Page 44 of Busted String

Chapter Twenty-One

Jace

The moment they arrived in Reno, they were greeted by a dazzling display of city lights, while the lively atmosphere of the bustling streets engulfed them. Nico had booked two rooms at the hotel, ensuring that he and Jace would have the privacy they desired, while also providing Sammie with the space he required.

Jace stepped into the hotel room, feeling the plush carpet as walked. The room exuded luxury, with modern art adorning the walls and elegant furnishings. Floor-to-ceiling windows provided a breathtaking view of the Reno skyline, the city lights twinkling like stars in the night. A large king-sized bed with crisp white linens occupied the center of the room, and a sleek glass table was set with a welcome basket of gourmet treats. Everything about the room screamed opulence and comfort. Of course, Nico had footed the bill. His money appeared to be never-ending, like a bottomless well that he could always dip into.

Nico collapsed onto the bed with a satisfied groan, clearly exhausted from the day’s drive. Jace ordered room service, opting for an indulgent spread of steaks, lobster tails, and a decadent chocolate dessert.

Once the food arrived, they settled in, the aroma of the meal filling the air. Jace served Nico in bed on a tray.

“Thanks, Jace. Come and eat beside me.”

Jace removed his shoes and socks and carried his tray to the bed. “This is the life,” he said. “Us in bed together.”

“You finally grew up, Jace. I remember when I first met you. You were just adorable, and you looked up to me.”

“I still do. Don’t you still think I’m adorable?”

“Very. I love you so much. Now, you’re very successful. I can’t believe how well you perform, even when things are not in your favor. You lose yourself in singing and dancing.”

“You don’t just like my cute ass. That means a lot to me.”

“Jace! You’re so silly sometimes. I love all of you. Do you like your dinner?”

“Yes. Love it. You’re so generous to all of us.”

“You three are my family.”

“I know.” Jace paused for a minute. “Alright,” Jace started, cutting into his steak. “We need to figure out how to get Mark back.”

Nico sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I know. We can’t afford to lose him, especially with Black Rock City coming up. But he’s so stubborn. Once he’s made up his mind, it’s hard to change it.”

Jace nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. “Maybe we need to appeal to what he cares about most. Remind him of what the band means to him. It’s not just about us, it’s about the music we create together.”

Nico looked thoughtful, chewing slowly. “He’s always been sensitive about feeling left out. Maybe we’ve unintentionally made him feel that way. We need to show him he’s an integral part of this band.”

“Agreed,” Jace said, feeling the weight of their discussion. “But we also need to be firm about his behavior. He can’t keep lashing out every time he feels insecure.”

Nico gave a small nod, a determined glint in his eye. “We’ll talk to him. Lay it all out. Hopefully, he’ll understand and come back.”

“I think Mark has the biggest problem with me. I need to meet him without you.”

“Only in a public place.”

“I’m going to call him.”

“Okay. You will tell me the place and time.”

“Yes, love.” Jace kissed Nico’s cheek and took his phone to the bathroom.

Jace took a deep breath as he stepped into the bathroom and closed the door. The quiet hum of the hotel room faded, leaving him alone with his thoughts. With a mix of determination and trepidation, he dialed Mark’s number.

After a few rings, Mark answered. “What do you want, Jace?”

Jace leaned against the sink, trying to steady his nerves. “Mark, I’m sorry. I’m really sorry you felt left out. You’re like the brother I never had, and I hate that we’re fighting like this.”

Mark’s sigh was heavy with frustration. “It’s not just about feeling left out, Jace. It’s about feeling like I don’t matter to the band anymore. You and Nico have this thing, and I’m just…there.”

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