Page 29 of Harmonizing Hearts

The inviting scent is not the only thing that beckons our guests. The rhythmic sound of laughter and animated chatter fills the backyard as auntie Trish and our friends begin to arrive. I greet each person with a warm hug and a smile, their excited voices blending harmoniously with the gentle breeze.

As the afternoon unfolds, our backyard transforms into a haven of joy and laughter. Vibrant colors of beach towels and umbrellas adorn the patio, inviting everyone to relax and soak up the sunshine. My aunt, who has always been the life of the party, regales the group with her infectious humor and silly jokes, leaving everyone in fits of laughter.

“Hey, Dad,” I call out to Jax’s father, who is huddled near the grill, overseeing the food. “You’re doing an amazing job with the barbecue!”

Mac turns to me, his eyes crinkling with a warm smile. “Well, thank you, Emma. Just passing on the torch, you know. Your Jax learned it all from me.”

I chuckle, my heart swelling with gratitude for the man who raised my Jax. “He’s lucky to have learned from the best, that’s for sure.”

Our conversation is interrupted by the sound of splashing and playful shrieks. Angel and my aunt have decided to take a dip in the nearby ocean, their laughter echoing through the air. Unable to resist the call of the water, Jax and I exchange knowing glances and race toward the waves, our friends following closely behind.

As I dive into the cool embrace of the ocean, a surge of exhilaration courses through my veins. The saltwater engulfs me, washing away any remnants of stress. I resurface, my laughter mingling with the crashing waves.

“You’re getting slow, Em!” Jax teases, splashing water playfully in my direction.

I retaliate with a mischievous grin, sending a spray of water his way. “Oh, you’re in for it now!”

Our friends join in the friendly water battle, creating a joyous symphony of laughter and glee. For a moment, time stands still as I revel in the sheer happiness of the present moment.

With a grateful smile,I glance around, taking in the sight of our parents and friends, still immersed in playful banter and shared stories. I can’t help but feel blessed, knowing that these bonds will only grow stronger from now on.

As the evening breeze sweeps through, I whisper a heartfelt thank you to the universe for the gift of this day. And in my heart, I hold onto the joy and love that permeate every minute.

Our big family gathers around the long, wooden dining table. Plates are filled with delicious food from the barbecue, and stories fill the air catching up on each other’s lives.

As we sit down to enjoy our meal, Dex speaks up with an excited gleam in his eyes. “Hey, guys, I’ve been thinking. How about we have a movie night soon? We can set up a big screen outside, get cozy under the stars, and watch our favorite films together.”

His suggestion sparks interest around the table, and everyone begins to chime in with their movie recommendations. I smile, enjoying the warmth of their camaraderie, but a pang of sadness tugs at my heart.

“I’d love to join you all for movie night,” I say, my voice tinged with regret, “but I won’t be able to make it. I’m leaving for Tokyo in a few days and I’ll be gone for three weeks.”

Silence falls over the table as my words sink in. Time flew by and I forgot about it. When I got my tickets delivered in my email, I screamed in frustration and of course I procrastinated to tell him. Jax, sitting beside me, looks at me with a mix of surprise and disappointment in his eyes. Darkest Symphony will have their first big concert that will take place in just a couple of weeks. And now, he realizes I won’t be there to cheer him on.

Dex senses the shift in the atmosphere and clears his throat. “But… you never missed our concerts before.”

I nod, unable to meet Jax’s gaze. “I know, Dex. I feel awful about it, but this trip was planned a year ago, and I can’t postpone it. I wish I could be there for the concert, but the timing just doesn’t align.”

Jax’s disappointment is palpable, but he manages a small smile, trying to be understanding. “I know, Em. It’s just… It won’t be the same without you there. Your presence always fills me with energy.”

I reach out and take his hand, squeezing it gently. “I wish I could change the circumstances, but I can’t. I promise I’ll support you from afar, and we’ll celebrate when I return.”

He gives me a bittersweet smile, his thumb brushing against the back of my hand. “We’ll make the most of it, and when you come back, we’ll have our own concert, just for you.”

His words bring a small spark of joy to my heart, and I lean in to give him a soft kiss. “Thank you.”

“Love you, Em.” Around us, the conversation slowly picks up again, laughter and banter resuming. Though the pang of missing the concert still lingers, I remind myself that this trip is an opportunity for growth and new experiences.

Istand outside the imposing building, the weight of anticipation settling upon my shoulders. This is it—the moment I’ve been working toward, dreaming of, since we first picked up our instruments and formed our band. Today, I have an interview at a major radio station, Stars Music Wild, where I’ll get the chance to talk about our music, our journey, and the latest news that has sent shockwaves through our devoted fanbase. It’s a lot to take in, but I’m ready.

As I step into the bustling lobby, the sound of ringing phones and hushed conversations fills my ears. The air crackles with energy, and I can’t help but feel a surge of excitement. This is the kind of opportunity that could catapult our band into the stratosphere—a chance to reach millions of listeners who have yet to discover our sound.

A woman with a warm smile approaches me, her voice carrying a touch of authority. “Jax, I’m Mackenzie and we’re ready for you now.” She extends her hand to me. “The interview will be live, so just follow me and we’ll get you set up.”

I nod, my heart pounding in my chest as I walk behind her. We wind through a maze of hallways, lined with framed album covers and pictures of famous musicians who have graced these same halls. It’s an honor to be in such esteemed company, and it only adds to the pressure I feel. “We’re almost ready to begin.”

“It’s an honor Makenzie, Angel praises your interviews and I confess it’s kinda intimidating,” I admit while we enter a studio bathed in soft light, the hum of equipment and the sight of microphones makes me feel both nervous and alive.

“Angel is a force of nature, and don’t worry, it’s a chat between friends.” She takes a seat. “Whenever you’re ready.”

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