by Various
His phone went off in a familiar ring tone. He groaned again. He could ignore it, but ... nah. Might as well face the music now. Lucas answered. “You always find the worst times to call,” he snapped.
“Good morning to you too. Get up on the wrong side of the bed this morning?”
“A little bit. What do you want now? I don’t have time to idle chit chat.”
“I’m hurt, Lucas. After all I’ve done for you, and yet you treat me with such disdain?”
Lucas’s nostrils flared. “All you’ve done for me? I’m like a puppet on your string! I want out. I want to be free.”
Maybe have a chance at a real life.
A sigh. “Haven’t I been good to you?”
Was that almost genuine hurt he heard? Yeah right. Good acting.
“By keeping me out of the system and jail? Sure. But then the last few years has been job after job of cleaning up after you. Protecting your image. When does it stop? Why does it seem you can’t keep out of trouble, and you don’t want the world to know it, so here comes old reliable Lucas to keep things at bay. I don’t like it. I never did.”
“You don’t understand, Luke. And I can’t explain it yet. I just have this feeling ... Please, trust me on this? Stay around a little longer. There’s things I haven’t told you. This time, it’s not just for me. I need to know she’s safe.”
There really was a first time for everything.
“Safe? What do you mean?”
“Lucas ... I’m trying here.”
“I’m supposed to believe that?” Lucas rested his head back on the pillow. The fan blades over the bed whirled round and round. His head pounded. He needed to eat.
“Believe what you want, Lucas.”
“Fine. I’m going to go now, if you don’t mind. Enjoy your day.” He hung up the phone and dropped it beside him.
A normal life sounded better and better. What would it be like to stay in one place? Hold down an honest job, one that didn’t leave him feeling like shit at the end of the day?
Lucas couldn’t decide whether coming to Harmony’s Echo and meeting Avery was good for him or not. Her different opinion on life, the way she handled things made him want to become better. Less bitter. Would he ever deserve to have a woman like Avery in his corner? Maybe not, but it was worth trying for.
Why can’t I get you out of my mind, Avery Callimer?
Why do I want you there so much?
Chapter Ten
“I can’t believe how soon the results will come back! I thought they took a lot longer.” Avery cradled the phone between her shoulder and ear and stood before her closet. Picking an outfit for the concert always took forever. Avery emptied out half her closet sometimes. Why did she have to be so picky? Tonight, a new face would be in the crowd.
Going on stage never made her nervous anymore. Tonight, with Rodney’s promise to be front and center, she had the jitters.
“Well, with the right connections, you can get them faster. Obviously, he has them. Which is good, so there’s no time to wait and you guys will know sooner. When are you going to tell your parents?”
Ahh Laura, the voice of reasoning, which Avery desperately needed. She hated that things were spiraling out of control like this.
“Once we know,” Avery answered. “There’s no sense if he’s not, you know?”
“Maybe. But you’ve never held back like this with them. Why now?”
Avery sighed, turned away from the closet and flopped on her bed. “I’m not sure. I know I’m not handling any of this well. I don’t know what to do.”
“Just be honest. Always.” Laura’s tone was gentle.
Thank goodness for best friends. Avery smiled.
“Thanks, Laura. Hey, I’d better go. I need to get ready for the show. You coming tonight?”
“I’ll be there. Front row and ready to party. See you later, okay?”
“Thanks. Can’t wait.” Avery hung up with her friend and returned to figuring out her stage presence outfit for the night.
When Rodney had told her he used to hang around rock stars and other people in the music industry, Avery felt the pressure.
“No need to be!” he’d said with a smile.
Forty five minutes later, Avery stood with the band, preparing for their set. Everyone seemed to be in a good mood. Even Jameson smiled and acted giddy with everyone else. The band was rearing to go.
“Pump it up!” someone yelled from outside.
Avery laughed. “Sounds like we have a wild crowd tonight.”
