Best friends to lovers to heartbreak.
To a second chance?
NOTE: This is part THREE (and the conclusion) of Dawson and Izzy’s story. Part ONE of their story can be read in Beats of the Heart and is available here, and part TWO of their story can be read in Notes of the Heart and is available here.
Note From the Author
For those of you who’ve read the first two parts of this love story, you know how instrumental music was in the creation of Dawson and Izzy’s story. I have been imagining, writing and listening to their love for over a year now. A lot of their love story was inspired by song lyrics. A song on the radio would spark a scene. A single line of lyric would hit me in the gut about some feeling these two characters experienced. Their love story isn’t just a journey through the highs and lows of love but is a lyrical odyssey that can be experienced as you read through the integrated playlist. Songs from all walks of life and all ages have touched this story in one way or another. I hope you enjoy the ride. In addition to a link for my Spotify playlist, there are little music notes ♪ scattered throughout the book. In the e-book version of the book, if you click on the music note, you’ll be taken to the official YouTube video or the Spotify link for a song that’s relevant to the scene it’s in. (If you’re reading the paperback, obviously the notes aren’t clickable, but next to the music notes, I’ve listed the title of the song and the artist in case you want to check them out.) I do not own the rights to any of these songs. They are added merely for reader enjoyment.
This story picks up immediately after Notes of the Heart ends, so make sure you’ve read Beats of the Heart and Notes of the Heart before you proceed. This is not a stand alone book.
♪ Spotify Playlist Link
Prologue
Izzy
♪ The First Cut is the Deepest by Sheryl Crow
When I woke up later, Beckett was pulling into my parents’ neighborhood. “Welcome back,” he greeted me when he saw me stirring in the passenger seat.
“You remembered the way.”
“Yep.” He parked in the driveway.
Before we could even get out of the car, my mom was rushing down the steps to greet me. “Don’t open the trunk while she’s out here,” I muttered under my breath.
“Huh?” Beckett asked confused.
“The painting’s a surprise,” I whispered behind my hand.
“Oh, right.” A sheepish look crossed his face.
I got out and enveloped my mom in a hug. “Sorry we’re late.”
“No worries. Let me help you get your stuff inside and then we can go.” She moved to the back door of the car.
“I’ll get our suitcases, sweetheart. You just grab your purse and your camera.”
“Thank you,” I mouthed at him as I reached into the back seat to grab my camera bag.
Linking arms with Mom, we went into the house while Beckett wrestled our bags out of the trunk. Moments later, he entered the house. “Should I take our bags to where we stayed last time?” he asked.
“That’d be lovely, dear.” Mom patted his cheek affectionately before turning back to me.
I smirked at him behind Mom’s back. When Beckett returned, I asked Mom, “Where’s Daddy?”
“Out back.” She motioned to the backyard. “He’s hoping Beckett will go with him to pick up food for dinner.” She cast her eyes up at Beckett, where he stood with his arms looped around my waist.
“Absolutely. And where are you ladies off to?” He squeezed my torso in a backwards hug.
“We’re going to pick up the flowers and go make sure the venue is set up,” Mom chimed in.
Beckett pressed a kiss to the top of my head, then headed out the back door to find my dad. “Ready?” Mom asked as she handed me her folder full of party info.
“Yes.” And with that we were off.
Chapter 1
Izzy
As Mom drove to the florist, I opened the folder to see a list of names. “Is this the list of everyone who’s coming?” My finger tracked down the list to see who I recognized.
Mom glanced over briefly. “Everyone who RSVPed at least.”
My eyes scrolled down the list. “Brittany’s coming?”
“Yes. She’s visiting her parents this weekend too. So, I thought it would be nice for you two to catch up.”
“Thanks.” It had been a while since I’d seen her. Not since I was home recovering from surgery a couple of years ago
“Mr. Anderson is bringing his new girlfriend?” I asked in astonishment. Dawson’s dad hadn’t ever gotten really serious about anyone after the divorce. But it was time for him to settle down again in my opinion.
