Beautiful One

by Mary Cope

  “No, Mason, I’m sure nothing’s going on. Melissa loves you. I think you’re being paranoid.”

  We drove in silence the rest of the way to church. I could tell Mason was feeling overwhelmed when we pulled into the parking lot.

  “Mason, you know Melissa. She isn’t like that.”

  “Look, we’re here, let’s talk about this later.” Mason grabbed his guitar and headed inside.

  ****

  I was seated at the baby grand looking over my sheet music while Jake and Matt were chatting on the opposite side of the stage.

  Jake had finished up a bag of chips, wiped his hands on his jeans, and picked up his bass. We always joked about how he could eat anything and not gain weight. He was on the gangly side and didn’t compare to Matt in the looks’ department. Jake was average-looking with his brown hair and eyes to match, but his fun personality easily brought him from a six to an eight.

  Matt, our drummer, was more on the stocky side, not overweight, but if he didn’t work out he could be. Matt had brown hair he usually shaved just because he didn’t want to deal with it. His face was attractive with expressive blue eyes that made him a favorite with the college girls. A solid nine, easy.

  The guys were always joking around and laughing. Today was no different, except Mason was just going through the motions. I knew he was still upset, but covered it with a fake smile. The guys didn’t pick up on it, but I did.

  After about twenty minutes, I noticed Lance’s plump silhouette in the back of the church. He caught my eye and smiled at me as he moved from the shadows. The way his dark brown hair surrounded his round face and kind smile was heartwarming. Everyone adored Lance, but no one as much as we did, his team.

  Lance approached the stage and stood silent for a few minutes. His dark brown eyes focused from me to the guys goofing around. When the guys saw Lance, they stopped their joking and gave him their full attention. The shift in the room was immediate, from light-hearted to tense. Lance made eye contact with each of us. Finally, he said the words we knew were coming but dreaded to hear.

  “They’ve found my replacement.”

  Unable to control my emotions, my eyes pooled with tears. The rest of the guys were stunned as they stared back at Lance.

  Lance leaving us was no surprise. Seattle was his wife’s hometown, and he had promised her eventually he’d take her back home. We all hated to see him go, but the right job had come up, and he couldn’t pass it up. Knowing didn’t make it any easier, but Lance was determined to take care of us until the bitter end. He’d said he wouldn’t leave us until a replacement was found and now the time had come. To soften the blow, Lance went on to tell us what he knew about our new bandleader.

  “You all know I wanted to lead our church in a new direction, bringing in a younger crowd. Well, I can see this guy being able to pull it off.” Lance walked up the three steps to the stage and pulled up a chair. “Let me first say, he’s a go-getter. He’s twenty-one, attends UC Irvine, and has the enthusiasm and commitment to lead this church exactly where we want it to go. He was the lead singer at his former church, plays piano and guitar, and is familiar with everything from stage-lighting to working the soundboard. There’s something about him. Just wait until I introduce you. You’ll see.”

  For the first time since Lance shared his news, a small smile crossed his face.

  I wiped away a stray tear, then Mason blurted out, “So when do we get to meet him?”

  “He has to take care of a few things. It’ll be anywhere from six to eight weeks. I’m not starting in Seattle until after Christmas, so I’ll be here until then. I just wanted you four to be the first to know.”

  Finally, I found my voice. “What’s his name?”

  Lance answered with confidence. “Spencer Hayes.”

  ****

  Mason was silent on our walk to the car.

  “Can today get any worse?”

  “Everything’s gonna be okay. Lance seems excited about this guy. And whatever you think is going on with Melissa and Aidan, I still think you’re imagining it.” At least I hope so. “I start tutoring Aidan Monday, I’ll see if I can find out anything.”

  “Don’t say a word!” Mason snapped. “Let me handle this. Don’t make me sorry I said anything to you.”

  “Okay, okay,” I muttered. But I knew I wasn’t letting it go. I was going to keep my eyes open until I figured this out.