“Well, what else is there to do in the middle of the week here in Harmony’s Echo? Baby Stetson is it!” Jameson said with a huge grin. His eyes met hers, and the look they exchanged told Avery things would be all right. Music was so important to them. Thank goodness a broken relationship wouldn’t ruin their love for performing.
“Thank you,” she mouthed to him. He nodded, then looked away, putting his focus into his guitar.
The manager of the bar stuck his head through the door. “Hey guys, you’re on in five. Ready?”
Everyone scrambled to the stage, where everything had been set up earlier. They all knew their places. The set had been decided. Avery raced up to a microphone energized, more than ready to put on a show.
“All riiiiiiight. Who in this crowd is ready for our favorite band?”
The crowd erupted in cheers. Avery couldn’t make out faces with the bright lights shining on them.
“I can’t heeeear you! I said, who is ready for BABY STETSON?”
The crowd grew louder, yelling, whistling, stomping feet.
Avery loved this!
She loved being able to entertain.
“All right. Well, here they are! Ladies and gentlemen, here comes Baby Stetson!”
As the cheers started again, the drums began, pounding out perfect rhythm. To her right, Jameson started his guitar riff. Avery swayed to the beat, holding the mic in hand, poised to sing.
“It is great to be back! Are you ready for a good time tonight?” Avery pumped her fist in the air, revving up the crowd. “Because I know I am!”
Avery launched into the song, flying across the stage engaging the crowd into the upbeat song.
Every time she performed up on stage, the world and it’s problems disappeared. This is what comfort felt like. Not many would think so, but for Avery, it was perfect. The way the crowd reacted, the feel of pouring her heart and soul out in a song that others can relate to...
Bliss. This had to be the best natural high ever.
*****
I just need to know she’s safe.
Safe from what?
As hard as he tried, Lucas couldn’t concentrate. Avery stood up on stage, so beautiful as she became a different person with her band. She had a phenomenal stage presence, and a hell of a voice to go with it. If she ever chose to have children, they would be blessed because Avery had this soothing way about her. Lucas pictured her holding a baby in her arms, smiling down at the tiny infant, singing in her gentle way.
Whoa. Where did that come from?
He shook his head, sipping from his plastic cup. He chose wisely tonight for a drink. No way would he catch himself drinking alcohol again around Avery, not after that last fiasco. He wasn’t even sure if he’d talk to her tonight. She hadn’t responded to the flowers. She hadn’t responded at all.
Not that he blamed her at all, but he hated things hanging like this.
What the hell got into him when it came to that woman, anyway?
“Didn’t think I’d see you here tonight!” a voice yelled in his ear. Lucas turned to see Rodney. He held back a groan. “She’s amazing. Wow!” He pointed to Avery.
Lucas merely nodded. And then some.
So different from-
No. Don’t do that. Then you might slip up. Keep your distance.
“I have a big surprise for Avery!” Rodney smiled, a knowing grin.
So he was her father. Well that’s at least good to know. Avery would be
happy to know that.
“Congratulations,” Lucas said, trying a little bit to sound genuine.
“For?” Rodney frowned. “Oh! No, that’s not what I’m talking about. I’ve got connections in the music industry. I can get her band noticed. I didn’t want to say anything before. I wanted to find out for myself how much talent she has, and well, she’s blowing me away right now.”
Yeah. Me too. In more ways than one.
“Nice.” Lucas turned back to the stage. What else could he say? The man was trying. Or he was aiming to impress. Whatever the case was, it was no business of his.
Avery had pulled up a stool, held a guitar and the spotlight shone on her. Locks of curls hung loosely down her shoulders, and she looked content. She started talking into the microphone about the song.
“We’re going to slow it down a little. Hope you don’t mind.”
When her sultry voice poured the emotions out, it melted Lucas like hot butter on bread. That voice! He couldn’t shake it from the first night he heard her. Hell, he couldn’t shake her. Lucas wanted Avery so badly.
