Interested? Is he serious? This is a chance of a lifetime. “Absolutely, you name the time and place and I can guarantee you we’ll be there.”
“Great. I really need to get to the airport, but I’ll have my secretary call you with the time and date. Why don’t you send me a text now, so I can add you as a contact?” Immediately after he holds out his business card, I text him and thank him for the chance. “You’re very welcome, Lucas. Like I said, I can’t make any promises, but I’ll bet The Sinful Seven will be famous with or without me after that concert.” He stands, shakes my hand, and disappears into the crowd.
I’m on my feet and pushing through the mob as fast as I can. I feel terrible that I’m bumping into people left and right without so much as an apology, but I’m determined to find my friends. Saying it out loud will be the only way I’ll be able to make it real.
***
Abby
Hell, I was flattered when one of the PR people from the concert handed me a few passes to the afterparty. I thought it would be the perfect opportunity for me to introduce Lucas to some of my friends. Just once, I wanted to be that girl. You know, the one everyone was envious of because she knew the lead vocalist in a fuck hot band. Yeah, who was I kidding? He made it perfectly clear that all I’m ever going to be is a fuck buddy when he slammed right into me tonight without so much as an apology. I guess I was delusional in thinking he’d want to hang out with me when he’s surrounded by all these gorgeous women who would do anything to spend just one night with him. There’s nothing sexier than a rock god on stage pouring out his heart and soul to his adoring fans. Absolutely nothing.
“Why so glum, Abby? We just rocked out to two amazing bands and got invited to this flipping party and you look like you just lost your BFF. Chill out! The night’s still young.” Beth bumps into my shoulder as if to knock some sense into me, and I can’t help rolling my eyes. She has no clue, but I didn’t miss the pitying look on Cheryl’s face as Lucas rushed by without so much as a glance or apology. Whatever. This is one of the reasons why I never kiss and tell but fate stepped in and fucked it all up.
“C’mon, let’s have a few drinks and have some fun!” Cheryl grabs my arm and practically pulls me along as I search the crowd for a glimpse of Lucas. How pathetic am I? “Sit right here while we get our drinks since you’re being a stick in the mud.”
I’m embarrassed to sit down since the table’s still occupied, but they assure me they’re just waiting for a friend. So, I take advantage since who knows how long it will be before another table becomes available.
“Hey, don’t I know you?” A voice calls from behind me. “Yeah, you work at Java Joe’s, right?” Ah, the friend they’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived. Lucky me.
When he leans over, waiting for an answer, I suddenly want to fuck with him. But I want the table to empty before my friends return, so I say, “One medium dirty iced chai latte with a cranberry scone.” I give him my best customer service smile and his lips slide up at the corners. Clearly he’s happy I remembered his order. Damn, this could backfire on me.
“I’m flattered you remembered.” He winks before walking away and something tells me I’ll regret remembering come Monday morning. No sooner does he walk away when my friends take up the empty space. Eyeballing me.
“Who the hell is he, Abs? He’s fuck hot!” Oh god, I swear Beth’s been drinking already and I suddenly want the floor to open and swallow me whole.
“Just one of my customers, no biggie.” Beth wags her finger back and forth, like I’m not telling her the truth. “What? I swear, he just recognized me from the coffee shop.” All thoughts disappear as she places my espresso martini right in front of me. Ah, coffee and alcohol. Such an amazing combination. Love it!
“Two guys at the bar bought us a few shots and want to hang with us later. You game?” Beth fans herself to prove a point. Sometimes I wonder why I hang around with her. Until I glance at Cheryl and realize I do it for her. She’s the nice one.
“Well, if there’s three of us and only two of them, how is that going to work?” I know I’m putting a damper on their private party, but I think it’s best all-around if I leave once I finish my drink. I’m not feeling it after Lucas stormed pass without as much as a glance. They’re both glaring at me, and I can’t say that I blame them.
“Did someone start their period? Because you weren’t PMS-ing when we left today.” Ugh, she’s right. I’m being a royal pain in the ass.
