stabbed. “MONTHS?!”She nods, shrugging like she’s just misremembered something that isn’t important. “Yeah, I just figure people hate me because I’m dragging your image down or something? I didn’t tell anyone, though. You have enough stress on your plate; I didn’t want to add this, too.”I can’t help but laugh at her wanting to protect me. Hasn’t she realized I’d do anything for her? “My love,
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 58 : The Grudge
*Ophelia*“Ophelia! ‘Lose It All’ is number three on the charts this week!” My new manager, Daphne McKenna, calls through the studio, excitedly running up to me. She shows me her phone, and I pull the headphones from my head to around my neck.“Holy shit!” I squeal, jumping up and down in my seat. “This is insane!”“They love you, Ophelia!” David says, coming in with a bottle of champagne. “And we’re immensely proud of you.”The interns and other workers enter the studio, handing David a towel to open the bottle without risking the equipment.“Thank you, guys, really. David, I wouldn’t have been able to do any of this without your support. Daphne, thank you for taking on my baggage load in such a short time. I’m so happy to have you here with us. And thank you to everyone else for all your hard work and dedication. But thank you for believing in me.”The bottle goes POP! as everyone cheers, pouring alcohol into paper cups and cheering about the room.It finally feels like I’ve e
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 57 : Missing Piece
*Asher*November comes and goes, and we’re staring down the barrel of Christmas and the New Year. Celebrating Thanksgiving with Ophelia in attendance was some of the most fun I’ve had in years. Per tradition, the Slater family plays football out in the yard while the turkey cooks. It’s nothing more than a friendly, silly time where no score is kept, and no one plays by the official rules.Ophelia initially wasn’t interested. “I like to watch sports, not play them,” she’d teased. But then, Payton and Renee asked to join in, and her entire attitude changed. “Alright, fine! If your nieces are gonna play, then count me in.” It had been a few months since she met the girls, and neither remembered my girlfriend. But it soon didn’t matter because they were busy trying to run the ball down the yard.AJ even came in to pick up Renee, carrying her past everyone so that she could score. Adorably, she tried to spike the ball with both hands, but the ball just flopped to the ground.The entire
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 56 : Out Of Your Mind
*Ophelia*I can feel Asher’s body tense, his muscles becoming predominant at the initial glance of the stocky man. As usual, his suit is too tight around his body, and as an added bonus, he’s sweating his ass off, wiping at his forehead with a handkerchief like it’s still the 1950s.“Well, well, well. Look who’s come crawling back.” Peters's voice comes out like a slithering snake. It fits perfectly with his conniving ways, and I cringe at the sound. What a bastard.“Alvin?” I inquire, taking a step forward.“Miss Lane. Have you come to your senses? Finally realized that I’ve been right all along?” It’s like he believes he is invincible in this setting, but I’m about to drop the bomb on him. I can’t wait to see his expression. I look up at Asher, who returns the glance. He raises a single eyebrow but doesn’t release the tension. I think he’s even clenching his jaw.I turn back to the pathetic excuse for a man. “You’re fired. You’re no longer my manager. If you want to address an
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 55 : Bad Reputation
*Ophelia*“Please, tell me what happened, and don’t leave anything out.”Maria connected us with a friend who specializes in contract law. She just so happens to have a location in Los Angeles, so a few days after his game, we fly out to meet with her. Asher and I sit in her office now, staring across her desk as she asks me to recount everything that’s happened with Alvin Peters since the moment I met him at the restaurant in Nashville.Emily Faith, the lawyer, has her hair wrapped in a bun on top of her head. She could be mistaken for my mother; the color is identical. She wears a grey pantsuit with a pink-collar shirt and has a steaming cup of hot coffee on her desk. She’d offered some to the two of us, but I’ve been too jittery this morning to accept anything. Instead, we were brought two cups of water. I hold mine tight in my grasp as I force myself to breathe. Emily’s hands are folded on the table, and she looks from Asher to me. I do as she asks.“I felt…funny after taki
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 54 : Love Goes On
*Ophelia*Asher’s parents take us all to dinner to celebrate the win of another game. It’s significantly more fun than any of the time I spent in L.A., and I think their son telling his girlfriend he’s in love with her put everyone in a much better mood after Courtney. We go to an upscale Italian place, but we are not properly dressed. Usually, this would make me nervous because I feel as though I’d stick out. But in truth, I don’t notice if people watch over us. I’m bursting with love and happiness for my person; being with his family is like a dream come true.Frank orders a bottle of champagne for the four of us, holding his glass up once we’ve all been given ours. “To my family and Asher's big win.”We clink glasses, taking sips together. I watch Asher’s face, wondering if he picked up on his father’s words and their meaning. I don’t think he was referring to football, at least.We order pizza and pasta, and the restaurant's vibe is inviting. The Slaters know the owner well,
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 53 : Because I Liked a Boy
*Ophelia*I can hear Asher before I see him. Courtney’s standing before him all done up, but her face is scrunched up in rage, red blotches on her cheeks and down her neck. “How dare you talk to me this way! Who the hell do you think you are?”“I don’t care who you think I am. I’m in love with Ophelia, and nothing you can say will change how I feel!”I stop in my tracks, Asher’s parents both running into me. I can’t help it. Did he just say that? Did I hear him right?“You…” I stammer out, my hand shooting up to my mouth in disbelief. Asher Slater, the quarterback, is in love? With me?My heart picks up speed, the thumping going through every inch of my body as I process the words. Asher and Courtney both jump at my single word, the two making eye contact with the three of us mere feet away. The reactions each have are vastly different. While Courtney continues to blow steam from her ears, Asher’s face relaxes, and his brown eyes tell me the truth.He loves me. In Love. With me.
The Pop Star and the Playboy Quarterback Chapter 52 : Could Have Been Me
*Asher*My teammates hoist me into the air as they begin to celebrate in the endzone. Holy shit, thank God we won. I almost blacked out while running that last thirty yards. All my brain could say to me was, “Don’t fuck this up.”“That’s our fucking quarterback!” Mark cheers, lifting his helmet in the air and spinning his arm around. “Asher Slater is a force to be RECKONED with!”My best friend seems to be drunk on the win, but I won’t spoil this for him. The guys all worked their asses off to get this win today. I’m still shocked by our win, but I scan the crowd before us, made up of teammates, reporters, coaches, and other football personnel. I look up at the family box that I know Ophelia’s in with my parents. I’d noticed when sitting on the bench in between my time on the field that the cameras continued showing off the three of them, enjoying the game and laughing together. Ophelia looked mortified a few times she appeared on screen, and all I wanted to do was tell her it w
