Page 52 of Rockstar Daddy's Second Chance

“You know,” Sam says, glancing back at Cassidy, “she’s got the spark, Cass. That drive, that… whatever it is that sets people apart. You can’t teach that.”

“I know,” I reply, my chest tightening with pride and a little worry of my own. “She’s something special, isn’t she?”

Sam nods, his voice serious. “Yeah. Just make sure she’s protected from the sharks out there. Fame’s not exactly kind to the gifted.”

“Trust me, that’s the plan,” I say firmly, a determined glint in my eye.

On the way back to the hotel, Cassidy can’t stop talking about the session, her voice a mixture of exhilaration and awe. Kendrick listens with an indulgent smile, her hand resting on Cassidy’s shoulder.

“Mom, Dad?” Cassidy finally asks as we pull up to the entrance. “Do you think… do you think maybe one day I could record an album? Like a real one?”

Kendrick’s smile falters just a bit, and she gives me a quick, searching glance. I know what she’s thinking. But this is our daughter’s dream, and I want to nurture it, not discourage it. Help her dreams come true, but in a way that keeps her grounded and safe. Suddenly, it hits me. Just like I don’t want to crush Cassidy’s hopes, this is only a fraction of how Kendrick felt all those years ago–about my big chance. The last of my lingering resentment over her decision melts away.

I reach over, placing my hand on my daughter’s shoulder. “If that’s what you want, Cassidy, and you’re willing to work hard for it, then yes. One day, we’ll make it happen. But remember, music is about passion. It’s not about success and money.”

Cassidy nods, her eyes filled with determination and gratitude. “I understand, Dad. I’ll remember.”

That night, after Cassidy is in bed, Kendrick and I sit together on the balcony, watching the city lights blink in the distance. She’s quiet, lost in thought, her body tucked warmly against mine.

“She’s amazing, Cass,” Kendrick says finally, her voice a mix of pride and worry. “But I don’t want her exposed to… everything that comes with this life–people like Derrick.”

I tighten my grip around her waist, understanding her completely. “We’ll protect her, Kendrick. She’ll get to experience the music without the turmoil. We’ll find a way to give her the best of both worlds.”

She looks up at me, a faint smile on her lips. “You really think that’s possible?”

I nod, confidence filling my voice. “I know it is. Because this–” I wave my hand in the air between us. “This is worth it. Having caring people around. We’re stronger together.”

“She’s only twelve,” Kendrick reminds me, worry flickering in her eyes. “I don’t want her to grow up too fast.”

“She won’t,” I reassure her. “We’ll take it slow—voice coaching, lessons—but we’ll guide her together.” Taking a deep breath, I give Kendrick a direct look. “But you have something to contribute as well. You were good, Kendrick. And your harmony is incredible–”

Kendrick interrupts me with, “But, I never had your drive. I just loved to sing and enjoyed performing.” She points out, biting her lip. “I see a fire in Cassidy that I never had. It’s the same fire that’s in you,” she says with conviction, meeting my eyes. Then she states thoughtfully, “I’m not trying to extinguish it, Cass. I just want to help guide her toward a balanced life. One where she can have everything she wants–and deserves. Without anyone taking it away from her.”

Nodding, I say, “I want that for her too.” Giving Kendrick a warm look, I continue, “I want that for me–for us. And you know what? We’re going to get it.”

As the hum of the city below us drifts through the night air, I pull Kendrick close, engulfing her in my arms to ward off the chill of the night. Leaning down, I give her a warm kiss, and I feel her slender form mold to mine. The moment brims with fierce determination. Together, we’ll shield Cassidy from fame’s harsh edges, letting her brilliance shine while keeping her spirit untarnished.

Twenty-Five

Kendrick

Being home feels like a breath of fresh air. Cassidy’s excited voice fills the living room as she spreads out her materials for the beach cleanup project. She’s chattering away, explaining to me her plans to plant dune grasses to protect the shoreline and how excited she is to volunteer. I resist the urge to point out that she volunteered all of us, as I enjoy these family bonding moments, which have been few and far between recently.

Cass is in the next room, speakerphone on, discussing logistics for a small tour with Derrick. Snippets of their conversation drift through the wall—guest spots, opportunities, and the sharp edge of Derrick’s raised voice sounds increasingly frustrated as Cass tries to hold his ground.

Cass finally walks into the room, looking a bit worn out. He gives Cassidy a warm smile and ruffles her hair. “Preparing for the Beach project, huh?” he says, trying to lighten the mood.

Cassidy nods enthusiastically. “Yep! We’re all set to volunteer tomorrow. It’s going to be so much fun helping to plant all the grasses. I can’t wait!”

Cass chuckles, glancing at me, but there’s a flicker of something in his eyes—an uncertainty he’s trying to hide.

“Actually,” he starts, hesitating. “Derrick just brought up something unexpected.”

I set down the tote bag Cassidy and I were organizing and give him my full attention. “Unexpected? What did he want?”

He clears his throat, looking uncomfortable. “There was a last-minute cancellation for a televised music special. Derrick says it’s a big deal, lots of exposure… live TV and all. It’s short notice, but he’s already told them I’d be there. I’d need to leave today, but it shouldn’t take longer than about three days, tops.”

My heart sinks just a little with disappointment. Cassidy had her heart set on doing the project as a family, but I force myself to mask it with a supportive smile. Cassidy’s already looking forward to tomorrow, and I’ve committed to doing this with her, even if Cass has to bail. It’s for a worthwhile cause, so I don’t want to cancel. But I also know Cass’s career demands these sudden changes, and I don’t want to stand in the way of something important for him.

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