Change in Harmony (A Silver Script Novel Book 4)

by Weist, Jaclyn

  The small studio welcomed him home. The boxes called to him, but he pulled out a chair and got to work on the assignments Debra had given him. They may have been smaller accounts, but they were still clients, and he was determined to be the best agent they’d ever had.

  Chapter 4

  Allison checked her hair one more time and smoothed down her skirt. The bar was already full, and her stomach wanted to rebel. She could do this. She’d performed countless times since high school, and this was no different. Okay, so this time was in front of adults, and most of them had probably had too much to drink.

  Eddie’s voice sounded over the microphone, and the butterflies in Allison’s stomach only got worse. He introduced her, and she pushed herself out onto the stage before she could back out. Lights blinded her, making it hard to see the crowd. She wanted to hug Eddie for making it easier on her.

  The outgoing part of her took over and helped squelch the nerves. She could do this. She smiled and sat on the stool provided. “Hey, everyone. Thank you for coming tonight. And thanks to Eddie for giving me this shot. Now, who’s ready for this?”

  The crowd went wild, helping Allison’s adrenaline as she started into the first song. She went with a few well-known songs before moving into her own songs. Adele was a personal favorite, and her songs helped show off Allison’s voice more than other artists. As she sang, she could hear whistles and cheers, but otherwise, it was just her and the microphone.

  As she moved into her own song, the crowd quieted. It was exactly what she’d hoped for. The song was slow and soulful, and she wanted them to feel it. After she’d belted out the last few lines, the room was quiet for a moment, then burst into an explosion of applause. Allison couldn’t help grinning as she bowed and left the stage. Her hands shook as she took a drink of the water Eddie had provided.

  Sam pushed the curtain aside and grabbed Allison in a hug, jumping up and down. “You were so good out there. The best I’ve heard so far.”

  “Thanks. I had an absolute blast.” Allison took a deep breath and wiped her forehead. “Do you think he’ll hire me?”

  “Are you kidding me? I think the people out there would torch the place if he didn’t bring you back.” Sam stopped and listened for a moment. “Hear that? They’re calling for more.”

  Allison bit her lip. “Should I go back out?”

  “Yes. Go.” Sam grabbed Allison’s guitar and shoved it into her hands. “Do your thing.”

  Eddie poked his head around the corner. “You’re wanted out there. Can you do another song?”

  “Of course she can.” Sam pushed her toward the stage. “Knock ’em dead.”

  Allison smoothed out her dress and took another quick drink of water before going back out to the screaming crowd. “You want more?”

  As the crowd screamed, she sang two more popular songs and got everyone to join in. Sam stood to the side of the stage, grinning as she clapped along. This was a far cry from the Broadway musicals her mom wanted her to be singing, but right now, Allison felt like she was on top of the world.

  By midnight, most of the crowd had left the bar. Allison and Sam sat at one of the tables near the back, hoping it would give them a little privacy.

  “That was quite the experience.” Allison took a drink of her ice water.

  Sam laughed. “You could say that. Three encores, and then an escort off the stage.”

  “Maybe I shouldn’t have ended with that song. I’ll have to remember to do it in the middle of the set next time.” Allison laid her hand on her arms. She was exhausted, and her throat was raw from singing for so long.

  Eddie set another water next to her and sat in the chair between Sam and Allison. “Great job out there tonight. Are you going to be up for another performance tomorrow night?”

  Allison’s head jerked up. “Does that mean you’re hiring me?”

  “Of course. Unless you don’t want to come back.” Eddie’s eyebrows drew together. “Was it too wild?”

  “No, it was perfect.” Allison grinned. “I’d love to come back.”

  Eddie held out his hand for her to shake. “Great. We loved having you here. I’ll get the contract and have you sign it. And seriously, that was amazing.”

  Allison watched Eddie go, then turned back to Sam. “Did I really just get the job?”

  Sam squealed. “Yes you did.”

