Page 144 of Missed Notes (Rixon High 5)

“Music is not a viable career option.”

“Says who? I’m under no illusion that I’ll be the next big thing, Dad, but there are hundreds of jobs out there for someone with a passion for music.”

“Curtis, maybe Cole—”

“Enough.” He slammed his fist down on the table, making Mom flinch. Part of me was surprised she’d even tried to intervene on my behalf. She knew he wouldn’t budge. Not on this.

His expression turned murderous. “I will not fund some two-bit music degree that will lead nowhere but to you busking the street like some bum.”

“Nice, Dad. Real nice.” I shot up, the chair legs scraping against the tiles.

“Where do you think you’re going?”

“I think we’re done here.”

“We’re not done until I say we’re done.”

But I was already backing away, unwilling to spend even a second longer listening to his tirade. We would never see eye to eye on this, and the truth was, I didn’t want or need his approval.

“Cole, sweetheart, maybe you should hear your father out.”

My heart sank. Of course she’d side with him in the end.

“Sorry, Mom.” I met her apologetic stare. “I’m done. I won’t go to Drexel just to appease him. Not when we both know that won’t be good enough anyway.” My gaze moved to him. “You’ve always pushed me to be something I’m not. But do you know what I think,Dad?” I spat the word. “I think no matter what I do or achieve, it’ll never be good enough for you.”

Something flashed over his face, but it was gone almost as quickly as it came.

“I’m applying to music school whether you like it or not.”

“And how do you plan on paying your way, Son?” he snarled. “Because make no mistake, Cole. Do this, and you won’t get a penny from me.”

I shrugged, so over his bullshit. “I’ll figure it out. And if I don’t, at least I’ll know I didn’t cave to your unrealistic demands.”

“You’re making a huge mistake, Son,” he called after me.

But I was already gone.

The final nail in our relationship was well and truly driven home.

CHAPTERTWENTY-FIVE

Sofia

The week flew by.

I spent my days at school, sneaking off with Cole to make out under the bleachers or in an empty classroom. Aaron and Ezra were constantly teasing him about it, but he didn’t care.

But they didn’t know there was a pressing urgency between us. A silent promise to steal as much time together as we could before everything changed again.

We hung out in Jude’s garage every night so they could rehearse. I liked Jude and Mikey. They were good for Cole, for his hopes and dreams. I couldn’t quite get a good read on Travis, but he always made me feel welcome and valued my input.

I was happy.

Cole made me happy.

But as the weekend crept closer, so too did the moment I finally told Aaron about my diagnosis.

The team were so close to the playoffs. So close to making all their dreams come true. I didn’t want to tarnish that, and I definitely didn’t want to distract him. But Cole and my parents were right.

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