chapter867

Kylie really wanted to sneak backstage. She was practically bouncing on her toes, but Cameron shook his head, gentle but firm. "Lucinda, there are way too many people right now. Backstage must be packed, and the staff has their hands full. Let's not make things harder for them. Whatever you want to say to Elliot and Lydia, you can tell them when they get home."

Lucinda bristled, frustration bubbling up inside her. She just wanted a quick look backstage. Why were they being so stubborn? Back when Elliot had concerts before, she could wander backstage whenever she wanted. Ever since Lydia came into the picture, suddenly she wasn't allowed? It felt so unfair.

Garrett noticed the storm brewing on Lucinda's face and gently patted her shoulder. Lucinda, they're all busy back there, packing up and making sure everything goes smoothly. We can chat with them later, once they're home."

Lucinda couldn't do anything but nod, though she made no effort to hide her reluctance. "Fine. Let's just head home. I just hope my sister actually comes back tonight."

As soon as the words left her mouth, everyone turned to look at her.

Kylie jumped in quickly, hoping to break the tension. Lucinda, I just talked to your sister on the phone. She promised she'd be home tonight."

Lucinda forced a small smile. "Alright. If she said so, then we'll wait for them at home."

Meanwhile, Elliot was backstage, saying goodbye to his fans and soaking in the applause. Once the crowd faded, he found himself surrounded by staff, each one taking their turn to give him a hug. The warmth in the room was infectious, and Elliot's heart felt full.

After thanking everyone, he wiped off his stage makeup and grabbed his things. Lydia, you must be exhausted. And I bet none of you got a real meal during the concert. Let's all go out for a big dinner. My treat."

Connor just grinned. As long as Lydia was there, he didn't care where they went. Juna chimed in, playful as always. "Elliot's concert was a huge hit. How could I possibly turn down a celebration dinner?"

Lincoln, who had been hanging

around all night, piped up with a goofy grin. "Count me in. I'll go wherever you guys go." He honestly didn't care if they ended up at a fancy restaurant or a street vendor. He'd figured it out by now. If he ve the good life, he

wanted to live the Ow If he

needed to be part of Connor and Lydia's circle. If you're going to find a big shot to rely on, might as well aim for the best, right?

Katie shot Lincoln a sly look. Hey, kiddo. How about coming over to my place after dinner?"

Lincoln immediately clutched his collar and darted behind Juna, grinning. "No way. I'm a good boy. If I'm not home by midnight, my parents will kill me."

Leo heard the exchange and slid over with a teasing smile. "He's too young for you. How about giving me a shot?"

Katie rolled her eyes, unimpressed. Please. I don't do second chances.

Lydia was already texting Kylie and Cameron, letting them know not to wait up. Elliot was treating everyone to dinner, and they'd be back together later. Since Kylie and Cameron had arrived early and skipped dinner, they'd already asked the kitchen to prepare something just in case. The food was just being served when their phones buzzed with Lydia's message.

"Lydia says we shouldn't wait for them. Elliot's taking everyone out for

dinner The with their friends

and come back T?ter

Kylie read outs

loud.

IMS

As soon as she finished, Lucinda's face fell. So they're not coming home for

dinner?"

Cameron nodded. "That's right. Elliot is treating everyone."

Lucinda pouted. "Then why couldn't Lydia have told us earlier?"