“Yes. Kimberly’s really nice. I think you’ll like her.”
My breath hung up in my throat as I continued to read down the list. Dawson + 1 was scribbled near the bottom. “Dawson’s coming?” I squeaked out.
“Oh, yeah. I guess I forgot to tell you I sent him an invitation. I didn’t think he’d be able to come. I mean I’m sure he’s really busy. But then he called to confirm he’d be here, and he was bringing a friend. Isn’t that nice, honey?” She patted my hand.
“Yeah,” I whispered.
After all this time, I was finally going to be in the same place at the same time as Dawson.
“Maybe you guys will be able to catch up. Clear the air about whatever went wrong so you can be best friends again,” her voice was hopeful.
“With all the people who’ll be at the party, I’m sure we’ll both be busy chatting with everyone.” I prayed that was the case. I wasn’t sure I was ready for an awkward reunion with the former love of my life, the keeper of my broken heart.
“It’s a good thing he’s coming for dinner tonight, then,” Mom declared nonchalantly.
“What?” I screeched.
My heart started palpitating at an odd rhythm, and my hands got sweaty.
“Yeah. Michael and Kimberly were already coming over for dinner. When I found out Dawson would be in town early enough, it seemed rude not to invite him and his date. Is there something wrong with that?” She turned and frowned at me.
“Um… no. But Beckett just may piss his pants,” I joked, trying to play it off. I wiped my hands on my jeans.
“That’s right. He’s a big fan of LO, huh?” Mom asked with a chuckle.
“That’s an understatement,” I scoffed. “So… um… what time are you expecting them over tonight?” I asked casually. Meanwhile, I was freaking out inside.
Could I really stand to see Dawson with a date? I hadn’t paid a lot of attention to entertainment news lately, but surely, I’d have noticed if he was in a relationship. Wouldn’t I?
Maybe not. Especially if he had to keep it secret from the fans like he did with our relationship. My throat was thick with emotion. Obviously, in my logical mind, I expected that one day he’d be in a relationship with someone. But I never really allowed myself to think about it. My heart couldn’t handle the possibility, even after all this time.
“I’m not sure what time they’ll be over. But I told them dinner would be at six-thirty.”
“Mom, that’s in like three hours,” I exclaimed.
I’d need at least that long to settle my nerves and get ready. I bet his date would be beautiful. He’d always attracted the attention of models and actresses. There was no way I could show up looking like the girl next door.
“Well, your dad’s grilling steaks and corn. I already made potato salad and pasta salad. Dad’s going to pop the baked potatoes into the oven when he lights the grill. So, we don’t have to do anything. No need to stress.”
I couldn’t very well tell her I needed time to primp before seeing my ex-boyfriend for the first time in two years, one month and two days—not that I was counting or anything. It was illogical for me react this way. I had a boyfriend. I’d never worried about my appearance with Beckett. Honestly, I’d never worried about my appearance with Dawson either. But I’d always wanted to look good for him�
�to make him pant with desire. Why didn’t I want the same with Beckett?
“We’re here,” Mom announced as she parked in front of the flower shop.
I forced myself to put Dawson out of my mind for the next two hours as I helped Mom set up the hall in all things pearl colored. Ropes of fake pearls draped the guest of honor table. They adorned the candlesticks, flower arrangements… pretty much everything. It was actually classy looking.
The bulletin board boasted photos of my parents dating back to their high school days and chronicling their love story up to this past Christmas. Mom stood back and looked over everything as I set small vases filled with plastic pearls in the center of each table. The white and pink calla lilies looked beautiful.
When everything was done, I glanced at my phone. Five-thirty. “Mom, is there anything else we need to do?”
“Umm. I think that’s it for right now. There are a few things we can’t do until tomorrow. We can go.” She surveyed everything one last time.
