“Thanks,” I say.
The group retreats to the living room while Drew and I clear the table.
He seems so familiar. Where do I know him from? I intently study his face, then suddenly two and two click together.
“You’re D. Soul.”
I recall watching his performance on one of those award shows.
He bows. “At your service.”
“My roommate loves your song, umm… shoot, I can’t think of the name.”
“‘Missing Pieces.’”
“Yes, that’s the one.”
“I’m taking a hiatus for the interim, but you and your roommate are invited to my next gig.”
“Wow, thanks.”
“No prob.”
I wash the dishes, then hand them to Drew to dry.
“How are you?” he asks, concern in his eyes.
I regard him strangely. “I’m fine. Why did—” Then it dawns on me. “Dom told you about last night?”
I can’t believe Dom would betray me by discussing the humiliating incident.
“I was there.”
We face each other, our chore forgotten.
“You must think I’m a moron for putting myself in that situation.”
“No, definitely not. You were taken advantage of.”
“If Dom hadn’t come…”
“He would never let anything happen to you.”
“Your brother is confusing.”
“He cares for you a great deal.”
“How do you know?” I ask, daring to hope.
“He’s been different since meeting you.”
“Different?”
“More volatile, short-tempered, and violent.”
My elation dissipates with each adjective spoken.
“He’s afraid. Please don’t ever tell him I said that.” Drew chuckles. “He’d rather rip out his own toenails than admit weakness.”
