Page 8 of Poison's Promise

The room beyond is dimly lit, the noise from the party muffled by the walls. It feels like a sanctuary.

“Thank you,” I whisper, my legs giving out as I sink onto a nearby bed.

The mattress is soft, welcoming. I close my eyes, letting the darkness take over.

CHAPTER ONE

Asher

“Missoula, Montana,” I mutter to myself as I step off the bus.

The cool air bites at my skin, a sharp contrast to the heated atmosphere inside.

My phone buzzes in my pocket. Bellamy’s name flashes on the screen and I’m about to hear one of two things—something that will irritate the ever loving shit out of me, or she has good news.

Bellamy is my boss, and the owner of the record label I’m signed to.

“Hey, Bellamy,” I answer, leaning against the side of the bus.

“How are you doing, Asher?” Her voice is smooth, professional, yet there’s always a hint of warmth.

“Good, just getting ready to hit the road and head back home.”

“Great to hear. I was hoping I’d catch you at a good time. So listen, I have a proposition for you.” Oh boy, here we go.

“Yeah? What’s up?” I furrow my brows, curious as all hell.

She takes a few moments before she finally speaks up, carefully wording what she’s asking me. “How do you feel about co-writing a couple of songs with Sydney Monroe? One for her album, one for yours.”

"Sydney Monroe? Hell yeah, she’s got a killer sound. Like Halsey but with more edge.” I can almost see Bellamy’s smile through the phone.

“Exactly. She’s on tour right now. You know, I was thinking of a way to tease the songs you two are working on, maybe you could join her for a few shows as a surprise guest? Especially since your tour is wrapped up.”

“Yeah, I’m on board for it. Where’s her next gig?” If I’m lucky, it’s in a few days and I can at least head back home for a small break.

She sighs, “That’s the kicker. It’s tonight, in Three Forks, Montana.”

“Tonight? I was about to get on my tour bus and head home.”

“I’d apologize, but I think this is a really good opportunity for the two of you. Would you mind altering your plans just for a day?”

She’s right. It would be a good idea to do this. “Yeah, I can do that.”

Bellamy speaks sincerely, “Amazing. I appreciate that so much. Where are you right now?”

“I’m in Missoula.”

“Perfect. Three Forks isn’t far from there. Can you make it before the show starts?”

“Yeah, I’ll be there.”

“Thanks, Asher. This will be great for your career.”

“Yeah, I know it will be.”

I hang up and step onto the bus. My boots thud against the metal steps as I enter.

The familiar scent of bourbon and vanilla fills my nostrils, grounding me in a way only this life can.

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