Jackson cleared his throat. “We’ll let our fans know, but for now we’re focused on pre-marital counseling with our pastor. We want to make sure we give ourselves a solid foundation.”
“I love it.” Miranda practically squealed. Then she directed her attention to Tommy. “I’ve heard that love has found you too. Do you credit the band on bringing love into your life?”
Tommy practically brightened at the subject. “I can’t say our band has magical powers, but I did find love again. For those that don’t know my story, I lost my wife and child a couple of years ago. I thank God that I’ve been able to experience love twice in my lifetime.” He then looked through the glass and winked at Noelle. Her face glowed.
“So... Alex?” Miranda didn’t sound as chipper as she faced him. “There’s been a lot of backlash on social media about you and your past relationships. I’d like for you to give your side of the story?”
Alex cleared his throat. “I’d rather talk about our album, but I understand the fans’ concern. Our band is known for our love songs, so I can see this bringing bad blood to our brand.” He paused. “I’m not perfect. I can admit I’ve been scarred in life and unfortunately, I took it out on others. Hurt people hurt people. If I could, I would invite them one on one to apologize. Instead, I’ll do it here. I’m sorry. There’s no excuse for the pain I caused.”
Miranda gave a dumbfounded look. “I wasn’t expecting that, including the post you did not too long ago, that’s trending. Do you mind if I read some comments?”
Alex nodded. He then looked over at his band members. Tommy gave him a nod, but Jackson didn’t make eye contact.
“One comment says, ‘he says this now, but wait.’ Another says, ‘all men lie. Don’t believe him.’” Miranda stared at him. “What would your response be?”
Alex rubbed his sweaty palms together. “Again, I’m sorry. I’m getting better every day.”
“Word around is you’ve found love too. Another photo leaked with people claiming it’s Jackson’s younger sister,” Miranda said.
Jackson cleared his throat. “My sister has nothing to do with this.” So far he kept his voice calm. “Her involvement with Alex is between them. Why don’t we go back to talking about our tour?”
Tommy added. “I agree. Why don’t we talk about the new music we’re writing?”
Alex adjusted in his seat, hearing the groan. He figured Jackson only spoke up to protect Zoe. He raised his hand to get Miranda’s attention. “I would like to say one more thing.”
Miranda turned her head to face him. “Go ahead.”
“This band is a family. I see these guys as some of the best people in my life. Zoe, Jackson’s sister, is one of them too. Whatever backlash she’s gotten, she doesn’t deserve it. If anything, she’s motivated me to change. I’m better with her. I love her.”
Miranda quirked an eyebrow. “From the sound of it Alex, I think the love bug has bitten the whole band.”
Alex’s heartbeat doubled in speed. Now he only needed to tell Zoe. How would she take him professing his love over the radio?
Chapter 21
“You got a minute?”
Alex pivoted to see Jackson behind him. He leaned against his car door, anticipating what her brother would say. He meant what he said during the interview. Jackson wouldn’t convince him otherwise. “What’s up?”
Jackson scratched at his beard. “What you said in there, was it true?”
Alex stared at the concrete for a second. Licking his lips, he faced Zoe’s brother. “Yes. I love Zoe.”
Jackson nodded. “I believe people can change.”
“Me too.”
He stared at him. “I still stand by what I said. Don’t hurt her. If you love her, show her. If you—”
“I won’t. She’s not another woman on my roster. I got rid of that. All of it. I don’t know who’s spreading these lies, but I would never do anything to hurt your sister.”
Jackson said, “I hear you. I respect it too.” He then extended his hand.
Alex accepted the gesture. “I am sorry about all of this. I didn’t mean for this to affect the band.”
Jackson blew out his cheeks. “The way social media is, I hope this will blow over soon.”
Alex bobbed his head.