After Hours Redemption (404 Sound) Read online

  “You never really told me about your meeting with—” Ainsley fluttered her lashes dramatically “—Blaine yesterday.”

  She rolled her eyes. “Why are you saying his name like that?”

  “I’m just teasing you, girl.” She giggled. “I know you hate his guts.”

  “Don’t you?” She gave her cousin a penetrating stare. “I’m sure you remember him holding your child against you.”

  Ainsley shrugged. “He’s not my favorite person in the world, but I don’t hate him, either. And if I had to do it all again, I’d still choose my son over a music career, so...”

  Eden shook her head. “You’ve got Aunt Mimi’s forgiving spirit.”

  “And you’ve got your mama’s sass.” Ainsley winked. “But seriously, how did the meeting go?”

  “I don’t really want to talk about it.” She had no interest in telling her cousin that she’d spent the better part of their meeting willing herself not to drool over Blaine’s dreadlocked handsomeness. Or that he’d smelled like freshly minted cash and great sex. Nope, she’d keep that to herself. At least for now.

  “Oh, come on.” Ainsley nudged her with an elbow. “At least tell me if you took the gig.”

  She sighed. “I asked him to give me until next Monday to make my decision. But—”

  A loud voice called out Cooper’s name, effectively ending the conversation. Ainsley raised her hand, waving the scrub-clad nurse over. Silently blessing the timing, Eden helped rouse Cooper and hoist him to a standing position. Between their supportive arms, the nurse holding doors and his crutches, they finally got him back to the examination room.

  Eden settled into a chair across from Ainsley after they’d helped Cooper onto the bed. Immediately taking out her phone, she gave rapt attention to her social media feed, as a sign to her cousin that she didn’t want to talk.

  Soon, Dr. Celia Fordham entered the room. Petite and slender, she wore her dark hair in a bun low on her nape. Adjusting the oval frames of her glasses, she asked, “How are you feeling today, Cooper?”

  “My leg itches,” he groused. “I can’t scratch it ’cause of the cast.”

  Dr. Fordham smiled. “Don’t worry, that’s pretty typical.” Giving him a pat on the shoulder, she asked, “Any pain?”

  Cooper nodded his head. “How long will I have to wear this thing, Doc?”

  “I’m afraid it could take about six weeks for your leg to fully heal.”

  Cooper’s eyes grew round. “Six weeks? But baseball tryouts will be over by then!”

  Dr. Fordham turned to Ainsley. “Tryouts?”

  “He’s going to middle school this year, and he wants to try to make the team. It’s all he’s talked about for the last two years.”

  Cooper nodded. “Yeah. That’s why I gotta get out of this cast.”

  Eden sighed. The timing of this little disaster couldn’t have been worse. Money was lean around the household, and now Cooper was faced with missing out on something he desperately wanted.

  “I’m sorry, Cooper. But with this cast on, you won’t be able to...”

  Tears gathered in his eyes. “But I have to! I’ve been waiting forever to play on the baseball team.”

  Ainsley, visibly emotional, went to her son’s side. Draping her arm around his shoulders, she asked, “Isn’t there something else we can do for him, Dr. Fordham?”

  “Yes, actually, there is another option. For the type of fracture Cooper has, surgery is a possibility. With him being as young and healthy as he is, I don’t see why he couldn’t get back on his feet in time for his tryouts.” Dr. Fordham took the clipboard from beneath her arm, flipping through the pages. “If you like, I could put in a recommendation for the procedure.”

  “What would it entail, exactly?” Eden asked.

  Dr. Fordham gave a brief rundown of what the surgery would involve.

  Ever practical, Ainsley queried, “Will insurance cover this?”

  Dr. Fordham appeared thoughtful. “It should cover at least a portion, but you’ll have to check with the insurance clerk at checkout to be certain.”

  Ainsley looked thoughtful for a moment, but by the time they left the clinic, Dr. Fordham had put in an order for the procedure.

