Everything was pretty standard since we were relatively new to the national media. Ace asked all the expected questions about how long we’d known each other, how the band had come together, and what it was like to be thrust into the national spotlight with our current album.
“So, who does most of the songwriting?”
Cole smiled. “That would be me ninety percent of the time. But sometimes one of us might get an idea we all craft together.”
Ace looked at me. “But you’re the only one credited with writing the number one singleWhen You Walked Away, right?”
My lips curved into the practiced half-grin I put on when talking to the media. “Yes. The lyrics were a solo write, but Cole and I collaborated on the melody, as usual.”
Ace nodded before proceeding to his next question.
“Your song has taken radio by storm and has skyrocketed to the top of the charts on bothiTunesandSpotify. The lyrics seem to be very intimate and personal. I’m sure our listeners would love to know if you drew on personal experience, or if it was just an idea to broaden your catalogue?”
Here we go.
I blinked and smiled. “Yes, it was personal and very cathartic to write. But I also think most people can relate to going through a painful breakup at some point in their lives. This one occurred several years ago, and the song had been playing in my head for a while. I’ve always been a firm believer that things happen for a reason. If it weren’t for that experience, we wouldn’t have this song or be having this conversation right now. As far as the relationship goes, I’m over it, and he’s happily married. I’m happy for them.”
And I was.
Aidan gave me a thumbs up before my eyes darted to Jesse, who sat there silently, wearing an impassive expression.
With nothing else on the topic, Ace moved on.
“You guys get a lot of heartfelt attention from your adoring fans. When we asked listeners to submit any questions they might have, a very popular one was regarding your personal life, Adam. Several listeners wanted to know if it has been difficult being the only queer member of the band? I’m assuming you’re the only one, right?”
I chuckled and shifted in my seat. “It has its moments. Most of the fans are great and welcome me happily. But there’s always someone who has to spout off bullshit about their opinion. As far as anyone else goes, it’s not my place to comment on their sexuality.”
Cole gently nodded his head, then Ace turned to him.
“What about you, Cole? I’m sure our listeners want to know if someone has snagged your heart. Are you in a relationship with a special girl or a guy?”
We hadn’t focused on his answers, but I wasn’t shocked at how he responded. “Adam isn’t the only queer member of the band. I’m bisexual, Ace,” he said with a small smirk. “Right now, my only relationship is with my guitar. I’m sure it’s difficult to make a relationship work while on tour, but we get along well.”
I smiled at his joke. That was a good one.
But the asshole wasn’t done with Cole. “Makes sense why we’ve never heard about you seeing someone. Is it true you and Patrick Griffin, the Pirates linebacker, are close friends?”
Cole’s expression remained passive. Only those of us who knew them could see the love they had for each other. “Yes,weall are. The three of us grew up together in Seattle. I think we met when we were eight-years-old. The three of us went to college together and have been best friends for almost twenty years now.”
Ace nodded and smiled. “That’s great. Does Patrick have any issues with the two of you being queer?”
I glanced at Cole, but he still wore his casual expression. “If he does, he hasn’t mentioned it to me.”
“Or me,” I added helpfully.
Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Jesse shift out of his seat just as Cole finished what he was saying. I silently prayed that Ace would drop it or choose to come at me instead.
After more questions about our musical influences and the next album, he ended with some promo about our upcoming tour at the end of January. When that was over, Aidan shut off the feed and unplugged the webcam before speaking.
“Alright.Ithink it went well, but how doyoufeel?” He relaxed in his chair as he waited for our answers.
I looked over at Cole, who dug out his buzzing phone from his pocket. I’d stake my life on knowing who that was. Instead, I turned my attention back to our manager. “I think it went well. I don’t think I said anything too incriminating.”
Cole caught my attention when he released a heavy sigh, then put his phone back in his pocket. The look on his face told me I was right. It was definitely Patrick.
“Everything okay?” Aidan asked him.
He nodded. “I think so. That was the first time I’ve ever stated publicly that I was bisexual. Took him off guard.” He paused a moment before continuing. “I hadn’t planned to say it, but I’m so fucking tired of it. I just want to live my life like everyone else without having to worry about every damn word out of my mouth, or what Pat is going to say.”