“No, I didn’t, but thanks for asking. I’m just tired since I opened today. You can hang out with the guys and I’ll just take an Uber home. It’s been a long day.” It’s not lost on me that they haven’t insisted I stay, so I grab my phone and schedule my ride. It’s for the best, anyway. I’m not very good company, and three’s a crowd.
Once I’ve finished my drink, I kiss my friends goodbye and go outside to wait for my ride. Being alone on a Saturday night isn’t so bad, and by the time I get home it will be Sunday morning. A quick shower, some cozy pajamas, and I’ll be ready for bed. Once I get up, I’ll clean my apartment, do a bit of meal prep for the week, and get ready for work on Monday. Yep, my life in a nutshell. Not the most exciting, but it’s all mine.
Greed
“Jealousy is the cousin of Greed. We seem to focus on what we want, and lose sight of what we really need.”
Unknown
16
Lucas
We were up all night talking, strategizing and trying to figure out how we can pull this all off. We’re exhausted, but we can’t sleep. Too hyped up on adrenaline and good intentions. There’s no doubt in our minds we deserve this just as much as any other band, but we’re not naïve in thinking that along with fame, there aren’t consequences.
In fact, we’ve discussed our sordid pasts to death and we know it would only be a matter of time before the tabloids get wind of it. Because of social media, they’ve already publicized my sex addiction on numerous occasions. Once they dig a bit deeper, they’ll come to realize that Willow’s dad—Trevor’s uncle—is a convicted murderer. And who knows what the hell would happen if the truth comes out about Jet being on the run since the age of thirteen? Hell, I don’t think there’s a person on the face of the Earth who doesn’t have some skeletons hidden in their closet. But, and it’s a huge but, if we get that recording contract, the cat’s out of the bag. It could be a free for all.
I know we’re all a bit punchy and not thinking straight, so we sit in silence, deep in our own thoughts. Until Trevor has to put in his own two cents’ worth. “Maybe, we should try to get some rest. We have a few weeks to get our shit together and figure out if this is what we really want.”
“Are you fucking serious, Trevor?” I say. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and there’s not one person on the face of the earth that doesn’t have something to hide. Dammit all, we’re not running for President here, we’re a fucking band and this is something that we’ve wanted since day one. I can’t speak for everyone, but it’s what I’ve wanted since day one.” I can’t believe he still thinks that way after everything we discussed.
“Lucas is right, ya know,” Willow says. “If we let our pasts rule our future, then the powers that be will win. Personally, I don’t care if the world knows my dad’s a murderer. Do you?” Willow slices Trevor with a deadly glare, which I can see cuts him to the bone.
Jet nods. “Look, we’re all on edge after everything that’s happened tonight. The concert, the crazy party, and a possible record deal. Let’s all sleep on it and decide once we’re rested and thinking clearly. But, let’s promise one another that majority rules and that whatever happens, no hard feelings.” Jet always seems to know what to say at just the right time. This is exactly what we all needed to hear.
After saying goodnight, we go our separate ways. All of us have our own bedrooms at Trevor’s house since it’s a restored Victorian with seven bedrooms, three baths, and a soundproof studio in the finished basement. It’s a win
since this is where we collaborate until all kinds of crazy hours of the morning and everyone just needs to crash. Kinda like tonight.
I slip in between the sheets after taking a quick shower and just stare into the darkness. Just thinking about what the coming months could entail gives me pause. On the one hand, I want this record deal with every beat of my heart. But, truth be told, I’m afraid of what the consequences would bring. Fame is a fickle thing, and I’m afraid it won’t last. And god forbid we crash and burn. It would be devastating.
When several hours pass by and sleep never comes, I slip into my jeans, toss on a shirt, and pad into the kitchen to make coffee. Since I can’t turn off my mind, there’s no point in staying in bed any longer. I pop in a pod, lean against the counter, and scrub my hands over my tired face. The smell of coffee works better than any alarm clock I’ve ever used when Willow, Trevor, and Jet come strolling in. Looking as shitty as I feel. Without uttering a word, I hand my cup of Joe to Trevor and he whispers his thanks. I continue brewing us each a cup while Willow grabs the cream and sugar. Once we all have a big mug of steaming goodness, I pull out a chair and join the band.
