Page 139 of Missed Notes (Rixon High 5)

Thankfully, he and Mom had gone straight onto some business in the city, so I’d yet to see him after the disastrous visit to Drexel.

“Come on, J. You’re still a guy down—”

“You don’t know that. We could have found the perfect stand in after you said no.”

“Did you?” My stomach sank.

“No, but we could have.” A faint smile tugged at his mouth.

“So, I’m in?”

“Only if you promise not to screw us over. This is a big fucking deal, Cole. It could be the beginning of everything.”

A trickle of anticipation went through me. It had been so long since I’d played with them—too long. I was bound to be out of touch.

“Do you want to come see the guys? We can catch you up on everything and get you up to speed.”

“I’m meeting Sofia.”

Disappointment flickered in his gaze, but it wasn’t like I could tell him the truth. “Unless… how do you feel about rehearsing to a crowd?”

“You want to bring your girl to watch us?”

“Well, yeah, if that’s okay with you.”

He shrugged. “Can’t see why not. Might be good to get some feedback from an objective source.”

“Great. Let me text her and tell her we’re heading to the studio.”

I dug out my phone and pulled up our chat.

Me: I’m in the band. Heading to the studio to rehearse with the guys. I was hoping you’d want to come and hang out? Bring your lunch…

Sofia: Are you sure it’s okay with the others? I don’t want to intrude. xo

Me: Of course it’s okay. Jude is hoping you’ll provide some impartial feedback on their set.

Sofia: I can totally do that. See you in ten. xo

“She’s in,”I said, pocketing my cell.

“You and Sofia Bennet, it’s serious?” he asked as we maneuvered our way through the crowded hall.

“I guess you could say that. It’s still new but I’m in deep.”

“Who’d have thought it. You and Aaron’s sister.”

“He’s cool with it.”

“I’m sure he is.” Jude smirked. “Just what all guys want to imagine. Their best friend boning their sis—”

“Don’t be a dick.”

“I’m only busting your balls. She seems like a nice girl.”

“She is.”She’s incredible.

“So, what happened with you and your old man?”

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