The final song was always the love song Valon had written and recorded shortly before the tour started. As always, mid-song, Valon’s head turned to where Marc stood in the shadows, side stage. Each and every time, Marc’s hand went to his stomach, fighting back the butterflies. He had lived an odd life. Being with Valon wiped away every memory he refused to remember. He wanted this life for the rest of his days.
“You’ve changed him.”
Marc’s heart tried jumping into his throat. He had been so lost in watching Valon, Bond’s loudly spoken words caught him off guard. Marc hid his reaction.
“Is that a good or a bad thing?”
Bond’s smile didn’t budge. It never did. “It’s good. I’ve never seen him like this. Not even when he first hit it big. He’s always dealt with black moods. I haven’t seen that side of him since you appeared. It’s nice.”
Marc’s gaze slid back toward Valon. “Good. I intend to keep him this way.” His claim got lost in Valon jogging his way.
Valon kissed him. “I have to do an encore, or they’ll tear this place down.”
Marc didn’t even wipe away the sweat Valon transferred to him with that kiss. Totally worth it. “Get back out there, then.”
Valon winked and ran back on stage to cheers so loud, Marc swore the walls shook. He loved this for Valon, but he was also glad this final concert was back in L.A. Marc was ready to sleep in their bed again. With the song nearing its end, Marc turned and motioned for Ledger and Kash to follow Bond to the green room. He had spent the entire concert ignoring Kash, using his duties as an excuse to avoid him. Marc hated that Kash’s words had gotten so far under his skin the last time they spoke. He had managed to avoid Kash all through Ry’s memorial. It wasa hell of a lot easier tonight. He loathed knowing he had lost his temper and said things he couldn’t take back. That was one of the biggest reasons he kept his anger in check. Marc scared himself once everything turned red. He had always liked Kash. It sucked that things had come to this.
As always, Marc went into work mode as Valon ran off stage for the last time. Marc crowded his space and kept a close watch on every corner and face. A few people had won backstage passes from some soda company sweepstakes. They bounced in place with barely suppressed excitement. While the fans were just that, Marc knew from personal experience how far a fan would go. He was proof of that, but Marc only wanted the best things for Valon. No one else could be trusted. Valon signed shit and took selfies. He answered tons of questions and even called to wish someone’s mom a happy birthday. Valon was amazing. That was why insanity flocked to him. It took forever, but the green room finally cleared, leaving only family, the band, security, and Bond to rest a minute.
Valon sat next to Ledger and chatted. Various band members broke out the alcohol. Their guards exchanged glances. It would be a long night. As always, Marc became the wallflower, watching from the sidelines. While Marc liked most people and could talk to just about anyone, this wasn’t one of those situations. He was working. Valon wouldn’t be safe until they were home. Marc couldn’t risk relaxing.
“I think I owe you an apology.”
Kash’s silent appearance and words surprised Marc. The shock sounded in his tone. “Why?”
Kash smiled like he found Marc humorous. “Well, as I recall, I practically accused you of being a serial killer.”
Marc kept switching between watching the door and keeping an eye on Valon. “Maybe I am.”
“Damn.” Kash dragged out the curse. “You really are pissed.”
Marc shot him an annoyed look. “Maybe I should just assume you’re a raging alcoholic since your mom was.”
Kash shook his head. “I’m guessing you know everything about everyone in Valon’s life. It also seems like I really do owe that apology. Things were a bit raw that night. Despite Ry being the worst person alive, Ledger was still married to the guy for twenty years, and he was still Valon’s dad. The situation was a little higher stress than I even realized at the time. When things cooled, I immediately recognized I shouldn’t have said any of that shit. I imagine life hasn’t been easy for you. If I were in your shoes, I would’ve changed my name to something completely unrecognizable and moved to another country. Yet you’ve stood pretty damn strong.”
Marc’s shoulders relaxed. Now he felt guilty for holding on to this for so long. “To be fair, I might’ve felt the same way if the shoe was on the other foot. I know you’re trying to protect your family. So am I.”
Before Kash responded, Valon appeared and tucked himself beneath Marc’s arm. He focused on Kash. “We’ll be over theday after tomorrow for lunch. I’m so glad you guys came. We’re beyond ready to get home to our bed. I’m exhausted.”
Kash nodded along. He didn’t look at Marc again. “Sounds great. You were amazing tonight. Seriously. Happiness looks good on you, and it showed in your performance. I’m proud of you.”
Valon beamed. He truthfully looked like joy radiated from him. It was nice.
Ledger kissed Valon’s temple. “Be careful going home.” Ledger flashed a smile Marc’s way. “It’s good to see you. I appreciate you taking such good care of Valon.”
“No one ever has to thank me for that.”
Goodbyes were exchanged along with more promises to keep their lunch date. By the time they were in the back of the SUV, heading home, Marc’s shoulders hurt from spending the whole night so tense. Not to mention all the months before that. Valon had taken on an extra travel guard for the tour, but Marc hadn’t realized how vulnerable Valon was until he joined a tour.
He felt Valon shake. Marc’s gaze dropped to Valon’s hands. They visibly shook before Valon clasped them so hard, his knuckles turned white. Marc went on full alert.
“Are you okay?” He covered Valon’s hands with his. “Tell me what you need.”
Valon chuckled as he met Marc’s gaze. His teeth chattered, making Marc lose his breath. He couldn’t handle anything being wrong. “I didn’t grab my jacket off the bus. It’s fucking freezing.”
Marc didn’t waste time diving for the rear climate control system. He turned the heat on full blast and took off his shirt. “Here, use this as a blanket until you warm up.”
Valon’s eyes swam with laughter. “Thank you. It’s not that big of a deal.”
