The Bitter Journey: Forever Yours Faithfully, #2

Prologue

After eight tumultuous years in Kentucky, Lucas Ashton packed the last of his things and closed the trunk. He was headed back home—back to New York. It was time to start his next stage of life.

After he and his best friend, Liliana Patrick, lost their two-month-old daughter and both of his grandparents, Lucas needed a clean break. Now was the hard part—saying goodbye. He looked at Lilly as she tried not to cry. This is it, princess.

You be careful! Call me when you get there and get settled, she demanded.

I will. You call me if you need anything.

Promise you’ll keep in touch.

I promise.

Good luck in school.

Give me your word you’ll enroll.

I will. Maybe I’ll start in June.

Take my hand. Lucas held out his hand. Repeat after me. ‘I Crusader Lilly, make a Crusader’s vow: I’ll be okay and not get too down. Lilly repeated the vow.

Promise me you’ll come back and see me sometime.

I will.

Crusader’s promise? A Crusader’s promise, much like a Crusader’s vow, was the ultimate promise that must never be broken.

Crusaders promise.

I love you, Lucas. Thanks for everything all these years.

I love you, too, Liliana. Thanks for always being my friend. Lucas pulled her close as they cried hard. Well, he sighed, I’d better go. Are you sure you don’t want to go with me? He had to ask one last time.

I’m not ready to leave her yet.

Don’t think badly of me for me leaving. He needed reassurance.

I could never think badly of you. Lucas leaned over and kissed her cheek. Goodbye, Liliana, my princess.

Goodbye, Lucas, my Lukie. Lilly cried her eyes out. Lucas got in the car and waved until she was out of view. He was on to the next journey in his life.

Chapter One

Lucas took a deep breath and gripped the steering wheel, his knuckles white with anticipation, as he turned down the street. There it is. I hope everything works out.

He knocked his usual rat-a-tat-tat on the door of a house he hadn’t seen in eight years. It was painted white now, with lovely rose bushes out front.

On the walkway, a little snow from the last storm lingered. A beautiful welcome mat reading God Bless Our Happy Home greeted him at the door

The chilly March breeze rustled his blond hair as he pulled his coat tighter. A sudden warmth filled him as he took a deep breath and waited. Rattling sounded inside; someone was coming to the door. Coming! a woman called, and a smile warmed his face.

Here we go, Ashton. What am I walking into? Will they welcome me? What if they turn me away? Will I have a family again? Should I have done this? Should I have called first? God, Ashton—this is it, man.

After what felt like forever—only a few anxious heartbeats—Elizabeth Glass answered the door.

Oh my gosh, Lucas! She stared at him, mouth open in shock, then opened her arms to him.

Come here, Lulu! She embraced him as if she’d never let him go. Her bear hug was tight—exactly what he needed. It felt good to feel his second mother’s arms around him again.

Oh, Mama G. He held on to her tightly, choking back emotion. Life was good again.

He relaxed in her loving arms—his heart easing at her touch. She rubbed his head as she had when he was a child. A single tear escaped as he realized he had his mom again. He was finally home.

Elizabeth took Lucas’s hand and led him into the house. He studied her, memories rushing back—four years old at the laundromat, playing cars with her three-year-old son, Jacob—his best friend.

He took in her warm, loving smile—a smile he hadn’t seen since the day, at eleven, he boarded the plane to Kentucky with his family.

As a child, he watched Charlie’s Angels; his favorite was the beautiful Jaclyn Smith because she looked just like his beloved Mama G.

Her hair was dark blond now, and her eyes were a friendly blue. She wore a purple blouse—her favorite color, he recalled—and black slacks.

When she guided him to the living room couch, he noticed the place had been updated. The wood paneling had been replaced with beige-painted drywall. The carpet was oatmeal-colored. Lucas sat and picked up one of the many purple pillows Elizabeth had sewn by hand.

Ever the hostess, Elizabeth made Lucas his favorite tea—orange pekoe with just the right amount of cream. She brought a tray of homemade chocolate chip cookies and set it on the coffee table before him.

She settled into a white armchair facing him and took him in, too. He was no longer the boy she remembered; he was a grown man now. He still had that million-dollar smile. She chuckled at his still-perfect hair. In a black suit and green tie, he looked all business.

Once she was sure he was okay, she was dying to ask about the girl she’d thought about for years. The ten-year-old who’d spent a wonderful summer with her. Lilly had given her the chance to have a daughter again—and she missed her. After only a moment, she blurted,

How’s Lilly?

