Page 19 of Luci’s Lullaby

“Let’s do this,” I shout as I take the stage.

“Alright,” John says as he twirls his sticks. “Everything okay, man?”

I grit my teeth, trying to rein in my ire. “Uh-huh.”

“Good deal. Let’s do it.” He hits the drum, drawing everyone’s attention.

I stroke my guitar, hoping it’ll soothe my mood, but the second I look up, her haunting blue eyes pin me to the spot. What is it about her? She’s so far under my skin, it feels as though it’s crawling.

“Alden?” I cut my eyes at Mark. “You got this?”

I whip my head toward him. “Yes. Play.” The music cranks up, and I get into the performance zone. “Hey, y’all ready to shake off the week?” The crowd roars. “Well, then, get up and shake those money makers.”

They go wild and for the next hour, I put everything I’ve got into the performance of a lifetime. I sing everything from Skynyrd to .38 Special to Conway and Luke Combs.

By the end of the set, I’m staring her down, waiting on a response. She leans in, whispering to Emerson. “We’re gonna take a quick break and be back a little later. Please stick around and enjoy the sights and sounds of Black Creek. Let’s make them feel welcome!”

Taking off my guitar, I’m met by Aksel and a gorgeous blonde with legs a mile long. “Aksel,” I greet him.

“Alden Beck, may I introduce Samantha Moxy owner of 401 Entertainment.” He steps to the side so I can take her outreached hand.

“Great show, Alden.” She rubs her thumb over mine with a smile. “You can call me, Sam.”

I pull it away slowly. “Thank you.”

“I’m liking what I see. We would love to book you for the Carolina Country Festival. Are you under management?” She angles her head as her eyes roam my body.

I turn from her to Aksel and back again. There’s a lightness in my chest. “Are you kidding me?”

“Not at all, congratulations.” Aksel takes my hand.

I shake his uncontrollably. “Thank you, I won’t let you down.”

“I’m assuming you don’t have representation.” Sam quirks her brow.

My face reddens. “I do not.”

“Good.” A smile spreads across her face. “Let’s get him a contract because this rising star needs a manager.”

“First thing in the morning.” Aksel grins.

I take her hand once again, shaking it. “Thank you, again. I won’t disappoint you.”

“Make sure you don’t.” She caresses my hand. “Welcome to 401 Entertainment.”

“Sam, I’ll show you out.” Aksel motions toward the door. “Alden, I’ll be back to buy you a drink.”

Sam spins on us. “Don’t drink too much, I want you there first thing in the a.m.”

I hold up my hands. “I will be ready to go.”

“I’m counting on it.” Her lip quirks before walking away.

“I’ll be right back, go join Emerson.” Aksel gives me a thumbs up before jogging to catch up with his boss.

I’m in a daze as I make my way over to his table, only to find the girl from before sitting alone. “Where’s Emerson?”

“She ran away,” she snaps.