  Eden drove her cousin and nephew home. The silence that had stretched on for the ten minutes since they’d left the hospital was starting to get to her. Her mind kept drifting to Blaine, and he was a distraction she just didn’t need right now. So, she asked, “When are we going to talk about this surgery, Ainsley?”

  “What about it?”

  She scoffed. “Come on, Ainsley. You heard the clerk. We have to meet a two-thousand-dollar deductible in order for insurance to pay for the surgery. How are we gonna afford that?”

  “I’ll figure it out. Besides, I’ve already paid five hundred.”

  “No, we will figure it out, stubborn. That’s still fifteen hundred dollars, and I’m not going to let you try to come up with all that cash on your own. We’re family, and I’m here for you.”

  Ainsley blew out a breath. “I couldn’t say no to him, Eden. Not with him giving me those big sad puppy eyes.”

  She nodded. “I know. As I said, we’ll figure it out together.”

  Decision made, silence fell between them. Her eyes on the road, Eden thought back to her meeting with Blaine. She had not given him a definite response, but there was no turning down the gig now, no matter how much she disliked being in Blaine’s company. The fee she’d make would cover Cooper’s medical bills, and hopefully, the roof repair.

  “So, is this a better time to ask what happened with Blaine?”

  She sighed. “No. But I don’t think there ever will be.”

  Ainsley chuckled. “Just spill it already.”

  Reluctantly, she recounted the details of their meeting. “Anyway, I’m looking forward to working with Naiya. She’s very talented.”

  “Mmm-hmm.”

  She eyed her cousin. “What, Ainsley?”

  “Well, you left out the most important part.” Her cousin scratched her chin. “Is he still as fine as he used to be?”

  “Honestly? He’s finer.” She turned the wheel to the left, navigating into their driveway. “Not that it matters. All interactions between Blaine and me will be strictly business. We’ve already discussed it.”

  But even as she said the words, deep down she knew that arrangement might be hard to keep.

  * * *

  Holding his briefcase over his head to shield himself from the pounding rain, Blaine dashed into the Bodacious Bean Thursday morning. Once inside, he scanned the interior while walking toward the counter. His younger brother Gage was due to meet him there for a quick chat, and he didn’t want to spend too long lingering in the coffee shop. Despite the colorful HBCU-themed decor, friendly staff and inviting atmosphere, Blaine had far too much work to do in preparing for Naiya B.’s album to be hanging out here all day. Grabbing a few napkins to wipe the droplets clinging to his face and his briefcase, he stepped up to place his order.

  By the time the barista set to work on his large French vanilla latte, the bell rang over the door, indicating the entry of another patron. Blaine turned toward the sound and smiled when he saw Gage shut his umbrella and shake it before ducking inside.

  “How you doing, bro?” Blaine asked.

  Shaking his head, Gage wiped a hand over his damp forehead. Dressed in a charcoal-gray suit, crisp white shirt and purple tie, he didn’t look too pleased about the numerous wet spots covering his clothing. “Pretty good, considering this torrential downpour.” He gestured to the window, where rain continued to pelt the glass.

  “Gotta love that ATL weather. One day chicken, next day feathers.” Blaine chuckled as he took his drink from the barista. “I’ll grab us a table in the back.” He walked away, leaving his soggy brother at the counter.


  The place was pretty empty for a weekday morning. Guess the rain kept them away. Blaine usually got his coffee to go, because open tables were scarce most workdays. Finding a suitable two-top table near the establishment’s rear window, he sat down, easing the briefcase beneath the table. Watching the falling rain, he sipped from his sleeve-wrapped paper cup, enjoying the feel of the warm, slightly sweet beverage as it washed over his tongue.

  Gage set his cup down. “So, what’s going on? I figured you needed something when you asked me to meet in the middle of the workweek.”

  “I do need a favor, but we’ll get to that.” He rested his hands on the table, lacing his fingers together. Despite the tense relationship he had with his family, he still cared about them. “How’s the fam?”

  Gage rolled his eyes. “Our siblings are fine. It’s pretty much business as usual with them. Dad’s been complaining about his tennis elbow acting up for almost two weeks but refuses to go to the doctor. That leaves the rest of us stuck listening to his gripes.”

