I pause for a moment, considering the offer. The Groove is a popular spot for local bands, and it’s been a while since I’ve played a live show. The idea of stepping in feels both exciting and a bit daunting. I’ve always enjoyed playing with Jamie and his band, The Electric Current, and it could be a great way to distract myself from everything that’s going on.

I tap out a quick reply. 

Max: Hey, Jamie, I’d be happy to fill in. What time do you need me there?

The reply comes almost immediately.

Jamie: Awesome, thanks! We need to be at The Groove by 7 for soundcheck. The show starts at 9. Can’t wait to see you there!”

I set my phone down and look down at my guitar and give it a few more strums. As I head inside to get ready, I feel a mix of anticipation and excitement. Moments later, I’m changing into something a bit more stage-worthy, grabbing my guitar case, and making sure I have everything I need for the night. As I head out the door, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to escape into the world of music, even if just for a few hours. 

The Groove is buzzing with energy when I arrive, its neon sign casting a vibrant glow over the street. The club’s facade is unassuming-an old brick building with a modest entrance, but inside, but inside, it’s a different world. The air is thick with the scent of aged wood and lingering smoke, a hint of spilled beer mixing with the hum of conversation and clinking glasses.

I push through the door and step into the dimly lit venue, where the stage is bathed in a soft blue light, casting shadows across the room. The crowd is still thin, but there’s a palpable sense of anticipation. I spot Jamie near the stage, chatting animatedly with the rest of the band. He’s dressed in usual casual rock attire-black jeans, his own band’s t-shirt, and a leather jacket that has seen better days. 

“Max!” Jamie’s voice cuts through the murmur of the crowd as he waves me over with an enthusiastic grin. “You made it! Thanks for coming on such short notice.”

I walk over. “No problem at all. I’m glad to be here. Where do you need me?”

Jamie gestures to the rest of the rest of the best, who are setting up their gear. “This is Alex, our drummer,” Jamie says, pointing to a tall guy with a mop of curly hair, concentrating intently as he arranges his drum kit. “And over there is Mia, our bassiest.”

Mia looks up from her bass guitar, giving me a friendly smile. She's got a cool, laid-back vibe, with a short pixie cut and a pair of oversized sunglasses perched on her head.

“Nice to meet you, Max.” Mia says, her voice warm and welcoming. “We really appreciate you stepping in. Jamie’s been telling us great things about you.”

Alex gives a nod in my direction, his attention momentarily diverted from his drums. “Yeah, thanks for filling in. Hope you’re ready to rock.”

“I’m definitely ready. Just let me know what you need from me.”

Jamie claps his hands together, his excitement palpable. “Great! Let’s get you set up for soundcheck. We’ll go over the setlist and make sure everything’s good to go.”

We head to the side of the stage where the band’s gear is already set up. The club’s small stage is packed with instruments and equipment, and I find a spot to set down my guitar case. Jamie pulls out the setlist, handing me a copy as we huddle together.

“Here’s what we’re playing tonight.” Jamie says, pointing to the list. “We’ve got a mix of originals and a few covers. I’ve marked the parts where you’ll be taking over on guitar.”

I scan the setlist, nodding as I familiarize myself with the songs. “Got it. Looks like a solid lineup. Anything specific I should be aware of the transitions?”

“Just the usual-stay in sync with Alex and Mia, and we’ll be good. We’ve got a few cues that might be a little different from what you’re used to, but I’m sure you’ll pick it up quickly.”

As we run through the soundcheck, I start to feel more at ease. The band’s energy is infectious, and the music flows smoothly as we play through each song. Alex’s drumming is tight and precise, while Mia’s bass lines provide a steady groove that keeps everything grounded. Jamie’s vocals cut through the mix with a powerful clarity that drives the songs forward.

By the time we finish soundcheck. The stage lights are now dimmed, the venue is starting to fill up with an eager crowd. I take a moment to soak up in the atmosphere.

Jamie claps me on the back, a grin plastered on his face. “Looks like we’re all set. Thanks again for stepping in, Max. This is going to be a great show.”

I smile. “No problem, Jamie. Let’s go out there and make it a night to remember.”

As the opening notes of the first song begin to play, the energy in the room shifts, and I’m ready to lose myself in the music, grateful for the chance to contribute to the evening’s performance.

The lights dim as the last chord of the song fades, leaving the room buzzing with energy. Applause erupts from the crowd, and I feel the familiar rush that comes with a good set. We’ve been playing for nearly an hour, and it’s time to grab some water and catch our breath before heading back up.

Jamie steps up to the mic, his voice still charged with excitement. “Alright, we’re gonna take a quick break, but don’t go anywhere! We’ll be back in a few minutes with more music. Thanks for hanging with us!”

He shoots the crowd a grin, and they respond with more cheers and clapping. I take a deep breath, feeling the warmth of the stage lights on my skin as we step offstage and head toward the back of the venue. I can’t help but smile as I follow Jamie, Mia, and Alex into the narrow hallway that leads to the green room. 

