by Gina Azzi
“No. I want to go, to get out there and sing my heart out, to feel like myself again.”
“Whatever you need, baby. But I’m waiting for you, Lee. I’m here and I’m not going anywhere. I’m not giving up on us. Do you understand?”
“Yes. I do. But I need to do this for myself.”
“I’m proud of you. I’ve never been more fucking proud of anyone in my life.”
“Call me when you’re home from work?”
“Will you be sleeping?”
“Just call me.”
“Okay, baby. I’ll talk to you later.”
“’Bye.” She ends the call.
Sitting back in my chair, I rake my fingers through my hair. Then, I log into my computer and search for December flights to Tennessee.
December 1 12:08PM
Me: Happy December, love.
Everly: Hey! Happy December. I bet it’s much colder where you are.
Me: Livvy is bundled up in a scarf, hat, and mittens. Only her nose is visible. What are you doing today?
Everly: Appointment with Nicole and then meeting with my lawyer.
Me: Corey?
Everly: Out on bail.
Outrage rakes through my body as I reread Everly’s message, convinced that I’m seeing the words incorrectly. How the fuck is Corey already out on bail? What is wrong with the criminal justice system?
Dialing her, I sit back in my chair and clench my hand into a fist.
“Hello?” Her voice is breathy, laced with sleep.
“What the hell do you mean he’s out on bail? That quickly?” I pinch the bridge of my nose, nausea churning in my stomach. I can’t fly to Nashville until December 22 and the thought of Corey fucking Hughes getting near Everly makes me physically ill.
“Yes. Aar, relax. I’m okay.” Everly breathes out.
“Lee.”
“I swear. I’m meeting with my security detail right after my appointment with Nicole.”
Blowing out an exhale, I grip the back of my head. “You trust these guys?”
“They’re all former military, special ops. Yeah, I trust them.”
“Okay. But if he so much as steps into the same building as you —”
“I promise, I’m going to be okay. We’re going to be okay.”
“Aye. I just hate feeling so helpless, so far away from you.”
“February will be here before you know it. Livvy is going to love Florida. And all the Disney princesses.”
Some of my anger recedes at the warmth in her voice. “Lee, I wanted to surprise you but —”
“Tell me!”
“I’m coming the 22nd.”
“To Nashville?”
“Yep. Surprisingly, Kate’s been better, more engaged, since signing over her parental rights. I’m not sure if it’s because she doesn’t feel so much pressure or what, but she really meant it when she said she’d see Liv over Christmas. She’s going to take her to Glasgow to spend some time with her parents and family.”
“Seriously? Oh my God! Aaron, this is going to be the best. I can’t believe you’ll be here for Christmas. I need to get a tree and do lights and —”
“Wait for me, love. We’ll do it together.”
“Wow! Okay, you’ve just given me so much to look forward to.”
“Good. I can’t wait to see you. Just, let me know how today goes, okay?”
“Promise.”
“Love you.”
“Me more.”
Disconnecting the call, I stare at my blank computer screen, thrumming my fingers along the desk. Twenty-two more days.
It seems like eternity.
24
Everly
Knowing that I’m going to be with Aaron in just over two weeks immediately brightens my outlook. Intent on keeping myself busy, especially with all of the media attention surrounding my opening up about Corey, I commit to extra time in the studio, additional workouts, and more choreography sessions. Add in my biweekly appointments with Nicole and social outings with friends who have shown me nothing but love and support, and the days pass by quickly.
“Drinks with Ginger and Grace tonight?” Addison asks, swiping my mug of coffee and taking a large gulp. “I’m already late for work and the day has barely started.” She places the mug down. “Meet at Teddi’s for happy hour?”
“Only if we’re meeting for a girl’s night. Not more chat about my tour branding.” I quirk an eyebrow. I’ve been going full steam for the past week and could use a night to have a drink with friends that doesn’t pertain to work, my image, or headlines.
Addi rolls her eyes but doesn’t respond. Typical. “Have you read the news today?”
“Gah! No more headlines!”
“You want to read this one, babe.” Addi grins, tugging on my ponytail. “See you for happy hour!” She calls out before the door closes behind her.
Do I want to read the article?
Since I pressed charges against Corey, an insane amount of media outlets picked up the story and ran with it. Every angle imaginable, painting me in various roles, has been covered.
I’m jealous of his success.
He’s jealous of my success.
I cheated. He cheated.
He’s a womanizer.
I made everything up to bolster sales.
Some articles were supportive and truthful, others were vicious and hurtful.
The good news: my career is still intact. I suppose the old saying that any publicity is good publicity still rings true.
The bad news: my emotional and mental stability swings like a pendulum from one hour to the next.
As usual, Corey’s PR has tried to spin the narrative to show that I’m a jealous, insecure woman who needed more attention and made up a story to increase my sales before going on tour.
My PR team has been amazing in mitigating the media blows and has stressed that I need time and privacy. But if Addison is telling me to read an article, it’s because she thinks it will help me.
Sighing, I pick up my phone and click on the article she messaged me.
