The day’s rehearsals had gone well. Everyone in the van was primed to walk out on that stage and perform their hearts out for ten thousand people. Megan wanted to do well, not only for herself, but for her friends in the band. She was nervous, but she felt confident and hopeful. Only one thing was troubling her.

She hadn’t been able to reach Conner.

When she’d failed to hear from him, she’d called from the airport. Nothing. Was he all right? Was he angry at her for some reason?

She’d tried again this morning, with no luck. After that, she’d had to turn off her phone and focus on the rehearsal. During the break, she’d checked again. No messages. Nothing. By then, she was really getting worried. She’d even called her mother. No, Dorcas hadn’t heard from Conner. Yes, if he called, she would give him Megan’s message.

Now all Megan could do was put him out of her mind and give her all to her performance, which was as important to her friends in the band as it was to her. She couldn’t let them down. Even her worries about Conner couldn’t be allowed to distract her.

They parked at the rear of the building and came in through the stage entrance. While the Badger Hollow Boys set up on the open stage, Megan loosened up in the wings and watched the seats fill. The Christmas-themed concert was a sellout. Rascal Flatts were superstars. But the Badger Hollow Boys and Miss Lacy Leatherwood would be new to most of the audience. They would have less than thirty minutes to make a lasting impression.

She checked her watch. Almost time. She could feel the sweat beneath the leather jacket and silk blouse. Her pulse was racing. She took a deep breath, heard the drumroll and announcer’s booming voice over the PA system. Then, as the band exploded into its intro, Lacy Leatherwood strutted onto the stage.

The next half hour was a blur. Only when it was over did she realize the audience was cheering and the crew was hastily clearing the stage for the main act. She made it backstage before her knees began to shake.

Leaning against a wall for support, she willed herself to breathe, willed her galloping pulse to slow. Had she forgotten any of the lyrics? Had she hit any sour notes? Heaven help her, she couldn’t remember.

“Hey, you did great, Megan!” Tucker was slapping her shoulder, giving her a brotherly hug. “You nailed it, lady. You knocked ’em dead!”

“You’re joking, right?” Megan stared at him in disbelief.

“Why should I joke? We wowed that audience tonight. Come on.” He tugged at her arm. “We’re going out for drinks to celebrate.”