“I’ve also taken my graduation money and some of what I’ve earned at the hotel to record a demo CD with two covers and two of my own songs. Everything I’ve read says you should have a demo if you want to get anywhere in Nashville.”

“When did you do all this?” Jack asked, incredulous.

“In October. I knew you were busy with the babies and everything. I’m serious about this, Dad.”

“I can see that.”

“What about living arrangements?” Clare asked.

“I’ve taken care of that,” Jack said. “Jamie and I have a friend from Berkeley, Reid Matthews, who lives just outside of Nashville. I called him a couple of weeks ago, and he said he owns a couple of apartment complexes in the city. He’s going to let me know by tomorrow if he has any units open.”

“That’s great, Dad. Thanks.”

“He also offered to be a point of contact for you while you’re there. He’s a nice guy. You’ll like him.”

“Sounds like between the two of you, you’ve got your bases covered,” Clare said. “Can we hear your demo?”

“Sure, I’ve got it in the car. I’ll run out and get it.”

While they waited for her, Jack looked at Clare in amazement. “Well,” he said. “She’s your daughter in more than just her looks.”

“How do you mean?”

“She’s efficient and organized, just like you.”

“And she’s goal-oriented, like you.”

Kate came back in, turned on the CD player, and popped in her demo. She had done covers of Stevie Nicks’s “Landslide” and an acoustic guitar version of Willie Nelson’s “Always on My Mind,” as well as two of her own songs, “Funny,” and “Since You Left.”

“You sound beautiful, Kate.” Clare glanced at Jack, wondering where their daughter had gotten this awesome talent. “It’s so impressive.”

Jack’s eyes were wide with wonder. “I can’t believe that’s you.”

Kate’s pleasure showed on her face. “Thanks. I haven’t played it for anyone yet. I just couldn’t bring myself to do it.”

“I don’t know why,” Clare said. “It’s wonderful. I love that song, ‘Landslide.’”

“I know. I always think of you when I hear it.”

“I’m so proud of you, Kate,” Jack said. “You’ve jumped right into this thing and put a lot of thought into it.”

“I only have a year, and I don’t want to waste a minute of it. I also answered an ad to work in a nightclub with open-mic nights. If I get the job, hopefully I can perform, too.” She checked her watch. “I actually have to run. I’m taking the second half of my coworker’s shift at the hotel tonight. It’s his wife’s birthday.”