2

 

From his vantage in the wings of Studio B, Drew focused on Kaytlin Somers. The effervescent host of Tri-State Morning angled toward a camera that rolled close then went hot. Styled in a chic peach suit, the bubbly brunette smiled brighter than the overhead lights that doused the living room style studio over which she reigned.

“Welcome back to the second hour of our show, folks, and do we have a treat for you.” Kaytlin shifted and leaned forward. “I want you to meet Aileen Brewer, Siobhan Douglas, Kassidy Cartwright, and Maeve Callahan. Together this quartet forms the Christian music group Sisters in Spirit—an ensemble of song and dance that’s taking the east coast by storm and is set to claim hearts and fans across the rest of North America. Ladies, welcome to the show.”

Drew tracked the video monitor, where a smooth camera pan revealed the girls, two to each side of their host. Kaytlin continued. “Aileen, I’ll start with you since I understand it was you and group manager, Liam Douglas, who brainstormed the idea of Sisters in Spirit and turned what was supposed to be a one-time performance into a fast-building phenomenon. Tell us how the ensemble came to be.”

“I’d be glad to, Kaytlin. You see, the four of us have known one another since high school, and our mutual passion has always been singing and performance. We reunited after graduating from college when we returned to our hometown of Westerville, New York.” She gave a delicate shrug. “At that point, I think we were all trying to get a handle on what would happen next in our lives. That’s when Liam—who is also Siobhan’s brother—told me about a variety show he wanted us to perform in, a fundraiser to support Catholic education. His idea was that we would perform, have a bit of a lark and a reunion, then enjoy the memory of it years later. Simple as that.” Aileen beamed and gestured outward, encompassing her friends. “His idea turned into the journey of a lifetime.”

Drew continued to study the monitor. Dressed in knee-length dresses of black lace and tulle, the quartet’s hair and makeup was perfect. They presented the quintessential image of chic elegance with one very important component added to the mix: a charming, approachable warmth. Plus, the power of their friendship shined.

“So you weren’t looking for the success, the audience reaction, and momentum that followed?”

The girls exchanged smiles. “No, not at all,” Maeve replied. “In fact, had someone told me a year or so ago that this group, this season of life, is where I’d end up, I would have most likely laughed out loud.”

Kassidy shrugged, graceful and lovely, causing Drew’s heart to skip and thump. “Our group, its success, proves the point that God’s plan and will comes to fruition no matter what our own plots and ideas.”

“What an amazing story.” Kaytlin focused on Maeve and Siobhan. “Your performances are music based, with three of you claiming the stage to sing covers of classic Christian contemporary music. But you, Siobhan, add a special twist—a unique element—in the form of dance. I’m sure our viewers would be amazed by the way you overcame the odds and recovered from a horrible car accident late last year.”

From there, history was exhumed. Drew watched via monitor while Siobhan claimed the camera, sharing the heartbreaking details of an icy spin out that had left her with a broken left leg and badly sprained arm. While Siobhan recounted the details of her recovery, Drew walked the pathway of his own recent past, falling into the memory of a meeting with Cameron Franklin, his boss at Ganneton Productions.

“Drew, I want to make it clear that in spite of what happened or didn’t happen, between you and Roxanne Mitchell when her tour kicked off last year, we believe in you, and have nothing but confidence in your abilities. She asked that you be removed from her tour, and you agreed. No harm, no foul, except for innuendo.”

Drew wanted to chime in fast with a rebuttal, but Cameron seemed to sense his reaction and waved it off with an urgent shake of his hand. “Never mind all that. I’m willing to leave the matter right there because you possess the gift of making artists look good—larger than life even—by keying in on what will appeal to their chosen audience and bring an image, a message, to life. Liam Douglas at Zion’s Peak Records is a close friend of yours, right?”

Drew fought to remain composed, struggling for control in the face of unwarranted scrutiny and unfounded accusation about his removal from Roxanne Mitchell’s venture into live production of her adult contemporary music. “Yes, Liam and I went to college together.”

“Liam has been lobbying hard to secure your expertise for a nationwide tour featuring four Christian women. The group, Sisters in Spirit, has created quite a following along the east coast.” Cam’s shrug hefted the shoulder line of a gray silk suit coat. “Thing is, their dancer just recovered from a debilitating car accident. We’re not sure how or when the tour will play out, but I want to put you on standby. If the dancer recovers, if a tour is green-lighted, it could turn into a redemption story for you. I mean, rumors abounded about you and Roxy, but no way would there be a romantic entanglement with women who are part of a Christian performance group, right?”

