Rhythm of the Road (Lost Kings MC 16)

He shoots a look Rooster’s way before speaking. “Would ya be offended if I took the stage with you instead tonight? Last song. Mix things up a little?”

I blink and sit back, trying to digest that.

Dawson Roads wants to perform with me? During my set?

The star of the tour is lowering himself and going on stage early? With the opening act?

He seems to take my hesitation for disagreement, sitting back and holding up his hands. “Won’t cut you short, promise.”

“No, no. It’s not that. Just…why? I’m the opener. Seats aren’t even full during my slot.”

“Let’s teach those fuckers a lesson.” He grins. “They oughtta be here earlier.”

Next to me, Rooster chuckles.

“Sure. Of course,” I answer. Why the heck am I questioning Dawson Roads, anyway? I work a little more graciousness into my tone. “I’m honored to share the stage with you anytime.”

He rubs his hand over his chin and leans forward, resting one elbow on his knee. “I didn’t get a chance to discuss this with Greg yet, but you’re going into the studio right after we get off the road, right?”

“Uh, yeah.” I glance at Rooster. “Planning to spend a few days at home. Visit my momma first.”

“How would you feel about recording something together?”

“I’d love to!” I wince from the enthusiasm in my voice and try to settle down. “That would be great.”

“Not ‘Let the Night Go.’” He lets out a humorless laugh. “Glenna would sue me to hell and back if I re-recorded it with someone else.” His expression turns sour for a second before his gaze lands on Logan. “It was good seeing your friend the other night. Got in touch with his people. Going to see if we can work on something together.”

Rooster’s eyes widen a touch, then his expression flattens. “Wasn’t aware Chaser had ‘people,’ but that sounds good.”

Dawson shrugs. This is all kinds of weird.

“Dawson, I appreciate the opportunity. A lot.” I drop my gaze. “I don’t mean to sound ungrateful, but you’re not just offering to work with me to, you know, piss off Glenna, are you?”

When he doesn’t answer, I lift my gaze and find him stroking his chin, staring at me in a thoughtful way. Not mean or angry at least. “Shelby, I think you’re one of the most talented singers to come offa one of those foolish reality shows in years. You got chewed up and spit out in the name of drama and ratings. Hated to see it.”

I wasn’t aware he’d actually watched Redneck Roadhouse, and I cringe, remembering some of the worst moments.

“You attract a slightly younger audience,” he continues, “and you’re getting some mainstream airplay, which I’ve never really managed to crack.”

I blink and stare. He’s dominated the country charts for close to fifteen years. Who knew Dawson Roads gave a crap about mainstream anything?

“And I think you working with me helps expose you to an older audience, so they can discover you’re more than a cutesy teenager singing about ponies and boy troubles.”

“Of course. You’re right. I’m—”

“But if it happens to piss Glenna off at the same time, I ain’t mad about it. God’s honest truth.” He raises his left hand, then shrugs. “I’m only human.”

Dang. That’s a bummer.

But I respect his honesty. At least he didn’t try gaslighting me for asking the question.

He slaps his hands against his knees. “Good. You know ‘Friends in Low Places?’ Everyone knows it. We’ll do that tonight. That all right with you?”

“Uh, sure. I’ll let the guys know.”

“Don’t cut your set. Just add it in after your last song.”

“Okay.”

“Thanks, darlin’. Good seein’ ya, Logan.” He waves at us over his shoulder and leaves.

I blink and stare at the door. After a few seconds, I glance down and pinch my arm. “Did that just happen?”

When Rooster doesn’t answer, I peer up at him. He’s watching the door.

“I can’t believe I asked him that.”

“What?” He turns his attention to me.

“About his ex. Oh my gosh. Here he is doing me a huge favor. That wasn’t polite.”

A scowl slashes across Rooster’s forehead. “Fuck polite. I woulda asked the same thing. Is that even normal?”

“Yeah, I’ve seen a few shows where the bands mix it up like that. Usually if they’re friendly or whatever. Cindy and I were talking the other day.” I lower my voice. “And it hit me that the only reason he was asking me to come out and sing with him was to get back at his ex.”

“I don’t think that’s the only reason. But it seems to be a bonus. Least he admits it.” He squeezes my leg. “It’s good you spoke up. He’ll respect you more for not kissing his ass. And respect goes all around. You gotta respect yourself. Don’t let anyone bullshit you.”

I turn that over in my head for a bit. “I’m so new at the business. I’ve never even met Glenna Wilson, and now I’m making an enemy out of her. Feels kinda anti-girl-power to be singing with her ex.”