Page 79 of Driving Beats

Focusing on the disgusting white fluff at the end of my stick, I make sure it catches fire. The way Río likes them. Pointing the stick at my best friend, I say, “For you.”

He blows on the marshmallow to put the flames out. Then, he takes his fingers and removes it and deposits it onto a graham cracker lined with chocolate. He puts a second graham cracker on the top and eats his “sandwich.” With gusto. When he finishes, he taps a rhythm on his thigh and holds his arms up to the starry sky. “Ta da!” Dutifully, we all clap as he bows.

I dare peek at Jenna and Hayden, who are huddled together. Every so often they smile and glance my way. Whatever. I focus on my buddies.

I place a piece of chocolate onto a graham cracker. This is my version of a s’more, and it’s damn good.

Bennett addresses Río. “What are you up to this last week off?”

“Hayden and I have been toying with the idea of driving up to Paso Robles for a few nights. I heard about some great wineries up there. Fans are the only issue. I’m not sure I want to deal with them while I’m having a quiet time with my fiancée.”

Bennett looks as if he was hit on the head. I’m positive I do as well. I find my voice first. “You’re looking for quiet time? You?”

“Hey. Hayden’s changed me. I prefer to avoid loud and obnoxious.”

I blink. So does Bennett. “You’ve always been loud and obnoxious,” I say.

Bennett adds, “The ringleader of loud and obnoxious. Don’t you remember causing a riot at the Trevi Fountain?”

“That wasn’t my fault! Besides, I still like loud. But this trip, I want it to be special. For us. Having to deal with autographs and selfies ruins the romantic mood, you know?”

Is this really my best friend talking? “Río.” I tap his leg. “I can’t believe this, but you’ve grown up. You actually are looking to be out of the spotlight?” This is… a better version of him. All thanks to Hayden.

Nese could do this for me. I scowl.

“Whatever, dude. I only want to spend quality time away from prying eyes.” He turns toward Bennett. “You know what I’m talking about, right?”

Meaning I don’t. I should’ve recorded this conversation for Nese. Then I remember her words about my taking up the slack so Bennett and Río can catch a break. My ears perk up for Bennett’s response.

“I do. I’ve found by putting on a ball cap and glasses, I’m able to be around a crowd a bit more easily. It’s a hassle, but what other job would you want? I can’t imagine anything.”

UC’s drummer sighs. “I guess you’re right. What are your thoughts about my taking Hayden to some wineries up there?”

“I think it’ll be fun so long as you stay sober and don’t cause a scene.”

I can hear Luke rubbing off on our lead singer. But he’s not wrong. “Why don’t you drive to the wineries? That way, you won’t be tempted to overindulge.”

Bennett adds, “Just remember to spit.”

“Ewww, gross.” Hayden says. “What on earth are you guys talking about over here?”

Río grabs his fiancée around the waist, and deposits her on his lap. “I was telling them what I wanted to do to you during our last week off.” Hayden tries to get away, but Río simply holds her tighter. She giggles as he kisses her.

Bennett puts his arm around Jenna. “How about you, Mrs. Hardy. How do you want to spend this final week, here in the City of Angels?”

Her head drops to his shoulder. “So long as we’re together, I’m good.” They kiss.

To no one, I say, “I’m going to a meditation retreat.” As expected, no one responds.

The next morning, my alarm wakes me. I rub my hands together. “Time to get ready for the retreat I’ve missed the past three weeks.” Silence. Good. I have time to set my mind in the proper headspace.

I take a shower, shave, and put on a pair of sweats Nese selected.

Rather, I recently purchased. Better.

In the kitchen, I open the fridge but don’t have the energy to make toast for one. Yogurt and a banana will have to do.

I drive to the retreat, devoid of my usual buzz of positivity. At least I’m alone in the car, and not being joined by Lillian. That has to count as a perk.