Page 36 of Luci’s Lullaby

“She knew exactly who I am and what I’m about.” I shove my hands in my pockets. “It’s not like we were drunk and besides she drove me here.”

She opens her mouth, then closes it. “What are you not telling me?”

“Don’t be ridiculous, like I could hide something from you.” I walk past her. “C’mon, I gotta get outta here.”

She follows me out the door. “I only came by to make sure you’re not late to the appointment.”

“How’d you know?”

“I’m your attorney, it’s my job,” she says walking to her car.

I chew my lip, trying to decide what to say. “Reese Cup?”

She turns with a smile. “Yeah, Mars Bar?”

“I love you.”

“I love you.” She yanks her door open. “Don’t you dare see Charlee again, I mean it. She’s a good one.”

“Whatever, Mom.” I wave as she gets in and drives away.

Unlocking my truck, I slide in and adjust the radio. I crank it up and back out in just enough time to make it downtown. I’m five minutes into the drive when it hits me.

“Damn, girl.” I flip the station to a country channel. “She’s got me so tore up, I’m listening to pop.”

I get caught by the light at the corner. Across from Food Lion. Yeah, that one. “Don’t look.” I cut my eyes. “Why are you doing that?” I shake my head. “You’re a grown damn man and if you want to hook up with Ra-Charlee again, you can.”

A horn blares behind me, making me jump, so I step on the gas without getting a good look. I have no idea how to get in touch with her. I guess I can drop by sometime. For food.

“She lied to you.” I shift in my seat, popping my neck. “And now, you’re talking to yourself. Get a fuckin’ grip and move on.”

I upshift, passing every car I can, I need to get away from her. I turn into the lot and see Aksel first thing. He waves and points to a parking spot. I straighten my shirt and climb out to go meet him.

He’s smiling as he puts out his hand. “Good morning.”

“Good mornin’.” I take his hand, shaking it a little too hard.

“Nervous?” Aksel asks as I release his hand.

I half shrug. “It’s been a morning.”

“Care to share?” he asks, holding the door open for me.

I lick my lips, tasting her on them. “Not at the moment.”

“Is everything alright?” His voice is low as he pauses at the office door.

“For now, we’ll talk later.”

He pulls the door open, and we’re greeted by a threesome in suit and ties. “Gentlemen, Alden Beck.”

I’m passed around and shown off. I press more flesh than a night at my apartment. Flashes of light begin to blind me, I’ve taken so many photos. When I finally get to sit, it’s to go over a million pieces of paper.

All I want to do is make music, but I suppose this is what it takes. I give the okay to have the contract sent over to Reese.

“I’m sure Sam will want to see you before you go,” Aksel says.

“That’s fine.” I rub the back of my neck. “Can I ask you something?”