Read Online Ariel's Song (In Bed with the Enemy) by Evie Knight - Free Book Online Page A

into the room. “Good timing. I’d like you to meet my sister, Julianne.”
    A pink blush covered Ariel’s cheeks.
    “It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Ariel held out her hand.
    “ The pleasure is all mine. You’ve done the impossible.” Julianne stepped forward and closed her arms around Ariel. “Do you have any idea of the things I tried to do to get him out to play?”
    Ariel ’s lips curved into a knowing smile. “No. I can imagine, though.”
    Everyone took a seat. The chatter between the two women quickly overflowed the room, inviting the men’s input here and there. The animated conversation between Julianne and Ariel gave the impression they’d known each other all their lives instead of mere moments ago.
    Colin observed everyone in their small group, focusing at last on Logan. He wasn’t saying a word. He seemed too quiet studying something. Colin followed the path in the direction his friend stared. Bastard. Sweet Ariel wasn’t wearing a bra. Her taut nipples poked through the delicate fabric of her blouse. He’d make her pay later.
    ****
    Julianne charmed Ariel from the moment they were introduced. She clicked with Julianne like she’d been her best friend forever. As Julianne switched from one subject to another drawing her in the conversation, it thrilled Ariel to find similarities in their likes and dislikes. She’d never been one to have many girl friends or friends in general. Her few so-called friends turned their back on her not too long ago. Julianne’s enthusiasm fueled Ariel’s, making her feel welcomed. Though, Ariel’s excitement faded when Penelope strode in the room.
    “Colin?” Penelope stopped in her tracks, staring at their small group.
    All heads turned in her direction and the chatter ceased. The friendly atmosphere changed in a matter of seconds. The air grew stiff with tension.
    “Julian ne, I didn’t know you’d be here,” Penelope said. Her smile never reached her eyes. She approached her and air kissed Julianne’s cheeks. She waved her hand at the men and glared at Ariel. “Oh, hello there.”
    “ I didn’t think you played anymore,” Julianne said through a tight lip smile, breaking Penelope’s edge-sharp gaze on Ariel.
    Ariel watched the exchange between the two women, betting it killed Julianne to stand next to Penelope. Relief washed over her to know she wasn’t the only one to get a cold chill every time Penelope was around.
    She caught a glimpse of Colin staring at Logan. He seemed upset. Ariel didn’t understand him. One minute Colin smiled and chatted, the next he went back to being serious, wanting people to leave him the hell alone.
    Penelope touched her hair. “Not sure what you heard, darling. I’m surprised you believed the gossip. I’ve never stopped playing.” She turned to Colin. “Actually, I came for you,” she said. “Are you ready to go back to rehearsal? Some of the musicians are gone but we can practice. Or we can ask the others to leave. Maybe you and I can rehearse the mystery song you’re composing.” She clasped her hands.
    Penelope was vicious. Her venom—everything coming out of her mouth—crawled up Ariel’s skin in the form of a shiver. Whether others realized it or not, Penelope hid her sharp claws well. She set her sights on Colin and wouldn’t let go. It didn’t seem to matter much to her if she made a fool of herself, as long as she’d have him. Penelope made a point of making sure Ariel knew.
    Ariel shrugged off the ugly feeling as realization hit her. Was she jealous? No. She couldn’t allow herself to be. It’d be stupid to feel jealous about Colin. Colin wasn’t hers. He’d never be. It’d be ridiculous to think otherwise, if she did she’d end up brokenhearted.
    “ Dear, he isn’t going back to rehearsal. We’re all having dinner to make up for lost time. You know, like old times. Isn’t that right, Gérard?” Julianne said.
    Penelope turned to Julianne. “What a great idea. Do you mind if I