CHAPTER33
Kari heard Ian’s conversation because he kept his bedroom doors open. She pretended not to watch him as he stood by the bed, talking with the old man, who clearly did not give Ian what he thought he needed. When he cut the connection and remained where he was, she used her own phone to call Indrid.
“I’m a little early, I know,” she said when her friend picked up.
“Now is fine. How are you, dear?”
“Sitting in the living room of my suite. So high up, all I can see are evening shades of blue.”
“What a lovely impression. But it doesn’t answer my question. How are you?”
“Coping. For the moment. Thanks to Ian.” She called out, “It’s Indrid.” Back on the phone, she added, “No telling about tomorrow, though.”
“Let’s see. I know there is something happening tomorrow. What was it . . . ?”
Kari slid over a touch and patted the sofa next to her. As Ian settled, she told Indrid, “You’re making fun of me.”
“Only a trifle. And only with love. Now tell me. What happens tomorrow?”
“Just Ian’s big concert. I may have an interview. We haven’t received the revamped schedule yet. And the gala.” She dragged out the last word,gala. Added a touch of genuine dread.
“You know what I just heard?”
“What?”
“How you put the young man’s event first.”
“Did I? I wasn’t listening to myself.”
“I wish you were close enough to hug.”
“You just did. Here’s Ian.” She passed him the phone. “Want me to leave?”
“Don’t you dare.” He turned on the speaker and placed the phone on the coffee table. “Indrid, can you hear me?”
She asked a second time, “How are you, dear?”
“Worried. About everything. Right now, though, my biggest concern is one of my bandmates.” Swiftly, Ian recounted the situation with Connor. Kept rubbing his forehead, dragging hair back from his face.
When he went quiet, Indrid asked, “How are you handling it?”
They both listened as Ian described his tactic at the restaurant, a quick and intense run-through of the first song.
Indrid responded, “That sounds like an excellent plan.”
“Really?”
“Yes, Ian. You are drawing them together, helping them to focus on the crucial moment. May I make one suggestion?”
“Absolutely. It’s why I called.”
“Connor needs a friend. Someone who can help him face his own wall. Do you understand what I’m saying?”
Kari felt him shudder. Ian replied, “All too well.”
“He may not see it as that. Whether you tell him or not depends on the moment. Trust your instinct.” A pause. Then, “I find it remarkable how all three of you seem to be facing the same crisis moment just now.”
“Remarkableis not the word I would use,” Ian said.