He couldn’t have her. He shouldn’t. But the desire was there, like it or not.
Lucas swore under his breath, his gaze fixated on Avery. He’d fucking ruin her if she knew half of his secrets, if he allowed her to get close to him. The other night, he came so close to letting go and giving in, until something snapped inside and made him come to his senses. No doubt, Avery Callimer got under his skin and persistently stayed there.
The show went on, each song so full of vibrant emotions. Lucas was more amazed as the time passed. Should he leave and not let her know he even came? No, that was a stupid thing to do. Why couldn’t he just face her like a man and talk it out?
Because then you’d want to do something more.
The lights brightened. Lucas realized then that Rodney was no longer next to him. He was probably already on his way to talk to Avery.
Something about that guy sent a warning signal to Lucas.
He was probably overreacting.
He doubted that.
Without any concrete idea why, saying anything to Avery would only make him the bad guy. So for now, he’d have to keep his suspicions to himself. That was the best option for the moment.
You’ve been the bad guy before.
He sure had. No doubt.
He no longer wanted to be that bad guy, especially when it came to Avery.
Blonde hair and a Stetson hat caught his attention. Avery. There she was, standing near the edge of the stage with her band, smiling and looking exceptionally radiant. The stage agreed with her. His heart sank when he noticed Rodney there, too.
He’d approach her later. Right now, keeping his distance would be the smart move.
*****
“I’m so impressed! Avery, you have an amazing talent.” Rodney grinned from ear to ear as he hugged Avery again.
Heat rushed to her cheeks, and she smiled. In fact, she couldn’t stop smiling. “Thank you.”
“She is great, isn’t she?” Jameson said, slinging his arm around Avery in a friendly manner. “Great job tonight.”
“You too, Jameson.” Avery shot a grin his way. What could make this night better? The show rocked. Tonight, there had been no tension between her and Jameson. That guilt slowly, but surely started to fade away.
“I want to tell you something, Avery,” Rodney said, leaning close. “All of you guys.”
What could it be that Rodney would want to tell the entire band?
“I have some connections in the music business. If you’re willing, I’d love to have some of them meet with you all. I think you have some great promise here, and I’d love to see you go to the big leagues.”
Several gasps rang out among the band.
Avery’s jaw dropped as she stared at Rodney. “Are you serious? It’s not because-?”
Rodney’s head shook from side to side. “No, Avery. This is real. I think you guys are great and want to help. It has nothing to do with who you are to me.”
She went silent for a moment, taking the information in. Then Avery squealed and hugged Rodney. “Thank you! Thank you so much! That would be great!”
“Wow! That’s great!” Jameson packed his guitar into his case. Excitement hung in the air. Could this really be the break to get them further into their music careers?
Which meant Avery had to let go of her hesitation about leaving Texas.
“I’m glad you all are in agreement. I worried some about overstepping my boundaries.” Rodney lowered his voice for the last part, but Avery heard it. She smiled reassuringly.
“No, this is great. Thank you again.”
A familiar form moved closer. From the corner of Avery’s eye she caught a glimpse of him. Lucas? He made it.
Sure enough, it was him. He hung back, watching her with an expression she didn’t understand. When her gaze connected with his, he curved his lips upward in a slight smile. He lifted his hand in a wave, but didn’t make any attempts to get closer.
Avery’s heart raced. He’d made it after all. After last night, she wasn’t sure. She should clear the air with him. “Excuse me, guys. I’ll be back.” Avery maneuvered through the lingering crowed, straight toward Lucas. “Hi. Thanks for coming.”
Damn, he looked good.
“You put on a hell of a show.” Lucas lifted his cup to his lips.
The detached Lucas was back.
“Thank you. Rodney is going to get some people from Nashville to meet with us!”
“Really? That’s great.” The lack of excitement was surprising. Not that she expected him to have any. Why would he? But something in voice, the way he responded irked her.
