Are you home yet, superstar, or are you out partying with Bristol?

I’m in a minivan going home. I doubt Bristol’s even thinking about me.

Annie didn’t even get to tell Bristol it was a great concert. Lizzy intercepted her on her way backstage to congratulate Bristol. She directed her away from Bristol’s dressing room and flippantly offered the opening gig for the next six weeks before giving her instructions for tomorrow. It had happened in such a flash that Annie blinked at Lizzy until the words sank in. Thankfully, Sarah was there to answer for her.

Just look at her Instagram. You’re famous, my friend. I’ll be there tomorrow night.

Shit. Charley didn’t even know about the offer. If she told her now, Charley would call screaming, and waking up Peyton wasn’t a good idea. She would tell her tomorrow when she went to get coffee and a doughnut. It seemed so surreal. She was still processing. Good night. See you tomorrow.

“Did you tell Charley?”

Annie shook her head. “I need time to let it sink in.” Annie looked at her watch. “It was only an hour ago. Weird how life can change so quickly.”

“I still can’t believe it,” Sarah said.

“I know. This is all so fast.”

Sarah pulled next to Annie’s building and put the car in park. They hugged longer than usual. “I’m so proud of you, baby sis. Congratulations. Try to get some sleep.”

Annie wiped her tears away and laughed. “Thank you. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for you.”

“Stop it. You’re going to make me cry, and I don’t cry,” Sarah said.

The last time Annie remembered her sister crying was when their parents died. Even when Peyton was diagnosed, Sarah put all her energy into getting her daughter healthy. Maybe Sarah cried in private, but never around Annie. She was the rock, the foundation of their small family. Annie was the emotional one. She slipped out of the van and quietly closed the door. “I love you.”

“I love you more.”

* * *

“Well, if it isn’t Denver’s biggest superstar.”

Annie braced herself as Charley greeted her with a warm, tight hug. “How do you feel?” She poured Annie a cup of coffee and plopped a cinnamon sugar doughnut on a plate. “Let’s go sit. I want to hear about everything.” Charley grabbed her own cup of coffee and led Annie to a table. It was after the morning rush, so the place was nearly empty.

“I don’t think you’re prepared to hear what I have to say,” Annie said. Charley reached for her hands. “Honestly, I’m still reeling.”

Charley took a deep breath. “Tell me. Oh, my God. Tell me before I lose my shit.”