The recordings were nearly cd ready on the first take. It always amazed her how a relaxed atmosphere leads to amazing musical creations.

By Friday afternoon everyone in the band was anxious. It wasn’t that they were unsure of the show, it was the exact opposite. They were ready to share their new line up with their fans. Ashley had the added incentive of playing Come Down to Me for Spencer.

The sound check was a little rocky but Taylor refused to let that affect their positive mood.

“Alright guys we got ten minutes so shake off that sound check earlier. We know what we’re doin.” Taylor said as a group pep talk. She knew she sucked at them but the guys listened anyways. She looked over at Ashley and said, “Hey how are you doin?”

“I haven’t seen Spencer yet. She texted me sayin she’d be late but I was hopin she’d be here by now.”

“Ashley, look at me.” Taylor waited a few seconds before grabbing Ashley’s shoulders and physically moving her. “She’ll be here don’t worry. But I asked how you were, not the reason for you being tense.”

“I’m ok. Really.” Ashley said avoiding eye contact with Taylor.

“Don’t lie to me, I’m not as dumb as I look.” Taylor said trying to joke with Ashley.

“I don’t think you’re dumb at all where would you…” Ashley stopped herself and realized what was going on. “You were joking weren’t you?”

“Yeah. I’m trying to get you to relax. You can’t go out there when you are this tense. Really we’re gonna be great. You have nothing to worry about.”

“I know I’m just really nervous. I’m not giving into using liquid courage to help me through this so I’ve gotta find another way, it’s a new concept to me. I was hoping seeing Spencer would calm me down.”

“Turn around.” Taylor ordered. Although Ashley was confused she did as she was told. Taylor continued, “This usually calms me. A nice neck and shoulder rub.” After a few minutes, “Feel a little better?”

“A bit thank you. How much time do we have?”

“A couple.”

“Alright. I’m gonna run to the bathroom quick before we go on.”

With a shared smile they parted. What they didn’t realize was that Kyle saw their whole exchange. He didn’t know how he could use this information to his advantage but he definitely wanted to cause trouble.