Drew seethed, nearly lifted from his chair in front of Cameron’s desk. A supreme act of will—and restraint—held him in check.

“This tour calls for your sharp eye and finesse. According to Liam Douglas, Sisters in Spirit is all about refined elegance and class. It’ll be a good project for you to tackle, and it’ll show the entertainment world that you’re not…well…that you’re able to be trusted…with…”

Drew choked back a growl, tempering a sense of frustration and anger. Instead, he plowed straight into the elephant standing in the middle of the room. “You want to show the world that I’m a man who can work with women without stirring up waves of gossip or controversy. That I’m not some kind of philandering heartbreaker. Is that what you’re getting at?”

Drew didn’t snap the words. Anger didn’t light a match to his tone. Rather, he remained just as he should—professional, even keeled, and controlled. He had done nothing—absolutely nothing—wrong.

Cameron didn’t flinch from Drew’s steady gaze. “That’s it precisely.”

Drew came away from the meeting split in half about which road to take. Part of him ached to silence those naysayers in the industry. Any tour manager and concert promoter would jump at the opportunity he was being given. Drew itched to take charge of the Sisters in Spirit tour. According to the details Cameron had outlined, no expense would be spared. This tour would feature top of the line staging, effects, lighting, and orchestration. Drew needed only to coordinate final logistics, assemble and refine staging from venue to venue and promote it like crazy. Ganneton and Zion’s Peak wanted to make sure Sisters in Spirit found its way to a permanent slice of the limelight, especially after the way the group had stumbled into a whirlwind of passionate fans, successful performances, and a rush of momentum the likes of which most artists could only dream.

Once Siobhan received the all-clear, the girls were as excited about moving forward as the record and tour execs. They looked at it as a chance to bring God’s message to an even larger audience. Out of respect for Liam’s support, fueled by the motivation to prove his professionalism, Drew agreed to take charge of the tour. That’s when he met the four women face-to-face during a Sunday dinner gathering at the home of Siobhan and Liam Douglas.

That’s when he met Kassidy, and Drew knew if his noble intentions stood any chance at all of surviving, he needed to tread very carefully to ensure history didn’t repeat itself. Attraction sparked to life the instant he saw her—a lightning strike that hit as soon as he took hold of her hand in an innocent nice-to-meet-you handshake, and a zing of electricity slipped merrily through his bloodstream.

After that, a formal meeting took place in a conference room at Ganneton Productions that included the female quartet.

Seated at a conference table with his clients, Drew began in a straightforward, blunt manner, first addressing Liam. “Theoretically what they’re doing should bore people to tears. In simple terms, we have four performers, three of them singers, one a dancer to enhance stage presence. They sing hymns and cover pieces of contemporary Christian music. Should be a huge yawn.”

The sharp phrasing was deliberate, a testing of thick skin and reaction. Drew took in the affronted glares exchanged by the women in attendance as well as their carefully controlled, silent response. They waited in stillness rather than lashing out. Kudos and high marks to all.

Drew hastened to add: “Yet it works. In mysterious and incredible ways, it works. Sisters in Spirit is an amazing concert concept. In short? You’re going to be huge. Really huge. Are you ready for that?”

The caveat melted Kassidy Cartwright’s tight posture, softened her eyes. And it was his turn to battle for control.

Such a remarkable woman…

“Your performance style, your music, has garnered widespread critical praise and audience loyalty in such a short span of time.” Kaytlin’s comment pulled Drew back to the present. “What is it about your music that draws people so strongly? I have to admit, I’m a fan. I attended your show in New York City two weeks ago and audience reaction was amazing.”

Drew noticed the way Kassidy shifted forward, caught the attention of the others, and was given, by tacit agreement, the all clear to respond on behalf of the group. “I think I might have a piece of the answer to that question. I believe Sisters in Spirit is enjoying the kind of response you describe because there’s a large and unspoken to segment of the population that wants to throw its encouragement and loyalty behind the idea of entertainment that uplifts, is fun to watch, and beautifully staged. I like to think people are looking for classic style, substance and perhaps that’s something we provide.”

Brilliantly stated, Kassidy, Drew thought, a smile cresting his lips.

“Well, ladies, I want to congratulate you on your success. I look forward to attending your show tonight and, if you’re willing, can I convince you to share a song with us before we cut to break?”

The girls laughed softly and Maeve delivered a beguiling wink. “We were hoping you might ask. It would be a pleasure.”