“I um, also wanted to thank you. For the flowers.”
“You’re welcome. I feel horrible. I don’t drink often, and there’s your reason why. I become a complete idiot.” Lucas set his cup down on the bar, and took Avery’s hand. His touch warmed her. Shocks of awareness went straight down to her gut, a fire burning.
“You’re a man of mixed signals. I don’t know what to make of you, Lucas. I do know I’m intrigued by you. Attracted to you. But I don’t understand your games.”
“Oh, Avery. There are no games.” Lucas lifted her hand and pressed a kiss into her palm. The smoldering look in his eyes was intense and alarming. “It’s just- there’s so much-”
“There you are!” Rodney clapped a hand on her shoulder.
Bad timing.
“Yeah, sorry. I saw Lucas, and wanted to talk to him.” Avery noticed the scowl deepening on Lucas’s face.
“I was hoping to treat y’all to a celebratory drink or something.”
“I- Okay. That sounds nice. Thank you, again.” Her eyes lingered on Lucas.
“We’ll talk later?” he asked, letting go of her hand. A wave of disappointment hit her. As much as she wanted to be with the band and talk more with Rodney, she really wanted to talk to Lucas, too.
Avery swallowed, her throat suddenly dry. “Yeah. Let’s do that.”
While she sat around a table with everyone, Avery watched Lucas exit the bar, alone, and wondered about him. It’s like he had something to say, then when it came time, he balked.
What’s your story, Lucas?
Chapter Eleven
The next morning, Laura and Avery were sprawled out across the living room floor of Laura’s apartment, working on wedding plans.
“So, what do you have planned for my bachelorette party?” Laura teased, batting her eyelashes at Avery like that would help her get a hint.
Avery giggled. “Uh, hello? That’s for me to know, and you not to find out until that night. Got it? Now, no more questions, and let’s focus here.”
“Aww, but, but but,” Laura whined, shooting a grin at Avery.
“No whining, young lady.” Avery and Laura burst into giggles.
Avery’s phone dinged. She pulled it from her pocket and read the message.
“What the hell?”
&
nbsp; “Avery? What’s wrong?” Laura asked, alarm filling her voice.
Avery stared at the message, trying to understand the meaning. It was from a blocked number. How could that be? Did they allow anonymous texts now?
Careful who you trust. He isn’t who you think.
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Laura asked, her eyebrows raising in question.
“I- I don’t know. I don’t even know who they mean.” Avery frowned. “That’s weird.”
“Well, maybe it’s a wrong number. I wouldn’t worry about it too much. Who sends texts like that anyway, I mean, really?”
“You’re probably right.” That didn’t keep the nerves at bay. Something was off. She just- knew it. Felt it. “Thanks for the reassurance.”
“Of course! That’s what I’m here for. Hey, sorry I didn’t make your show last night. I um- I was sick.”
The way Laura said that had Avery snap her gaze to look at her friend. “Sick?”
Laura’s cheeks turned red. “I’m pregnant,” she whispered.
“Laura! That’s great! Or- is it?” From the look on her friend’s face, Avery wasn’t sure.
“It wasn’t supposed to happen yet!” Laura wailed, tears flowing down her face. Avery reached for her friend to hug her.
“There, it’s all right. You guys are happy about it, right?” Avery patted Laura’s back.
“I am- I mean, I think I am. I’m scared. We had plans, and a baby wasn’t part of it yet. God, I’m hormonal and emotional already.” Laura reached for a tissue and wiped her face. “Ray seems happy, but what if he really isn’t? And what if I start to get bigger and not fit into my wedding dress?” The tears flowed again.
Avery comforted Laura. She pushed back some of Laura’s auburn hair to get a better look at her. “Honey, it’ll all work out. You’ve got a great team helping with the wedding. And I know Ray, he’s always loved kids. So you got pregnant before planned. That happens. You’ll work it out and be fine. I bet you anything. So, let’s not worry too much, okay?”