Lucas laughed, surprised by her reaction.

It’s good to see you, too.

I’m sorry. Elizabeth chuckled at herself and pressed a hand to her temple, embarrassed. I should have asked how you’re doing first. I’ve just...been thinking about Lilly so much lately, and I’ve been worried about her.

She’s fine. She’s all grown up now. Lucas took out a photo from prom: Lilly in a puffy blue dress, big blond hair and a warm smile, and Lucas in a blue suit with a matching tie.

She’s beautiful! You’ll have to show Jake this, Elizabeth said with a giggle. "He’ll fall all over himself."

After a rough start—when they didn’t even like each other—Lilly and Jacob became each other’s first love during the summer she visited, when they were ten.

What’s she doing? Elizabeth asked.

She’s going to school to be a neurosurgeon.

How wonderful! She was always so smart.

Yeah, she was tested as a kid—she’s a certified genius, a member of Mensa.

Well, how about that? Oh, look at you. Helen was right; you did grow up to be a gorgeous man. I bet you have all the girls after you, Elizabeth said, beaming. You and Jake are going to take this place by storm. How long are you staying?

Well, that’s the question. I came up here to go to school. Do you think I can stay here? I mean, if I can’t, I understand—since you haven’t seen me in so long.

Lulu, I told you the last time I saw you that you’d always be welcome in my house. Let’s get your things—we’ll make a spot for you.

I don’t want to put you out, Lucas told her.

I promised Helen I’d take care of you. You’re going to surprise Jake when he sees you. He’s out with his band right now, but when he comes home, he’s going to be so excited.

He’s got a band?

Yeah, they’re a rock group called Succumb. They’re pretty good—mostly school dances and the like.

I have a management company—I could be his manager.

I’m sure he’d love that!

How have you all been? Lucas asked.

We’re making it through. I told you God would always provide for us, and He certainly has.

Elizabeth lived by her faith in God. She always spoke of His grace and mercy. Lucas hugged her again.

Oh, it’s so good to see you again, Mama G. I’ve missed you so much.

I missed you, too, Lulu—I missed you, too.

Even though he hated the nickname—she was the only one allowed to use it—it felt good to hear it again.

What are you going to study?

Business management. Lucas took a sip of tea. Oh, how I’ve missed your tea—and these cookies!

I just made those—pulled them out of the oven when you knocked. How have things been for you?

About as well as could be expected.

Lucas tried to compose himself. It had been a few months, but the losses still weighed on him.

I’m so sorry about Helen and Jesse. His heart attack was such a shock. I wish we could have come to the funeral—he was always like a father to me, and Helen was like a mother.

They’re better off now. They’re together again, and I’m sure she’s happy.

Lucas’s mother died of a drug overdose next to his crib. He was barely a year old, yet he carried vague, sense-memories of her.

I need to start dinner. Are you hungry? Elizabeth asked as she headed to the kitchen.

You know I can always eat your cooking. I’ve missed your meatloaf.

Well, then I’ll make that tonight—especially for you.

I appreciate it. What have you been up to? Lucas followed her into the kitchen.

I work at a doctor’s office as a receptionist. I’ve been blessed to have that job for three years now—I even get vacation pay!

I’m so happy for you.

I never get to go anywhere, but it’s nice to have benefits. I can’t believe you boys have grown up! Seems like just yesterday you two were playing in Helen’s laundry detergent. I wish you babies were still that young.

Mama G, part of me wishes I were still that young, too. I love what you’ve done with the place. Lucas looked around.

I could never thank Mr. Patrick enough for what he did for us. This will always be our home. Jake teases me that when he becomes a big rock star, he’s going to buy me a mansion. Like I need a mansion—I’d just have to clean it.

Mr. Patrick was Lilly’s multimillionaire father, who had purchased the house for Jacob and Elizabeth when they were on the verge of homelessness.

So, how is Jake?

He’s great. This week he’s dating a girl named Kendra. Next week it’ll be someone else.

He broke Lilly’s heart, I see, Lucas chortled.

He always was a heartbreaker.

After Elizabeth put the meatloaf in the oven, she helped Lucas unload his car. His face lit up as he looked around.

As he set his suitcases in Jacob’s room, he remembered being boys—playing Star Wars and swearing lifelong oaths of friendship.

He stood, the memories lingering as a sense of belonging washed over him. This was just the beginning.