“Awesome. I’d like to shower before dinner.” I snatched up my purse and moved to the door.
“Understood. I always feel grimy after traveling.” Mom muttered something else to herself and nodded as she locked up the building.
I’d just let her believe I was feeling grungy from riding in a car. No way was I going to admit that I wanted to look my best for Dawson… and his date. Ugh.
Fifteen minutes later, we pulled up at home. I dashed around back to where I heard Beckett and Daddy’s voices. Peeking around the side of the house, I breathed a sigh of relief when I saw it was just the two of them. I drew in a deep breath and stepped into the backyard. “Hey, boys,” I called cheerfully.
“Hey, sweet pea,” Daddy greeted me. “You girls take care of everything?”
“Yes, sir.”
He squeezed me tightly.
“Hey, sweetheart,” Beckett called over my dad’s shoulder. “You’ve got great timing. We just lit the grill.”
Daddy let go of me, and I stepped over to Beckett, who drew me in for a brief kiss.
“So, did Daddy tell you who was coming for dinner?” I grinned up at him. At least one of us would be over the moon about our dinner companion.
“No. I mean I assumed it was more than just the three of us when I saw the number of steaks. But I didn’t ask who else would be joining us. Thought it would be rude.” He shrugged.
“You have to promise to control yourself.” I gripped his biceps and gave him my serious face.
“I’m a doctor; I am the epitome of control.” A cocky smile tipped up his lips.
“Normally, I’d agree with you. But I’m not so sure about this time.” I shook my head.
I was sure. He was going to lose it.
“Tell me who it is for goodness sake,” he demanded.
“Dawson will be coming over with his dad for dinner.”
“The Dawson Anderson? Lead singer of Lyrical Odyssey is coming over to eat dinner? Here? Tonight?” his voice rose in pitch with each word that slipped from his lips.
“Yes.” My fingers twisted my thumb ring behind my back.
“Oh shi— I mean crap,” he exclaimed, rubbing his hand over the crown of his head.
He cast his eyes over to where my dad smirked about Beckett’s freak out. “What am I going to say to him? What am I going to wear? What if I make a fool of myself?”
I pressed my fingertips to his lips. “Shhh. You’re going to say ‘Hi’. And you’re going to talk to him like he’s a normal human being. Because he is. And you aren’t going to make a fool of yourself. You’re far too smart for that. As for what to wear, you look great just like you are. Me, on the other hand, I’m covered in flower water and dust. I’m going to go shower before everyone arrives.” I planted a kiss on his lips. “You gonna be OK?”
He swallowed hard and nodded.
“Remember, he’s just a guy.”
Now if I could convince myself of that lie, I might actually get through dinner with my own heart intact.
After a long shower that was anything but relaxing, I dug through my suitcase trying to find something to wear. I’d tossed all kinds of items in there in my efforts to pack in a hurry. Finally, I unearthed a pair of black skinny jeans and an off-the-shoulder blue blouse. My fingers pillaged the drawer on my vanity.
Triumphantly, I pulled out something to help dress up my appearance. I pinned my hair up on the sides with the crystal butterfly clips I’d worn to prom. The billowy sleeves of my shirt blocked my wrists, so no need for any bracelets. Though, I did slip on a necklace I’d worn all throughout high school. I covered my tattooed thumb ring with the silver butterfly thumb ring I’d bought over a year ago.
I’d considered having the tattoo removed or altered, but I’d spent so long designing the perfect art to adorn my body forever. So, what if I couldn’t look at it now without it stirring up memories I’d rather leave buried forever?
I put on some light makeup and the lavender perfume Beckett had given me for Christmas. After slipping my feet into a pair of flats, I deemed myself ready enough.
I opened my door, determined to get through the evening unscathed. The air shifted the minute I stepped out of my room.
He was here.
