Altered Chords

by Kristen Echo

  “So what if I am? Tyson makes me feel good and I’m not giving that up for Klein or you guys.”

  “We let you come here with the girls on the condition you’d stay with them at all times. That you’d stay out of sight and be safe. Yet, Klein found you. He could have hurt you.” Her mother covered her mouth with her hand as her eyes watered.

  “You didn’t let me do anything. I’m an adult. Klein found me because my friends don’t know he’s the enemy. I think you’re both blowing this out of proportion. He’s not unhinged. Never once did he hit me while we dated. He isn’t a violent man. Yes, he threatened to kill me when I ended things and he got served. People say crazy stuff when they get upset.”

  “He’s more than upset. People do crazy things when they’re threatened. We won’t let you be collateral damage,” her father said as he walked over to her mother and hugged her.

  “But the sky didn’t fall when we saw each other last night. Besides, he’s not dumb enough to try something with Tyson around. He’ll protect me.”

  “Bria. Be reasonable,” her father urged. “You don’t know this man.”

  “I am being reasonable,” she said, facing him. His green eyes implored her to change her mind, but she wouldn’t. She wasn’t ready for her weekend with Tyson to end. It would take a natural disaster to keep her from him. “Everything I’ve learned about him I like. I trust him. Sure, he’s rough around the edges, but he’s a good man. Let me be young for another night.”

  “A summer fling isn’t worth risking your life over!”

  Her mother didn’t remember what it was like to be young and in lust. Her parents were high school sweethearts. They never experienced heartbreak and the difficulty of rebuilding. After the breakup, Bria feared she’d be alone forever. Tyson took that anxiety away.

  “Why don’t you two come out and meet him and the band. They have a show tonight. We can eat dinner then I promise I will stay with him. I’ll come straight home after the weekend and stay there until we hear. You’ve known since we started this that the case could go the other way, too. Where will that leave us?” She hesitated and swallowed past the lump. “I’m done with all of it. The hiding, the secrets, and the silence. I need it to stop. So, I’m going to enjoy the rest of this weekend, and you guys are going home after dinner.”

  “This is a mistake,” her father said, and she smiled.

  Bria had thought the same thing when she’d arrived in town, but she’d been wrong, so was he. “I’ll introduce you.” She opened the door to the shared living space. “Hey! Tyson, I’d like you to meet my parents…”

  The living and dining room were empty. She moved quickly to one bedroom, but there was no one there. Everything was too quiet. Those men were loud, which meant they’d left. He’d left, and she hadn’t taken his number. She checked the last possibility, and her pulse raced when she discovered another empty room.

  “I told you they had a show tonight.” Her voice shook. “They probably took off to get ready and set up.” Her eyes darted around the room, searching for him in a hidden nook. There was nothing. He was gone, and he’d taken her heart with him. She didn’t know when she gave it, but it was missing and only darkness remained.

  “Well, that’s good news because you can come with us. Let’s eat in the hotel restaurant, then we can drive home. I’ll sit with you,” her mother said with far too much cheer.

  Her eyes filled with tears. She’d known Tyson didn’t plan to stay. At some point she’d have to let him go, but that wasn’t supposed to happen yet. They were supposed to have a goodbye kiss. One last lingering touch. Another memory to cement this weekend as the best of her life.

  Unsure what to do next, she plunked down on the couch. She knew where they were playing, but would he want her to show up? Bria put her head in her hands and closed her eyes.

  “Someone left you a note.” Her father held up a piece of hotel stationery and her heart skipped a beat. Her eyes flew open; it had to be from Tyson. He read it and she nodded, urging him to share. “He wrote: Had to jet, but you should come to the show. I’ll keep an eye on the door. It’s been a blast, firecracker.”

  She laughed, clutching a pillow to her chest. It wasn’t over. “Their show is in Canmore, so let’s go eat then I’ll head out too. I’m sorry you both had to drive down here, but I appreciate it.” Their love meant everything to her.