  He wasn’t surprised by his brother’s observation. Their father wasn’t one to admit defeat, and he’d likely go on bearing the pain until it became so bad he was forced to seek medical attention. “Dad’s always been like that. What about Mom?”

  “She’s great. Still all about fitness. She’s vegan now, did you know that?”

  He shook his head. “How long has that been a thing?”

  “A month or so. And she’s moved on from step aerobics to kickboxing.” Gage snorted a laugh, took another sip of his coffee. “We all try to stay on her good side because it’s pretty obvious she can kick all of our asses.”

  Blaine couldn’t help smiling at his brother’s words. Mom’s always been a pistol. “She may just outlive us all.” He finished up his drink, setting the empty cup aside. “So, what’s up at 404? Everything good business-wise?”

  “Yeah. We’re still solidly in the black. We’re looking to update some things, though. First is that equipment in Studio A. I think Dad kept it so long because it was his first soundboard—you know, sentimental attachment or something. But that thing’s long overdue for an upgrade.”

  “And as head of operations, that falls under your jurisdiction.” He watched his brother intently. “What are you going to do with the old equipment?” He was somewhat surprised his father had agreed to part with it, though he assumed their brother Miles, who served as finance officer, had explained how new equipment would bring higher profits into the studio.

  Gage tilted his head to one side. “For right now, it’s going into storage. After that, who knows? We may donate it to a museum, though Mom’s been talking about setting up a display in the building to commemorate the thirtieth anniversary. So, we’ll see.”

  He nodded but remained silent.

  “You know, you could always come by the offices and see your family, instead of always asking me how everyone is.” Gage gave him a pointed look.

  “And you know why I can’t do that.” He was in no mood to talk about the rift between him and his family. He was the black sheep, the wayward son who’d gone off on his own instead of joining the family business. He missed his mother, and would occasionally text her, as well as his baby sister, Teagan. But everyone else sided with his father, so what was there for them to discuss? “I’m not into drama, Gage. So, I avoid it whenever possible.”

  “Hmph.” A slight frown tilted his baby bro’s lips, but it disappeared as quickly as it had shown itself. “Anyway, let’s get to the matter at hand. What’s going on with you? Because I hear you’re doing big things.”

  His brow furrowed as he asked, “What have you heard?”

  “I heard you nabbed that hot viral video singer for your label.”

  Blaine smiled. “Oh, so you heard about Naiya B.? I’m glad she’s a hot topic around town.”

  “I’ve heard her sing, and I must say, she’s quite a score. Congrats, bro.”

  “Thanks. She’s got an amazing voice. Songwriting isn’t her strength, but I’ve come up with a brilliant solution to that problem.”

  Gage’s expression morphed from curiosity into a knowing grin. “I heard about that, too. When were you going to tell me you had a meeting with Eden Voss?”

  Blaine let his head drop back. “Damn, bro. You’re really all up in my business like that?”

  He shrugged. “Come on, B. You know how word gets around in southwest Atlanta. I’m just mad I had to hear it in these SWATS streets instead of from you.”

  Blaine groaned.

  Gage leaned in, his tone low and conspiratorial. “So, y’all just working together? Or are y’all...working together?” He waggled his brows to accentuate the last two words.

  Blaine resisted the urge to pop his brother upside the head. “Ugh, Gage. You’re so freaking annoying. It’s a business arrangement, bruh. I offered Eden a contract to write some songs for Naiya. Hopefully she’ll sign, and we’ll all get paid. That’s it.”

  Gage gave him that familiar head tilt/side-eye combo, the one that meant he didn’t believe what he’d heard. “Oh, really?”

  “Yes, really. It’s. Strictly. Business. Case closed.”

  “You’re awfully touchy about it for that to be true...but I’ll take your word for it.” They chatted for a few moments about Blaine’s possible use of 404’s live band recording studio, and how Blaine could do his usual “wear a hoodie and use the rear entrance” routine to keep his father from being aware of his presence.

