Page 29 of Madness

As we pull away, I glance in the rearview mirror. Roman and Shannon are waving from the window. I wave back, feeling the weight of their gazes. This night suddenly feels like much more than just a date. It feels like the start of something big, something that could change everything.

And as I look over at Lauren, bathed in the soft glow of the dashboard lights, I realize I'm okay with that. More than okay.

The elevator dings as we reach the Rooftop Cinema Club, and I feel Lauren's hand tighten in mine. As the doors slide open, the cool night air rushes in, carrying the scent of popcorn and the city below.

Lauren's soft gasp of wonder makes me smile. The Los Angeles skyline stretches out before us, a glittering tapestry of lights against the indigo sky. The rooftop has been transformed into an outdoor cinema, with rows of chairs and loveseats facing a large screen. String lights crisscross overhead, casting a warm glow over everything.

"This is incredible," Lauren breathes, her eyes wide as she takes it all in. "I've lived here for years, and I've never seen the city like this."

I can't help but grin at her reaction. "Come on," I say, gently tugging her hand. "I got us a spot in the back."

We weave through the crowd, the buzz of excited conversation and the faint strains of Beatles music surrounding us. I lead Lauren to an Adirondack loveseat nestled in the back corner, offering a perfect view of both the screen and the city beyond.

"Is this okay?" I ask, suddenly nervous. "We can move closer if you want."

But Lauren's smile puts my fears to rest. "It's perfect," she says, settling into the seat. "I feel like we're in our own little world up here."

I sit beside her, acutely aware of how close we are. Our thighs touch, and I can feel the warmth of her body next to mine. I reach behind the seat and pull out a thick blanket.

"Thought we might need this," I say, draping it over our laps. "It can get chilly up here."

Lauren snuggles into the blanket, her shoulder pressing against mine. "Always prepared, aren't you?" she teases. "Let me guess, you were a Boy Scout?"

I chuckle, feeling some of my nervousness dissipate. "Hardly. More like I've had my share of uncomfortable outdoor gigs. You learn to be prepared."

As we wait for the movie to start, I can't help but steal glances at Lauren. The city lights reflect in her eyes, and the gentle breeze plays with her hair. She looks relaxed, happy. It's a good look on her.

"So," I start, wanting to hear her voice again. "Have you seen this movie before? Across the Universe?"

Lauren shakes her head. "No, but I've heard good things. You?"

"I've seen it a couple of times," I admit. "The music... it's incredible. I think you'll like it."

She turns to me, a curious look in her eyes. "Is that why you chose this movie? The music?"

I feel a blush creep up my neck. "Partly," I confess. "But also... I don't know. It's a story about love and dreams and finding yourself. It felt... right."

Lauren's expression softens. She reaches out, her fingers intertwining with mine under the blanket. "It does feel right," she says softly.

The lights dim, and a hush falls over the crowd as the opening notes of "Girl" start to play. As the story unfolds on screen, I find my attention split. Half on the movie, half on the woman beside me.

When "With a Little Help from My Friends" plays, Lauren leans in close. "This reminds me of Shannon," she whispers. "She's always been there for me."

I nod, understanding. "It's good to have people like that," I say, thinking of my bandmates and Connor. "People who have your back, no matter what."

As the movie progresses, I feel Lauren lean into me more. Whether it's because of the cooling night air or something else, I'm not sure. But I'm not complaining.

During "Come Together," I notice Lauren tense slightly. On screen, the characters are dealing with the draft and the turmoil of the 60s. I squeeze her hand gently, and she squeezes back.

"You okay?" I whisper.

She nods, but I can see a hint of worry in her eyes. "Just thinking about the future," she murmurs. "Everything's changing so fast."

I feel a pang in my chest, knowing I'm part of that change. The tour looms in my mind, a bittersweet reminder of the complications in our budding relationship.

"Change can be good," I say softly, trying to convince myself as much as her. "It opens up new possibilities."

Lauren looks at me, her eyes searching mine. For a moment, I'm afraid I've said the wrong thing. But then she smiles, a small, hopeful smile that makes my heart race.

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