  Her parents exchanged a glance but agreed to her terms. It’s not like they could drag her out of there by her ponytail. Which reminded her she needed a shower. “Let me shower and get ready first,” she said, dashing towards the bedroom. Her bags were in the corner and she rummaged for the perfect, flirty dress. Once again, she opted for no panties. There was no point.

  Once she’d finished curling her hair and getting ready, it was getting dark. Her parents had insisted on dinner, dessert, and a prolonged goodbye. Bria hoped to make it to the club by the end of their opening set. The directions she got from the concierge seemed simple enough and she added them into her phone. Unfortunately, the battery died, and she’d left the charger in the hotel.

  Driving aimlessly infuriated her. The longer it took to find the place, the less time she had with Tyson. It felt like time was slipping away as the streets blurred, and she worried she’d miss him all together. She pushed away those negative possibilities and focused on each sign. Finally, she found the one she needed. There was a crowd lined up and she could hear the funky rock beats coming from inside. She flashed her ID when her turn came around and entered the bar with one goal in mind. Finish what she’d started.

  A quick scan didn’t reveal the man she wanted, but at least the guys were still on stage. She hadn’t missed them completely. She waved at Pete, who nodded as he wailed on his saxophone. Her bladder needed to be emptied, and she took a detour to the washroom. The hall was dark, and several patrons bounced along with the music. She laughed, dodging a few.

  Then someone stepped in front of her. She bumped into his chest and stepped back. His blond bangs fell over his forehead, covering a nasty bruise and his menacing, blue eyes stared into her.

  “Bria, my love. I told ye we’d be together again.” Klein grinned and pressed his mouth against hers. The crowd cheered and yelled, her screams swallowed by the noise. Then she felt something hard jab against her ribs. Her eyes widened as he continued kissing her.

  She pushed against his chest, wrenching her lips free. “Get away from me!” The push allowed enough space for her to see the gun.

  “Quiet. Come with me nicely or I’ll be forced to shoot.” His fingers trailed down her cheek as he pushed the gun harder into her.

  There wasn’t time to react or do anything but follow him. His hand gripped her arm, pulling her towards an exit. She dragged her feet, slowing them. She looked back over her shoulder, hoping someone would help, but no one paid them any attention. In the distance she saw Tyson, but he stood too far away. His eyes were on the stage. He probably thought she stood him up. That she didn’t care for him, but she cared. More than she was supposed to. Her focus stayed locked on him until they were outside. The door closed, and she was alone with the enemy.

  CHAPTER TWELVE

  Tyson ♫

  T he set ended with a roaring round of applause. The guys killed it on stage, but Tyson couldn’t appreciate the last stop on the tour because she wasn’t there to enjoy the moment with him. All night his eyes had been glued to the door. Every blonde that walked in sent his pulse racing only to crash with disappointment when it wasn’t her. She wasn’t coming. He finally accepted reality and stopped staring during the last song.

  The firecracker had exploded light into his world and just as quickly she was gone. It was probably for the best; he had nothing to offer her other than his cock. Which, as it turned out was all she wanted.

  Fuck!

  He wanted to pound his fist into someone and draw blood. The clapping continued, and Tyson joined in so he’d have something to do with his hands. He moved to the side of the
stage, waiting for the band to come down, so he could help put the gear back in the van. Grant came over first, shaking the sweat from his hair like a dog.

  Tyson used a mitt full of towels to deflect the spray. “Great way to end the tour,” he said, handing him a towel. He passed them out as each man came down, more soaked than the one before him. Brody often ended the performance without a shirt since they got too wet, and tonight was no different.

  “Thanks man.” The drummer wiped his face and wrapped the towel around his neck. “The place is packed, and they seemed to dig the originals. Fuck, I can’t wait until the next tour.”

  “Let’s get a contract first, then we can travel in style. I’m not sure I can handle another summer stuck in a small van with you jokers,” Grant said, leaning against the wall next to Pete.

  “We’ve all grown closer because of this tour. Sky’s the limit once we’re home. This is the start of our epic journey. I fucking know it!” Pete grabbed a beer from a woman who’d been vying for his attention since they arrived. He took a long sip then kissed her.