Corey Hughes Hurt #MeToo
The headline causes me to jolt back, as if I’ve been punched.
What the hell?
December 8 — Since country superstar Everly Pierce pressed charges against music producer and executive Corey Hughes on November 28, a handful of women in the music industry have stepped forward with similar stories. Accounts of physical and sexual assault, intimidation tactics, and threats to ruin their careers are similar threads in each victim’s story.
The undercurrent of fear to stay silent in the aftermath of assault is widespread and these strong, resilient, survivors are no different. But they’re coming forward now, standing in solidarity with Everly Pierce, as she fights back against the man who repeatedly abused her during their four-year relationship.
My glance cuts to a timeline, outlining Corey’s violent encounters with the women who have spoken up and my stomach heaves. Running to the sink, I throw up the breakfast I consumed. Hanging onto the countertop, I steady my nerves and turn on the faucet to rinse out my mouth.
Oh my God! I stop reading and stare at my coffee mug in shock. Corey hurt other women. He did this to other people. Before his time with me, during his time with me, and afterwards.
He’s a monster.
My phone chimes with a text.
Ginger: Thank God you said something Everly! Did you see how many women came forward because of your story?
Andre: Hughes is scum. I’m proud of you, lady.
Grace: I love you, Everly. I can’t believe what you endured but your actions have inspired others! You’re amazing!
Addison: Did you read it yet?
Wiping a hand over my face, I reply to Addison.
Me: Yes.
Addison: So proud of you, Ev. I’ll buy all your drinks tonight.
Snorting, I shake my head and sit back down.
For so long, for years, I’ve been too afraid to confront Corey
. I thought if I reported him, it would mean the end of my career, of the life I built, of the dream I sacrificed for. Pressing charges against him, recounting my experiences with him to the police, was the most difficult thing I’ve ever done. I waited, scared out of my mind, for the backlash.
Sure, some people said hurtful things. Nicole advised me not to read all the comments on my social media accounts.
And yes, some people think I made the whole thing up.
But for some women, for some people in the world, my experience gave them strength, hope to know that they aren’t alone, a platform to come forward and tell the world just how evil this man is.
And for that, I’m so grateful I finally stood up for myself. I’m relieved I claimed back my life.
Now, I can finally begin to move forward.
“Babe. Someone’s at the door! Can you get it? I’m stepping into the shower. Just check first.” Addison calls out.
Her overprotectiveness causes me to smile as I walk to the front door and peek out the window. My heart dips to my toes as butterflies take flight in my ribcage the moment I spot his blond hair. Aaron.
“You’re early!” I pull the door wide open, watching the casual smirk on his face morph into a full smile.
“Missed you, Lee.” He pulls me into a hug, and I wrap my arms around him. Breathing in the scent of his cologne, I relax and rest my head on his shoulder, pressing my cheek into the soft fabric of his sweater.
“What are you doing here?”
“Told you. I missed you.” He kisses the top of my head and I pull back, grinning up at him.
“Come inside!” I pull him into the foyer. “Addi’s taking a shower but she can’t wait to meet you.”
“Me too.” He wheels his suitcase to inside the door and turns to face me. “Please tell me you’ll stay with me at my hotel.”
“Duh. I’m already packed.” I bounce forward, pressing a kiss to his collarbone.
“I thought you said I was early.” He chuckles, wrapping his arms around me and keeping me pressed against him.
“Aar, I’ve been packed since December 1.”
Aaron laughs, squeezing me tighter. “Me too. Kate arrived a few days earlier than expected and asked if she could have more time with Liv so … here I am.”
“How’s that going?” I step out of his embrace and tug on his hand, relocating us to the kitchen.
Aaron slides onto a barstool, his eyes darting around. “Nice place.”
“I helped Addi decorate.”
“Naturally.” He grins before scrubbing a hand over his face, his eyes sobering. “Things have been okay. Kate’s been a lot more communicative the past six weeks and has been checking in with Olivia more. We’ve explained to her that she’s going to spend the year with me in Edinburgh so she can be with her friends and attend school and visit with her mum during school holidays like Christmas. I don’t see the point in telling her about the custody arrangements now since she’s so young and it seems like her life isn’t going to drastically change. She’ll still be with me in Scotland and visit with her mum when the timing works.”
“Wow. That’s, that’s great that Kate is being more involved.”
“Aye. I wonder if she’ll change her mind in the future and want to play a more active role, and honestly, I’d be all for it. Things between Kate and me shouldn’t affect Liv’s relationship with each of us. I just want what’s best for her, and she needs her mum.”
“Of course. All kids need their mom and dad.” I pour two mugs of coffee and slide one across the island countertop to him.
“And some are extra lucky because they have even more parents to love them.”
Gripping the mug between my hands, I glance up. “What do you mean?”
Aaron sighs, a smile playing around the edges of his mouth. Pulling out a folded-up piece of construction paper from his pocket, he passes it to me. “From Liv.”
Unfolding the paper, my heart thuds in my chest. Nerves skate along my spine. I have no idea why I feel so unsettled, but the truth is, I miss Olivia, and I want her and I to have a real, genuine relationship. As soon as I see the three stick figures, her and I in polka dot dresses, and Aaron in a blue shirt, I grin, tears pricking the corners of my eyes. “She drew us.”
