by Carly Morgan
Max’s smile vanished.
“What? Did I say something wrong? I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to pry.” She concentrated her attention on her water glass.
“No, it isn’t you. It’s just—no. My dad isn’t proud of my decision. He wanted me to take over the family business.”
“Oh? Well, what about your mom?”
He shook his head. “My mom died when I was young.”
“Sheesh, I’m sorry.”
Max reached over and touched her hand. “Don’t be. It’s okay. I don’t really remember my mom. And my dad and I have always had a strained relationship. It is the way it is.”
“Still…” She let her words die. “Do you write all of the band’s songs?”
He relaxed. “Most of them. Wolfgang and Thomas, a couple of my band mates, have written a few as well.”
“That’s cool. Have you known the rest of the guys in your band long?” Birdy had told her that Wolfgang went to school with her and Max too.
“Wolfgang and I have played together since high school. Our families run in the same circles.” He finished off his tea. “I met the other three, Thomas, Steve, and Hammond, in college.”
“Did you always want to sing Christian music?”
He shook his head. “No. When we started, none of us were into that scene, although Thomas and Hammond sang in church. The rest of us were heading in the complete opposite direction. Drugs. Drinking. We were a mess. For me, I let the way things were between my dad and me be the reason I made terrible choices.” He picked up the spoon, twirled it in his hand, and then put it back down. He seemed lost in his own thoughts.
“What made you change your mind?” She’d finished her water. “I mean, unless you don’t want to tell me.”
“No, it’s not that—”
“Need a refill?” Elise was back. She’d unbuttoned three of the buttons on her shirt and taken down her blonde hair.
“I’d love a sparkling water with lemon and another for Katie too, please.” Max smiled kindly.
“Fine.” Elise was visibly upset that he wasn’t coming on to her, but Max seemed not to notice. “Lunch will be served soon.” She walked away.
Katie’s stomach rumbled. “Lunch. Yay. I’m so hungry.” She hadn’t eaten since six that morning and it was after noon.
“Here.” Max reached into his bag and pulled out a bar. “It’ll help.” He handed it to her.
Katie thought about telling him no, but she was really hungry. “Thanks.” It was an almond and coconut bar. She tore into the wrapping and took a bite, chewing rapidly. “Mmmmmmm, it’s so good.” She took another bite.
He snorted. “I didn’t think they were that great. But watching you eat, I may have to reconsider.”
Katie slowed her chewing. “I had oatmeal at six this morning.”
“And that’s it?”
She nodded, taking another bite.
“Well, no wonder you’re so hungry. Eat up. I have another if you want that too.”
She thought about taking him up on the offer, but Elise had said lunch would be served soon. She could wait. “No, that’s okay. But this really did hit the spot. Thanks again.” She put the last bite in her mouth.
“You’re very welcome.” He gave her a sideways glance. “Anytime.” His gaze fell to her lips again. Face heating, Katie looked away, turning her attention out the window and toward the clear azure sky.
Their chat didn’t diminish, even when lunch came. Katie couldn’t believe how easy it was to talk to Max. He didn’t seem arrogant or narcissistic. She only thought about Bentley a few times during the entire flight. More than once she debated asking Max again about why he and his group decided to create a Christian rock band, but she didn’t want to bring up his painful past again.
She and her parents weren’t super close anymore, but she loved them immensely. She couldn’t imagine her father being disappointed in her, or not being able to talk to her mom when she needed her. It must’ve been so difficult for Max, growing up that way. She remembered the tattoo on his chest and thought of asking him about it, but decided against it.
Instead they talked of lighter things. Turned out his favorite color was green. He also liked to read, play Destiny with random people he didn’t know, go to church on Sundays, and donate time to different charities.
Spending time with him made her realize just how little she’d done with her life.
An hour before the plane was to land, Katie pulled out her list of things she wanted to do while on vacation.
“What is that?” Max leaned over and took it from her.