Uncomfortable silence fills the room, and I know everyone’s avoiding the topic at hand. But, as difficult as it’s going to be, it needs to be initiated. The sooner the better. I clear my throat and get ready to proceed when Trevor cuts me off.
“I did a lot of soul-searching last night, and as much as it would kill me to leave, I think that it’s the best thing all around. I swear I’ll help you find a new drummer and teach him or her all the songs—”
What the ever-loving fuck!
Of course, everyone has their own opinion and their high-pitched voices are grating on my every nerve. I hold up my hands to silence them once and for all. To no avail. And when I listen to the conversation, instead of jumping to conclusions, it all makes sense. Trevor’s afraid that if we get that contract, his mom will be alone to face her sickness.
Without hesitating, my fist comes crashing down against the tabletop. Silence. Finally. Standing up, I lean across the table, grab him by the nape of his neck and get right in his face. “I swear to God, Trevor, I’ll spend every cent of my trust fund to take care of your mom if you can’t be here. In fact, I’ll have them add it into our contract so you can be with her for her treatments. You have my word that she’ll get the best care, but you can’t and you won’t quit the band. You won’t quit us. We’ve worked too damn hard and your mom would kill you with her bare hands if she knew you quit because of her.” I release him, cross my arms, and wait for an answer. Knowing that if it comes down to it, I must accept those checks I so adamantly refused the other day. But, for Trevor or anyone else in this band, I’d eat fucking crow with a knife and fork and a white linen napkin.
***
Abby
Imagine my surprise when my mom called out of the blue and wanted to do brunch. I know, I know, but she’s been great with the comments and hasn’t brought up my lack of position since Dad called her out. I’ll just go get the groceries after we’re finished and then I’ll do my meal prep once everything is put away. I’m meeting her at the Bistro, which is forty minutes away, so I need to leave now.
Before pulling out of the parking spot, I hook up my Bluetooth and start my playlist. I need a distraction if I’m going to be driving for so long. Halsey booms through the speakers and there’s no way I cannot sing to this song. It’s so damn addictive. So I drive down the highway with the wind in my hair and look forward to this brunch with Mom. It’s been too long since it was just the two of us, and if all goes well, it could become a fun thing to do on Sundays. I’ll see how things go before making any commitments.
The music and the dull drone of the tires over the pavement calms me and also makes the ride that much more enjoyable. I’m surprised when my exit comes up so fast. Those forty minutes flew by, now fingers crossed that lunch goes well.
Mom’s car is just a few spaces over from me when I walk inside the restaurant. All the delish smells waft through the air and my stomach growls. I never realized I was so hungry, but all I had was half a bagel and a cup of coffee. Everything on the menu is up for grabs at this point.
“Welcome to Bistro, do you have a reservation?” The cute little hostess has her role down pat.
“I’m meeting Mrs. Lewis at one.” A quick glance at the seating arrangement and we’re off.
“Thank you. Hey Mom, you beat me.” She stands and kisses both cheeks before sitting down.
“Well, I live closer than you do. How was the drive? It’s a glorious day out, isn’t it?” She seems a tad nervous, but it’s understandable since we really haven’t spoken since that night.
“The ride was amazing. The countryside is beautiful this time of year. How’s Dad? You said he was golfing today?”
“Yes, apparently one guy is sick, and they needed someone to fill his spot. They were lucky we were home. I’m not sure if they would have found anyone else last minute like this.”
The waitress interrupts to take our drink order. Mom gets really quiet after she leaves and I deflate. Is that going to be the end of the conversation? I know we’re not really close, but I was hoping we could talk to one another.
“Abby, I asked you to meet me here so we could talk. I ran into an old friend of yours, Michelle, and she mentioned something that was very disturbing to me. I didn’t understand and I wanted to talk to you about it.” My stomach drops to my toes and I bristle at the mention of her name.
