Page 218 of Once in a Lifetime, Part 2

Steve reached him first and punched him in the chest.

Ody yelped. “Why is everyone hitting me?”

“And why are you smiling like that?” Steve snapped. “You happy you got stabbed?”

Ody’s expression softened, giving him that guilty, almost puppy-like look. “I’m just happy to see you, guys.”

“Tough as hell, huh?” Chris said, leaning in to hug him. Ody groaned, and he pulled back instantly. “Shit, sorry.”

“What’s it like getting stabbed?” Elias asked.

Steve shot him a look.

“What? I’ve only seen it in movies. They get stabbed and just pull the knife out like it’s nothing.”

“It’s not exactly like that,” Ody said, letting out a quiet laugh.

The room filled with their voices.

Mano was sitting on the bench when his phone started ringing. A British number. He frowned and answered. “Hello?”

“Hello. Is this Mano Jones?”

Mano didn’t answer right away. “…Who’s asking?”

“My name is Dominic Adams. We’ve met before. I’m not sure if you remember me.” The accent was unmistakably British.

“I don’t.”

“I know your brother, Nick. He’s a good friend of mine.”

At the mention of his name, Mano exhaled, his jaw clenching. “What is this about?”

“I came across some of your work. I’d really like to meet you.”

“My work?” Mano frowned. “What are you talking about?”

“Right, sorry. I should explain. I work in A&R at Blue Island Records. I scout and develop new artists.”

Mano went still. “Wait… what?”

“I’m currently scouting new talent. I’ve heard some really good things about you, and I’d like to meet you. Would you be open to that?”

“Wait, hold on. You work at Blue Island Records? The Blue Island? In London?”

“That’s right.”

Mano let out a breath, running a hand through his hair. “And you’re… interested in me?”

“Yes.”

“How did you hear my work?”

“I’ve heard some of your tracks.”

Mano leaned back. “Yeah. I got that. How?”

“I know your brother, Nick. He’s a good friend of mine.”