Puffing out my chest, I’m sure my grin is wide.
James Collins looks to the crowd and spots the Lancasters. Pointing them out, he says, “I can see how everyone would be confused. Aside from their clothes, they’re identical.”
Without a thought, I’m reaching for the mic and setting the record straight. “Oh, James, they may be identical but trust me, there are subtle differences. After being on tour with Sloane,she’s… well, she’s like a sister to me, but Raven… well, she’s nothing like a sister. In fact, I’ve never loved anyone the way I love her. So, trust me… there’s a huge difference between them, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.”
Raven’s mouth just hangs open as the audience cheers.
The emcee chuckles. “Well… that’s certainly how to dispel any rumors. I know I, for one, can’t wait to hear your new single “Impossible Fears”. I also hope you release “Dating Season” sooner than later. I felt that song deep in my soul and know others will, too.”
Now that the weddings and festival are over, the guys have been in the studio almost nonstop. They only have another week or so before their studio time runs out. From my understanding, they’re close to finishing the album and have plans to release it in September, which means they’ll be touring around the country to promote it.
Things between Finn and I have never been better. We’re spending every chance we can together. Our schedules are a bit hectic, but like most busy couples, we’re making things work. We’ve even had countless talks about me joining them on tour.
Unfortunately, I can’t afford a trip like that. I’m in need of permanent employment and should stick around so I can make ends meet. For now, I’m grabbing every shift I can, but I wish I could find enough freelance jobs to make it my full-time gig.
As it is, I’m up before dawn, working on graphics every spare chance I can around my shifts at Pop’s and spending time with Finn. The tips are great, but I’ve been burning the candle at both ends, and I’m not sure how much longer I can keep this up.
Now, for instance, I only have an hour until my I’m due at Pop’s. I’m working on a freelance design for Smashing WavesRecords. They’ve hired me for a test run at making graphics and logos for their new and existing clients. I’ve been designing all day, but I still need to put the finishing touches to a logo for Ruby Frax so I can make my deadline. With a few more tweaks, I’ll be done then I’ll send it off for approval. If this goes well, I might be able to get steady work with them, alleviating my need for a second job.
Just as I hit send, a text chimes on my phone.
Finn: Hey, sweetness. How’s your day?
Before I can respond, a photo of a very sad Finn arrives with another quick text.
Finn: Any chance I can see you tonight? I miss you.
Grinning at his pathetic expression, I quickly tap out a response.
Me: Miss you, too. On my way to Pop’s. If you’re not already sick of their food, you know where to find me.
He’s been known to pop in during my shifts. He blames it on hating to cook. By the look in his eye as he watches me work, I’m certain I have everything to do with it. I don’t mind. I want to spend as much time with him as possible.
Finn: You’ve twisted my arm. Besides, I’ve got some exciting news to share. See you in a bit.
News? What news? I’m quickly learning his exciting news could be anything from he had a great sandwich today to theyjust picked up a major venue on the tour. He’s used the same phrase for both. I have no idea what his news could be.
Me: You’re gonna make me wait? Just tell me already.
Finn: Nope. You’ll find out when I get there.
Me: Gah… if you were gonna make me wait, it’s just mean teasing me about it.
Finn: That’s why you love me. (winky face emoji)
Me: I do love you, but I don’t have to like you right now…
Finn: Oh, I’ll make it up to you and have you liking me in no time.
Me: Sure sure. (face with raised eyebrow emoji)
Finn: Gotta run. See you soon.
It’s rather slow tonight. There’s a steady line of customers, but most are regulars coming in for tuna casserole. For most restaurants, it’s Taco Tuesday—for us here at Pop’s Hops, it’s Tuna Tuesday. Jo, the owner, makes a mean tuna casserole, and it’s my goal to get the recipe someday.
“Hey, Sweetheart,” Tonya says to me as she picks up her next order. “There’s a tall and tatted man looking for you.”
Tonya knows exactly who Finn is but likes to tease me when she can.
