Page 99 of Voice to Raise
“I still can’t believe Carson chose us.” He continued to drum his thigh.
“Neither can I.” We’d never spoken about this because we hadn’t wanted to jinx our good luck. To do anything to imperil our good fortune.
“Like, how did one of the biggest producers in the world hear about a little indie band from Vancouver?”
“And why did he pick us and ask us to give him nearly seven months?”
We eyed each other and, at the same time, said, “Pauletta.”
I shook my head. “How did we not see this?”
“Partly because we didn’t realize just how rich her father really is. He’s one of the most successful business people in Vancouver—and that’s saying something.”
“So humoring her with a pet project would be a rounding error for him.” I scratched my nose. “She must really believe in us.”
“I think she does. And I’d be happy to ask her, but she isn’t here.” Our manager had the worst case of motion sickness. Tour buses were out, and airplanes required her to have heavy medication. If she drove herself, she was okay. She and Mickey were flying into Reno and then Pauletta was driving them to Black Rock.
Thornton, Lydia, and Kato had a camper van rented and were following our tour—joining us when they wanted to film things. Pretty chill.
Grindstone was in their own tour bus and were taking a direct route from Vancouver to Black Rock as they didn’t have any concerts planned.
I eyed Thornton, who was playing a game of cards with Freddie. The poor guy was missing his husband terribly. Apparently the two men were planning for a big reunion once we all arrived at the campsite.
Axel was undoubtedly mooning over his husband, but Hugo hadn’t been able to secure the time off school this year.
Which I thought was shitty, but Hugo said something about a professional commitment.
I’d keep an eye on Axel to make certain the guy wasn’t too bummed out.
“Hey, we’re just about there.” Thornton waved. “And look at the bus ahead of us.”
Creed vibrated next to me. “That’s Maiden Fucking Voyage!”
Thornton cocked his head, with his slightly floppy blond hair going floppier.
“He means Maiden Voyage. We knew they were coming. Embrace the Fear, Social Sinners, Midnight Hunt, Queen Anne’s Revenge, and Warrior Black are all going to be here as well.” Excitement raced through me.
“Plus Grindstone.” Thornton chuckled. “Please don’t forget my husband’s band.”
“This is like a reunion for you, right?” I plopped myself on the bench seat next to him. “Any dirt you wish to dish?”
He shook his head. “You saw the documentary.”
“Shit, man, I’m sorry.” Thornton’s younger sister had died from a drug overdose, and he’d blamed Axel and Ed for nearly ten years.
“It’s okay. Kyesha’s death impacted a lot of people. I’ve had people watch the documentary—seeing Ed’s, Axel’s, and my pain—and decided they needed to get clean. I mean, an addict has to do it for themselves…but understanding the impact their illness has on others can be profound. Some good has come out of that documentary.” He rubbed his forehead. “Like marrying the bass player…”
Creed snorted. “Well, nothing like banging a rock star.”
I glared. “I’d like to think Spencer is with me for my witty personality, sense of humor, and hot body.”
This time, Thornton snorted.
I mock glared.
“I think he’s with you because he loves you.” He winked. “Lion’s Gate Bridge and all.”
“Oh, good one.” Creed nodded vigorously. “You do have a lot in common with Spencer. You’ve always cared about that environmental shit. And about social justice.”