  “I’m ready to let loose and party.” Nate flicked one of his nipple rings and slapped Tyson on the back. “Come on. Let’s celebrate.”

  More women approached, saying how much they loved the band and the music. He wasn’t in the mood to listen to them flirt. A brunette stepped close, rubbing her breast against his arm. She fluttered her fake lashes and smiled.

  He didn’t smile back. “Start without me. I’ll put the gear away.” Tyson stepped towards the stage. He had no reason to celebrate.

  Nate pulled his arm, preventing him from getting away. “Why do you look so pissed? I figured you’d be on cloud nine right about now, or balls deep inside—”

  “What the fuck is there to be happy about? Tour’s over and we’re going home,” he snapped, throwing the last towel on the ground.

  “Where’s Bria? I figured she’d be able to put a smile on your face.”

  “Don’t be a dick.” He dug his hands in his pocket to stop from hitting someone who didn’t deserve it. “You know damn well she never showed.”

  Nate waved his hands in front of Tyson’s face. “Yes, she did. I saw her stroll in at the end of the song. Maybe three minutes ago.”

  Tyson scanned the room, searching, but he came up empty. She had to be somewhere in the club. Another glance revealed nothing. He couldn’t see his firecracker anywhere. His grin was hesitant. He hadn’t smiled since he left the hotel, and he wouldn’t until he touched her and knew she was safe. He had a bad feeling. “Do you see her? Was there anyone with her or following her? What direction did she head?”

  “I didn’t notice. You think the prick from the other night is here, don’t you? I can see it in your eyes.”

  Knowing she was near, but out of reach didn’t sit well. Nathan pointed towards the washrooms and Tyson took off. He’d learned to trust his instincts, and something was off. Brody followed him through the crowd and down the packed hallway. She wasn’t there. Not a single blonde head in sight. The back door caught his eye.

  Her ex could have been waiting for her. The band’s tour locations were posted on their website. His stomach roiled, and his fists clenched. If that asshole so much as laid a finger on her, he would regret it.

  “I’ll check the ladies.” Brody opened the door. “Bria! Oh, hello lovelies. I’m looking for—”

  The door closed, and Tyson knew she wasn’t there. He stormed out the back door and looked around. The parking lot was full of cars, but otherwise empty. Except, in the distance he saw a man with light colored hair. His heart beat faster when he noticed the suit. He raced towards him at breakneck speed.

  Klein slammed something shut on his black Truck and stepped towards his driver’s side door. He never saw Tyson coming. As badly as he wanted to rip the man apart, he couldn’t. Bria told him all about her ex and his family. If he killed him, he’d get the book thrown at him. Not because the creep didn’t deserve it, but because of his political ties.

  “Hey, asshole. Remember me?”

  Klein turned, and Tyson punched him in the face. The cracking of bone followed as his head snapped back. Klein slumped against his expensive ride, but he stayed on his feet. His keys fell out of his hands onto the ground and he covered his broken nose. Blood seeped between his fingers as he thrashed in pain.

  Adrenaline coursed through his veins, and Tyson wasn’t finished. He grabbed a fist full of his tailored suit and brought his face closer. “Where’s Bria? What did you do with her?”

  “She’s mine, and what I do with her is none of your business.” Klein grappled to get free and kicked Tyson’s leg. The angle prevented the impact from causing damage.

  Tyson raised his fist, letting the idiot know what would follow if he didn’t tell him what he wanted to know. “You’re wrong. She’s got a real man. Not some pathetic waste of space. Where the fuck is she? If you hurt her, so help me, I will…” He bit his lip to stop from issuing death threats.

  Klein laughed as blood ran down his chin. “I’ve claimed every inch of her. You’re the pathetic one, going after another man’s leftovers. She’ll always love me.”

  The man was certifiably crazy. Bria hadn’t filled in all the details, but he knew she was over her ex. She might have loved him once, but those days were over. “Where is she? This is the last time I’m asking?”

  “Let me go before I send ye to prison. Ye don’t know who I am and what I’m capable of.”

