Annie could tell she was sincere. “Thank you for saying that. I know touring is tough. I didn’t mean to come at you that hard.” She still meant what she said, but she could have done it with a little more finesse.

“Here’s an access pass for VIP if you want to see the concert from down there. Or you can stay backstage.”

“I appreciate it. Thank you.”

“Okay.” Lizzy nodded. She stood next to her awkwardly for about ten seconds. “You’re on in ten. Have fun up there.”

DJ Spinz Madness took over during the transition time between artists to keep the groove going. Instead of fifteen minutes to transition, the artists were asked to allow for only five. Annie had only a guitar, so setting up was a cinch. She wasn’t going to livestream tonight. It was too nerve-wracking with other artists in the mix, and she didn’t want to fuck up.

“Up next is fan favorite Annie Foster! Have a great night!” Willow waved and blew kisses to the crowd.

Annie high-fived Willow on her way backstage. “Oh, my God. You were so good out there.” She was beyond nervous. She waited until she heard the beat of DJ Spinz Madness’s music fade, took a deep breath, and walked onstage. It was hard not to smile at the energy of the place. “Los Angeles! I’ve missed you.” She found Reece easily enough in the crowd. Vanessa was two seats down. She gave them a quick wave, even though seeing them added weight to her heart. “How incredible is Willow McAdams? She’s amazing.” The crowd agreed. “I’m Annie Foster, and I’m here to play you a few songs.”

The crowd started screaming, and Annie couldn’t figure out why. She knew they liked her music, but this was insane. Bristol moved into her peripheral vision holding a phone recording her.

“What are you doing?” It was incredible how Bristol made every part of Annie blossom, from the huge smile on her mouth to her rapidly beating heart.

“You always livestream your set, and this is a big one to miss. Am I right, Los Angeles?” Bristol shouted.

Annie stared at Bristol. She looked good. No. She looked beautiful. A white lacy camisole with thick straps ended right above the high rise of her tight jeans, affording Annie a peek of smooth skin. She was barefoot with pink toenail polish. It was different than the shade they used in Vegas. Her hair was pulled back in a long ponytail and her makeup very minimal. Annie wanted to melt into her.