“Hey, be careful.” She tried to take it back, but he kept it out of her grasp.
Katie put her hands in her lap. “That’s the list of things I want to do while I’m in Maui.”
“A list, huh? You’re not a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants kind of girl?”
“Definitely not.” She shook her head, trying to reach the paper still in his hand.
“Oh, I can’t wait to see what you’ve got planned. Let’s see.” He studied the list.
“I probably won’t get to it all, but I want to stay active, see as much as I can.” She tried to grab it away, but he held up a hand. “I figure it’ll keep my mind off…” She paused, not wanting to say Bentley’s name. “I like to stay busy,” she finished.
Max looked like he wanted to say something, but didn’t. Instead he concentrated on the list. “Horseback riding on the beach. That sounds fun.”
“I haven’t ridden a horse in a long time.” She leaned back in her seat.
“Parasailing. Hiking. Body boarding. Eat.” He grinned playfully. “You have EAT on here three times.”
“I’ve heard the food in Maui is exquisite.”
“Uh-huh. What else? Whale watch. Read. Sun bathe. Swim. Collect shells. Walk on the beach at sunset.” He studied her kindly. “You know, I bet you can put the ‘collect shells’ and ‘walk on the beach at sunset’ together. Get them both out of the way at once.”
Katie laughed. “I know, but I want to make sure to get plenty of time on the beach. The sound of the ocean makes me happy.”
“You’ve got quite the list.”
“I know. It’s a lot. What are your plans?”
He handed back the paper. “I don’t know. I figured I’d spend some time outside, write some lyrics.” He shrugged. “Just chill.”
“Chill.” She nodded, exasperated. “Yeah, that’s what I’m doing too. Just chillin’.” It sounded weird when she said it and she giggled. Quickly, she folded her paper, and put it back in her bag.
“Well, I’m sure you’ll have a great time.” He took a sip of his third cup of tea.
The captain told them they’d be starting their descent soon. It was her least favorite part of flying. Ascending was fine. Descending, not so much.
She forced herself not to sigh. “I hope so.” She needed to recuperate. Revitalize her soul. Birdy promised she’d come and spend the last week of vacation with her. That was something to look forward to. Her best friend always made life more interesting.
Elise appeared, her hair back up as well as her buttons. “I need to take your tea up. I mean, if you’re finished.” She didn’t even try to be friendly any longer.
“Oh, sure. Thanks, Elise.” He handed her the cup and saucer. The woman bit her lip and started to walk away.
“Hang on,” Max said. He pulled his wallet from his back pocket. Took a fifty and handed it to her. “Thanks for taking such good care of Katie and me.”
Elise took the money and her sour expression was replaced by a big smile. “It was my pleasure,” she gushed, touching his arm.
Katie debated whether to tip her as well, but Elise barely remembered to take her empty glass. When she did, she didn’t even bother to look at Katie.
“Thanks so much,” Katie said, covering a smile with the back of her hand.
“Sure. Yeah, of course,” said Elise, her eyes still glued on Max.
“Excuse me
, miss,” another passenger called.
Her expression turned irritated. “If you want to get together,” she began in a hurried voice, “I’m staying at the Hilton tonight. Just ask for Elise Miller.”
Max smiled kindly. “Thanks, Elise.” The woman beamed at him and hurried away.
“It seems you made Elise’s day.”
Max chuckled. “I do my best.”
The plane dropped and Katie’s stomach rose into her throat. She leaned back and closed her eyes. She tried to focus on the fun she intended to have so she wouldn’t think about the fact that she might puke in front of Max Legend. “Oh boy.” She tightened her seat belt and clutched the armrests as she squeezed her eyes shut even tighter.
“What’s the matter?” Max’s voice was filled with concern
“Going down makes me queasy.”
“It used to bother me too, but I learned a secret.”
“That’s nice,” Katie said. Sweat started to form along her brow line. She breathed in through her nose and out through her mouth.