Chapter Two

Lilly saw it was time for Lucas to begin the next chapter in his life, so she didn’t hesitate to encourage him—that’s what the Double L Crusaders—the club Lucas and Lilly formed—do.

As she watched him drive away, she worried whether she had done the right thing. They were each other’s security blankets. But in her heart, she knew this was what was best.

Lilly went back to the lake house, not sure what she was going to do now. She promised Lucas and herself that she would enroll in college. While still in high school, she completed a degree in astrophysics. As she’d told Lucas, June would give her a couple of months to prepare mentally for school again. This time she was going for pre-med and architecture.

She sat at the far end of the couch and remembered her daughter’s bassinet that used to sit beside her. She wiped a tear from her eye as she caught the phantom scent of baby powder.

My hummingbird, she whispered, clutching a pillow. She looked around the living room. She pictured Gigi in her recliner with Grandpa sitting next to her. They would watch the University of Kentucky play basketball while Lilly called Uncle John to talk about the game. Now here she sat, totally and achingly alone. That one stupid decision, she chided herself.

She had convinced Lucas to have sex with her, feeling safer with him than anyone else. She was dating Scott Irons, who wanted to go all the way, but Lilly was scared to let Scott see her like that—naked and vulnerable after years of physical abuse from her father. Feeling safe with Lucas in a way she didn’t with Scott, she asked Lucas to be the one. She wasn’t ready, but she really liked Scott.

Lilly found out she was pregnant.

When Uncle John—who was like a father to Lilly and Lucas—heard about the baby, he told them to stay away, saying he didn’t want to see them anymore.

He was disappointed.

Lilly sat down in front of the TV with some spaghetti and garlic bread for dinner. It was Lilly’s favorite time of the year—March Madness. If anything could lift her out of depression, basketball could.

She hooted as Kentucky went on a run. When it was halftime, she switched to a different game—happy that California had beaten Lilly’s archnemesis, the Duke Blue Devils. That meant more to her than Kentucky’s win. She was still bitter about last year’s Christian Laettner heartbreaker.

Later that evening, Lilly got a call from Lucas to tell her how the trip went.

Oh, Lils, I wish you were here! We could all be a family again.

That good?

Oh yeah, that good. Jacob was so surprised to see me. Get this—he has a band. I’m their manager now. I had Mama G’s meatloaf—it was just like I remembered. You’ll have to come see us. I miss you. It feels weird not having my princess around.

I miss you, too. Who knows—maybe I will come up there.

You should. Mama G would love to see you. She asked about you before she even asked how I was doing, Lucas chuckled.

She remembers me?

Of course she remembers you! You’re her baby! Jake remembers you, too. Lilly could hear the amusement in his voice. Sorry to say he cheated on you. They chortled.

I’m glad you’re safe. I’m glad you’re with your family again.

Don’t think I’m letting you off the hook! I’ll come back and see you when school’s out for the quarter. I plan on getting done as soon as I can.

You know I’ll be there when you graduate. Wild horses couldn’t keep me away.

I know, and when you graduate, I’ll be with you. Crusader’s promise.

Crusader’s promise.

Have a good night, Lils.

You too, Lukie. And good luck with school tomorrow.

After hanging up, Lilly stepped onto the back porch and stared up into the sky. Ever the genius, she loved to learn. Tonight, she watched as the stars shone brightly over her old Kentucky home and wondered what they looked like to Lucas from Mama G’s home.

✦ ✦ ✦

A couple of days later, Lilly went to see her horse, Blue Wizard. She’d had him since she was ten, and he was still young—not yet even a teenager. When she reached the stable, she found him lying on his side.

"WHIZZY! Her scream tore the quiet aisle. She skidded into the stall and dropped beside him; straw scraped her knees. No, no, no—"

Fingers shaking, she slid them along his jaw, searching for a pulse. Faint.

She bolted out of the stall. Mr. Brandon! Mr. Brandon! Call a vet—it’s Whizzy! Something’s wrong. I think he’s dying!

I got you, Miss Lilly. Mr. Brandon grabbed the phone and called Dr. Marcum while Lilly ran back to Blue Wizard’s stall.

Come on, Whizzy. Please don’t leave me. Not you too. She laid her head on his neck and rubbed his nose. Blue Wizard looked at her; a tear rolled from the corner of his eye.

Whizzy, you’re so young. You can’t leave me too.

