Page 102 of Don't Bang a Bandmate

He feigns a wound. “Ouch.”

“I mean,” I say as he laughs, “you’re not an aging rockstar trying to recapture your former glory. You’re what? Thirty-five?”

“Thirty-three,”he says, wounded again.

“There’s still plenty of time.”

“Maybe there is.” He looks me over again. “If I make the right choices.”

“Exactly.”

The crowd cheers for the start of another song, pulling my gaze back toward the stage. I applaud with them, admiring my chosen family for a second before the heat of Christian’s gaze becomes too much.

I look at him to find him still staring at me, his eyes so soft and wonderful. Christian tilts his head slightly, making my stomach quiver as he leans closer.

“What are you doing?” I ask, leaning away.

Christian smiles. “Making the right choice.”

Frozen in the wings, I do nothing as Christian Myers kisses me.

33

BRONSON

From the stage, I can see everything.

Some don’t realize it, but my place near the back is actually the best seat in the house. I can see the crowd, their waving hands and cheerful faces. I can see the band, taking in every glorious moment with my friends.

And best of all, I can see Jordan standing in the wings. She’s always there at the start of every show, her watchful eyes big and bright. She’s rarely there for longer than a few minutes — there’s always something else for her to do — but I still look for her after each song.

She stood there longer tonight; her smile soft and content.

Then he was there, too.

And then...

His lips on hers.

Her lips moving to kiss him back.

For a moment, I lose count. I hit my drum on three instead of four. I make eye contact with Addison, the only one in the position to glance back and take notice.

I shake it off quickly, projecting a wall in my brain between me and Jordan and... Christian Myers.

The show goes on. Always.

It’s the one rule none of us dare to break.

Everything else, though.

Yeah, that breaks just fine.

Just like always,we’re the first ones at the venue and the last ones out. We sign autographs and take selfies, giving our fans every bit of attention they deserve. And, just like always, I receive waves of attention in return.

You’re the best drummer who ever lived, man.

Your solo in Pure Blue always makes me shiver.

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