Kaytlin remained on camera rattling off concert information and ticket prices while the girls moved to a marked spot in front of a shimmering, iridescent curtain. Seconds later, the studio came alive with music. The orchestration was pre-recorded, but the soaring blend of three voices, the artistry of Siobhan’s dance moves came straight from the moment and shot a heady dose of victory through Drew’s system.

Brand new to this level of the entertainment industry, these women acted, and reacted, like seasoned pros. He continued to monitor, satisfied and incredibly proud of them all.

Yet always—always—he was drawn to Kassidy.

 

****

 

“Boston is next, followed by Pennsylvania then Tennessee, Atlanta, Miami, Dallas, LA, and Denver.” Drew paused from his phone conversation; seated next to him in the limousine, Kassidy couldn’t help but listen in while she scrolled through the latest influx of e-mail to her personal account. Lots of sweet well-wishes flooded her in-box from family and friends, which made her smile. A couple notices informing her of all the money she had won during a random lottery drawing in Tangier caused her to snort quietly and hit the delete key.

Drew continued. “Yeah—Denver marks the midpoint. After that, we swing back east. We’ll hit Chicago, Detroit, Indianapolis, and a few other cities before we close the tour in New York City.” Following a pause, he laughed. “You’re as bad as Mom, I swear. There’s a week-long break after the shows in Denver. I’ll return to New York at that point and check in; I promise.”

He skated a glance Kassidy’s way then diverted his gaze quickly, shyly. Why did his boyish hesitance charm her so much?

“They’re a great group. I’m enjoying it. You’ll have to see the show when we hit New York City. It’s going to be amazing. The staging is top notch.”

Kassidy dipped her head, squelched a grin, and a sensory tingle.

“Yeah, yeah. I am. Believe me, I’m aware of being cautious.”

There was a touch of sharpness to his tone that surprised Kassidy, but she forced herself to not react, or make him uncomfortable. He couldn’t help having to make calls on the fly with other people around.

“Thanks. I know, I know. Your support means a lot, Joe—it’s just…the past is a touchy subject. This tour is shaping up to be incredible, though. Just what I need.” He paused. Kassidy registered his smile from the corner of her eye. “You bet I will. Give the folks my love, and I’ll check in again after the show tonight.”

Ending the call, Drew cleared his throat and relaxed against the leather seat. He tucked his phone into the breast pocket of his suit coat. Across from them, Aileen carried on a quiet phone conversation, her body angled slightly away. Her cheeks were appealingly pink. Her smile came frequently. Kassidy watched, and savored the vibration of love emanating from her friend. Most likely Aileen was talking to Liam who’d been forced to dash off for a quick meeting with an artist who lived in southwest Connecticut—a songwriter Liam wanted to recruit to the Zion’s Peak label.

Never the morning bird of their bunch, Maeve leaned against the door and dozed while Siobhan thumbed away at some text replies.

Curious, Kassidy cast a look toward Drew. “Connecting with family, huh?”

“Yeah. My younger brother, Joe.”

Kassidy waited for more. The eagerness to know him better never failed to catch her by surprise. They had spent considerable time together of late, prepping for the tour, rehearsing, making plans, designing the show. She knew on-and-off details about his life, but not much more. His favorite sports team was the New York Giants because he was New York born and bred. She knew his parents still lived in the city. She also knew he liked action and suspense when it came to movies, but held a soft spot for classics like Casablanca and Roman Holiday—once professing Gregory Peck to be the quintessence of cool in that time-honored romance. When it came to books, he liked Grisham but was lukewarm on a few others who inhabited the bestseller lists.

Beyond that, she didn’t know much, yet still she was pulled toward him—fascinated…

“Do you have any other brothers or sisters?” Hoping she didn’t seem nosey, Kassidy issued a light laugh. “I’m a lonely only, so I’ve always enjoyed the idea of family bonding and brothers and sisters.”

Drew didn’t seem to mind. “Joe and I are two years apart in age, and we’re as close as they come, probably because beyond our parents, we’re the only immediate family we’ve got. Growing up we shared everything. Toys, hand-me-downs, bedroom space. We had to make a way together, or beat each other up in the attempt.”

Kassidy enjoyed the analogy. “A tight-knit unit. I think that’s awesome.”

She didn’t know what to do with the silence that followed, but Drew picked up the conversational thread. “Are you enjoying your suite at the Luxenfield?”

Arching a brow, Kassidy let loose a wry chuckle. “The heated floors in the bathroom, the heated towel racks and silk robes—what’s not to love? The king-sized bed and satin down comforters are ultra-glam, but…well…”

Curiosity scripted its way across Drew’s features, prompting her into an admission. “Of course I love the luxury, but, it seems kind of over the top. It’s not really necessary to be so extravagant.”

