“Yeah,” Lon said.“We appreciate you guys a ton.”
“We love Ghostfire,” the DJ said.“You always put on a great show.So, tell us about the time off from your tour?”
“I—” Ry began.
“No, let me answer,” Alex said, interrupting.“The tour has been rough but worth it.We love performing and putting on a show.But we have to take care of ourselves.”
Ry stared at Alex, his head unweighted, the lights sharp.His breath shallowed.Would he say it?
“We took a brief break because I—well, the thing is I went into rehab.I’m doing better.”
Arend hissed, letting the phone drop on the bed as if stung.Lon swooped it up and held it closer to Alex, unaware of Arend’s reddening face.
“You all deserve to know,” Alex continued.“You’ve supported us and our music through the last couple of years.I’m back here for you and for the music.Remember, alcohol can be a bitch, kids.”
“Oh mate, that’s serious.We’re glad you are doing better.Hat’s off.”
Arend held out his hand to Lon, but apparently he hadn’t noticed.This is it.
Ry said, “There is no shame in seeking help.Alex’s courage motivated me to seek care as well.We both needed it.”
Brand let out a breath.Lon swiveled to him, his eyes searching Ry’s face.
“We appreciate the support of everyone on our team,” he continued.“And we aim to provide the top-notch shows you deserve to see.”
“Well, mates, that’s mad.”The DJ paused.“Cheers to coming back better than ever.You’re both mental, but we will be screaming in the stands, eh?You reckon it’ll go well?”
Arend had reached Lon and swiped at the device, but he leaned back.
“Oh, yeah!”Lon said.“London has always loved us, and I’m super grateful for that.Every time we do a show here, I get so energized.I can’t wait to get back on stage for you.”
Arend snatched the phone at last.He bit each word as he said, “One last question for Brand, if you will.”
“Alright.How does it feel to be back in England performing?”
“It’s brilliant,” Brand said.“Reminds me of summer holidays my family took around the EU.It’s like returning home after a long time away.Of course, can’t return home without getting stares.Surreal, but in a good way.”
“Thanks for your time,” the DJ said.“Always a pleasure, and thanks for sharing your stories with us to—.”
Arend hung up the line, his thumb vicious against the glass.He rose and stepped precisely to the window before turning around, his gaze heavy on Ry and Alex.
“Sweet, stoic Alex,” Arend said, each word measured and sharp.“I had a plan to cover both your absences.A good story about the hero Ry working himself to the bone for his fans, only to end up hurting his voice.You’ve ruined the hard work with a few careless words.”
His eyes glittered as they turned to Ry.
Alex spoke, drawing attention back.“The people who care?They want genuine news, not whatever sparkle dust on who to like more this week.”
He crossed his arms, his tank pulling tight.Alex used his powerful build to his advantage, tension radiating from him.Arend took a half-step back, then shook his head.Their manager then turned to Ry.
“I suppose you coordinated?”
Ry shrugged off the weight of the other man’s stare.“Doesn’t matter, does it?”
Arend, surprisingly, laughed.“No, it doesn’t.Now, everyone get out of my room.I have a lot of work to attend to.”He frowned at Alex and deeper at Ry, shooing them out.
Ry shivered once the closed behind him.
Lon clapped him on the shoulder.“Proud of you.”
