Guess not.
This is like one of those stupid logic puzzles where you have to get a cabbage, a bull, a wolf, a bunny, and a farmer across the river. Except in this version, the wolf is too awkward to get in the boat with the bull.
I don't even know if I have the animals right.
I don't give a shit.
"For fuck's sake," I mutter under my breath, stretching until my bones pop.
Rafael doesn't stir. He's always been a heavy sleeper, the kind who could pass out on a tour bus going over speed bumps and not wake up until someone physically shook him.
It used to drive Nash crazy during long drives between shows.
The dream claws at the edges of my consciousness, trying to drag me back under. I shove it down and reach for my phone instead.
Three in the fucking morning.
I should try to sleep more. Should go to Rafael's room—mytemporaryroom—and lie in the dark and pretend I'm not waiting for the next nightmare to find me.
Instead, I open my email.
Habit, mostly. The label I've been in touch with behind the scenes has been dragging their feet on the comeback deal, and I've been checking obsessively for any sign of movement. Not that I expect good news at this hour. Corporate types don't send emails at 3 AM.
The inbox loads.
And there it is.
RE: Vespyr - Contract Renewal and Tour Proposal
From Meridian Records. Timestamp: 2:45 AM. Someone's either a workaholic or they scheduled this specifically to fuck with my sleep cycle.
I tap the email open, eyes scanning the corporate pleasantries and legal jargon.
Dear Mr. Steele,
We are pleased to inform you that after careful consideration, Meridian Records has agreed to move forward with the proposed contract and comeback tour for Vespyr.
My chest loosens slightly.
Fuckingfinally.
After a solid week of back-and-forth, after jumping through every bureaucratic hoop they could throw at us, we're actually getting somewhere.
But the relief is short-lived.
However, given the circumstances surrounding the band's recent restructuring, as well as concerns regarding public perception and tour logistics, the label has attached several conditions to this agreement.
Of course they fucking have. Because nothing in this industry comes without strings attached.
I scroll down, past more legalese about revenue splits and promotional obligations.
Condition 3: Management Oversight
In light of the band's transition period and the addition of new vocalist Bells, Meridian Records will be assigning a dedicated manager to oversee all aspects of the comeback tour. This individual will serve as the primary liaison between the band and the label, ensuring consistent communication and adherence to agreed-upon promotional strategies.
The assigned manager will be Carmine Caruso, a seasoned industry professional with extensive experience in artist development and tour management. Mr. Caruso has successfully overseen campaigns for several of our top-tier acts and comes highly recommended by our senior leadership team.
We trust that Mr. Caruso's expertise will be invaluable during this critical phase of Vespyr's career trajectory.