AllFreeNovel
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I look down at the pages of my journal covered in lyrics. I intended to write new songs today, but my brain has been consumed with thoughts of the man next to Kevin.
When Liam walked onto the bus in dark jeans and a tight white T-shirt, my mouth went dry. From shock, and from a hormone rush. It’s not the first time I’ve seen him without a suit on, but it’s the first time I’ve allowed myself to really look at him since the Rolling Stone interview. Dressed so casually, it makes me feel like I’ve been thrown back in time to sophomore year.
I shrug at Kevin. “Writer’s block, I guess.”
At my statement Liam’s eyes flick up to watch me, but I stop myself from meeting his gaze. His stare makes the hair rise on the back of my neck.
“Want some help?” Kevin flips his long brown hair over his shoulder.
“Sure. That would be great.”
Kevin and I have written a few songs together. I always enjoy working with him both on stage and off. He’s fun and somehow makes everything feel lighter. I’d never say it out loud, but he’s definitely my favorite band member, and he knows it. I have no doubt I’m his, too. Jane is a close second.
Kevin stands then comes to sit next to me on the small gray couch. He pulls out his acoustic guitar from under the seat, then glances across to Liam. He’s gone back to his book, but I don’t think he’s reading it. I haven’t seen him turn a page in a while.
“Do you mind, bro?”
Liam looks up and shakes his head. “Not at all. Have at it.”
“Right on,” Kevin grins wider. “Let me see what you have so far.”
I give him my notebook and settle back against the couch. It’s then I remember that the words on the page might say more to Kevin, and to Liam, than I want said out loud. But it’s too late now, Kevin has the notebook and he’s already reading.
His icy blue eyes meet mine then dart over to Liam, who thankfully is “reading” his book again.
“It’s good, B. I think the structure just needs some work, maybe a few words in the chorus need to be switched up.”
“Really?”
“Yeah, it’s heartfelt. You thinking a ballad?”
I tap my chin. In my brain it’s more of an upbeat song, but he’s right, it’s probably better as a ballad. “I hadn’t been, but I think it’s a great idea.”
He starts strumming out some chords on his guitar, and as the mellow notes wash over me, I feel at peace. I’m thankful that we’re driving to Atlanta. I need some time to make music and rest. Even if it’s only for a day.
I begin humming to the notes Kev’s playing and fiddle around with the melody. Liam turns his gaze to me and our eyes lock.
I’m thrown back to a memory of a summer night with him ten years ago…
Sometimes I forget that Liam Miller and I are actually friends.
Not just friends, but best friends.
We’re sitting outside in his backyard. Both of his parents are at work and Mom is at some Yoga retreat, so Liam invited me over to listen to music while we watch the meteor shower tonight.
We set up a bunch of snacks and Liam even lit a little bonfire for us. I brought my little keyboard too, which was a pain to get over here without a car. Thankfully Liam isn’t that far of a walk from my place.
“Have you been working on your new song?” He throws some popcorn in the air and catches it in his mouth.
“A little. I had an English paper due that took up all my time. But now I’m free!”
“I’m sure you’ll ace it, Birdie girl.”
My heart flutters. “I hope so. Anyway, I worked on it a little last night. Wanna hear it?”
“Play away, Piano Man,” he winks.
I grin at him. Gosh, he’s so beautiful. The firelight reflects in his eyes, and it makes the pools of chocolate dance. He’s so cute… actually, he’s dreamy. I really don’t get why he hangs out with me. But he’s here now, and I’m not going to question it any further.
