Jace leans toward the mic and grins. “Tonight is special for two reasons. One, ’cause this is Austin fuckin’ Texas.” The crowd screams, and he chuckles. “And two, my family’s here, and they mean everything to me. All my brothers have helped me out over the years, but my big brother Rhett…” He clears his throat. “He’s saved my ass more times than I can count. Rhett’s my rock star. This song is for him.”
The first notes of “Hey, Brother” echo through the arena, and fans start screaming.
Hey, brother
I got something to confess
Ya might sit down to process
That I had some trouble last night
Kinda got in a fight
I grin at Rhett, whose eyes are shiny, but all of the Walker brothers beam with pride. Just like the sendoff at the beginning of the tour, they’re all here to support Jace.
Paige nudges me and whisper-yells. “They sound amazing.”
“I don’t know if it’s the pressure of being on tour, but the guys are on top of their game.”
When the concert ends, we make our way backstage to congratulate Jace on a great show, and I give Susan my camera.
“Thank you so much for recording for me tonight.” Since we still have to head back to Wild Heart, Jace wanted Rhett and Paige to drive Layla and me to the ranch early so we’re not totally worn out.
“Oh, honey, it’s no trouble. I’m happy to help.”
“Just be sure to give the camera to Jace before he leaves. I’m afraid he’ll forget to ask you.”
Susan gives me a thumbs-up. “I’m on it.”
“I’ll see you in Dallas, right?” I ask as I hug her.
“Yes, ma’am. The band is paying me to sell swag at the rest of the Texas shows, which is great because then I get to see my Frank.”
“Wonderful. I’ll see you soon.”
Paige, Rhett, and Baylee return to the bus to help me gather Layla’s things and cart our stuff to Rhett’s truck.
Before we take off, I touch base with Edmond and our driver Ozzie. “You’re probably tired of fudge by now. Would you like some apple fritters?”
Edmond grins. “Mighty nice of you, miss. I’m happy with anything you wanna get us.”
Ozzie elbows our security guard. “Speak for yourself. I’ll take those fritters.”
“You got it. Enjoy your vacation.” I can’t believe we’re getting some time off. Bless Frank for working that out for us. Though,if I had to guess, he wants Jace to use the next week to work on his songs.
Because our next stop is Dallas, and the guys have two days to rehearse before they get into the studio to record.
When we arrive at the Walker ranch, it’s so quiet and peaceful, I stand outside with Layla and look up at the stars in the sky and breathe. “Feels good to be home, ladybug.” This might not be my ranch, but being here feels right. There are no itineraries or fans or stalkers. Just friends and family.
After a minute, I follow everyone inside, and I get Layla settled in the crib in Jace’s bedroom before I join Paige and Baylee, who are in the kitchen making margaritas. The smell of queso fills the air.
Rhett plants a kiss on Paige before he gives me a friendly nod. “I’m gonna get outta your hair and let y’all do your girls’ night. Nice to have you here, Rory.”
“Thanks for the hospitality. I appreciate it.”
“You’re welcome anytime.”
When he leaves, Paige laughs. “Rhett knows better than to hang around when the girls are bonding.”