“Rafi.”
“Well, it’s true.”
Swiftly, Ian recounted Connor’s early years as a struggling musician, his acceptance that he might never make it, his rise to stardom as an actor. And his occasional nights playing on the stage. Here. In Castaways.
Rafi said, “You’re talking about Connor Larkin.”
“Of course he is,” Graham said. “Now let’s both play mute.”
“Go on,” Kari said. “What’s happened tonight?”
“He’s scared,” Ian replied. “It’s been building since he learned about Miami.”
Rafi sat up straight. “Wait, what?”
“Later,” Kari said. To Ian, she urged, “Go on.”
“I thought, you know, Connor is a highly trained actor. He’s a pro at dealing with stress and performing when the cameras start shooting. But it’s started to infect the band. Danny’s crew. Everybody. They’ve lost the spark, the joy. I feel like I should . . .”
“What?”
“Take over. Become lead.”
“Why don’t you?”
“It’s his band, Kari. They’ve been playing together for years.” Ian nodded at the stage. “We’re playing tonight in hisrestaurant.”
Graham asked, “And precisely what difference does all that make?”
“A lot. It makes a huge—”
“Ian, I’m sorry. But your perspective is skewed. The points you’re making, theydon’t matter,” Graham said. “Right now, in this moment, it’s all about theperformance.”
Ian opened his mouth. Started to speak. Leaned back. Silent.
Graham asked, “I take it from all the equipment that tonight is being filmed?”
“The main event is Miami. Danny Byrd has us playing part of his current film’s soundtrack. Now he’s putting together a documentary. That is, assuming everyone performs up to grade.”
“And that is precisely the point, isn’t it?” Graham said. “Making sure everyone gives their absolute best.”
Rafi said, “Danny Byrd, the producer?”
“Right. How do you know Danny?”
“We’re a Beverly Hills art gallery,” Rafi replied. “We survive by knowing everyone who matters.”
Graham rested his hand on Rafi’s arm.Settle.He asked, “Where are Connor and the band now?”
“Upstairs.”
“Your actor-musician friend sees this as a step toward his oldest dreams coming true. And he is terrified. How can you possibly worry about taking control of this situation?”
Ian remained silent.
“Your friend needs you. The band needs you. How do you normally prepare for a gig?”
Ian did not reply.
