Page 75 of Out of Tune
I was screaming too, not just because those were my guys on stage, but because the moment was too much to process in silence.
As soon as the lights came up, the guys immediately launched into a song, throwing themselves into the performance.
Lydia and I sang and bumped our hips into each other as we swayed to the beat. Even though the venue was small, I knew I was witnessing something transformational. A night that would live in the hearts and heads of all those around me.
Wes and I locked eyes. I caught his smile and threw one back. I felt it then, that spell he cast on people. How his eyes would find someone in the crowd, and for a moment, they’d feel chosen.
They weren’t just making music. They were making memories, inviting listeners to desire.Feel with us. It’s okay to want to be loved and have fun and be heard,they seemed to say with every song.
Halfway through, Lydia and I went back to get a second round of drinks. My ears rang, and my face was sore from smiling. As we melted back into the crowd, strong arms came up behind me, snaking around my waist. I stepped forward, pushing them off, but they came again. My elbow drove back but it didn’t seem to do anything. Not even a grunt. I wanted to scream but I knew it would get lost in the crowd.
“Fuck off,” Lydia shouted.
I stumbled, finally free. Behind me, I found Lydia launching a full drink in the guy’s face. She whistled and waved to security, pointing to the man giving me unwanted attention, and he was hauled away.
We stepped back out of the crowd so I could get my footing.
“Holy shit, that was incredible,” I told her. “Thanks.”
“Anytime,” she said, fishing in her tiny leather purse. “Actually, let me get you my number.” I was expecting her to grab a pen or to give me her phone. Instead, she had a business card pinched between her fingers. The edges were slightly bent, but the black text was clear.
Lydia Sullivan – Talent Management
“Oh shit,” I said.
“I meant what I said. I think you’re something special, and if you’re interested, I think we can do some great things together.”
“You’re serious,” I stated, rather than asked. She’d already helped me, and we had a good vibe. I was starting to get excited in a way that I never had with any previous offer. She saw me, not a way to use me or change me.
“I’m not going to make you any other promises than this. I work hard for things I believe in, and I believe in you.” She winked at me. “I also know you’re seventeen. So this is the last time we’re drinking together until you’re legal.”
I laughed in disbelief, running my finger over the edge of the card. “Yes. I want to do this. I just need to tell someone. I’ll be right back.”
“Go. I’ll save you a spot.” She nodded, heading back into the throng.
I headed for the hall that led to the bathrooms. The music bled through the heavy closed doors, but it would be quiet enough to make a call. I should have texted Dad that everything was fine earlier, but I was happy I didn’t so I could tell him all the news at once.
I was halfway down the hall when my phone buzzed in my pocket. Dad’s contact was on the screen—as if he knew. I stood there for three seconds, giving myself a moment to experience the joy. I had everything I could dream of.
Track Nine
Kendal:And?
Avery:Sometimes, I wish I could live in those three seconds before I answered the phone.
17
Avery
October 2025
Wes arrives at my rental house at five to six in that CR-V of his. I head out the moment I see the now familiar car, not giving him the chance to pick me up at the door.
As he climbs out of the car, his boot clad feet hit the road. He’s dressed in dark wash denim and a faded T-shirt. The type of clothes he’d wear doing chores back in Caper. For a moment, I wonder if this is how he’d look if we never left.
“Wow, someone’s in a rush.” I don’t miss how he slowly peruses my body. Shameless.
The outfit I’ve settled on for the night consists of a black dress paired with a denim jacket. Have I spent the last two hours since I’ve seen him trying on clothes? Absolutely. But he doesn’t have to know that.
