Christmas Connection

Bailey touched a hand to his arm.

Jackson continued. “Tony died at the scene.”

“I can't imagine,” Bailey said.

It wasn't his fault. No matter how many times the truth rang in his ears, why didn't Jackson believe it still? He stared at his feet. He'd make it up to Tony. One of them had to make it in music. He'd do it for him.

Jackson focused his eyes on Bailey once more. “It's okay. Let's go to rehearsal before you change your mind.”

Her eyebrows furrowed. “Are you sure you're okay?”

“I'm good.” His gaze then centered on her. “Thanks for singing with us.”

“I'm just filling in. I can't promise anything.”

“I'm glad you changed your mind.” He nodded his head after her cousin. “Was it her?”

Bailey shook her head. “No. I'm... I'm doing this for myself. I can't stay long. I have a late client at the salon.”

He extended his hand. “Let's do what we can today and work out the rest later.”

“Okay.”

Chapter 7

“You talk to her today?” Tommy asked.

Jackson wiped the corner of his mouth as he heard the ding of the cash register. He could get used to the smoky meats, soft yet crusty bread, and sweet desserts at Bridge Point's deli. After wiping the chip salt dusting his fingers, he crumpled his napkin in his hand. “Not yet.”

“You sure about this? I know online is a thing but—”

“I'm being cautious if that's what you mean.”

“That's all I'm saying. She’s a great singer, but we don’t need another Robin,” Tommy said.

“Trust me. She’s far from Robin.” That was a fact.

“Okay. I’ll talk to you later.”

Jackson hung up, but his phone remained in his hand. Was Bailey on a lunch break? He didn't know her schedule at the salon, but it couldn't hurt to call her.

“How did you know?” she asked when she answered.

“Know what?” Jackson smiled.

She cleared her throat. “I said that out loud?”

“Yeah. What did you want to say?”

“Nothing. How are you?”

“I'm great. Is this a bad time? I won't keep you from work,” he said.

Bailey giggled. “I'm in the break room, so no. I have some time in between clients. Where are you?”

“Having lunch at the deli.”

“I love their sandwiches,” she said.