Rhythm of Heartbreak (COMPLETED)

Chapter 17

The boot camp activities went on as planned, oblivious of the recent drama that took place a few nights ago.

She remembered that night which ended in her thanking and apologizing to Rick. She was feeling a sense of comfort being in Rick's arms but when everything got settled and she was back to her normal state of mind, she was beyond embarrassed by how she reacted. Nevertheless, he remains a gentleman throughout, he didn't make her feel mocked or teased too, and for that, she was thankful for him.

However, Rick Reed is still a big name in the industry and her current mentor, the scene she subjected herself to is not easy to forget and every time she sees Rick, she is reminded of it. She then decided to avoid Rick at all costs for the remaining days she had in the boot camp. It would be difficult, but she can exercise her talent in making excuses, she can't deal with the predicament for now and so she's choosing the coward's way.

One time, Jess was pacing towards the reception area and saw a glimpse of Rick's stature, she was alarmed and readily turned her back and walked in the opposite direction.

There was another time when he went to her room and was checking on her asking about the activities laid out by the committee when she readily gave him the paper containing her schedule and excused herself to go to the comfort room.

"Nature calls" she smiled uncomfortably.

Jess was able to make several more justifications for a period, but one evening after she was spent doing her daily practice and was walking towards her hotel room, she almost gasped as she saw Rick standing cozily on her door as he intentionally waited for her arrival.

She immediately felt nervous and was about to head back to the elevator when a strong pair of hands captured her arms and put her in place.

"What kind of excuses are you going to give this time?" He stated calmly.

She tried to deny his accusation, but guilt was written all over her face and she knew there was no turning back now.

She exhaled as she braced herself for his scrutiny. "I'm sorry Rick, I just thought that this was for the best. I just don't know how to deal with what happened that night, I made a fool of myself in front of you." She stated. Her eyes dropped as she stared at her arm still within Rick's grasp.

Rick tilted her chin and their eyes met. Jess saw his expression and it conveyed gentleness. She then felt even more guilty knowing he went through such an extent because of her doings.

"I know, I understand Jess. How do you think we can move past that night? If you want me to forget it, I will." He said with all seriousness.

She smiled weakly. "Will you forget it?" she asked, and Rick nodded vigorously.

"You won't tell a soul on what happened that night then?" Jess added.

Rick projected a confused look and then uttered. "What night are we talking here?"

Jess laughed at how ridiculous this was, but she was thankful for Rick's humor and not fueling her awkwardness towards the situation.

"Thank you for everything." She genuinely stated and with that, Rick smiled in response to her statement as their eyes spoke with the words they couldn't utter yet.

On the 8th day of the boot camp, Jess and other artists within her age bracket were called upon to the activity area. There were no clear instructions yet as to what the next task would be. They were waiting for the committee to give an update.

Jess roamed her eyes around and smiled inwardly. She never thought she would enjoy this music training, and she would thank Alexander for giving her this opportunity once she was back.