Page 10 of Just Wait

I’ve spent the last two or three weeks trying to pin down who smells like pears and roses. It was becoming a fun mystery, and I’d had more than a few ridiculous fantasies about what I would do when I tracked her down.

The guys from Tangled Desires bounce off the stage, and the fans backstage scream their names, begging for autographs and selfies.

I’m still not sure why security failed to pin her over with the rest of the fans, but it’s not my business.

I roll my shoulders back, repositioning my mask.

They put me in the full-faced poisoner version tonight. It’s light gray with black filigree along the cheekbones. The bottom has two black gas mask elements on either side with more of the same delicate filigree designs. The mouthpiece is matte black and built out from the mask. It’s just open over my actual mouth to allow me to sing without the raspy echo that occurs with a fully enclosed mask.

The label also had half masks made in each of our styles. Those are significantly easier to breathe in, but for whatever reason, wardrobe rarely puts us in them.

Sometimes I wish we had gone completely anonymous when we had the chance. It would have been a pain in the ass while touring—it’s hard to stay unrecognizable when my hair is as long as it is and we have distinguishable tattoos—but it would make life a whole lot easier when we’re home and trying to go to the grocery store without being bombarded by fans.

It’s too late for that, meaning it’s time for me to get my shit together and put on a damn good show.

Chapter Three

Lumen

Theo makes it off the stage, and I stay close to the wall. The guitar techs grab the guys’ instruments, and the sound guys collect their mixers while others hand over water and towels.

As soon as he’s done, Theo looks around for me. A bright smile crosses his face when he spots me, and he weaves his way over, pulling me into his chest. He’s sweaty, but performing is a solid workout.

Dipping his head to mine, he gives me a quick kiss. “Did you enjoy the show?”

“I always do.”

“We killed it tonight.” He grins. “They loved everything we did.”

“Come on, bro,” Jesse says, slapping Theo on the back as the security guys release the fans who have been waiting for just this moment. “We gotta sign autographs and take pictures.”

“We’ll catch up as soon as I’m free,” Theo says, squeezing my ass. “I heard there’s a big party tonight.”

“I’ll be around,” I tell him, but he’s already stepping back and into the crush of bodies.

I sigh, trying to shake off the funk I’ve been in. I never understood that saying about being alone in a crowd. Not until now.

Theo does his best to make sure I’m not forgotten, and I appreciate it. I still feel like the third wheel when it comes to him and the fans.

Turning back toward the stage, I lean against the wall and focus on Liminal.

It’s rare for the headliner to go out immediately following the opening act stepping off stage, but I bet it’s nice for the audience since they don’t have to wait. That break between bands is used for the stage to be changed over, and I have no idea why this venue is different.

Liminal has more spotlights and pyrotechnics than Tangled Desires, but that’s not unusual since they’re the headliner.

Kincaid is at the front of the stage, leaning forward and singing into his mic. I’ve seen this song performed live during a few shows, and as soon as his intro verses are over, he’ll be singing and playing.

It’s an almost eerie experience with Kincaid’s raspy tone and Riser’s low, methodical slams of his sticks.

Malcolm is closest to my side of the stage, and his forearms flex as he plays. It’s clear he’s holding back to match the tempo, but that man is insane when it comes to guitar solos.

It’s crazy being able to watch such a seasoned band from backstage access and have it not cost a dime.

I still can’t believe how much life has changed for us in so little time.

When it comes to partying, I’m not at rock-star level. My head pounds with a wicked hangover the next day as the guys practice. Although my mouth is weirdly dry, every time I drink more than a few sips of water, I feel like I’m going to hurl.

I’m miserable and confused how everyone else managed to crawl out of bed when they have to feel like death warmed over.