Chapter 4: Stuck with a Star
414 Words
Emma could not believe this was happening.
Aiden Carter—the same Aiden Carter she had accidentally insulted—was now not only working at her bookstore but was planning to stay for a few days.
She turned to him, arms crossed. “You conveniently forgot to mention this before?”
Aiden gave her a sheepish grin. “Details, details.”
His manager, Greg, didn’t look amused. “Aiden, your schedule is packed. You have interviews, meetings, and a film to promote.”
“And yet, here I am.” Aiden spread his arms. “Consider this a personal project.”
Greg exhaled sharply. “This is not how we do things.” He turned to Emma as if she were somehow responsible for this. “Do you really think he belongs in a bookstore?”
Emma bristled. “I don’t think he belongs here at all.”
Aiden laughed. “Ouch. That one stung a little.”
Greg ignored him. “You’re coming back to LA. This whole thing is ridiculous.”
But Aiden only leaned casually against the counter. “You know what’s really ridiculous? That video about Emma is still trending. This is the perfect PR move.” He glanced at Emma. “Plus, I have to prove to a certain bookstore owner that I’m not just some overrated actor.”
Emma blinked. “I never said—”
Greg cut her off with a sharp look. “Fine. Stay for another day or two. But after that, we’re leaving.”
Aiden grinned in victory as Greg turned and stormed out. The moment the door shut, Emma let out a frustrated sigh.
“This is unbelievable.”
“You’ll survive.” Aiden winked.
Emma really wanted to throw a book at him.
Lily, who had been silent the entire time, finally burst out laughing. “I cannot believe this is actually happening. Emma, you’re stuck with a movie star!”
Emma shot her a glare. “Don’t sound so excited.”
Lily smirked. “Oh, I’m very excited.”
Emma turned back to Aiden, narrowing her eyes. “Fine. You can stay. But if you’re going to be here, you actually have to work.”
Aiden pressed a hand to his chest. “I take my bookstore duties very seriously.”
“Somehow, I doubt that.”
Aiden grinned. “Guess you’ll just have to wait and see.”
Emma groaned, already regretting every decision that had led to this moment.
- Writer
