realize...” She stopped. Composed herself. “It might have sounded like that, but I’m staying in Cypress Pointe for a while.”
“So no running off to concerts just as you start to bond with the kids? They need consistency. People who stick around.”
“I realize that. I remember those angsty teenage years, so I would never intentionally hurt anyone.”
He ran a hand through his hair. “I’ll admit, the Klub has lots of needs, including volunteers in time and money. I need you to be sure about a commitment, not thinking about concerts or PR gimmicks.”
“PR? I wasn’t even considering that far in advance. I can do some good and—” A slow smile bloomed over her lips. “You’re a genius.”
“Come again?”
“You just gave me an excellent idea.”
“Which is?”
“How about I give a benefit concert with all the proceeds going to Kids’ Klub?”
Surprised twice in the time span of five minutes. A new record.
“Your offer comes out of the blue.”
“That’s because I just thought of it.” Her expression turned serious. “It would be a great opportunity to raise funds and the kids would have fun, as well. Plus, I’d get some musical time with you.”
“I don’t know what to say.”
“Say yes. The idea is win-win for Cypress Pointe and the Klub.”
He propped his elbows on the desk and steepled his hands under his chin, quickly doing the math. One concert with Cassie could set the Klub up for at least a year if he was wise with his spending. Or it could be enough for a down payment on the property. His mind went over all scenarios, returning to his initial gut reaction.
Cassie had a career and he knew how consumed some artists could be in that business. He remembered that she’d shown promise on her first album, then appeared to change her style to chase the charts with her second. Would a benefit concert for Kids’ Klub just be a media event for her? A chance to grab the spotlight in the guise of helping a good cause? He didn’t want that type of tabloid exposure if it was only meant to advance her career.
“I see the benefits for the Klub. What do you get out of the deal?”
A puzzled frown marred her forehead. “Who says I need anything from it?”
“Because I’ve been in that world, Cassie. I know how the PR machine works.”
She avoided his gaze for a second too long before scooting forward in her chair. “Luke, I love to perform live. It’s how I made my way before the studio work.” Her eyes sparkled. “I also love Cypress Pointe. My sister, mom and her husband live and work here. It’s the place I return to when I need a break from the craziness of this business. I’m sure you understand.”
He did. All too well. “What about your schedule? Can you make the time?”
Pain flashed in her eyes before going flat. Pain? Where had that come from? She’d been downright excited moments before.
“I don’t have to be back to LA for a few weeks.”
“Planning a concert is a big undertaking.”
“I know, but it won’t take much to figure out the logistics. Since it’ll be a local event, we can pull it together in no time. The only hitch is that the guys I usually play with will probably be busy, but I’m hoping Sandy Palms can fill in.”
Had he heard her right? “You want my band to play with you?”
“Sure. You sounded great at the reception. It may take a couple practice sessions for us to mesh, but they’re your friends. I can’t imagine them turning you down since it’s for a good cause.”
“You’d really do this for us?”
“Why not?”
Why not indeed? As much as Luke tried, the cynical part of him kept wondering if after all was said and done, she’d let them down. Last night she’d tried to engage him in conversation that was definitely headed to a place he didn’t think he’d like. His past career. Eons and miles from the present.
He looked at her now, with that earnest expression and the hopeful curve of her pink lips. Not wanting to believe this was some sort of trap, he tried to push past the reservations hindering his decision. He’d hate to see Cassie, or anyone, for that matter, use Kids’ Klub for their personal agenda. That’s how much the program meant to him.
Before he could give Cassie an answer, a knock interrupted them. Denny, one of the teen volunteers, bounded in, his dark hair spilling over his forehead, his glasses slightly askew. Tall and lanky, his sneakers skidded on the tile floor as he came to an abrupt stop. “Oh, sorry. I didn’t know you were busy.”
“What have I said about knocking?”
“We need to respect each other’s space,” he replied in mock exasperation. “I get it, Mr. H., but I need the key to the art room. Lizzy forgot her paints and needs them for art class tomorrow.”
Luke opened the top drawer to his desk, removed a key ring and tossed it to Denny.
Denny caught it midair. “Thanks. And sorry, again.” He took a step, stopped and twirled around. “Hey, do I know you?”
Cassie smiled. “I’m a musician.”
He noted she didn’t call herself star. Props for her.
Denny pushed his glasses more securely on to his nose. “Cassie Branford, right? My friend Erin listens to your music.”
“You’re correct.”
“I heard some of the kids say your family lives in town.” He frowned. “I’m not real familiar with your songs. I’m more of an opera fan.”
Cassie blinked and glanced at Luke.
“I know, most kids his age don’t have a clue.”
“It’s my grandma’s fault,” Denny explained. “She raised me on the stuff.”
“There’s nothing wrong with opera,” Cassie rushed to assure him. “It’s an acquired taste.”
“Which usually skips teenagers,” Luke deadpanned.
“Yeah, my friends think it’s odd, but before long I’ve got them listening. Some of ’em actually like it.”
“Good for you,” Cassie said.
Denny gripped the keys in his hand. “I’ll bring these back when we’re finished.”
Luke nodded as Denny hustled out the door.
“Interesting young man.”
“He is. I’ve known him since he was a freshman.