I didn’t have to see or hear him to know he was downstairs. It was like my body was still attuned to his. Quietly, I crept down the stairs. Mom’s voice floated up from the kitchen. My ears strained as I listened for his voice.
I didn’t have to wait long. The melodious sound of the rich timbre that hadn’t filled my ears in so long was like a sucker punch to the gut. I sank down on the step to revel in it for just a moment. I listened for the tell-tale sound of a groupie giggle or other grating sound that would come out of the mouth of his date, but none came. It seemed just he and my mom were inside.
Gathering every ounce of courage I’d ever possessed, I got to my feet and strode into the kitchen. At first only my mom was visible, working at the counter.
♪ Faraway by Nickelback
For a brief second, I thought he must have slipped outside until a soft voice came from behind me, “Flutterby.” One word, three syllables, nine letters was all it took to shatter all the locks I’d spent the past two years securing around my heart. Sucking in a lungful of air, I slowly spun around. That air whooshed out of me immediately at the sight of him.
Dark jeans encased his long legs. They weren’t tight, so his muscles weren’t visible—but I didn’t have to see them to remember them. I’d felt every inch of his body on mine, beneath mine, in mine. I didn’t have to see to recall. As much as I’d tried to erase him from my heart and memory, this one instant proved that I’d failed miserably. His blue T-shirt hung loose and hugged his biceps. His fingers were tucked into his back pockets, just like he always did when he wasn’t sure what to do with his hands.
My eyes traveled up to his face. God, he was beautiful. He still stole the air from my lungs, even after all this time. The butterflies flew in a riot inside my stomach, ready to lift off and fly away with my heart to deliver it to him. Traitors.
In that moment, I hated butterflies with a passion. His eyes were still the same—the color of whiskey and filled with the same kaleidoscope of emotions I’d seen in them countless times before. We stood frozen, staring at each other.
“Daw.” I sighed.
The door opened behind him, and another face I never thought I’d see again entered the kitchen.
“Izzy,” Brooks’s silvery voice said.
I couldn’t stop the tiny grin that spread across my lips.
“Brooks,” I said with a laugh.
“You’re a sight for sore eyes.” He stepped around Dawson’s rooted form to envelop me in a warm hug. “I’ve missed you,” he mumbled in my hair.
“I’ve missed you too,” I whispered, forcing back the tears which threatened to spill from my eyes. “So, you’re Dawson’s plus-one to my parents’ party?” The relief that filled my heart spilled out into my smile.
&n
bsp; “Yeah. Hope you don’t mind.” He smirked at me.
“Never.”
The sound of a throat clearing made Brooks drop his arms from around me. Dawson scowled at him.
“Uh… Your mom sent me in to grab a platter,” Brooks stammered.
I hadn’t even realized she’d slipped out the door.
“Cabinet over the stove,” Dawson directed.
My heart lurched—he still remembered where things were kept in my mom’s kitchen. Once Brooks retrieved it, he went back outside without a word, just a backward glance at us.
Alone again, I couldn’t keep myself from looking at Dawson. He untucked his hands and held out his arms. An invitation.
Could I accept it? What would it feel like to be in his embrace again?
I had to know.
I stepped into the space between his arms and allowed him to wrap me in a hug. The first easy breath I’d breathed in two years flowed in and out of my lungs. Peace settled over me like a blanket.
My arms snaked around his neck, and my face settled against the crook of his shoulder, which felt like it was made just for me. His hands rested on the small of my back, pulling me flush against him. Being in his arms felt as natural as breathing. He still smelled the same—like leather and spice. He still felt the same—like love, like home.
♪ When We Were Young by Andy Black and Juliet Sims
“Izzy, it feels so good to hold you again,” he murmured, his voice thick with emotion.
My heart thudded violently against my chest, demanding I admit how good it felt to be held by him again. But I couldn’t force the words out. They were locked behind the lump in my throat. Thankfully.
Lyrical Odyssey Rock Star Series: Box Set 1 Page 45