“Lean forward so that your forehead is resting against the seat in front of you. Close your eyes, and relax.”
She opened one eye. “Really?”
“Try it. It works.”
“Fine.” She did what he said and felt an immediate relief.
“Doing all right?” Max asked after a few minutes.
“Yes. Much better. Thanks.” She didn’t look at him or even open her eyes. Doing so might cause her to throw up, and she didn’t want to do that.
“You can do this,” he said, rubbing her back.
“I can do this,” she repeated.
The plane landed without mishap.
After they deplaned, Katie and Max walked into the airport side by side.
“Do you have any more?” Max indicated her small bag as he spoke.
“Yes. I checked two others. You?”
“Nope. Just this.” He slung his bag over his shoulder. “Well, I should probably go. It was great chatting with you, Katie Green. Maybe I’ll see you around. Enjoy Maui.” He paused as though he would say more and started to, but stopped. He waved with his free hand, and walked away.
“Same. I had fun,” she said, watching his amazing physique as he left. Too late, she thought about asking him to dinner. She would’ve had to shout or chase after him. Neither was her style. It was for the best anyway, but she felt a pang of sadness that she probably wouldn’t see him again.
Chapter 6
Dear Diary,
I’m here! In Maui. And it’s even more beautiful than I imagined. Guess what else? Max Legend is here too. It’s crazy. His seat was next to mine on the plane. There’s something about him that makes me feel safe, which shouldn’t be possible. He’s a musician. And I’m supposed to be a lawyer. When we’re together the world feels right though. It’s crazy.
For the first time in my life, I have no idea what’s going to happen next.
I’ll keep you posted!
Katie checked into the Lokelani Presidential Suite at the Four Seasons. Her suite was situated right on the beach and the scenery was beyond beautiful. The hotel room was fresh and elegant, though not over the top. It was simple extravagance. She unpacked, changed into a cotton dress, and went down to Duo, a steak and seafood restaurant in the hotel. It was after eight, but the restaurant was still busy. She hoped she could get a table.
“Hello,” she said to the hostess whose nametag said she was Angie.
“Aloha. Do you have a reservation?”
“I believe so. It should be under Nelson.” She gripped her hands into fists. Nelson would’ve been her married name if she’d married Bentley. The thought made her want to gag.
The woman went down the list. “Great. Will Mr. Nelson be joining you soon?”
Katie tried to keep her face serene as she shook her head. “No, it’ll just be me.”
Angie’s face went sour. “Very well.” She picked up a single menu. “Follow me.”
Katie was suddenly nervous. She really didn’t want to eat alone. While she followed Angie, she debated whether to turn on her heel and go back to her room and just order room service.
“Here you go,” Angie said, facing Katie.
The table was close to the kitchen, definitely not a prime location, but it would do. She didn’t want to draw attention to herself anyway. “Thank you.” She slid into her seat, accepting the menu.
“Your server will be over to take your order in a few minutes.
“Great.” After Angie left, Katie opened her menu. Her stomach growled. Everything sounded delicious. In the end she ordered the Sesame Crusted Ahi with roasted vegetables.
While she waited for the waitress to bring her food, she sipped on some sparkling water and scanned her phone. There were several texts. From her mom, Birdy, and Bentley.
She ignored Bentley’s and read her mom’s.
How was your flight?
Have you checked in yet? How’s your room?
Would you please let me know you’re alive!
Katie smiled as she replied. Hi, Mom. My flight was great. It went by faster than I thought it would. She didn’t add the reason was her visit with the handsome Max Legend. My room is even more gorgeous than the pictures. I love it. Thanks for talking me into coming. I am alive and about to eat some dinner. Love you!
She opened Birdy’s texts next. They were similar to her mom’s. She texted back, telling her friend she’d call her after dinner. It didn’t matter that it was the middle of the night, or rather very early morning, in New York. Katie knew her friend would still be awake. Then she debated whether to check her emails or see what Bentley had to say.