Mr. Brandon crouched beside her, a steady hand on her back. Miss Lilly...

No, she choked. He can’t, Mr. Brandon. I can’t lose Blue Wizard too. I’ve lost everything else—just not Whizzy.

Miss Lilly, he’s hurt. He’s real sick. You know there may not be anything Dr. Marcum can do when she gets here. His voice was gentle. Tell him what you always wanted to tell him. Let him see you smile one last time.

Lilly wiped her eyes, her heart splintering. She leaned close to his ear. I love you, Whizzy. You were my best friend. You comforted me when I had no one else. You’re the best horse in the world. Promise me you’ll look out for me. Watch over Jesi.

Blue Wizard gazed at her and slowly blinked.

Take care of Jesi. Let her ride you. Be her best friend like you were mine. Can you do that for me, Whizzy?

Blue Wizard winked.

Dr. Marcum stepped into the stall a minute later, knelt, and examined him. She lifted her eyes to Mr. Brandon and gave the slightest shake of her head.

Lilly stumbled into the aisle, sobbing. Mr. Brandon followed and slipped an arm around her shoulders.

I’ll be OK, she whispered, gathering herself. I don’t want him to be alone. I want to be there with him.

She returned to the stall and knelt by her beloved horse, running her hand up and down his warm neck. Goodbye, my dearest friend.

Dr. Marcum prepared the injection. Lilly kissed Blue Wizard between the eyes as the medicine flowed. In moments, Blue Wizard Patrick went to sleep forevermore.

✦ ✦ ✦

It had been a few days since Blue Wizard’s death. Lilly felt down and alone. She needed to get away. She thought about going to school with Lucas, but her first degree was from the University of Kentucky, and her heart had always wanted to continue her education there.

She sat in front of Blue Wizard’s memorial in the meditation garden at her childhood home, Evergreen Estate.

Hi, Whizzy. She kissed her fingers, then touched the beautiful granite stone.

"I heard a poem today called ‘Rainbow Bridge.’ It says there’s a place on this side of heaven called the Rainbow Bridge.

"I believe that’s where you are—there with Lucas’s horse, Crusader, and all the other cats and dogs and horses. That’s where all animals go when they die. It’s the most wonderful place.

"There’s plenty of grass and sunshine. No one is hurt or sick, but the only thing missing is their loved ones. They wait there until their human comes, and then they walk into heaven together.

I believe you’re at the bridge. Jesi is next to you. You’re telling her all our secrets. I love you, Whizzy. There will never be another horse like you.

"I’ve been feeling lonely, Whizzy. I thought about going to see Lukie, but I heard Joey’s band a little while ago.

"You remember Joey, don’t you? He’s a rock star now. He’s in California with Gina—remember his girlfriend, Gina? We used to come to the stable and play Bon Jovi while we groomed and fed you. Do you remember? You liked their music.

Anyway, I think I might call her and see if she’d like me to come visit. I haven’t seen her in a long time. I miss my Jovi sister.

So just know I might not be here much longer. Tell my beautiful daughter I love her. Watch over her and me. You’ll always be in my heart. I will come back one day when the time is right. I love you, Whizzy.

Back at home, Lilly put on a CD by Gina’s band, Horizontal Flame. She had fond memories of writing songs with Gina; they were both prolific songwriters. Gina always said Lilly would be a star one day. Lilly had a big, booming singing voice. On many nights, they sat in Lilly’s bedroom—Lilly pretending to be Heart’s Ann Wilson while Gina was Pat Benatar.

The girls had once rocked out with hairbrush microphones like pros. They vowed they would always be Jovi sisters. Gina had offered condolences about Jesi, but Lilly hadn’t heard from her since. After everything that had happened with Uncle John—Joe’s dad—Lilly feared Gina wouldn’t want to talk to her now.

Here goes, Lilly said, picking up the phone. Genie?

Lilly? Gina asked, surprised. Oh my God, girl—how are you?

Oh, Genie, it’s so good to hear your voice.

Oh, Lils—I miss you. How are things?

I’m doing okay. How are you?

Kicking ass and taking names, as usual, Gina said, amused.

That’s my Genie. I was just wondering—if not, I understand—would it be all right if I came to see you and Joe and spent a couple of weeks with you?

Oh yes—my day just got better! I’d love to have my Jovi sister come see me. I miss home, and it’d be nice to see someone from back there. I’ll send you an all-access pass. It’ll be great to see you—I sure do miss you.

