Page 178 of Five Summers

In the midst of the crowd’s ongoing cheers, Nate begins to count in the next song, and the setlist continues according to plan.

As always, a nervous energy sets in whenever it’s time for the last song. My anxiety heightens as I observe Xander grabbing the stool and my dad’s guitar, slowly making his way toward the microphone. It’s a poignant moment, not only because of the emotional connection to the song and my deep affection for this man, but also because a part of my dad is up there on that stage. He’s living out a dream that always held a special place in my father’s heart - performing in front of thousands of people.

“This one is for us, Princess,” he says, his eyes meeting mine. In that instant, I sense the undeniable love he has for me. It emanates from him, erasing any doubts I once had - a love that I once questioned and never fully grasped. But now, I will never doubt it again, not with the sincerity in his eyes and the heartfelt way he expresses his love for me.

As he sings the opening lines, a serene and somber atmosphere settles in the air. The voices of the crowd merge, generating a harmonious sound as if all eighty thousand people in the stadium have congregated for this one moment. Their combined singing overpowers Xander’s voice through the speakers. It transforms into their song, a moment they all rejoice in - a shared encounter that belongs to every single one of them.

I take a few steps to the side to get a better view of the crowd. Their phones are raised high, illuminating the air with flickering lights as they passionately sing along with Xander. I know that this is a moment that I will remember for the rest of my life.Turning my head to look at Xander, I see Ace, Theo and even Nate with drumsticks in hand moving forward to stand beside him and witness this incredible sight. With arms draped over one another’s shoulders, they form a tight-knit brotherhood, fully embracing the profound significance of the moment they have brought to life.

As the song nears its end, Nate seamlessly returns to the drums, while Xander delivers the final chorus with an epic flare, marking the last show in Sydney. The stadium pulses with an electrifying energy, echoing with thunderous cheers.

“Thank you, Sydney. We love you!” Xander declares, before putting the microphone back into the stand. The rest of the band members come forward and stand next to Xander.

Amidst the enthusiastic cheers, they graciously wave to the crowd, expressing their gratitude one last time before making their way off the stage. Xander takes the lead, and the rest of the band effortlessly follows suit. It’s a common sight - they consistently walk behind Xander, as if he effortlessly commands the stage. However, there is no trace of envy or ill will among them, only a sincere and deep respect.

As soon as Xander reaches me, he gently lifts me up and embraces me tightly, pressing his lips against mine in a passionate, intense kiss. It’s overflowing with raw emotion, leaving me momentarily breathless.

As the band members pass by, they warmly pat him on the shoulder before heading to the green room for the meet and greet. The dynamics in that area have also changed since Ace took charge. The absence of the pressure that Reg used to exert is noticeable. Even though groupies still seek moments to hook up with the band, it feels more relaxed.

I still feel uncomfortable when groupies offer their breasts for Xander to sign, but I understand it’s part of being a rockstar. I observe as he flashes his signature sexy grin, takes photos withthem, and gives away merchandise. But what I have noticed is when he’s finished mingling with them, I see the disappointed look on their faces knowing that they won’t be with Xander tonight. Above all I trust him. I never want to end up like my mother.

When the meet and greet is over, Neil guides all of us towards the tour bus. Reg is already inside, engrossed in his laptop, not bothering to acknowledge us as we all board.

The guys exchange a look, suggesting that the upcoming trip to Brisbane won’t be a pleasant one due to all the tension caused by Reg.

“If you’re riding on this bus with us, Reg, don’t expect to get the good room,” Nate says, walking past our bags at the front of the bus, where they are always placed when we board.

We all stay there, watching Nate, wondering what he’s doing as he moves towards Reg’s room. From the corner of my eye, I catch sight of Reg turning his head to watch Nate. Not a single word leaves his mouth as Nate enters his room.

As I peer through the open doorway, I see Nate snatching Reg’s bag from the bed and fling it out the door, landing at Ace’s feet. Without wasting a moment, he retrieves the expensive suits that are hanging in the compact closet before making his way out of the room. “This room is no longer yours,” he declares, casually tossing the suits onto the couch. “It’s now reserved for family. Our family.”

Reg stays silent, his attention returning to his laptop. I notice him swallowing.

“Xander and Poppy, you guys are family. Why don’t you guys take the room?” Nate suggests.

“I’m happy to sleep in the bunks,” I say, not wanting any special treatment since I’m not the big money maker here. I’m not the one out on that stage, pouring my heart out every night for the adoring fans.

Xander steps forward, grabs our bags, and claims the room.

“Well, I guess that settles it,” I say, making my way towards the room. “Thank you for the room.”

Xander grabs my hand and pulls me into the room.

Wasting no time, Xander closes the door and pulls me down on the double bed. As we lie together, he wraps his arms around me and snuggles his face in the crook of my neck. “I love you,” he whispers, holding me close. He’s been telling me that every day since he confessed his love for me. And every time he says it, I just fall harder for him.

“I love you too,” I tell him, and the loving look he always gives me when I say those words is something I will always treasure.

In the days that follow, Xander and I find our connection growing stronger as we engage in meaningful conversations and make it a priority to speak with our son every night. I can see the love and excitement reflected on Alex’s face, just as it is on Xander’s.

During our journey to Brisbane, we make our customary stops at unique little towns along the way. Ace proposes that it is now Xander’s turn to step into the limelight and reveal the truth of what happened. As Xander conducts all the interviews for the next two days, the guys keep me entertained. Theo and I take the opportunity to explore the local ice cream parlors, while Nate ventures out to discover the local restaurants. We all, including Xander, have a delightful lunch together. Sometimes, it’s justAce and me strolling the streets, browsing through the shops. Despite his usual grumpy demeanor, he attempts to engage in small talk. It’s a bit awkward, but I appreciate his efforts.

What truly stands out is that Xander is the one who holds the band together.

With each passing day, I feel a surge of excitement as we get closer to reuniting with our son. But bringing back all the stuff we've collected is gonna be a real challenge. With the long-awaited reunion drawing near, Xander’s emotions are a whirlwind of eager anticipation and nervous apprehension.

During our stay in the hotel in Brisbane, Xander plans a few intimate dates just for the two of us. Being a fan of simplicity, he surprised me one night by ordering room service as soon as we got back to the hotel.

While we enjoyed our meal together, we indulged in a binge-watch session of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. The trip down memory lane brought tears to my eyes, and Xander laughed before he gave me a loving hug. That’s when he confessed he’s addicted to the show, which earns him some playful teasing from the guys back home. Xander also said that he has hooked Theo on the show, and the two of them often share beers while watching the entertaining antics of the Beverly Hills bitches.

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