I clear my throat, shattering the moment. “How’d the show go last night?”
Linc has been busting his hump to get noticed on music row, playing every place he can to get his name out there.
But, apparently, everyone wants to be a star.
When we spoke last week he was feeling discouraged. That he might not have what it takes to stand out.
I know better.
His eyes are back on Caroline when he shrugs, dipping his forefinger beneath her tiny ones. She wraps them tightly around his digit, and I smile as Linc bonds with my daughter.
Of all the times I imagined my future, I never saw it leading me here.
But that’s okay, because right now, in this moment,hereis perfect.
“It went okay. There was supposed to be a producer there from an indie label, but I have no idea if he came or not. I hit the road as soon as we finished our last set, and I haven’t heard from the guys so that’s probably not a good sign.”
“It’ll happen, Linc.” I place my hand on his knee. “I know it will.”
The corner of his mouth lifts but I can see his doubt peeking through. “What’d you end up naming her?” he asks, diverting the subject like he always does.
“Caroline Rose.”
“‘Sweet Caroline.’” Linc begins to hum the old Neil Diamond melody, and I close my eyes, lost in the deep timbre of his voice.
A sound I desperately miss.
Linc stops humming and I open my eyes to find Dean standing next to me. I didn’t hear the door open or close because I was so immersed in the moment, but I can feel every ounce of anger and bitterness pouring off of him now.
Linc’s brows pinch together in the center of his forehead and his jaw tenses.
“’Sup, man,” Dean greets, extending his hand.
Linc stands up. “Congratulations,” he says, taking his offered hand.
“Thanks.”
Leaning over, Linc gently places Caroline back in my arms. Then he instinctively kisses my forehead before moving away.
Dean says nothing but his pressed lips and hollow eyes do not require words.
I can hear him loud and clear.
“I’ve gotta run. I promised Mama I’d take her out for dinner tonight.”
“How long are you in town for?” I ask with hope in my voice. I’m not ready for him to leave me yet.
“Just tonight. I need to be back to work by Wednesday or Jeb will have my ass. I wish I could stay longer.”
Me too.
The stab of disappointment is painful. I desperately want to spend more time with him but I know he has to get back and my husband is not going to stand for it. “Thanks for coming.”
“I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Leaning down, he kisses Caroline’s forehead, too. “She’s beautiful, Syl.” He gives Dean a terse lift of his chin then turns to face me once more. “I’ll call you soon.”
“Okay,” I whisper. “Bye, Linc.”
“Bye, Syl.”