“Aye.”
“But look what she wrote underneath.” I add, turning the paper, so Aaron can read the word below the three smiling stick people.
Family.
“We are, you know?”
“I know,” I whisper, pressing the picture against my chest. “Being with you is the only place that ever felt like home.”
“I love you, Lee. And I’ll fight alongside you every step of the way for however long this takes with Corey. Go on tour, sing your heart out, write the most beautiful songs, and be my family.”
Rushing around the island, I throw myself at him and he scoops me into his arms. “I love you, Aaron. This time, I choose us.”
Aaron’s finger hooks under my chin and tips my face up toward his. Dropping his mouth, he kisses me. Soft and sweet. One. Two. Three times. “Good. Now, let me hear my song.”
Your Country News
Everly Pierce’s New Single Hits #1 on Country Music Charts
January 18 — Everly Pierce has done it again! The thirty-four-year-old singer/songwriter is currently holding the number one spot on the Country Billboard Charts as well as Country Airplay and Top Country songs in both the US and Canada.
“Songbird” has shattered records, going viral within hours of being released. The song, based on Pierce’s personal experiences of abuse with ex-Corey Hughes as well as healing alongside new love Aaron Anderson offers fans a glimpse into Pierce’s emotional journey.
Currently on tour, Pierce is playing to sold-out shows in Chicago next!
Stay tuned for more country news.
Everly Pierce to Host CMA Awards
February 11— Country Music Star Everly Pierce will host the CMA awards this year. The “Songbird” singer has shattered records in recent months and is also on a sold-out tour. However, when we caught up with her earlier this week, she was delighted about the opportunity to host the CMA’s.
“It’s a dream come true. The past year of my life has been nothing but drama and it’s so nice to have so many exciting things to look forward to. I love that the CMA’s are in Nashville and I’ll get to share the night with many incredible artists that mean so much to me.” Pierce said.
Also joining her are Nashville’s latest duet sensation, Leo and Lila. We’ll have a full rundown of performances soon so check back for the latest country news.
Everly Pierce Announces Move to Scotland
March 23 — Last night, country singer/songwriter Everly Pierce announced that she will be moving to Edinburgh, Scotland upon the completion of her tour next month.
Pierce and her boyfriend, Scot Aaron Anderson, recently purchased a craftsman-style home in Nashville. Pierce plans to keep the home for when they visit the US, which, she assured fans, will be often. However, she will spend the majority of her time in Anderson’s native Scotland.
See her Instagram announcement below:
@EverlyPierceSongbird: Hey there! I’ve got some super exciting news to share! My tour (which has been one of the most amazing experiences of my career) wraps up next month. And then, I’m moving. Any guesses where? If you guessed Scotland, you’re right! Aaron and I have decided it’s time to be in the same country. But don’t worry, we’re keeping a home base in Nashville and I’ll be back for all the things. Much love for all your support! XO
Country Superstar Engaged to Scottish Marketing Guru
May 4 —Country singer/songwriter Everly Pierce and her Scottish boyfriend, Aaron Anderson, announced their engagement. The couple has been dating for nearly ten months and has overcome several hurdles during that short time including a legal battle with Pierce’s ex, Corey Hughes.
Last week, the music producer and executive Corey Hughes was sentenced to six years
in prison in addition to $400,000 in fines on sexual assault charges from nine women. He will serve his time at a federal penitentiary in Kentucky beginning next month.
Many of Pierce’s fans have reached out via Instagram to wish her and Aaron congratulations. Although a wedding date has not been announced, Pierce shared on her social media that the wedding will “definitely take place in Nashville.” Stay tuned!
Epilogue
Everly
“Let me see your ring again.” Daisy gushes.
“No, wait, it’s your turn.” I laugh, lifting her left hand and staring at the two-carat emerald cut diamond Finn placed there this morning. “I can’t believe we’re engaged!”
“I know, right? We can wedding plan together! This is going to be the best!” Daisy squeals, holding my hand next to hers. “I’m so obsessed with your ring too. I love the pear-shape. It’s so you!”
“Aaron and Finn did really good.” I admit, watching as our diamond rings throw the sunlight.
“So, southern weddings?”
“As if two southern girls would get married anywhere else.”
Daisy and I laugh as Aaron and Finn exchange a look.
“You do know we’re both getting married too, right?” Finn directs his question toward his fiancée.
“Yeah, yeah but you’ve already played your part. Now, you just have to show up at the altar at the time I tell you.” Daisy quips back.
Aaron laughs, clasping his brother on the shoulder. “Good luck with that, mate.” He extends a hand to me. “Take a walk with me, love?”
Grinning, I place my hand in his, loving how his ring shines on my finger. Aaron pulls me up, wrapping his arms around me as we walk into the garden at Aunt Jenni and Uncle James’s house.
“I can’t wait to marry you, Lee.” He says seriously, pulling me behind a tree to steal a kiss.
“Me too. Is next month too soon?”