  ****

  The vibration of the blaring music was below us. Melissa and I laughed when we heard Mason yell at Derek. Even though Derek was a few years older than Mason, he could be so immature. Derek loved his drums. He always referred to them as The Ultimate Chick Magnet. More often than not, he’d get carried away during his drum riffs, and Mason would have to constantly reel him so the tempo of the song wasn’t lost.

  I shook my head and finished up flat-ironing my hair. “Poor Derek.” I giggled.

  Melissa and I were sharing the mirror, getting ready for their show. While I watched her apply her second coat of mascara, I thought about tonight. This was going to give me the perfect opportunity to watch Melissa and Aidan together. I was determined to see if Mason’s fears were accurate.

  “You should just leave your hair. I love your long curls. It looks so good when you just let it dry.” Melissa put the mascara down and grabbed my pale pink lipstick.

  “I know you like it…but, I don’t know… I guess I still think of myself as Frizzy Lizzie.”

  “Let it go already. Your hair is awesome!” Melissa smiled at me while gliding the sheer color across her full lips.

  I pulled on a pair of my jeans.

  “Lizzie!” Melissa squealed, “Your jeans are falling off you!” Melissa and I both stared at each other and she was grinning ear to ear. “That’s it! It’s time for a shopping spree!”

  “Not yet, Melissa,” I pleaded. “I want to lose a few more pounds.”

  I could tell Melissa was disappointed. She loved to shop. Like my mom did. But then again, if I resembled either of them, I’d like to shop, too.

  “How about if we go for my eighteenth birthday? It’s in a few weeks.”

  Melissa thought about what I said for a minute and then seemed pleased with the idea.

  “Okay, but at least put a belt on. I’ll go grab one from your mom.”

  Watching Melissa scurry out of my room, I couldn’t help but feel a slight tinge of pain. If anything was going on with her and Aidan, it was going to devastate my brother and me.

  ****

  The venue the guys played at was a restaurant off Pacific Coast Highway. It had an outside patio and bar. The inside had an eclectic feel to it with a small, wooden stage and dance floor. It was a favorite spot with the locals, and since Random Plan had joined, their line up business had increased. Melissa and I maneuvered through the crowd and made our way to a small, round table near the stage. Mason was in a corner talking to Derek. No doubt trying to calm him down. He was always so amped-up before a show. Aidan and Kyle were chatting with a few girls off to the side of the stage.

  “Can you believe how packed this place is?” Melissa said, glancing around the crowded venue.

  “I know. The guys are starting to make a name for themselves. There’s way more people here than last time.” My heart swelled with pride, watching more people file into the already-crowded dance area.

  “Ya know, Lizzie, you could be part of that.” Melissa waved her outstretched hand and motioned to the stage.

  I shook my head and rolled my eyes.

  “I wish I had your talent. I’d be up there in a heartbeat. Why is this so different from singing at church?”

  “It just is. I feel safe at church. Probably because I’ve grown up there. I don’t know. This would be hard for me.” I turned away from her harsh gaze and focused on the shimmering bottles that graced the back of the bar.

  Melissa rubbed my arm. “I’m sorry, Liz. I always forget how shy you can be. You’re just so good. You know I’m your biggest fan.
”

  “Thanks.” I gave her a warm smile. “Maybe one day.”

  The atmosphere surrounding the small stage was becoming electric with anticipation. Derek strutted across the stage first. He was wearing his customary cargo shorts and a black t-shirt that hugged his muscular chest. As usual, his colorful tatted arms were exposed. His spiky blond hair glistened under the lights, and his expressive brown eyes were wild with excitement. He gave the crowd a fist pump and took a seat behind his beloved drums. Derek ate it up when a few of the regulars called out his name and cheered.

  Kyle walked to his keyboard in a more subdued fashion. His warm brown eyes matched his gentle heart. He was wearing a plaid button-down shirt with the sleeves pushed up and dark jeans.

  Next up was Aidan, looking all California-surfer-boy in ripped jeans and a powder-blue t-shirt. His blond hair was slicked back, emphasizing his bright blue eyes. He walked flirtatiously to his mic, and a few girls squealed with excitement. He gave them his signature smile and picked up his bass.

