Chapter 9

Arena rock

Lucas’s nerves multiplied a thousand-fold on the day of the concert.

On arrival, the sight of thousands of rock fans queuing in their cars really brought home the enormity of the gig to him.

“Oh my God,” was all he could say - as the family were waved into the area reserved for those with special passes.

“Oh my God,” was all his mum could say when she spotted Bruce Dickinson with other rock icons standing outside a marquee.

“Oh my God,” was all Alex could say when he spotted the arena stage, the futuristic lighting and the huge sound system.

But once out of the car, their nerves were soon forgotten as Cuch, wearing his bandana and collar was instantly recognised. He really seemed to relish meeting the stars.

But it was as if Cuch was the star - and these huge icons wanted to have their photo taken with him!

Cuch attended a quickie rehearsal with ‘Maiden’ and thoroughly enjoyed himself.

The makeup crew fussed over Cuch and died the tufts of hair on top of his head deep purple - in a tribute to the band of the same name. Cuch really looked the part.

As night fell the audience, warmed up by the support bands, were becoming louder and louder.

Cuch was having a great day. Like everyone else he seemed caught up in the atmosphere. He grinned and barked and developed a new way of pounding the floor with his front paws in time with the drum beats.

The family and Lucas’s mates were chatting to Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich (as you do) when Paul approached them. A skinny, willowy blonde woman was on his arm. Beautiful, but hard-faced, with short severely cut hair, she tottered ridiculously in high heels.

“Hi,” Paul said. “How’s it going? Everyone - this is Jodie.

Jodie gave a thin smile and said ‘hi’. She didn’t even look at Cuch - and Lucas swore he heard his dog growl. But it was difficult to tell over the sound of the music.

“All ready?” Paul said. “You’ll be standing in the wings for the Iron Maiden set. Bruce will announce when it’s Cuch’s performance about half way through his set. Then Lucas, if you can take Cuch onto the specially built stage riser the band will play and we’ll see what happens!”

“What if it’s a disaster?” Lucas said.

“Don’t worry. Whatever happens, it’ll be a laugh,” Paul reassured.

Everyone smiled - except Jodie.

“Gotta go,” Paul said. “Catch you in the wings for the Maiden set.”

And he hurried off, with Jodie tottering behind him looking thoroughly out of place. She didn’t even say goodbye.

“What the hell does he see in her?” Janine said.

Lucas was sure this time. He definitely heard a growl.