Page 41 of The Song We Lost

My pulse roars in my ears.

And then...

“Come on out, Bailey.”

My eyes snap to the stage, as she walks out like a ghost and a sunrise all at once.

Bailey.

My wife.

Onstage beside Jackson.

The crowd loses their minds, and for a second I can’t breathe.

Because she looks… composed. She looks like she’s wearing the version of herself the world buys. But I know her.

I see the tightness in her shoulders. The way she holds her smile like it’s a shield.

Then my brain catches on something small.

What....

My manager’s voice slices in, too sharp. “Why isn’t she wearing her ring?”

Noah makes a sound, like a laugh, but it’s all pain.

My eyes go to her left hand...

No ring.

My vision tunnels.

Why isn't she wearing her ring?

My phone keeps buzzing.

I hear Dave reading out headlines...

Luke Carter parties while Bailey Brooks sings at sister’s wedding.

Luke and Kacey are seen together again.

Bailey Brooks pictured dancing with a mystery man.

Jackson Reed collaboration confirmed!

It feels like my heart is trying to beat its way out of my chest.

I reach forward and touch the tv as Jackson turns toward Bailey, a smile I want to wipe off with my fist. "There she is! Everyone give her a warm welcome!"

Bailey smiles and waves with her left hand... her hand that is bare...

The crowd loses their mind...

No... No...

She lifts the mic. "Thank you for sharing your stage with me Jackson."