  “Okay, I just wanted to make sure I wasn’t dreaming.” Allison couldn’t believe how the night had turned out. But her bones ached, and her head pounded after the long evening.

  Eddie came back with the contract and handed it to Allison. “Run through it and let me know if everything sounds good.”

  Allison studied the contract, and while most of it seemed pretty straightforward, her stomach dropped at the amount of time she was supposed to perform each night. Her hand hesitated over the signature line.

  “Is something wrong?” Eddie leaned forward.

  “I’m just worried about my voice. Is there any way I can split this? I’ll split the pay if I have to.” Allison knew it wasn’t a smart move to already be offering half her pay to someone else, but she couldn’t do it all on her own.

  Eddie studied her for a moment. “Do you have someone in mind?”

  Allison tapped her pen on the table. “Not off the top of my head. But I have some friends who could help out until you find someone. They’re students, and I’ve been working with them on the weekends.”

  “Sounds good to me. Just give me some of their names. You keep the pay. They can be paid by tips until I hire them on.”

  “Are you sure?” Allison knew her friends would be more than thrilled with any money they could get but she couldn’t just keep all of it.

  Eddie nodded. “You’re the money maker. I need you here to perform, and I’m willing to pay you enough to keep you here.”

  “That would be great, thank you.” Allison signed the contract and handed it to him.

  Sam and Allison left the bar and went back to their apartment. Allison could barely keep her eyes open by the time she reached her bed. Even then, she stared up at the ceiling for an hour longer, excitement still coursing through her. Thoughts of who she could invite the next night worked like counting sheep, and she soon fell asleep.

  Allison pulled her collar up and walked quickly toward Columbia University. Snow had begun falling soon after she left the apartment, and it was only getting heavier as she made her way through the buildings to the arts building. Sounds of students singing or dancing flowed over her. She smiled to herself as she thought about her performance the night before. While she needed something full time, she knew she’d enjoy this gig.

  “Hey, Allison. You’re early.” Toni handed her a badge. “How’d it go last night?”

  “I got the job.” Allison grinned and signed in. “I need to find someone to split the time with, though. So, if you’re looking for something to do in the evenings, I could hook you up.”

  Toni laughed. “No, I’m good, thanks. If I think of anyone, I’ll let you know.”

  “Thanks. See you later.” Allison waved and went into the rehearsal room she’d be working in. Class let out, and the music was transformed into the chaos of students moving from one room to another.

  A short blonde girl poked her head into the room. “Are you Allison?”

  “Yep, you must be Leah.” Allison stood and shook her hand. “Did you bring a piece to work on?”

  Leah pulled sheet music out of her bag. “It’s right here. I have an audition in an hour and I’m worried that I won’t hit the high notes. I’m usually an alto, but my professor suggested this song. It’s beautiful, but I’m not sure I can do it justice.”

  Allison smiled as Leah rambled on. “Let’s see how it sounds. I can’t imagine that your professor would suggest it if he didn’t think you could do it.”

  Leah stared at the music. “Maybe.”

  “Let’s hear it.” Allison sat back in her chair and clasped her hands together.


  “Okay.” She backed up, cleared her throat, and began singing.

  Her professor had been right. Her voice was perfect for the song, and while there were a few parts where she needed a little work, it brought tears to Allison’s eyes. Leah brought a spirit to the music that not many could replicate.

  When Leah finished, Allison clapped. “That was beautiful. If this doesn’t move the judges, I don’t know what will.”

  Leah beamed. “Really? You don’t think it’s too high?”

  “We’ll work on the spots that were a little rough, but I think you need to sing this song. And when you’re done with your audition, come back and talk to me. I have a possible job for you. If your parents will let you, I mean.”

  For the rest of the session, they worked on the higher notes, and a few of the other spots where she’d gone out of tune. By the time she had to leave to make the audition, Leah had the song smoothed out. Allison wished her luck and watched as she hurried out of the room and down the hall. If Leah didn’t get into Juilliard with that audition, they were crazy.

