“This is entertainment. Not ministry. Pure enjoyment for these people, much like those on the strip. You don’t want to cheapen our church by demanding money for this, do you?”
“We sold tickets through an online ticket agent. At least in that regard, our audience won’t be left high and dry. We have an interview in an hour. If I don’t have the cash in my hands before then—and verified as honest to goodness American currency—we will cancel both shows and leave town shaking the dust off our shoes.”
Niko came to stand behind Tia. The pastor blustered but put a hand out to shake his. “I’m Pastor Matthews. Welcome to our church.”
Tia piped in. “Pastor Matthews, this is my husband, Nikolos Acton.”
“Problem, Tia?” Niko asked as he placed a hand at the small of her back.
“Mrs. Acton and I have a disagreement about payment. If you would be willing to talk with me, we could settle this.”
“My wife is perfectly capable of taking care of the business of our band.”
“You need to control her. It isn’t proper for her to be doing a man’s job.”
“I think you’ve made yourself abundantly clear on the matter. Come, Tia.” Niko led Tia down the aisle and called to the band. “Pack up, guys. We’re out of here.”
Without batting an eyelash, the men turned around and hauled their equipment back out to the bus.
“Tia?”
“We’ll do our interview at the radio station and let the audience know the concert is cancelled. I’ll call the ticket agency afterwards.”
“This hasn’t happened before has it?”
Tia bit her lip.
“Tia?”
“It’s rare. They think because I’m a woman they don’t need to pay or listen to me. I’ve even threatened to contact the police before. I’ll call Roberto, and he’ll file papers in court for the money we are due, concert or not. We came in good faith, and he has broken the contract. Roberto will handle it.”
“I’m sorry, hun. I never knew.”
“Why would you? It’s my responsibility. I’ve done it for years, and my job is to make it possible for you to do yours without having to worry about these things. This is the first instance like this in a long time.”
“No hotel tonight?”
“’Fraid not. We can’t afford the prices in town here. I’ll find a place, but we’ll drive and leave this area for sure.”
“You’re the boss.” Niko leaned over to kiss her. “I’m sorry this happened, though.”
“It’s life in a fallen world.”
The band cleared out and headed to the radio station for their interview.
* * *
“KLAS is back on the air, and we are thrilled to welcome the group Specific Gravity to the studio. They’ve brought their guitars, folks. This next hour is going to be fun.”
A song began to play as the announcer reached a hand across to them. “Welcome. Have a seat and adjust your mics.”
The song ended. “This is Craig at KLAS, Las Vegas’s Christian music station. Shining the light amongst the brilliance of the strip. We are happy to have the band Specific Gravity here. Let’s meet them. Why don’t you all introduce yourselves?”
“Hi, I’m Tia, manager.”
“Nikolos, lead vocals and guitar.”
“Johnny, guitar and background vocals.”
“Sam, bass guitar.”
“Marc. I’m on keys.”
“Wayne. I play drums.” He added a little rat-a-tat-tat with his sticks.
Tia piped in. “We also have Rocco, who runs our sound, but he prefers to be behind the sound board, not a microphone, so he’s waiting outside the booth.”
“We’re excited you’ve come to town to do a series of concerts. Tonight is the first one, right? Why don’t you tell us more?”
Tia leaned in. “We bring unfortunate news. The concerts here had to be cancelled but not due to any fault of our own. We just found this out ourselves and wanted our concertgoers to be informed. If you purchased your tickets through the ticket agent, you should be able to get a refund after I call in this afternoon.”
“Whoa,” Craig exclaimed. “What a bummer. You drove all this way to do shows and you need to cancel?”
Niko leaned in. “As Tia mentioned, this was a business issue and no fault of ours. We were ready to set up and do a great show for the people of this town, but circumstances made it not a viable venture for us.”
“We have a caller. This is KLAS. You’re live on the air,” Craig said.
“Hi, Specific Gravity. Our church is willing to host your concert tonight and tomorrow if we can make it work.”
Tia spoke up. “If there’s a way for me to talk to this man off the air, we might be able to figure something out.”
Craig pointed to a door. “We’ll put this pastor through to Tia and see if we can salvage this concert after all. In the meantime, let’s get acquainted with the band, and maybe they’ll sing a song for us after this next hit…”
Niko watched his wife leave the room, and Roger and Rocco stayed with her as she talked on the phone. She hung up, jotted a few notes, and sat down.
“Niko, you guys going to sing for us?”
“Absolutely. It’s the least we could do for our fans.” Niko picked up his guitar as did Johnny. They sang one of their older songs.
“Wow, guys, that was great. I was looking forward to tonight’s venue. I see Tia is out there waiting. Let’s pray this will work out and you guys could stay and enjoy genuine Las Vegas hospitality.”
Another song played. Niko spied a man coming in to talk to Tia as Roger stood by. She pulled out papers, and he signed them and handed over cash. She spoke some more to him and ushered him into the booth with her.
“KLAS is back, and Tia from Specific Gravity has an announcement to make.”
