Page 20 of Intentional Foul
I found my phone with the intention of telling Malcolm thank you, but I froze. Any communication from me could be misinterpreted to me flirting. Especially if Anissa finds out about everything. I locked my phone without sending a message and returned to packing my clothes.
“Moe,” I said as I extended my arms in his direction.
I landed in Kansas City last night with my guitar, anxious to get to the studio this morning. Moe Aux was the best in the business when it came to the boards. We met at the bottom of the label food chain and carried each other to the top.
“Jhae,” he said as we embraced.
Our hug often resulted in us rocking from side to side.
“What are you doing in Kansas City?” he asked.
Runningcame to the forefront of my brain, thenmusic.
“The question is, what are you doing back in your hometown? I did a double take at your text message.”
Moe rubbed his face down to his full beard. “Mom fell and needs a little extra help. Came home to take care of the main lady. And you?” he asked.
I scanned the room, taking in his monitors, hardwood floors, MIDI keyboards, synthesizers, mixing boards and piano. A warm sensation ofhomerested on my shoulders as I sucked in the air.
“Album. The record label is down my neck. They want another ballad, something to rival ‘A Timeless Love Can Wait,’” I said.
Moe removed his baseball cap and caressed his waves. “That’s a tall number. Timeless Love is still charting,”
“Tell me about it,” I said, tossing my hands up. “It’s blank up here. I don’t want to write about love. I have nothing to pull from,” I said.
Moe invited me to take the seat next to him. He tapped my leg before leaning his slim but long body back in his seat.
“What’s going on in your personal life?” he asked.
I slanted my head before I covered my eyes.
“You know our art is a reflection of our life. Otherwise, people won’t connect with the song.”
My back pocket vibrated, and I removed my phone.
Malcolm
You are welcome, but the other half of your message I cannot accept.
On the plane last night, it bothered me not to say thank you. The gift was too thoughtful to not acknowledge. After writing and deleting several times, I kept it simple. I sent a“thank you but please let this go” text. Choosing not to respond, I silenced my phone, returning my eyes to Moe.
“It appears we do have something to pull from after all,” Moe said.
“No, we don’t. He is a sweet guy but in the wrong damn package,” I said as I slumped in my seat.
“Wrong package?” Moe questioned.
“Forbidden fruit. Crossing the line with him could destroy something I cherish, but he doesn’t care. What’s crazy is he’s been in love with me for at least two years. He would ask me how he could get this girl to notice him. The entire time he was talking about me,” I said.
Moe shrugged as he moved his chair closer to the mixing board.
“Moe,” I said.
“Before I start talking, what kind of forbidden fruit? We talking about your homegirl’s husband? A brother or something?” he asked.
I chuckled at his question because we both knew I didn’t have any industry friends. After attending a few after parties, it opened my eyes. Features and hit records didn’t equate to trust. Women as well as men would set up and step on you for their own selfish gain. The only person I could depend on was Anissa.
“I’m trusting you, Moe. My best friend’s son,” I whispered.