  He had that right. Tyson might be the guy with a rap sheet, but he’d never harm Bria. This man intended to hurt her, and he’d never let that happen. The consequences didn’t matter. Her safety came first. He cocked his arm back and let it sail. His fist connected, and this time Klein went limp. He let him go and watched him crumple to the ground.

  His pristine suit was covered in blood as he lay motionless on the concrete. Every fiber of Tyson’s being told him to end this man, but he didn’t because of her. She didn’t want him involved with this piece of shit or her baggage. What she didn’t understand was that he was all-in from the moment he’d set eyes on her. Her troubles became his. Like it or not, this was his fight now.

  She was worth the effort. He only hoped he hadn’t come too late. His hands vibrated, waiting for more action, but Klein didn’t get up. Tyson saw his chest expand, which meant he was out, but not dead.

  A glance in the back seat revealed nothing but bags and climbing supplies. She wasn’t there. He found the keys on the ground next to a growing puddle of blood. He snatched them up and fumbled to unlock the back, not prepared for what he might find. Once he lowered the tailgate a mess of blonde and red curls stopped his heart.

  “Bria. I’m here. I’ve got you. You’re safe,” he said, but she didn’t answer. His hand hesitated over her arm. What if he’d been too late? He couldn’t catch his breath as all the possibilities raced through his mind. Klein moaned and stirred as he started to come around.

  “What the fuck’s going on, man?” Brody jogged up next to him.

  Tyson looked over his shoulder at his friend and several witnesses. “Call the cops. Then go make sure that guy doesn’t get up.” He pointed at Klein.

  “Gotcha. Is she?”

  Bria had to be all right. The alternative was too painful. The world needed light and vibrancy. It needed women like Bria to balance the darkness. Tyson lowered his hand onto her arm and it was still warm. He exhaled, turned her over, and her big eyes stared back at him.

  Tears streaked down her cheeks. Her mouth was covered with tape, and her hands and legs were bound. He pulled her onto the tailgate and into his arms. Her head rested against his shoulder, and he moved her hair out of the way. He removed the tape, going slow to prevent hurting her.

  “Tyson… thank god you found me.”

  Her lips were so red. Her heavy breaths stole all the oxygen from his lungs. He wasn’t too late. He leaned over and kissed her, sealing their lips for only a moment.

  “I’m so glad you’re
okay.” He watched her chest rise and fall and couldn’t help but kiss her again.

  Brody placed a hand on his shoulder. “Need a hand untying her, or do you plan to keep her like that?”

  He looked out at the growing crowd. Several people were on their phones, some capturing the moment on video. Next to the strange faces, he found his friends. Nate stood over Klein, his foot on the man’s chest. The others weaved their way towards him and he smiled.

  “Let’s get her free. She can choose if she wants to be with me or not.” He untied the rope from her hands as Brody went to work on her feet.

  The moment her hands were free they were wrapped around his neck and her mouth was on him. She kissed his cheeks, his scar, his eyebrows, covering every inch with her soft, red lips. “Tyson, I want to be with you. I got lost on the way here, otherwise I’d have been here sooner.”

  They kissed, and everything seemed brighter. “We’re together now. Are you okay?” he asked, hugging her against his chest.

  She sat on the tailgate and wrapped her legs around him. “Yes and no. My stupid phone died then Klein found me in the hall. Oh my god, Klein. He… did you get the gun?”

  “He didn’t have a gun.”

  They turned their heads towards Nate, who had his hands raised in the air as Klein pointed a gun towards him. Both men were on their feet, neither of them saying a word. Tension hung in the air, waiting for the madman to make his move.

  Klein’s nose still gushed red, and he wiped the flow with the back of his arm. “Bria!” The blood-curdling screech pierced through the silence. His eyes searched for her.

  Tyson wrapped his arms around Bria as her body trembled. He kept her shielded as best he could. Finally, the reinforcements showed up. He’d never been so happy to see flashing lights in his life.

  Nate stepped backwards. “Easy man. You don’t want to use that.”