“Yes, thank you to Pastor Jameston, we will be performing at Community Church tonight and tomorrow. All the tickets sold at the other venue will be honored at this church. Specific Gravity is humbled at this church’s generosity and willingness to open up their facility to us and our fans. May God be richly glorified in this change of events.”
“Pastor Jameston, did you have anything to add?”
“Yes, Craig. It is our pleasure to host Specific Gravity at our church. I’ve been a fan of their music for years and have followed the highs and lows of their career. I’ve even asked if Tia and Niko might join us for our Sunday services. Maybe they’ll even sing a song for us. We’ll see.”
Niko raised his eyebrows at Tia, and she winked at him. He nodded his head and glanced to the band, who all shrugged.
When the interview ended, they headed back to the bus.
“Rocco, take us to the closest US Bank first, please,” Tia asked.
Roger and Niko went into the bank with her as she deposited the cash and ensured the bills were not counterfeit.
Soon they arrived at the new church, which was an even nicer venue, setting up and doing their sound check for the night.
Pastor Jameston came to Niko as he set down his guitar. “Nikolos, can we talk?”
Niko nodded. “Sure.”
They sat down in the auditorium.
“I am impressed by your wife.”
Niko smiled. “I’m mighty partial to her myself.”
“The Sunday morning thing isn’t a concert deal. I asked if you and Tia would be willing to be interviewed during the message. If you’d like to play a song, fine, but no pressure.”
“Why us?”
“I’ve followed your story. I read about the assault even though it’s hard now to find any mention of it anywhere. I’ve heard good things about your leadership, and Dan Wink is an old buddy of mine from seminary. He asked me to check in with you when you guys got to town. I hope you don’t mind, but he said some things that intrigued me about your journey.”
“I trust Dan. Does Tia know you want her onstage too?”
“Is she a little gun-shy?”
&n
bsp; Niko nodded. “She doesn’t like discussing some of this. Let me talk to her. I’m open to doing it, and even playing a song or two.”
“Perhaps tomorrow we could do brunch together and discuss what the interview would consist of so you both know what kind of questions I might ask.”
“Sounds good.”
“Can you tell me why you canceled the other venue?”
“Their check bounced. They violated their contract, and on top of it, tried to intimidate Tia.”
“Not a wise move to mess with the lead singer’s wife, huh?”
Niko laughed. “Nope. He told me to get her under control. Little does he realize she’s the one who keeps us all going. She’s the brains behind the tour.”
“Sounds like she’s more than that to you.”
“Much more—and to the guys as well. Friend, confidant, cheerleader. She’s wonderful.”
Pastor Jameston nodded. “Great. I look forward to tonight’s concert and seeing you tomorrow. I’ve already got volunteers lined up to help out tonight with ticket taking, seating, and selling the merchandise the local bookstore is bringing here instead of the other place.”
“Thanks, Pastor.” Niko shook his hand and went to meet up with the band to eat dinner. No nap today.
* * *
Tia collapsed into bed when they returned after the concert. She was grateful for a nice hotel off the strip. Her lower back ached. Niko crawled in and rubbed it for her. She rolled over to snuggle up to him.
“You were a wonder today, Tia. I couldn’t do what you did. I had no clue it was even possible for that to happen.”
“It’s rare. Often they come through when pushed, but this guy has been dodging me for weeks, so I anticipated a battle. We would’ve taken a loss, but it would have been worse if we allowed him to get away with his games.”
“Thanks for watching out for us. You know the Sunday thing?”
“Yeah?”
“He wants to interview you and me during the message.”
Tia gazed up at him. “Me? Why me?”
“He’s followed our story. He’d like to talk about the career ups and downs, our journey. He might mention the assault too.”
“Why?”
“Perhaps to encourage others?”
“I don’t know.”
“We might also sing a song or two. You and I will meet with him for brunch tomorrow to talk through more. He said they could sell merchandise in their bookstore after the service.”
Tia sighed. “Lord, help me.”
Niko kissed her forehead. “I’ll be there too.”
Tia kissed his lips and proceeded to put any thoughts and fears about it all behind her and focus on the love of her husband instead.
* * *
Saturday morning, Tia was on the phone to Roberto Rodriguez.
“You got my paperwork, Robbie?”
“Yeah, and you had cause to terminate based on his actions. He was harassing you, though, which concerns me.”
“Steph talked to you?”
Robbie laughed. “Yeah, she did. I stand accused of listening to my wife’s fears for her friend. Listen, this is a legitimate issue, and I think you need to go to the police and place a complaint on file in case this blows up into something more serious.”
“Really?”
“Yeah.”
“He’s a pastor. This is a church we’re talking about.”
“It didn’t stop him from trying to defraud you and intimidate you.”
“I see your point.”
“Take Roger and Niko with you so they can corroborate your story. Document everything. Steph said you’re speaking at this new venue on Sunday morning?”
“Being interviewed.”
“Make sure you say nothing negative about the first venue.”
“We already faced that at the radio station. We didn’t blame anyone or mention names.”
“I’m glad things are working out with this new church. It’s kind of rare for you guys to even be able to attend a service on a Sunday morning.”
