Page 71 of One More Song

More fans now than ever before. Turns out transitioning into a solo career made the most sense for me. Not because I didn’t want to keep performing with the band, hell, the guys and I get together often enough for a show - but my music has changed over time, and it was time to branch out.

Now, I stand with a guitar in hand, before an amphitheater, singing my goddamn heart out.

Tonight is special, the entire family is here, off stage. I didn’t know if they would make it. And my heart swells when I see them.

When I play the opening chords of the song, that happened to be my break out hit, the crowd goes nuts.

I look over my shoulder, see Ember standing there, her eyes bright as ever, holding our year old son, Lyric, in her arms. She shines, that girl and god do I love her. Cadence is next to her, holding Melody’s hand. Both of them looking at me like I hung the stars and moon in the sky.

That’s the way they make me feel. Like I can do anything. Like I’m more than my past mistakes.

I’m their father. It’s the best job in the world. And I’d take their hugs and kisses over a million screaming fans any day.

“This song is for the love of my life,” I say, grinning over my shoulder at Ember. “The woman who picked me up when I was down, loved me all the same.”

I want my kids to be proud of me, and when I begin to sing, I look at them, feeling so much love filling this arena. How could it not? Inspiration can be found anywhere, but I found mine right here, with my family.

I’ll keep runnin’

Every damn day.

I’ll keep runnin’

So you gotta stay.

Into your arms, that’s where I’ll be.

Runnin’ so fast, you’re all I see.

Didn’t think I was born for this, yet here I am.

Being the one you need, a family man.

I’ll keep runnin’

So long as you’re mine.

Runnin’ into your arms

Till the end of time.

When I finish the song, I thank the crowd before hurrying off stage I wrap my arms around Ember. “You made it, baby.”

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

It’s a special night, yes because they are here, but also because it’s Cadence’s birthday.

“They’re ready for the encore,” my manager says. “You ready?”

The amphitheater is thrumming with energy and I grin at my wife. She nods, giving me the go-ahead.

“Hey, Cadence, you wanna come play with me?”

Her eyes grow wide, big as the moon. “Really, Dad?”

“Your new song is beautiful. They’ll love it.”

She covers her face, trying to compose herself. Ember and I don’t want to pressure her into this, but the other part of us knows it is our girl’s heart and soul. She plays the piano for hours each day, has more talent in her pinky than I do in my whole body.

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