A flicker of surprise crossed the dips and planes of his face—a handsome face, Kassidy thought, with its squared jaw, that tempting brush of stubble and dark-as-night eyes, and the crowning touch of short, dark hair.

“You amaze me, Kassidy. I’m used to people asking for more. Demanding it even. Yet, here you are, willing to settle for less.”

“When it comes to some things, yes.” She followed that bit of sass with a challenging grin.

Drew laughed. “Point taken. Allow me to put your mind at ease. Amenities like the ones you’ve described aren’t about affectation, they’re about seeing to your comfort. The tour is going to be grueling. You’ll perform much better if you’re taken care of properly. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying conveniences and perks when you’re being forced to shuttle from city to city with barely enough time to breathe and rest between stops. Nice hotels, chauffer service”—a brief arm gesture encompassed their ride—”are things you should get used to.”

“For now, maybe, but still, enough is enough, know what I mean?”

Drew answered that comment with a mirthless chuckle. “No, not really.”

Kassidy’s brows pulled as she studied him; her heart twisted slightly in the face of his attitude. Most likely he meant the words as a tease. She looked deeper, though, and wasn’t quite sure what to make of what she found beneath his surface, so she turned her attention to the passing cityscape.

“I see more to you than drive and ambition, Drew. I think if you look beyond that kind of noise the reward will stun you beyond belief.”

The limousine slowed to a stop, ending their conversation, but Kassidy took heart in the speculative way he regarded her at the end. Maybe she had given him something to think about.

Their entourage trooped through the ornate lobby of the Hastings Theater with its gilt columns, soaring ceilings, and detailed relief work along the walls and alcoves. Kassidy entered the theater proper and stumbled to a stop once she saw the fully assembled stage—the stage upon which she would perform in just a few hours.

She grabbed Aileen’s hand, squeezed tight. “Oh. Oh, my. Oh, my goodness.” Her heart thundered, vibrating against her ribs and chest. Her pulse rocketed. The setting was incredible.

Maeve stared ahead, gasping. Siobhan released a short, expressive squeal of delight. Aileen’s ever-steady demeanor wavered—literally.

A wide curving stairwell at center stage was framed from behind and at the sides by dreamy, wavering panels of white satin that fell from ceiling to floor. At present, they were red, blue, orange, and yellow, reflecting the play of overhead lights. Openings between the panels featured a tantalizing view of sunlit sea, steep, craggy cliffs and green, rolling land the likes of which could only be found in Ireland. Crowning the center of the stage, a softly illuminated Celtic cross of deep green hung above it all.

Kassidy whipped her head around; she studied Drew, who seemed to have deliberately lagged behind so they could enjoy the grand reveal. The sly grin he wore was completely adorable, but Kassidy didn’t dwell on that for long. She couldn’t wrap her head around the way he had pulled together a masterpiece. “You…you did this. You created this fantasy, didn’t you?”

He shrugged, but sparkles lit his eyes. “It’s what I do.”

“It’s incredible, Drew. Perfection.” Maeve found her voice, but it trembled.

Kassidy gazed at Drew in awe, wondering if her appreciation could possibly bathe him as thoroughly as pure joy now bathed her spirit. With beauty and class, he had crafted a stunning ode to their history—and their faith.

“This is breathtaking. Thank you for creating such a beautiful place for us to perform.” Aileen’s voice was choked and husky, her blue eyes glittery.

Kassidy was overcome as well and followed up on that reaction in a way that wasn’t entirely typical for her. She stepped straight into Drew’s arms and held him tight. “Thank you. I can’t possibly add to Ailee’s sentiments, but I feel them just as deeply.”

Her words were whispered into his ear, meant for him alone. His arms came around her swift and sure, and a tender wash of unity bloomed through her chest, causing a jolt. Kassidy inhaled deep, delivering a succinct nod as she stepped away and addressed the group at large. “It’s going to be an honor to perform here.”

Drew resumed his professional role as well. “If you follow me, I’ll show you to your dressing room so you can get familiar with the layout of costuming and makeup. I need to check in with the production team. We rehearse in just over an hour, once Liam is back in pocket, so relax for now and enjoy lunch. There should be a catered selection of sandwiches and snacks waiting for you in the green room.”

They followed Drew’s lead, but Kassidy’s gaze continued to rove. She didn’t want to miss a single detail of this stunning venue. “I can’t wait to practice and see how it feels to perform on this stage.”