“It’s going to be tough because of the late night tonight. We might not get to sleep till well after midnight, depending on the size of the crowd.”
“We’re praying for you guys as you travel and minister. Don’t hesitate to call if you have any other issues.”
“Thanks, Robbie.”
Tia slumped in her chair. Niko came out of the bathroom. “What’s the verdict?”
“Robbie wants us to file a report with the police.”
Niko raised his eyebrows. “Then I guess we go. We have time before we meet with Pastor Jameston.”
“We need to take Roger too.”
“I’ll give him a call.”
Tia sighed. “This is the part of my job I don’t like.”
Niko came up behind her and kneaded the muscles in her shoulders. “Girl, you are wound tighter than a yo-yo. I’m thinking I should find you a good massage therapist.”
“All I want is you, honey.”
“No. I think you need a professional.”
“If you dare—it’d better be a woman.”
“It would have to be. Anything else and I’d be sitting in there ready to pummel him.”
Tia laughed. “You’re good for my self-esteem.”
“Why do you need help there? You’re beautiful.” He leaned over her shoulder and placed both hands on the small ball of her tummy. “Hard to believe there is a little person in there. It’s solid. You are definitely not fat, sweetheart. This is all baby.”
He kissed her, and she fought to rise. “Niko, we should get to the police station. Remember?”
He let her go and went to put on his shoes. “Fine. You owe me, though.”
“Owe you what?”
“You need to finish what I started—later.”
Tia laughed. “I only have to wink at you and start something.”
“You’re right girl—that’s the kind of power you hold over me.”
“I’d better use it for good.”
“You’d better.” He stood up and grabbed the room key. “Shall we go?”
“We gonna call a taxi?”
“There are some out front.”
“Okay, fine. Let’s head out.”
* * *
The police were kind and took the report as well as statements from Roger and Niko. When Tia was done, they went to the restaurant where they were to meet Pastor Jameston, with Roger tagging along.
“I think Roger could leave to rest or do something fun.”
“Nope, I’m here to protect you, and this town isn’t the safest. I’m sticking with you and Niko.”
“Gotta earn your keep?”
“Other than the incident on Friday, there hasn’t been much for me to do.”
Niko piped in, “Guess that means you’re doing your job.”
Roger nodded. “I’ll sit over there. I won’t be listening, but I’ll be keeping guard.”
Tia went to sit next to Niko in a booth as Pastor Jameston came to join them. They ordered their food.
“What’s the point of having us?” Tia asked.
“You underwent some trials, and God has been with you, and you’ve made your marriage work in unusual circumstances. I think your story could help people.”
“Yeah, but we’re still newlyweds.”
“So? Trials are trials, and sex doesn’t help a couple through everything.”
Tia’s face grew warm, and Niko squeezed her knee. “It sure helps, though.”
The pastor chuckled. “It definitely can, and that’s not something to shy away from either.”
“Really?” Tia asked.
“Really. I think the church too often avoids real issues. Like the reality and fallout of physical assault. Sacrificing for another. The struggle to trust when there’s been a trauma like you’ve experienced.”
Tia sighed. “You really want me to tell my story.”
“It would help. The more honest you are the more people wil
l connect to you.”
“You said you wanted music too?” Niko asked.
“Yeah, maybe you could do the song you wrote while Tia was recovering. But I’m open to anything you believe is appropriate. As the Holy Spirit moves.”
Niko nodded. He looked to Tia. “You up for this?”
Deep breath, Tia. “Yeah. But what if I experience a panic attack on stage?”
“It hasn’t happened before—why do you think it would happen now?”
“I don’t know, but it scares me.”
“We’ll pray it doesn’t, and if it does, Niko knows what to do?” Pastor asked.
“Yeah. I do.” Niko answered.
“Okay. Are we set?”
“Sure.” Tia squeezed Niko’s hand.
The pastor prayed over them, and they left to head back to the hotel.
* * *
Niko collapsed into bed at one a.m. They planned to be up early for a nine o’clock service tomorrow. He’d only be taking his guitar with him and having it ready for anything the Lord led him to play. The rest of the band was given a reprieve. They could sleep in or come. Whatever they wanted to do. They would leave town after lunch, which the pastor promised to provide. Unfortunately, the early morning meant they needed to be packed up with all their stuff in the bus before they got to the church at eight.
Not a lot of time for sleep.
Tia drifted off the minute she hit the pillow, and he prayed for a night free of terror.
* * *
Tia woke him early in the morning. She had showered and applied her makeup. He took his turn quick and came out to find a cup of coffee awaiting him. Tia had her bags packed. A car would be sent to pick them up, at least, so the band could sleep.
“How you doing, babe?”
A large yawn greeted him. “A little coffee and I should be okay, but I’ll be taking a long nap when we hit the road.”
Niko wiggled his eyebrows at her. “I’ll be joining you.”
“You won’t want to nap.”
“Well, maybe after other things.”
“You definitely do take after your parents.”
“Hey, they’ve made it a long time on such passion.”
“Well, I for one am grateful.” She kissed him.
“Hey, what did I say?”
Feta and Freeways Page 18
