Page 29 of Counterpoint and Harmony

“You look like you had a nice trip,” Natalie says on the way to my meeting with The Professor later that evening.

“What makes you say that?” It was a nice trip, but I’m tired after flying in, staying up late, and then waking up early. I didn’t go back to sleep after Damian left, instead ordering breakfast and scribbling down new song ideas. I managed to take a thirty minute power nap on the plane, and I’ve been drinking coffee since.

Her smile turns knowing as her eyes skate over me. I look down at my outfit reflexively. Nothing over the top. I’ll be in the studio working on new tracks, so I’m wearing leggings and a loose pale pink top with my favorite pair of ankle boots. Comfy and cute, and paired with my oversized, rhinestone-studded sunglasses and a statement necklace, I look the part in case any photographers are lurking outside The Professor’s studio space.

“You’re glowing, Charlie,” she says at last. “And now you’re blushing.”

I turn away and sip my coffee, not willing to give her anything else. But she’s not to be stopped. Even though she’s my assistant, she’s become more like a friend since I hired her. But she must sense that she’s approaching a boundary line, because she backs off.

“Sorry. I just … you seem happier, more relaxed. And it’s good. That’s all I meant.”

I turn back and give her a quick smile. “I am happier. It was a good trip. I … reconnected with a good friend. I’m glad I went.”

“A good friend, huh?”

At my pointed look, she holds up her hands in surrender and lets out a laugh. “Fine, fine. I won’t pry. But you know my lips are sealed, no matter what you tell me. It’s in my contract, after all.”

When I don’t respond, she adds, “Not that I would anyway.”

“I know. Thanks, Natalie. There’s not much else to tell, really.” Apparently just making out is enough to give me a post-sex glow. At least when Damian’s the one I’m kissing.

Even though nothing is really settled, I’m happier and more hopeful than I’ve been since everything blew up in December. Before that, even, because now I don’t have to be so careful about everything I say. At least not with Damian. I feel freer, more able to be myself. My mom’s given me the silent treatment since I moved out, and I can’t say I’m upset about it. And now things with Damian are moving in a positive direction.

I smile out the window, looking forward to working on my next album. I haven’t felt this good about an album since my first ones years ago. Then it was the excitement of making it. Now it’s the refreshing feeling of being in control of my life, my music, and the direction of my career for the first time … ever.

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