  “Yeah, yeah.” Gage crushed his empty paper cup, tossing it into the nearby trash can. “You know, you and Dad are going to have to iron things out eventually.”

  “I know, I know.” But not yet.

  Four

  Eden entered the modest one-story building that housed Against the Grain Records on Monday morning, carrying her leather-bound notebook and purse. Inside, she took a few steps toward the waiting area, consisting of chairs and a low black enamel coffee table. Resting her palm on the cool steel frame, she took a seat in one of the sleek black leather chairs, intent on mentally preparing herself for the day ahead.

  She crossed one leg over the other, taking a good look around. She’d been anxious the first time she met Blaine here, so she relished the opportunity to evaluate his domain. The roomy space, with its stained concrete floors, soft gray walls and black lacquer furniture, was an obvious reflection of his tastes. Framed black-and-white prints of musicians playing instruments adorned the walls, and the reception desk was flanked by two polished pewter sculptures: one of a bass clef, the other, a treble clef.

  She liked the decor; it was simple, well-coordinated and reflective of the type of business conducted there. Back in the day, Blaine’s studio had been little more than a desk and chair surrounded by blank walls. Now he had made the space his own. He’d obviously experienced some degree of success during their time apart.

  If only he’d afforded Ainsley and I that same chance at success. After all that had transpired between them, she never would have expected to find herself working with him at this point in her life. But fate obviously had other plans.

  Back then, she’d been so enamored with him that she could never have anticipated his betrayal. He’d seemed so perfect, so loving and so into her. He’d taken her hand and touched her soul.

  She sighed as the image of his drop-dead-gorgeous face floated through her mind. As enticing as he was, however, she knew she had to get her mind right for the task ahead. Daydreaming about Blaine simply wouldn’t do.

  I’ve got to get focused. There’s so much at stake.

  Her professional reputation aside, she had about as much motivation to succeed at this job as a person could have. She’d agreed to split the fees for Cooper’s surgery with Ainsley, and she knew she’d need to replace the $1,250 she took from her savings. Beyond that, the damage to their roof was so extensive, she’d need an entirely new one, to the tun
e of $6,500 above what her homeowner’s policy covered.

  She massaged her temple, blowing out a breath. It’s not just about Naiya’s album anymore. I need to do well with this project because if I do, it will open up the door to so many more opportunities.

  The door swung open then, and she turned her head. As the blast of humid August air ruffled her bangs, Blaine strode in.

  Her breath caught in her throat at the sight of him. He wore a loose-fitting pair of blue jeans, a black Goodie Mob tee, and black-and-white leather sneakers. A denim jacket was draped over his broad shoulders, Georgia heat be damned. His dreads were in a bun atop his head, and dark sunglasses obscured his eyes.

  No one had a right to be so freaking handsome. And yet there he stood, looking like temptation personified. Liquid desire pooled low in her belly, the warmth spreading through her body. She took a deep breath. Gather yourself, girl. He’s just a man.

  She stood, brushing remnants of this morning’s biscuit from the front of her dark skirt. “Good morning, Blaine.”

  He smiled, teeth glistening. “Good morning, Eden.” He leaned down, and before she could react, pecked her on the cheek. “So, I’m assuming you decided to sign the contract?”

  Heat bloomed beneath her skin. Doing her best to shake off the effects of his disarming smile and his surprise kiss, she handed him the document. “Yes. I’ll do my best to live up to your expectations.”

  “I have no doubt that you will.” A sparkle lit his dark eyes.

  Naiya entered the room then, a bright smile on her face. “Morning, folks.”

  Gathering her wits, Eden moved past Blaine to greet the vocalist. Sticking out her hand, she said, “Naiya, I’m Eden Voss. It’s nice to finally meet you in person.”

  Naiya offered a small smile and handshake. “Thanks. Nice to meet you, too.”

  Dressed in a simple green sundress and a pair of tan sandals, with her flowing, blond-streaked brown waves of hair hanging loose around her shoulders, the petite young woman appeared somewhat nervous. Eden noticed the way her eyes darted around the space, never settling in any one place for long.