The Groove’s green room is nothing fancy-just a couple of old couches with leather peeling, a table littered with water bottles and snacks, and a mirror that’s cracked in one corner. It’s small, but it’s a welcome retreat from the noise outside. 

Jamie flops down on one of the couches, wiping the sweat from his brow. “Man, that was solid,” he says between breaths. “The crowd’s loving it tonight.”

Mia takes a sip of water, nodding in agreement as she leans against the wall. “Yeah, the energy in there is great. I think we’ve got them hooked for the second half.”

Alex is already rummaging through a bag of chips, his drumsticks in his pocket. “You guys are killing it. Max, you’re fitting in like you’ve been with us the whole time.”

I grin. “Thanks. It’s been a blast so far. You guys really know how to keep things tight up there.”

Jamie stretches his arms above his head. “We’ve got a good flow going tonight. I knew you’d be a great fit, Max. It’s just like you just clicked in.”

I shrug. “You guys make it easy. Plus, the songs are killer.”

Mia smiles, pushing herself off the wall. “You’re doing more than holding your own. That solo in the last song? That was a face melter.”

I chuckle. “Thanks, Mia. You guys really know how to bring out the best in a guitarist.”

Jamie throws a towel at me playfully. “Don’t get too comfortable, we’ve got a few more songs to get through. And trust me, the crowd out there? They’re gonna be expecting us to come back even harder.”

I grab a bottle of water from the table and take a long drink. “I’m ready. Let’s give them something to remember.”

As we sit there, the sound of the crowd outside filters through the thin walls of the green room. Laughter, conversation, and the occasional clink of glasses fill the air. I lean back in the chair, feeling the weight of the evening’s events start to settle in. Playing with Jamie’s band has been exactly the distraction I needed. 

Max: Hey, just finished the first set. How’re you feeling?”

As I wait for Elio’s reply, I glance around to make sure no one’s paying attention, trying to be casual about it. I’ve never really talked to my friends about Elio, or well, me being gay. It’s not like I’ve been hiding it, but I wasn’t sure how they’d take it either.

I’m halfway through sending another message when Jamie sidles up next to me, nudging me with his elbow. “Hey, man. Who are you texting?” He has that teasing tone in his voice, the one he usually reserves for poking fun.

I feel a flush creeping up my neck. “Uh, just Elio,” I say, hoping to play it off like it’s no big deal, though my voice sounds awkward even to my own ears.

Jamie raises an eyebrow, the corners of his mouth pulling into a smirk. “Elio, huh?” He leans against the wall next to me, folding his arms across his chest. “You guys are…?”

I hesitate, unsure how to respond. I’d been hoping to keep things low-key tonight, focused on the music. I glance at Jamie, trying to read his expression, but there’s no judgment there, just curiosity. 

“Yeah,” I finally say, feeling my throat tighten a bit. “We’re dating.” 

Jamie lets out a low chuckle, shaking his head. “Dude, you don't have to act like you just admitted to robbing a bank. It’s all good.”

I blink, taken aback by how casual he is about it. “Wait…you’re cool with it.”

He laughs outright this time, clapping me on the back. “Most musicians probably aren’t straight, man. I mean, look around.” He gestures to the posters around the room with a sweep of his arm, as if that explains everything. “In this scene, people are either too wrapped up in their own thing to care or they’re chill as hell. You think Mia or Alex would even blink if you brought Elio around? Nah, dude. We’re good.”

“Thanks, Jamie. I wasn’t sure, y’know?”

Jamie laughs, clapping me on the shoulder. “Trust me, no one in this room cares. Mia is bi, Alex had a boyfriend last year, and I’m into whoever-it’s not a big deal.”

“Oh. Well, that’s good to know.”

Jamie shrugs, leaning the wall beside me. “Nah, man. We’ll all just be here for the music. Who you’re with doesn’t matter as long as you can play, and from what I’ve seen tonight, you can definitely play.”

“Thanks. I appreciate that.”

He raises his water bottle in a mock toast. “Here’s to love,music, and rocking the rest of the set.”

I laugh, clinking my water bottle against his. “I’ll drink to that.”

As we head back toward the stage for the second set, I feel my phone buzzing. I look at it real quick.

Elio: Wish I could be there tonight. But, I bet you’re killing it, Rockstar!

I slip into the quiet of our apartment, the muffled hum of the city outside a constant backdrop. I rest my guitar case by the door and make my way to the kitchen for a quick drink. As I pour myself a glass of water, I glance towards the living room where Dad is still up, reading a book probably getting ready for his classes he is teaching tomorrow. He looks up as I enter. 

“Hey, Max. How was the gig?” he asks, setting his book aside, a tired but warm smile on his face.

“Great,” I reply. “I’ve been thinking about college, and I think I’ve figured it out. I want to study music, maybe become a music therapist.”

Dad's smile widens. “That sounds like a wonderful idea. We’ll talk about it more later, okay.”

I nod, feeling a sense of contentment as I head to my room.