  Allison helped two more students before it was time for her own class. She’d been so excited to get into the class, and it was exactly what she’d hoped it would be. Thoughts of what Nate had said about keeping to one skill still grated at her, but she pushed them away.

  As soon as everyone had stretched. The professor put the class into partners, and they went over the Viennese Waltz. Allison allowed her mind to wander as her body flowed through the movements. Her partner led her around the floor, counting to himself. The professor would stop a couple here and there to critique the way they held themselves, or if the steps weren’t quite right. By the time the song ended, Allison’s legs burned from the quick movements. She thanked her partner and backed up to the wall until the professor announced their next dance.

  By the time class was over, Allison was ready to drop with exhaustion. There had been little downtime as they went from one dance to the next. She barely caught herself when she was attacked by a squealing Leah.

  “Whoa. I take it things went well?” Allison readjusted her bag and brushed a strand of hair out of her face.

  “Yes, thank you! They seemed to be really impressed. And I was able to hit every single note.”

  Allison grinned. “I knew you could. Congratulations! You’ll have to let me know if you get in.”

  “Oh, and I talked to my parents about the job you were talking about. Can you tell me a little more? I could really use the cash.”

  Allison pulled her coat tighter. “Let’s get out of the snow. Where are you headed next?”

  “I’m done for the day. I was just going home.”

  “Great, we can walk together.” Allison gave Leah the details as they hurried toward the subway. By the time they caught their separate trains, Leah had agreed to talk to her parents about it. Allison waved from the train as it pulled away from the platform. She wasn’t sure how she’d make it through the evening with how tired she was, but at least she’d have help after tonight. As long as Eddie agreed to hire Leah.

  Chapter 5

  Nate couldn’t help the disappointment he felt when he saw that Allison wasn’t on the platform again. It had been over a week, and the guilt from leaving her at the diner had been eating at him ever since. Which made no sense. It’s not like she was the first girl he’d ever dated and not called again. There was just something about her easygoing, open, and friendly manner that made his mind keep going back to her.

  He took the steps up to the street and checked his phone again for the directions. There was a new act at his friend’s bar, and Eddie had been pestering him to come and check it out. With all the new ads that Nate needed to have ready for the beginning of spring, this was the first time he’d been able to get away. And even then, he had several hours of work to do that night to prepare for the meeting the next day. The thought of just staying home ran through his mind, but it was pushed aside quickly. His mind needed a break for a bit.

  Music blasted as Nate walked through the door, and the smell of old alcohol, chicken wings, and fried food filled his senses. It had been way too long since he’d been here last. He pushed his way through the crowd, checking out a few of the girls as he went past them. Eddie stood at the bar and nodded when he saw Nate coming toward him. He finished the order and wiped his hands.

  “Hey, man. You made it. What can I get you?” Eddie grinned and grabbed a glass from the counter.

  “Just water for now. What’s the occasion? It’s packed.” Nate sat on one of the stools and smiled at a blonde girl next to him. She smirked and turned away.

  Eddie gestured toward the stage. “I told you. She’s amazing, and word spreads fast.”

  “Where’d you find her?” Nate took the glass from Eddie and took a drink.

  “The subway. I was coming home from—are you okay?” Eddie shot Nate a curious look.

  Nate coughed on the water he’d inhaled. It couldn’t be her, right? “I’m fine.”

  “Sure. Anyway, I better go get the show started. The crowd is getting restless.” Eddie left, glancing over his shoulder at Nate as he went around the corner.

  People made their way toward the stage and found a place to stand. Nate stayed where he was, and sipped on his water. Maybe he should have gotten something else to drink. Music started, and Nate glanced over. He breathed a sigh of relief when he saw a young girl walk out on stage and sit on the stool in the center. It wasn’t Allison, but Eddie was right. She was amazing with her rich, alto voice. She couldn’t be more than eighteen years old. A glance to the side proved him right. A couple stood there with pride written all over their faces—obviously her parents.

