Page 1 of vKissed By the Bartender

Chapter 1

candice

A feeling of nostalgia envelops me as I shake off the afternoon rain from my hair and step into the local bar, my guitar hanging from one shoulder and a mash-up of my songs playing aimlessly in my head.

The last time I was in Wildvale, I was only just old enough to enter a bar, let alone chug down a beer.

Strangely though, this place feels like home, warm and cozy like a cup of steaming chocolate by the fireplace in the midst of a cold winter evening.

I glance around. The red brick walls combined with touches of wood and framed photos of Wildvale in its early days, the soft lighting that gives just the right illumination for the bargoers, and the rustic laid-back atmosphere. …

Everything here reminds me of sweet old memories with family and friends.

This is home.

Why did it take me so long to come back? And I have only a month to enjoy the freedom away from my handlers and away from the pressure of a looming life-changing decision.

One month to reflect and weigh the choices. One month to have some me-time while my parents are having the time of their lives on a cruise.

Just one month before I’m scheduled to play at the Wildvale Stadium, and then to move on to whatever path I decide to take for my future.

A clap of thunder cuts into my reverie. I let out a silent, sarcastic laugh as I’m dragged back to reality. Through the windows, I see the darkening sky. This April shower’s bound to turn quickly into a bad storm.

The tune playing in my head transitions from upbeat to ominous. Slow and brooding.

I take a seat near the door. It has a great view of the place. It’s my way of easing back into this town after such a long time. I’m still hesitant to go all the way in.

I put down my guitar beside me. My ever-loyal companion.

I pull out my journal and a pen and start writing all my fleeting thoughts and mixed-up emotions. This helps me relax.

The warm, inviting atmosphere of the bar embraces me. At least it isn’t crowded today. No one recognizes me either, which is something to be thankful for.

I hear the loud pattering of the rain on the glass and the howling wind.

At least I’m safe and dry for now. I’ll figure out where to sleep later since the inn I’m supposed to stay at didn’t have an available room until morning.

“Hi, honey!” I’m startled by someone greeting me. I hadn’t noticed a waitress coming up.

She smiles at me warmly. “My name is Kyndrah. What can I get for you?” I can tell that she was sizing me up, probably trying to figure out where she has seen me before.

“I’ll have some ice water with lemon, please,” I answer. “And any salad with a light dressing.” I didn’t even bother checking out the menu.

I look down at the notes and scribble in my journal. But the waitress speaks up again.

“Excuse me, not to be rude, but I usually know everybody who comes in here…” she starts to say. “I recognize almost everyone in these parts, even newcomers, are recognizable due to their kin folk showing off their pictures and such. But you… you don’t seem to ring any bells, honey. Would you mind me asking your name?”

“Candy,” I say with a slight smile. “Candy Barr’s my stage name, but you might know me as Candice Barron. I was born and raised here in Wildvale.”

Her eyes light up. Her smile spreads even wider as she steps closer and gives me a hug.

“Oh, good lord!” she exclaims. “It’s so good to see you home. I’ve followed your music for seven years, but I had no idea that Candy and Candice are one and the same. I’m so happy and proud that Candy’s someone from my town!”

Her energy is definitely contagious. I feel the gloom within me disappear. “Thank you, Kyndrah.”

“For a big star like you, I’ll have that salad made in no time!” she says cheerfully before walking away.

Moments like this make my music career totally worth it. Whenever I met admirers and followers who appreciate what I do, I feel uplifted. It feels amazing to learn how my music has touched them in some way. It’s very rewarding.

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