“It’s basically the sink area.” He points toward it. “It can fill up fast even if it’s a slow day. Your best bet is making sure the barback keeps it cleaned up. Most of the time you won’t be able to manage it while making drinks for customers.”
“Thanks.” The word is barely audible, and I already feel like I’m letting Carlos down. My focus needs to be on point. He’s paying for me to have this opportunity, and I can’t fail him.
He goes over a few more things before announcing class is over. I rush to grab my bag and head toward the door. Another classmate of mine walks beside me. “Hey, don’t let that guy get you down. It’s a lot of information to take in.”
“I’m trying not to.” I stick my hand out, “I’m Lisa.”
“Joan,” she places her hand in mine. “It’s nice to meet you.”
“You too.” We continue out the door into the dark parking lot. As much as I’m not in the mood for small talk, it’s nice having someone walk toward the car with me. Especially at night.
I reach my car and she happens to be parked directly in front of me. “Maybe we can quiz each other on all this so we don’t fail the class.” She calls out as she opens her door.
She’s very nice, and it may be a good idea. This whole bartending thing may be more than I can handle. “Definitely. We can exchange numbers tomorrow before class. I plan on getting here a little early.”
“Sounds good.” She waves and slides into her car. At least I’ve managed to make a friend. With her help, I may actually figure out what I’m doing. When it comes to bartending, anyway.
16
Devin
It’s beendays since I’ve actually seen Lisa. We’ve talked on the phone and sent texts back and forth, but it’s not the same. I thought we’d see each other more now that we have my sister’s blessing, not less. Things keep getting in our way. Whether it be her bartending classes, or my band rehearsals. We can’t seem to get on the same page.
I’m at the bar now, waiting on Trey and Cash to show up. This is why we always ride together. Otherwise, they’re late and I’m worried about if they’ll get here in time to play. The fact Lisa won’t be here until we’re almost done is also something that’s not sitting well with me.
I’ve played before without her here, but now I could really use the support. Crooked Halo is going to be here in two weeks and her input on how we’re doing will help ease my nerves.
My sister spots me standing outside the door. Crap. I knew I should have waited for them in the alley. She weaves through the people waiting to be seated and opens the door. “Why aren’t you inside?” She rubs her arms to warm up against the winter night.
“You should probably be wearing a jacket.”
“And you should be inside getting set up.” She points toward the bar. “Again, why aren’t you in there?”
“I’m waiting on my bandmates to pull up, so I can go to the back and let them in.”
“The door is unlocked,” she sighs. “I made sure of it this time before the night crowd rolled in.”
“Oh.” She does pay attention. Though last time she sent Lisa back there to open the door for us. Just to think if she hadn’t, we wouldn’t have rekindled what we once had. Though it feels different this time, and full of a chaos we didn’t have when we were dating in secret.
Delilah picks up my guitar and shoves it into my chest. “So, get your ass back there and call your friends to see where they are.”
“When did you get so bossy?”
“Funny.” She laughs and pushes me toward the door. “I’m just trying to make it easier for you, and you’re going to block the sidewalk when more people come in.”
“Speaking of,” I stop in front of the door before pulling it open. “Do you know if it’s common knowledge that Crooked Halo will be here in a couple of weeks?”
“Not that I know of.” She walks around me and opens the door. “It’s not like they’re playing, and they don’t want the fanfare. They will be here to find new talent, and that’s it.”
Good to know. The bar won’t be a total circus, until someone spots them and posts it on social media. Oh well, that’s a problem for Angie to handle. “Thanks.” I take a few steps inside. “Oh, keep an eye out for Lisa. She’ll be here as soon as she’s out of her class.”
“I know.” She throws her hands up in the air. “You act like her and I don’t talk. Despite y’all being in a relationship, she’s still my best friend.”
Instead of saying anything else, I hightail it inside and head straight to the back. Eric waves as I pass by, and that’s odd. Ever since Lisa has been back, he’s done nothing but warn her away from me. Well, at least until we got together. Now…I don’t know what he thinks. But his reaction to me has turned around completely. It’s not a bad thing, just…weird. At least Lisa will be happy her roommate is getting along with me.
I wave back at Eric and continue to the side of the stage. Setting my guitar down, I go to the door that leads to the alley. Pushing it open, I peek outside. I don’t see Trey or Cash coming down with their equipment. I swear, they can’t be on time to anything unless I’m the one driving.
Pulling my phone out of my pocket, I open our group text and send them a message.
