Night shifts black

They finally pull away and focus their awe on me this time. I’m surprised when it’s Luke who speaks first. “Can we use these, Callie?”

My eyes widen, confused. “What do you mean?”

“I…” He stops, and glances at Casey quickly before turning back to me. “For the EP. We still need two to three more songs.”

Casey almost chokes. “Wait. Seriously? You’re in?” he asks in shock, barely able to complete the thought.

Luke meets his gaze and nods. “If you’ll have me back.”

I practically scream as I run around the counter and throw my arms around him. He laughs, returning my embrace, and I can feel Casey joining behind me. I’ve never been so happy in my life.

“Of course you can use it!” I cry. Then, search his eyes. “But only if you use ‘Perfect Day,’ too.”

Luke visibly flinches. “Really? I don’t know,” he replies, skeptical. “I didn’t write that for anyone else.”

“Neither did I,” I point out.

Casey’s eyes widen with that inspired look I’ve come to admire. “Dude, she’s right. Think about the journey those three songs would represent. After everything we’ve been through, that’s some epic comeback shit right there.”

“You just need to add a good breakup song,” I suggest. I was joking, but based on their expressions, I don’t think they care.

Casey grins. “I think I can handle that one.”

I glare at him. “Oh really?” I say, crossing my arms.

“Not for you, silly! The crazy psycho who hit me.”

I laugh. “You could call it ‘Bella Amberosi.’”

He smiles. “Hey, maybe. I have some ideas.” His expression changes as he grows serious again and turns to Luke.

“Really, man, you have no idea…I mean…” he can’t even finish the sentence, and Luke claps him on the back, completing the thought with another hug.

“I know, brother. I do.”