Page 27 of Busted String

As they finished their meal, Nico cleared his throat. “Hey, guys, we have something to tell you.”

Sammie’s eyes widened. “What is it?”

“Well, Jace and I…” Nico paused, taking a deep breath. “We’re together.”

Sammie’s face lit up. “Oh, that’s wonderful news!” he exclaimed, clapping his hands. “I’m so happy for you both.”

Mark, however, didn’t seem as enthusiastic. He frowned and crossed his arms. “Are you sure this is a good idea, Jace?”

Jace met his gaze directly. “Yes, I’m sure.”

“I just think…” Mark hesitated. “I think you’re volatile, Jace. This could be bad for the band.”

Nico bristled. “How can you say that? We’ve been getting along great.”

“It’s not just about you two,” Mark insisted. “It’s about the whole band. If things go south between you two, it could tear us apart.”

Sammie tried to intervene. “Come on, Mark. Let’s give them a chance. They’re happy. Why can’t we be happy for them?”

Mark sighed. “I just want what’s best for the band.”

“I do too,” Jace replied firmly. “And I think being with Nico is the best thing that could happen to me.”

“I’m the band manager. I can guarantee you our relationship will not destroy the band.”

“You know how Jace can be sometimes. I doubt you can put up with his shit for very long,” Mark said.

Jace couldn’t believe the words coming out of Mark’s mouth. They’d sung together so many times and he thought so little of him? Had he used Jace to get some success? This was not the way Mark should talk about him when he was sitting right there.

“If Jace gets in trouble, I’ll spank him,” Nico said.

Jace turned and looked at Nico. “You’re kidding, right?”

“Do I look like I’m kidding?”

“See, they’re about to have their first fight,” Mark said.

“We’re not fighting,” Jace said.

“Let’s pack up.”

“Where are we going?” Sammie asked.

“We’re going to Sequoia National Park. I’ve rented a cabin for us. This will be a working vacation. We need to practice for Black Rock City. We’ll be deep in the woods, away from people.”

“Wow! When did you rent a cabin?” Jace said.

“Last night. Are you good with that?” Nico asked.

“Yes, I think we need time away from people,” Jace said.

“I love that idea,” Sammie said.

“What do you think, Mark?” Nico asked.

“Do we have our own rooms?”

“Jace and I are in one, and you two have your own rooms.”

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