“You know, I may have to take out a restraining order. This is ridiculous.” His deep voice was filled with humor.
Startled, Katie looked up. Disbelief flashed across her features. “Oh my goodness. This is becoming a little worrisome.” She smiled as she spoke to let Max know how pleasantly surprised she was to see him again.
Angie still had a sour look on her face. “Did you want to go to your table, sir? It’s over here.”
“If you don’t mind, I’d rather sit with Katie.” He raised his eyebrows at Katie. “Is that all right?”
Katie set down her phone. “That would be great.”
“Cool.” Max took the seat across from her.
Angie handed his him menu. “I’ll let your waitress know, Mr. Legend.”
“Thank you, Angie. You’re a sweetheart.” Max smiled. Angie couldn’t help but return his grin with one of her own. It was hard to resist such his gorgeous face. Katie knew that too well.
“Are you staying here too?” Katie asked once she left.
“I am.” He crossed his leg and rested his forearms on the edge of the table.
“Me too.” She laughed, embarrassed. “I guess I said that already.”
He’d changed since she last saw him and now had on tan pants, loafers, and a light blue button up, open at the collar. Probably not what would be considered stylish in New York, but this was Maui and eighties casual suited him.
“You did.” He stared at the centerpiece, a glass container filled with fresh local flowers. They were beautiful and had a lovely smell, like sweet honey and jasmine.
“I swear I didn’t know you were staying here.” Katie hoped he didn’t really think she was stalking him.
He didn’t respond, but continued to stare at the flowers. She thought about saying more, but before she could, he said, “Do you believe God loves you?”
She was taken aback. What an odd question. People, especially newly acquainted people, didn’t talk about religion, but she was beginning to realize Max Legend wasn’t most people. So she thought about his question. A month ago, her immediate answer would’ve been yes. But she’d had a rough time lately. Life had been downright difficult. She didn’t want to be bitter, but that was how she felt.
When she didn’t respond right away, he regarded her. “You believe in God, right?�
� He studied her, waiting for her response. “I guess I assumed you did since you knew my music,” he went on. “I shouldn’t have.”
“Yes,” she said quickly. “Of course I believe in God.” She crossed her arms in her lap. It was her turn to stare at the flowers. “It’s… The last month has been really tough. I guess I’m mad at God because of everything that’s happened.”
The waitress came back. Max gave her his order. He chose the ahi too, with a side of black truffle mac and cheese. She thought about telling him they’d ordered the same thing, but figured he’d find out when their food came out.
“I like your tattoo,” the waitress said before she left.
His shirt had fallen open, revealing the tattoo. Close up, Katie could see it was a sun with a symbol in it. “Thanks,” he said, adjusting his shirt to cover it up.
When they were alone again, Katie spoke. “I noticed your tattoo the night I saw you at The Attic. What does it mean?”
He looked down at his hands.
“I didn’t mean to pry.” Hugging her arms to herself, she thought her face might be red as a cherry tomato. She shouldn’t be so inquisitive. But she couldn’t help it. As a lawyer it was her job to ask questions.
His gorgeous eyes caught hers and held them. “I haven’t told anyone what it means. But, if you want me to, I’ll tell you.”
Katie leaned forward. “I definitely do.” Her heart warmed at the idea of him trusting her enough to share something so personal. She hoped he never regretted it.
He gave her a lopsided grin. “I don’t have any more tattoos. Getting them isn’t a thing I do. I have the one and probably won’t ever get another, but at the time it felt like the right thing to do.”
“I hope you don’t think I’m judging you, because I’m not,” Katie said, scooting closer to him. Like a magnet, she felt drawn to him in a way she’d never experienced before.
“Thank you. I think I can tell that about you.” He picked up his water glass and sipped, his eyes never leaving hers. “It was after a particularly tough night. I’d come home drunk and on something, I don’t remember what. When my father saw me, he backhanded me, sending me to the ground. Then he said his two favorite words to me. ‘Grow up!’”
