Page 73 of Rockstar's Accidental Marriage

The roar of the crowd is still ringing in my ears as we settle onto the bus after the performance. Despite all of my misgivings, everything went smoothly for now.

I should feel relieved, or at least feel a sense of pride at how flawlessly it all came together, but instead, I’m left feeling even more anxious.

I glance at Sam, who’s leaning back in his seat, his head tilted against the window. There’s a quiet intensity about him tonight, and I wonder if he’s mulling over the same thoughts I am. I couldn’t help but notice that his eyes stayed on me during mostof the performance. It helped settle my nerves and keep me calm.

The next morning, we arrive at the hotel for a much-needed reset before preparing for the next leg of the tour. While the band disperses to their rooms, I take a moment to go over my notes for the meeting I’ve planned. This is my chance to present my vision for the band’s future—a vision I know won’t be without its challenges.

Later, everyone gathers around the table in the hotel's small conference room. As I prepare my notes, I catch Sam watching me from across the room, his eyes warm with that mix of pride and protection that makes my heart flutter. He takes the seat beside me, and his presence steadies my nerves in a way that nothing else can. Even in this professional setting, just having him near changes everything.

“Thanks for coming, everyone,” I begin, standing at the head of the table. “I wanted to take this time to discuss where the band is heading and some ideas I have for the future.”

All eyes are on me, some curious, others cautious.

“First, I want to acknowledge the progress we’ve made recently,” I continue. “We’ve scaled back the grueling schedule Derrick had in place, giving everyone more balance and breathing room. That was the first step. But now, it’s time to think about the long-term growth of the band.”

I pause, letting my words sink in.

“Under Derrick’s management, the focus was almost entirely on Cass as the face of the band. And while that makes sense—he’s the lead singer—it also put a lot of pressure on him. Too much pressure, honestly.” I glance at Cass, who gives a wry smile of agreement.

“My goal is to shift that focus—not away from Cass but toward highlighting each of you as individuals.”

Luke perks up slightly. “Highlighting us? What does that mean exactly?”

“It means showcasing what makes each of you unique,” I explain. “This is a band, not a solo act. Each of you has incredible talent, and I think it’s time the fans see that.”

Nate leans forward, his interest piqued. “You mean like solos?”

“Yes,” I say, smiling. “Incorporating solos into the performances is one way to do it. Another is increasing your individual presence on social media. The more fans connect with each of you, the stronger the band’s overall brand becomes.”

“Social media?” Vince guesses, his tone skeptical.

“Partly, yes,” I admit. “But it’s not just about social media and solos. It’s behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and other ways to make you all more visible and relatable.” I direct my next statement to Cass and Kendrick. “For Cass, I’m also scheduling more duets with Pixie Cane and other popular singers.”

Cass nods thoughtfully, but Vince stubbornly shakes his head. “I don’t know about this. I’ve seen what Cass deals with—the scrutiny and the lack of privacy. I’m not sure I want that.”

“It’s not about invading your privacy,” I counter gently. “It’s about letting fans see the talent and personality that make this band what it is. And you can control how much you share.”

“But what if it backfires?” Vince presses. “What if it shifts the dynamic too much? We’ve always been about the music, not marketing ourselves.”

Luke jumps in, his tone lighter. “Come on, Vince. It’s not like we’re selling out. If anything, it’s giving us more control over how we’re seen.”

Sam, who’s been quiet so far, finally speaks. “She’s right. We’ve all seen what happens when the focus is too narrow. If this helps spread the spotlight and gives Cass some breathing room, it’s worth a shot.”

Vince still looks skeptical, but Nate speaks up next. “I think it’s a solid idea. We’ve been doing things the same way for a long time. Maybe it’s time to shake things up.”

I glance at Vince, waiting for his response. After a moment, he sighs heavily. “Fine. I’ll give it a try. But I’m not doing online dances or any of that crap.”

A ripple of laughter breaks the tension, and I allow myself a small smile. “Noted. And remember, this is a team effort. No onehas to do anything they’re uncomfortable with. We’ll take it one step at a time.”

Cass leans forward, his expression thoughtful. “I like it, Em. It takes the pressure off me, and it gives everyone else a chance to shine. Let’s do it.”

Relief floods through me as the others murmur their agreement.

After the meeting, the band leaves, but I linger behind to gather my notes. Sam stays, leaning against the table with a faint smile.

“You handled that well,” he says.

“Thanks,” I reply, tucking my notes into a folder.

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