Sindy waited for Angel to leave, never taking her eyes off the envelope in her hand. It wasn’t sealed, only held closed by a small piece of cellophane tape. She wanted to rip it off so badly, but she restrained herself.

“Go ahead and open it.” Lucas had a gloating smile on his face.

“You know what this is?” she asked.

“Who do you think told him to issue it?”

“Do Tessa and Mason know?”

“Sure. We check with each other whenever something concerns the band.” He put his hand on her shoulder to show support and emphasis. “You deserve this, Sindy. There was no reason to wait 90 days.”

She slid her finger under the flap and the thin strip of tape popped open. Her heart pounded as she freed the check from the confines of the envelope and turned it over. Tears sprung into her eyes and blurred her vision while she covered her mouth with one hand and stared at the largest check she’d ever seen.

“We advanced your share of royalties for the single,” Lucas explained. “We underestimated first quarter earnings. You’ll most likely get another check at the 90-day mark.”

The sob that left her throat turned into a giddy laugh as the tears rolled down her cheeks, and she fell into Lucas’ arms. This family had changed her life in so many ways, especially Lucas, and she never loved anyone more.