Page 33 of Rockstar Daddy's Second Chance

Sitting on the deck with Kendrick, the waves crashing in the distance, I decide to confront the tension. “What’s been bothering you lately?” I ask softly.

She sighs, her gaze fixed on the horizon. “It’s the venue. You said yourself it’s not a good place. I don’t want Cassidy exposed to anything dangerous… or people who might try to manipulate her. She’s still so young and innocent.”

I nod, understanding her concern. “I get it. I want you both to be a part of my life, but if it’s not right for Cassidy, we’ll figure something out. Maybe there’s a way to shield her from the worst of it.”

Kendrick meets my gaze, her expression grateful. “Thank you, Cass. Let’s see how it goes. Then we can decide what’s best for her.”

When we arrive at the venue, it pulses with a restless energy. The arena buzzes with eager fans, but there’s an undercurrent of something darker. Backstage is a mess—cluttered, noisy, and anything but professional. Kendrick and Cassidy take it all inwith wide eyes, and I see the hesitation in Kendrick’s expression. I can feel it, too–something just feels off.

Some of the crew acknowledges them with a curious nod, recognizing they had been with me during the previous performance.

Derrick strides toward us, his disapproving gaze sweeping over Kendrick and Cassidy. “They’re here again?” he snaps.

“Yes, I brought my family with me.” My jaw tightens as I meet his glare. “Get used to it.”

Before Derrick can respond, Sam appears, grinning. “Hey, Cass. Girls, good to see you guys.”

“Thanks, Sam. It’s good to be here,” Kendrick says, though I catch her glancing around at the less-than-clean surroundings. I reach out and give her hand a reassuring squeeze.

“It’ll be fine,” I murmur, though even I’m not convinced.

Sam shakes his head. “Why did Derrick book this place? Seriously, it’s like he’s trying to sabotage us.”

“He wanted to appeal to a rougher audience,” I reply with a grimace. “But never again.”

Sam snorts. “Don’t let Derrick’s bad choices ruin the night. Let me introduce you to the band.”

He waves toward a group of guys standing near the equipment. “Everyone, come say hi. This is Kendrick and Cassidy. They’re visiting Cass.”

The band gives me a curious look, wondering who the gorgeous blonde and her child are to me. But when I don’t elaborate on Sam’s words, they don’t ask any questions.

First up is Vince, the lead guitarist. He steps forward with a nod and a half-smile that’s more polite than warm. His sharp features and dark hair give him a brooding presence. “Nice to meet you,” he says curtly.

Cassidy tilts her head. “Do you play the really loud guitar solos?”

Vince’s lips twitch into the faintest smile. “That’s me.”

“They’re cool,” Cassidy replies earnestly, and Vince’s expression softens slightly.

Next is Luke, the blond, laid-back keyboardist, munching on a granola bar. “Hey there,” he says with an easy grin. “Welcome to the chaos. Don’t mind Vince; he’s always grouchy before a set.”

“Luke, do you ever stop eating?” Vince quips, his tone dry but tolerant. “It’s like your entire personality revolves around food.”

Luke grins, unfazed. “What can I say? I’ve got a fast metabolism and excellent taste.” He holds up the wrapper. “Want some?”

“Pass,” Vince replies with an exasperated shake of his head. “You’re unbelievable.”

Finally, there’s Nate, the drummer. He’s tall and quiet, with an air of calm that contrasts sharply with the backstage frenzy. He gives a small wave, his dark eyes kind but reserved. “Hi,” he says simply.

“Hi,” Cassidy replies, studying him curiously. “You don’t talk much, do you?”

Nate chuckles softly. “Not unless I have something worth saying.”

Sam claps Nate on the shoulder. “Man of mystery, this one. But trust me, he’s the glue that holds us together. If Nate’s chill, everything’s chill.”

“That’s true,” I add. “Nate’s drumming is our heartbeat. He keeps us all on track.”

Kendrick smiles, her initial hesitation fading as the band’s camaraderie becomes apparent. “It’s great to meet all of you. I’ve heard so much about all of you Wild Band musicians.”

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