The ache in my chest squeezed into an almost painful wrenching sensation, and my gaze drifted to the floor. Leaving…sucked. But man, I loved what he’d just said, because this place would always be important to me. Having that feeling reciprocated was surprisingly wonderful. I’m so glad I didn’t run from here.

Pete made an oddly emotional noise, and I peeked up at him. God, if he lost it…I would not be able to keep it together. But thankfully, Pete didn’t test my emotional resilience. He shook off his sentiment and indicated the entire bar. “Anyway…a round for everybody, on the house!”

I had to widen my eyes at hearing that. Pete wasn’t one to throw around free booze. I’d have to make sure I sent him some money after I was gone, make sure tonight didn’t hurt his bank account too much. I owed him that much. Honestly, I owed him way more than I could ever repay. I’d never really felt home until I’d come here. Damn, I was going to miss this place. Keep it together, Kellan. Jesus.

As Pete began walking over to us, I peeked over at Kiera. Her face was pale as she took in the massive number of thirsty patrons around her who were now expecting free alcohol. Damn. She was going to be busy for a while. Maybe I should throw on an apron and help her. That could be fun. I was just about to do it when Pete stepped in front of us and clapped me on the arm.

“The bar won’t be the same without you boys,” he muttered. “But I do appreciate you lining up another act for me. They’re good…right?”

Smiling, I nodded. “Yeah, you’ll like ‘em. Give them time, they’ll draw a crowd.”

Pete nodded, then, out of the blue, he smiled brightly at me. “Hey, once you are all huge stars…I want to put your name on the door. Pete’s Bar, Home of the D-Bags,” he said with a flourish of his hands. “Would that be all right with all of you?”

My mouth popped open in disbelief. Really? I glanced around at Matt, Griffin, and Evan. They looked just as stunned as me. Well, except Griffin. He was smirking and nodding, like he’d expected as much. I couldn’t even comprehend a world where we were big enough to warrant that kind of honor, but Pete looked so much happier now just thinking about it, that I couldn’t deny him his request. Seeing approval on my bandmates’ faces, I told him, “Yeah, that would be…Yes, thank you.”

Pete beamed at us, thanking us each in turn and shaking our hands. It was all so out there…I suddenly needed more alcohol. And Kiera. I needed things to start feeling real again.