  The crowd erupted while Mason casually walked front and center. He removed his striped hoodie and tossed it to the side of the stage. A few of the college regulars wolf-whistled as he untucked his grey t-shirt. His gaze scanned the enthusiastic audience, and he smiled while he adjusted the mic. He was completely confident and relaxed. Part of me envied that about him… I wished I wasn’t so shy. My brother began to strum his guitar, and the rest of the guys followed suit. The adoring crowd continued to applaud while Mason began to sing.

  Melissa’s elbows were on the table, then she leaned in, focusing her attention on Mason. She glanced my way and moved in closer. “I never get tired of listening to him. Or looking at him.” She smiled.

  Mason’s suspicions confused me. I just didn’t see it. Watching the guys continue their set, I decided to broach the subject.

  “What do you think of Aidan? Do you think he’s a good guy?”

  “How should I know? I barely talk to him. Besides, you’ll find out soon enough. Isn’t he coming over tomorrow?” Melissa countered.

  “I was just wondering what you thought of him. I mean, just look at him.”

  “He’s cute, but he doesn’t come close to my Mason. Just look at my man up there.” Melissa’s eyes followed Mason around the stage, and she gave me a devilish smile.

  I just shook my head and smiled at her. Mason’s gotta have this wrong.

  When their final set ended, the crowd roared in unrestrained delight. The guys took their bows and began milling around the small stage. Melissa left me alone at the table while she met Mason off to the side of the stage. She whispered something in his ear and kissed him on the lips. Mason stared lovingly in her eyes, and, for the first time in days, I saw him relax as he embraced her.

  Derek wiped the sweat from his brow and chugged a bottle of water then he and Kyle started to pack up their gear.

  Aidan sauntered over to a group of girls beckoning for him. A cute brunette took out her cell phone, and they exchanged numbers. Aidan raised an eyebrow and gave the girl a sexy smirk. He hopped back on stage and grabbed his guitar. He stopped for a moment and looked at Melissa and Mason. They were huddled in the corner locked in a passionate kiss. He ran a hand through his hair and then glanced my way. He caught my eye and motioned for me to come over. I felt my nerves getting the best of me as I made my way to the stage.

  “Hey, Aidan, that was a good show,” I stammered.

  Aidan lips were pursed then morphed into a wicked smile.” Well, it could be better.”

  “What do you mean? You guys were great!” I hated how I was gushing. Idiot.

  Aidan hopped off the stage and leaned in close. His eyes bore into mine. “I think you know exactly what I mean.”

  I swallowed and stared at him. I felt the heat spread across my face, and my heartbeat quickened.

  “One day you’re gonna get your butt up here, Liz.”

  His proximity, his piercing blue eyes, his smile — it was too much. I took a step back and tripped over a chair, but Aidan grabbed my arm before I hit the floor.

  “Are you okay?” Aidan seemed amused at my less-than-graceful fall.

  “Yes, I’m fine.” I quickly removed myself from his firm grip. “I’ve gotta go, Aidan. I’ll see you tomorrow.” I dashed back to the table, grabbed my purse, and waved at Melissa and Mason before I walked toward the exit sign.

  “See ya.” Aidan chuckled.

  I could sense he was smirking at me as I walked out the door.

  Chapter Four

  My nerves got the best of me during dinner, and I hardly ate a thing. I still had a few more hours to kill before Aidan would be over, so in an attempt to rid my body from some pent-up energy, I clipped Maggie to her leash and dashed out the front door. I braced myself against the streetlamp across the street from Mrs. Chapman’s house and stretched my legs, hoping to get another glimpse of my smokin’ hot neighbor, but no luck. The jeep was gone, and it seemed like the house was closed up tight. When I noticed the rosebushes were cut back, it made me smile. Mrs. Chapman would have liked that.

  Maggie pulled me forward as we headed up the street toward the creek bed. I picked up the pace when one of my favorite running songs blasted through my phone. We continued to weave our way through kids on bikes and skateboarders until finally, we did it. Maggie and I were standing in the sand looking over the blue Pacific. The beach was so peaceful this time of year. The tourists were gone. The lifeguard stations were closed, and the beach was deserted. I reveled in the fact we were the only ones on the sand for miles. Lost in my thoughts, I allowed my mind to daydream about Aidan.