I miss you too, Genie. You were always the big sister Lucas and I never had.

You two were always like my sister and brother. I’m so sorry for what you’re going through.

Do you know why Uncle John hates us?

There’s a lot going on right now that no one wants to talk about, but don’t you worry—Jovi sisters never abandon each other. We’re sisters for life.

Thanks, Genie. I appreciate it.

I’m excited for you to come out. I’ll show you what it’s like to put on a big rock show. Are you still going to go to school?

I made a Crusader’s promise to enroll, so I have to do it.

I know you do, Lils. You follow through on your goals. No matter what happens, always go with your gut.

I will.

Well, I have to go, but I can’t wait ’til you come out! I have to show you our new house—and we’ll have to go shopping.

I’d like that a lot.

Love you, Lils.

Love you, too, Genie.

Lilly beamed and bounced around the room. She went to her CD player, put on Wanted Dead or Alive—her favorite Bon Jovi song—and rocked out to the anthem. She grabbed her hairbrush and, just like she used to with Gina, belted out You Give Love a Bad Name and, of course, the iconic Livin’ on a Prayer.

When she finally calmed down, she realized she felt better. A couple of days later, after the all-access pass arrived, Lilly packed her bags. L.A., here I come!

Chapter Three

Lilly wandered the arena looking for Gina. She got turned around, but a roadie finally showed her to the dressing room.

When she knocked, a portly man—old enough to be her father—answered. He had jet-black, gelled, slicked-back hair and a fat cigar, which he puffed as he looked Lilly up and down, approving.

Can I help you? he asked, puffing his cigar.

Yes—I’m here to see Joey?

Joey? he snorted, laughter echoing down the hall. Honey, no one calls Joe Michaels ‘Joey.’

His put-on Italian accent reminded Lilly of her favorite General Hospital mobster, Sonny Corinthos.

He’ll always be my Joey, Lilly said softly.

Who is it, Ed? a woman called from behind the door.

It’s some pipsqueak teenager asking for ‘Joey,’ the man said, then let out a booming laugh at Lilly’s innocent proclamation.

Joey? the woman said. Only one person gets away with calling him ‘Joey,’ and that’s— She opened the door.

Lilly! You made it! Oh my God, it’s so good to see you! Gina hugged her, rocking side to side. I’ve missed you.

I’ve missed you, too, Genie, Lilly said with a big, toothy smile. How’s Joey?

He’s great. He’s around here somewhere—probably with some girl.

But he has you, Lilly said, her words laced with a vulnerability she couldn’t quite shake.

Tell me about it, Gina said with a sigh. I’ve threatened to leave his ass if he doesn’t straighten up.

Are you going to?

Hell, we’ve been together so long—ten years—I wouldn’t know what it’s like without him. I know he loves me. He’s just enjoying the rock-star life.

How are you liking it?

It’s a lot of hard work, but it’s great getting out there and singing in front of people every night. I see little girls tease their hair like me and dress like me—it’s cute. You’ll have to see the new house we just bought. It’s HUGE! I’m bringing you onstage tonight. Gina tapped Lilly’s arm.

Oh, no, Lilly protested. You’re the singer, not me.

Bullshit! I’ve heard you rock out, Ann Wilson. You watch—I’m bringing you out tonight. Come on in; let me introduce you to everybody. This is our manager, Eddie.

Hi. Lilly nodded to Eddie—the man from the door.

So you, uh, know Joey? Eddie puffed his cigar and blew smoke across the room.

Yeah—he’s my cousin.

I see. I see the resemblance—the blond hair and blue eyes. He waved a hand as he checked her out. I tell ya what—do you like all this?

Lilly looked around. What’s to like? It’s a dressing room.

She was being genuine, but Gina laughed.

I mean, dollface—the glitz and glamour. You see this? Eddie pulled out a stack of bills. This is what they get paid.

That’s nice, Lilly said, unfazed. Eddie was astounded she wasn’t falling for his act.

Can you sing?

You’ll hear her tonight, Gina cut in. I’m bringing her onstage.

I’m putting together a group, and—uh—you might be the key. He kept puffing his cigar.

Me? I’m no performer.

Yes, you are! Look at those dance recitals you used to do, Gina reminded her.

You can dance? Eddie lowered his cigar and finally paid attention.

Ballroom. She’s a champion, Gina told him.

Let’s see it. Eddie gave her his full attention.

