“I’m sorry I missed your birthday, I wanted to make up for it.”
His words cause me to stop what I’m doing and take in his sad eyes. “But I missed yours too,” I say, remembering how we spent the entire night on video call together.
“We were still together in a way. I felt crappy that we weren’t able to talk on your big day. Bloody Bernie had us in rehearsals all day. A quick text wasn’t exactly what I had in mind.” His fingers comb through my hair as he gazes down on me. Then his expression changes. “Oh, shit, nearly forgot.” He pushes himself away from my body and reaches into the pocket of his leather jacket. In his hand is a small, black box. “This is for you.”
I sit up, so I’m next to him. “Ash, you didn’t have to. Just being here is the best birthday present I could wish for.”
“Just take it,” he laughs.
I remove the lid, then carefully pull back the silver tissue paper to reveal an incredible silver bangle, complete with a clam charm. It’s the prettiest bracelet I’ve ever seen; I could cry. “Oh wow, it’s beautiful.”
“It reminded me of the times we spent under the pier,” he smiles.
I run my hand over his cheek. “I love it.”
“Put it on,” Ash says, hurriedly taking the delicate band and placing it on my wrist.
I hold up my arm to admire how simple and beautiful it is. “Thank you, Ash. I love it so much.” Then I remember, “I have something for you too.” I jump off the bed and head to my desk drawer. “All these surprises have knocked me off-kilter,” I say while delving in the drawer.
I return to him with a much smaller box than the one he gave to me. “What’s this for?” he asks, taking it into his hands.
“I got it for your birthday, but as this is the first time we’ve seen each other…” I stop talking as he flips open the box to reveal two black plectrums with his initials printed on each side in silver. “They’re amazing.” Ash has the broadest smile on his face when he takes them out of the box. “Where the hell did you get these from? Thanks Cal, they’re awesome.”
“I found this guy on-line who makes custom plectrums.”
“These are so cool; I’ll use them at every gig.” He looks to me, and our eyes lock, so I lean toward him. “You’re welcome,” then he reaches up to find my lips. He still has the plectrums in his hand while we kiss and it’s a good while before he puts them away, sliding the box his pocket.
I have to ask, “How long do we have?”
“We’ve got tonight. If I leave by early morning, I’ll be back in time for my meeting with Bernie. He wants to go through—” he stops when his phone comes to life. “Shit, it’s Tommy. I better take this.”
I’m so happy, I almost dance towards the fridge. “Do what you have to. I’ll get us a drink.”
I don’t mean to pry, but it’s difficult for me not to listen to Ash’s conversation as there’s only the two of us here. It starts off well.
“Hey Tom, what’s happening?” His tone is upbeat, and there’s a smile on his face until Tommy must say something he doesn’t like. “What are you talking about?” I carry on getting two bottles of beer from the fridge as if I’m not intrigued. As I pop the caps, Ash’s worried eyes meet mine. “Hold on a sec, Tom.” He takes the phone from his ear. “I have to take this outside, won’t be a minute.” He leaves before I can say a word.
I watch Ash from my window. He’s pacing across the square and doesn’t look happy. Then, around fifteen minuteslater, he returns, looking like he wants to smack someone in the face.
“What is it? What did Tommy want?”
“Cal, I don’t know how to tell you.” He sighs, rubbing his forehead.
My stomach turns and my breathing increases. Ash fidgets and won’t meet my eyes which can only mean bad news for me, or us.
“There is another reason I had to see you tonight. I have something big to tell you; something pretty spectacular is happening Cal, but it means I’ll be away for a while longer.”
“Why? What is it?” I ask, my heart beating uncontrollably.
“You know Wild Mason are touring in January.”
“Do I ever. I tried to get us a couple of tickets, but they’re megabucks, so I passed,” I half smile, hoping he’s not disappointed and it lightens the mood.
“You did?” His lips twitch upwards. “Well, their support act fell through and they…well, they asked us to fill the slot.”
My eyes must be as wide as saucers. “Holy hell, you’re kidding me, right?” I don’t give him time to answer. “That’s incredible, Ash.” I squeeze him closer, excitement taking hold of my stomach. Wild Mason is one of the hottest bands around right now and their shows are legendary. I’m jumping around like a loon; filled with pure joy for him and the guys. “This is massive, Ash. Massive!” I squeal, but Ash seems worried.
“I’m pleased you’re pleased,” he half-heartedly laughs.
