I give her an appraising look. “You really are something.”
She lifts her chin, eyes sparkling. “I am, aren’t I?”
“Yes, you are,” I laugh. “Seth’s lucky to have you … and so am I.” I reach and give her a tight hug.
“Okay.” She pulls back. “Enough of the sappy stuff.” She crinkles her nose. “You stink.” She claps her hands. “Go and get ready.”
I bound up the stairs and stop halfway up. “Oh, the oven is on. Can you turn it off for me?”
“Yep.” She trots off in that direction.
“I don’t think I can do this.” It’s the stuff nightmares are made of.
“Oh, yes, you can,” Cassie assures me with a ruthlessness that says,I’ll make you do it.
I can’t get a good breath, and my heart is pounding in my ears. Not to mention the fact that I’m nauseous and my hands are sweaty. The music hall is packed to the brim. Many of these people know me. They read my article where I laid my soul bare. And now I’m supposed to open myself up to Axel in front of everyone? This time, I can’t even hide behind my computer.
Max took the stage just as we arrived. As Cassie said, he offered a public apology to Axel and admitted his fault, getting choked up. At the end, Axel came out and embraced him.
Seeing Axel threw my heart into a tailspin. It’s commendable that Axel was willing to forgive Max. Will he also be willing to forgive me?
Thinking of something, I turn to Cassie. “Will there be a drum set on stage?”
“Your mom said she’d take care of it.”
“Mom knows I’m coming?”
“I called her right before I got to your house and told her the plan.”
“You’ve been a busy beaver.”
“Someone had to clean up your mess,” she snaps.
A chortle tickles my throat. “I suppose you’re right.” Everyone needs a Cassie Cox in their corner.
Mom strides across the stage next and gives Axel a glowing introduction, talking fondly about how she saw talent in him, even back when she taught him in elementary school. When she finishes, the crowd goes wild.
I swallow hard when Axel takes the stage with his guitar slung over his shoulder. As always, he looks fantastic with his wavy hair and rugged features. His faded jeans and scuffed boots complete the picture of the rough-and-tumble country music superstar. Everything about him screams charisma. Even though my heart’s breaking, I swoon all the same.
He goes over and stands in front of the microphone. He looks surprised when several men wheel out a drum set.
“Go.” Cassie pushes me on stage. I stumble before catching myself. Murmurs rustle through the hall as I go over and take my seat on the throne. Axel turns around and looks at me. Not knowing what else to do, I offer a wobbly grin and wave. His expression remains masked as we catch eyes.
Then he turns and faces the crowd. “Good evening. It’s a pleasure to be here tonight in my hometown. I can’t think of a better way to spend Christmas Eve than to help all of those unfortunate folks who were affected by Hurricane Michael. Thanks for your generous donations, and Merry Christmas,” he booms.
Clapping breaks out.
He waits until the noise dies down before continuing. “Let’s play some music.” He glances back at me. “Just like we practiced.”
Relief spritzes through me as I cue us up. We play through the first three songs, and I harmonize with him on the appropriate parts. Warmth ribbons through me, restoring asense of well-being I didn’t think I’d ever feel again. Regardless of whatever happens between Axel and me, I can’t deny that the chemistry between us is as strong as ever—at least when it comes to making music.
When we get to the fourth song, Axel speaks into the microphone. “Before my trumpet is brought out for the next song, I want to say a few words.” He pauses. “I don’t have to tell you that it’s been an interesting several days. First, with my dad’s accident. I’m happy to report that he’s recovering well.”
More clapping.
“And then, with other matters in my personal life.”
Is this when he’s going to order me off stage? I grip the drumsticks for all they’re worth.
