50. Hazel
HAZEL
I’m so buzzed it feels like I’ve been downing energy drinks. But it’s all from the concert. My men are amazing, though it’s not just them—the audience is blasting out enough good vibes to drown in.
I’ve snuck out front with Ember so I can take some shots of the band in action, and that’s where I am when Conal says, “We’ve got a new song for you tonight.”
Immediately, an expectant hush falls over the crowd. Conal picks up his acoustic guitar, and Rafe swaps out his electric for an acoustic, too. I’m trying to remember if I knew about this song.
As soon as the first chords fill the air, I know it’s new to me. And judging from the soft, slow strains, it must be a ballad. I’m almost ready to cry even before Conal starts singing, but the beautiful lyrics tip me over the edge.
Baby, on the night we met
I saw the magic in your soul
never once will I regret
the way your spirit makes me whole
I’m standing with my hand over my mouth, trying not to sob out loud. Ember puts her arm around me and pulls me in close. “Your men really love you,” she says.
I cling to her and soak her shoulder. She was slow to accept my relationship with the band, but once she did, she was all in. Her acceptance and support—and occasional practical advice—mean so much to me.
The song is drawing to a close. I look up at my men, who can see me as I’m right up front next to the stage, and blow them kisses. The way they look at me echoes everything they’ve just sung.
I’m the luckiest woman in the world.