“It’s for you actually,” I say, gauging her response.
“For me?” She picks up a sheet, reading, “Hear me now.”
“Isn’t that what you were working on the other day?” Cailin asks as she climbs up onto the stool.
“Yeah, Jack was helping me finalize it and a few others.”
“They’re songs?” Sarah asks, glancing at the other sheets of paper. “How are they for me?”
My eyes meet Jack’s, and he grins before giving his attention back to Sarah.
“I’ve heard you sing before,” he says, making Sarah drop the sheet she was holding. Her statue-like stature makes Jack and I glance at each other. “I was friends with Donnie.”
Her face goes white as her baby blues shine. “You were?” She slowly sits as she takes in the conversation.
“Yeah. I came to see you perform a few times. You have talent, and with these songs, I think you and Adam could knock it out of the park.”
“Me and Adam?” She jerks toward me. “I’m not coming in between you and your band.” She holds up her hands in defeat, making me laugh.
“Of course you’re not. But there’s nothing that says I can’t have a side project. Something a little different, a little softer.” I place my hand on hers as she stares up at me.
Sarah slowly shakes her head from side to side, more in disbelief than in denial. Her eyes are open wide, and I question if she’s taken a breath.
“Well, that’s my cue to head out,” Jack says as he stands up and grabs his things.
Sarah stays silent as I walk my friend out.
“Thanks for your help today. I’m digging what we have going.” I slap hands with him.
“Yeah, man. Her voice can carry some of that shit. It’s got me excited too. Keep me posted. You guys are welcome to come to the studio when you’re ready.”
“Okay. I’ll let you know.”
He leaves, and I head back to Cailin, who’s moved into the living room, watching cartoons.
“Have you finished your homework?”
“It’s Friday, Dad. I don’t have any homework,” she deadpans, giving me a silly expression.
I rub her hair, messing it up for sassing me. “Doesn’t mean I can’t make sure.”
She pushes me away as she laughs.
“We’ll be in the kitchen if you need anything.”
“Okie dokie, artichokie.” She holds her thumb up, giving her attention back to the screen.
When I enter the kitchen again, Sarah looks like she’s about to be sick.
She shakes her head at me. “No, Adam, I can’t. These songs, they can’t be for me, for us. I’ve already tried this. It didn’t work out, remember? I had my shot already. I’m not singing like this anymore. No, I can’t. What if people don’t like it? I can’t put myself out there again, only to live through the disappointment when—”
I pick up her hands in mine and stare straight into her eyes. “Take a deep breath.” I inhale and exhale with her. “I’m not saying we need to head out on tour tomorrow. You’ve lit something inside me, and these lyrics were the result. We won’t do anything you don’t want to, but I’d love to hear you sing them with me. Even if it’s only for us.”
“It’s just … Adam … I …”
I lean in to kiss her, trying to calm her nerves. I tightly hold her in my arms as I take everything I want from her, hopefully giving her all of me as well.
When I pull back, her eyes are full of tears. “I just can’t. I’m sorry.”