I’m sorry—I...uh...I just came to see Joey and Gina.

I don’t know. I think you might be something. You’re a star, babe. Stick with me and I’ll take you places. He walked away.

Is he always that slimy? Lilly asked. He was checking me out. He’s old enough to be my father. Ick—it creeps me out.

Just ignore him. Let’s go find Joe.

Gina and Lilly headed to the bus, where Joe sat with the rest of the band.

Lilly! He beamed, excited to see her.

Joey! She hugged him tightly.

It’s so good to see you. How are you? How’s Lucas?

We’re doing okay. He’s back in New York, going to school.

I missJughead. Joe grinned. Jughead was the nickname Uncle John gave Lucas.

Here—have a seat. He pointed to the spot next to him. For the next hour, Lilly, Gina, and Joe remembered all the good times they’d had growing up together.

As promised, Gina brought Lilly onstage that night. They tore through their trademark cover of Hit Me with Your Best Shot as the crowd went wild. Lilly followed with a Heart song and had everyone eating out of her hand.

I kinda like this rock and roll thing, she admitted to Gina after the show. That was fun.

Oh, Lils, we’re just getting started!

✦ ✦ ✦

Lilly had been on the road with Joe’s band, Echo, for a few dates, and Gina had her singing with Horizontal Flame every night. The more confidence she gained, the more Lilly enjoyed singing onstage. One night, Joe met her backstage.

I’m so proud of you! You’re doing fantastic!

Thank you! I feel like a star!

Oh, Lils, the places you’ll go.

Eddie was standing nearby, puffing on his cigar. Yeah, I think you’ll do. Eddie blew out smoke as Lilly waved a hand in front of her face.

Do for what, exactly? Lilly asked.

I’ve got this little girl group called Bitter Pills. We need a lead singer, and I think you, dollface, are just the right fit.

Me? Lilly asked, surprised.

Yeah. He took another puff. You’re just what we need. Put on a little makeup, get you into some different clothes—yeah, you’re exactly the look we’re going for.

What’s wrong with my clothes? Lilly looked down at her jeans and T-shirt.

Jeans and T-shirts are fine for everyday wear, but in this business you need something sexier because...baby, you got it. You got the va-va-voom! He clicked his tongue with satisfaction.

I don’t know what that means, Lilly said, genuinely puzzled.

Just trust me, Angel Rayne, you have it.

Angel Rayne? My name is Lilly.

Not anymore, it isn’t.

As he walked away, Lilly looked around, confused. What was that about? she asked Joe.

I think you’d be great! Joe said, smiling.

What’s wrong with my name and my clothes?

Nothing, Lils. He’s just talking about the biz. Trust me, nothing’s going to happen to you. I won’t let it.

Thanks, Joey. Lilly smiled and hugged her cousin.

Performing with Gina and spending time with Joe eased Lilly’s struggle with depression. It was a welcome distraction that aided her healing.

Eddie formally offered her the gig with his girl group, Bitter Pills. School still hung over her head, and she debated whether to follow her cousin’s footsteps and drop out or honor her Crusader’s goals and enroll in college. She had a lot on her mind.

Lilly stayed with Echo for a few more days; the excitement of the crowd yelling her name and the thrill of performing made it hard to leave. She read and reread the paper where she’d written her Crusader’s goals.

She looked at goal one: enroll in college.

Goal two: graduate from college.

And goal three: cure cancer.

What to do, Lils—what to do, she said to herself as she slid the paper back into her book.

Lilly needed to talk to Lucas to get his input, but their schedules clashed. While Gina and Joe were at an awards show, Lilly finally got hold of Lucas.

How’s Mama G? Lilly asked.

She’s doing great. She comes and helps Jake set up his gear at our gigs.

How’s that going?

It’s going great.

I’m proud of you, Lukie. I hope you know that.

Thanks. How are things with you?

Well, there’s some news I wanted to tell you.

What?

Joe’s manager wants me as the singer for a rock group he’s forming, called Bitter Pills.

Are you going to do it?

What about school?

You can always enroll later. I say do it for a couple of years and then enroll. Maybe you can enroll after I graduate, and we can go to school together again.

Would you come back to Kentucky? I’d like to stay at Kentucky.

If it meant I could be with you again, I would. I tell you what—I’ll make you a deal. You do Bitter Pills until I graduate, then we can go to school again while I do my master’s.

You’d do that for me?

"You know I’d do anything for you,