“Michelle and I went to school together, but she wasn’t a friend. Whatever she said, I would take with a grain of salt.” My hands have a mind of their own and I can’t keep them from trembling, so I tuck them in my lap.
“Well, that’s what I was thinking because the lies she told me were downright hateful. I mean, I can’t believe she would slander your good name the way she did. I needed to walk away before I slapped her across her face. Never did I ever think she could be so cruel.”
“Ignore whatever she said. Really, let’s enjoy our brunch and talk about something else. No sense in bringing up the past, anyway. We can’t change anything. So, when are you and Dad leaving?”
Changing the subject seemed like the easiest thing to do, but she’s upset and she just won’t let it go.
“Why would she insist on telling me about a group of girls she hung around with that made your life a living hell? How she’s had so many regrets about bullying and harassing you for so long? I told her that was absurd since you loved going to school with all of your friends. Am I right?”
My past comes crashing down around me in the middle of a high-end restaurant, and there’s not a damn thing I can do about it. Tears that I’ve suppressed for so long streak my face and I can’t just get up and leave. Until my mother wraps her arm around me and we hurry out the door. Uncontrolled sobs cut me in half as my mother holds me in her arms. Cradling me like when I was a child.
“Oh my god, Abby. I had no idea, baby girl. Good lord in heaven, why did I not see the pain you were in?” Her words make me sob even more. I was great at pretending because I didn’t want my parents getting involved.
She ushers me to a secluded bench in the park across the street. She still holds me as we sit there and stare out in the distance. What was supposed to be the best years of my life were the absolute fucking worst. No prom, no boyfriends, no bonfires, and no life. Just loneliness and fear.
Once I can finally catch my breath, I relive my high school years. Starting from the very beginning, when my guardian angel swooped in to save me on that very first day, while my mother sobs in my arms.
17
Lucas
An invisible force pulls me in as I approach Java Joe’s on my way home. I truly wanted to avoid my favorite coffee joint and a certain barista, but I’m on such a high since the concert that I just wanted to share it with someone other than the band. And Abby seems to be the only one I want to share anything with lately. Don’t ask. I don’t understand
what the hell’s happening with her, but I plan on just going with the flow. At least for now, anyway.
The overhead bell jingles as I leave the blistering cold behind and step inside the cheery atmosphere of the shop. It’s not too busy in here, and that’s a good thing since I want to run the second I spot Abby sitting in the corner with some other dude. Am I jealous? Fuck, I think I am and that’s unacceptable. I don’t do jealousy since I can have any girl at the snap of my fingers. So what’s stopping me? Not a damn thing!
I whip out my phone as I inch closer to the front of the line. Scrolling through my phone is all the proof I need that I can choose anyone of these names. Susan, Rachel, Angel, Claire, Mary, etc. etc. and they’d be here in a second. But—
“Hey Lucas, the usual?” I hadn’t realized the line moved that fast as I stare at the very girl that I came here to see. Curiosity gets the better of me as I take a quick look at the table where the guy now sits alone. Abby must have been on break and now she’s back to work. Obviously, you idiot. “Lucas, everything okay?”
“Yep, couldn’t be better. I’ll take it to go, Abby.” Not what I had planned, but best laid plans and all that BS.
“Sure, if that’s what you want. Oh, before I forget. The concert was amazing. Personally, I thought you guys were better than Existential, thought you’d like to know.” Wait. What? Abby was there, and I didn’t even know she was in the crowd? A sultry laugh leaves her throat as she notices the shocked look on my face. “Hey, I didn’t want to miss your big debut! Besides, my friends and I had a great night out. Win, win. You rocked it, Pipes. Congrats.” When she walks away, I focus on her words and the sway of her hips. It makes me want to jump over the counter and crash my mouth against hers. With or without the new boy toy looking on. She came to the concert? Fuck if my heart doesn’t thump a little faster at her confession.
Lucas: A Rockstar Romance (The Sinful Seven Series Book 1) Page 10