  Eddie came back to stand behind the bar. “Want some more water?”

  “I think I’ll order some wings and a drink with those.” Nate gestured toward the stage. “You’re right. She’s fantastic.”

  “Her? No, that’s Leah. She’s the opening act. Allison will be out in a few minutes.”

  Nate nearly spit his drink. He could leave right now, but he hadn’t heard any of it yet, and Eddie would wonder what was going on. He’d stay just long enough to satisfy Eddie, and then find an excuse to leave. A date, maybe. It’s not like that would be unbelievable. He normally had a date every weekend. He just hadn’t felt like it since . . . the day he left Allison in the diner.

  The girl finished to a standing ovation and left the stage to sit with her parents. Nate wanted to leave, but his promise to stay and a more than a little curiosity held him there. He’d left her once already, and he obviously still regretted it. Maybe if he apologized he could move on with life.

  After a few glowing words for Leah, Allison sat and strummed a few chords on her guitar. She started a popular song, and Nate was mesmerized. Her voice was rich, and by her expression as she sang, she loved what she did. Nate tore his gaze away from her and glanced around to see that he wasn’t the only one affected by her singing. When the song ended, Nate jumped as the crowd erupted in applause. He joined in the clapping and leaned back in his chair, relaxing to enjoy the show.

  Allison sang a few more songs before people from audience began shouting out the names of songs, making her laugh. “Whoa, slow down. I’ll get to your song.”

  Nate shook his head, amazed at her calm manner. It shouldn’t have surprised him after how quickly she warmed up to him in the subway, but there were a lot of people in here all wanting her attention.

  During one of the faster songs, Eddie started playing with the spotlight, flashing it around the stage and into the crowd. Allison stood and grabbed the microphone, caught up in the song she was singing. Her eyes fell on Nate, and she stopped for a split second before moving on, but for the rest of the song, she kept glancing over.

  Nate cursed under his breath. He should have left. Now he was just making a mess of her performance. Right after the song was over, Allison excused herself and went backstage. Nate leaned forward and buried his face in his hands.

 
; Eddie went back for a few seconds before coming back out. “Let’s give Allison a big hand. She’s not feeling well, so we’ll end the night with a little karaoke.”

  As soon as Eddie went back to the bar, Nate stood and walked over. “Hey, I’m taking off. You’re right. She’s fantastic.”

  “I thought you’d like her.” Eddie scrubbed the counter. “I don’t get it, though. She usually doesn’t get flustered like this.”

  Guilt overwhelmed Nate, but he squashed it down. “Maybe she just needed a break.”

  “Maybe.” Eddie wiped out a glass. “I don’t think that’s it, though. This was the first time I used those lights. I hope I didn’t scare her.”

  Nate shrugged. “You could have. You’re pretty scary.”

  Eddie chuckled. “I’m sure that’s it.”

  The crowd slowly trickled out of the bar, murmuring about the disappointment that the show was already over. Nate stood to follow them out. Maybe he could still catch a movie that night.

  “So you’re leaving again, huh? Is that all you do?” Allison’s voice broke through the noise, stopping Nate in his tracks.

  He turned. “Hey, Allison.”

  The fury in her eyes was a complete contrast to the friendly demeanor he’d first met. “Why are you here?”

  Nate nodded toward Eddie. “He told me to come. He said a new singer had just started and I needed to hear her.”

  “I—” Allison stopped. “He did?”

  “He told me you were amazing. I have to say I agree. Although I didn’t expect it to be you.” Nate shoved his hands in his pockets.

  Allison stiffened. “And now that you know it is?”

  Nate studied her. He’d already thought she was beautiful, but the fire in her eyes just made her even more intriguing. “I may come back. I was impressed. You have an amazing voice.”

  “What? Was it more than you’d expect from a girl who performs in the subway?” She huffed and folded her arms.