After they left,we continued recording, with Bridger adding subtle harmonies that enhanced the track beautifully. His deep baritone complemented my voice in ways I hadn’t anticipated, adding depth to the chorus.
“That’s it,” Keltie said through the intercom after our third take. “That’s the one.”
She spent another hour working her magic on the soundboard, and when she played the final version, I choked up. Luna’s song, now professionally recorded, with her reactions woven throughout, transforming it into something both polished and personal.
“It’s perfect,” I said, squeezing Keltie’s shoulder. “You’re amazing.”
She blushed, ducking her head. “It’s your song. I just helped capture it.”
Ben insisted on playing it through the studio’s main speakers. “This is fantastic, Holt. We gotta get more of your stuff recorded. You’re a damn good songwriter.”
My phone buzzed with Buck’s name on the screen. “Excuse me a minute,” I said, stepping into the hallway to take the call.
“How’s it going?” my oldest brother asked.
“Great. We’re at Ben’s studio, recording Luna’s song.”
“I won’t keep you, but I wanted you to know that Decker’s been digging into Miracles of Hope,” Buck continued. “Not much luck so far. It was definitely set up anonymously, with multiple layers of legal protection.”
“Just like the trust,” I muttered.
“Took the words right outta my mouth. Anyway, I wanted you to know I heard from him, and he said he’d keep digging. I’ll keep you posted.”
After hanging up, I found Bridger and Keltie deep in conversation about mixing techniques. Ben had disappeared, presumably to check on his daughter.
“Got what we need?” I asked, placing my hand on the small of Keltie’s back.
“I think so. Bridger was showing me a new compression technique.”
The guy inclined his head in acknowledgment. “Your girlfriend’s got serious skills.”
“Don’t I know it,” I replied, unable to keep the pride from my voice.
We wrapped up the session, thanking Ben and Liv for their hospitality before heading to our vehicles. Bridger’s truck was parked next to mine, and as he unlocked it, I took a chance.
“Hey, uh, when you heard the name Scarlett, it seemed to mean something to you,” I said casually.
His hand paused on the door handle, shoulders tensing. “Nope,” he muttered before climbing inside the cab.
“He’s lying,” said Keltie when I turned around and saw her standing right behind me.
“I think so too. I’ll keep pestering him until he talks.”
Keltie shook her head and laughed. “Good luck with that.”
The rideto her place was quiet, both of us processing the day. Keltie reached over, her hand finding mine on the console between us.
“Thank you,” she said softly. “For today. For everything.”
I squeezed her fingers. “No need to thank me.”
“I know, but…” She paused. “Being in the studio again, doing what I love—it meant more than I can say.”
I lifted her hand to my lips. “You were brilliant. Watching you work was incredible.”
Victor and Luna were waiting when we arrived, Luna clutching a new stuffed horse that must have been a gift from Caden.
“Did you finish my song?” she asked immediately.