Page 205 of Once in a Lifetime, Part 2

He barely knocked before Dominic waved him in. “Come in.”

Nick dropped into the chair across from him, already pulling up the demos.

The first track filled the room, the speakers carrying every detail. Dominic didn’t say a word. He leaned back, eyes fixed ahead, listening. Track after track.

Nick stayed still, watching him, trying to read his reaction.

By the time the last note faded, the silence stretched.

“So?” Nick asked, unable to hold it in any longer.

Dominic turned to him. “He made this?”

“Yeah.”

Dominic leaned forward, his expression sharpening. “They’re incredible. The kid has exactly what I’m looking for.”

Nick exhaled, tension easing from his shoulders.

“Give me his number.” Dominic was already reaching for his phone. “I want to sign him.”

Chapter 41

Ody stretched, blinking as sunlight poured in through the balcony doors the next morning. He turned his head and found Mano still asleep beside him. A small smile formed as he took him in, smooth, light skin, jet-black hair, soft lips. He slid an arm over Mano’s chest, pulling him closer.

“Baby… I don’t want to, but I have to get up,” Ody murmured, his voice rough with sleep.

Mano groaned, eyes still closed.

“Hey.” Ody tapped his cheek.

“Mm—” He whined, turning his head away.

Ody let out a soft laugh.

Once they were both up, they moved to the kitchen.

“Why do you have to leave?” Mano asked between bites.

“I’ve got something to take care of at the bank. Wanna come with me?” Ody glanced up, and the moment he saw Mano freeze, he stilled. “I—I’m sorry.”

Mano swallowed, taking a sip of water.

“You never told me… I mean… didn’t you ever need to go to the bank?”

“I do everything I can to avoid it.” Mano kept his gaze on his plate. “I only use ATMs when it’s absolutely necessary. I don’t think I can go inside.” He went quiet for a moment, fingers tightening around his fork. “I can’t… I can’t even think about it.” His breathing picked up.

Ody reached across the table, resting his hand over Mano’s, his thumb moving slowly. “Do you want us to try together?”

Mano looked up, uncertainty in his eyes.

“I know it’s not that simple,” Ody said. “But you don’t have to do it alone.”

Mano didn’t answer. His gaze dropped again, shoulders tense.

“I won’t pressure you.” Ody hesitated, searching for the right words. “I just… I want to help. I’ll be right there with you.”

Mano’s fingers curled under Ody’s hand. “I don’t… I don’t know, Ody.” He shook his head. “I don’t think I can.”