  Can we be friends? Will he want to be friends with someone like me? I hope I can be myself when he comes over. But… more than anything, I hope I don’t make a fool of myself.

  ****

  When Maggie and I walked in the door, I unclipped her leash, hung it in the hall closet, and climbed the stairs two at a time. Entering my bathroom, I stripped out of my sweaty workout gear, grabbed a new razor, pulled back the blue-and-white, daisy-covered shower curtain, and stepped inside. The steam from the hot water filled the room. I propped my leg up on the side of the tub and slathered it with shaving cream. The razor glided across my now-defined calf muscle, removing the stubble, leaving a smooth patch of skin in its wake. The scent of lavender calmed me while the steady stream of water ran down my back. I breathed in the moist air and gave myself a pep talk.

  I can do this. I’m smart. He’s coming here because he needs my help. I’m getting paid for this. Don’t be an idiot. This was my mantra.

  I finished blow-drying my hair and checked the clock for the umpteenth time. My heart was racing, knowing Aidan would be here any minute. I wiped my sweaty palms on my jeans and giggled when they slipped past my hips. It was still hard to believe my once-tight jeans were now huge. After I pulled them back up, I grabbed a belt. At least I was wearing a new shirt, courtesy of my mom’s closet. The deep shade of green was in contrast with my fair skin, and I knew it was a good color for me.

  I rolled Mason’s computer chair next to mine then heard Maggie bark. Seconds later the doorbell rang. My heart started to beat faster while heading down the stairs. Taking one last deep breath, I exhaled as I opened the door.

  Aidan was casually dressed, wearing worn-out jeans and a grey V-neck sweater. His black backpack was slung over his shoulder. He gave me a smile then walked through the door.

  “Hey, Liz.”

  “Hi, Aidan. We can study in my room,” I stammered and motioned to the stairs.

  When we entered my room, Aidan didn’t seem like his confident self. He seemed… nervous. He paced around my small bedroom, picking up my knick-knacks and putting them down. When he saw a few framed photographs on my bookcase, he leaned forward and grabbed one. It was a picture of me at the piano. He examined it, then his eyes went from the photograph to me.

  “Nice picture.”

  “Thanks. Um, do you want to get started? We can share my desk.”
I nervously took a seat while Aidan pulled his calculus book from his backpack.

  Aidan sat next to me, brushed back his hair with one hand, and exhaled. “Okay. Let’s do this.”

  We sat side by side with Aidan’s book between us. As we reviewed a chapter covering differential equations, I found I was in my element. Having had spent my first two years of high school tutoring in the math lab, I knew I had a knack for this, and when I saw Aidan grasp the concept, I was rewarded with his beautiful smile.

  Aidan hunched over his paper, elbow bent, and rested his forehead on his hand. With a furrowed brow he whined. “Help me out, Liz, I’m not sure about this one.”

  Aidan moved the book from between us and pulled my chair closer to his. Our arms touched briefly, and I quickly moved mine away. Aidan gave me a smirk and shook his head.

  “I don’t bite, Liz. Well, unless you want me to.” His lip curved up into a flirty smile.

  “Let’s just work on getting the solution.” I rolled my eyes.

  “Yes, ma’am.” Aidan grinned.

  It was almost ten-thirty by the time we finished. Aidan stood up, rolled his chair out of the way, and plopped down on my bed.

  “Ugh. I’m done.” He bellowed then stretched his arms above his head.

  I rolled my chair around to face him. Aidan hugged my pillow while he braced himself up on his elbow. I smiled. Lucky pillow.

  “Where are you applying to school?”

  “Mason and I are going to Saddleback.”

  “What? Why are you two going to a community college?”

  “Because there’s two of us.” I shrugged. “My parents can’t afford to send us both to college. Mason and I are going to get our associate degrees and then transfer somewhere.”