As Kz left the bar to return to her duties as host, I caught Bernard walking up to me, that familiar mischievous grin plastered on his face.
"Kid," he started, leaning against the counter like he always did when he was about to meddle, "I just saw that little interaction. What's going on? You were practically flirting."
I sighed, setting the shaker down and trying to keep my composure. "Gramps, it's not like that," I said, though I could feel the heat crawling up my neck. Damn it. "I just... I didn't expect to see her here tonight."
"You're kidding," he said, disbelief dripping from every word. "With all the people you meet here every night, you're telling me she's the same girl from the park? The one Tequila approved of?"
"Yeah," I admitted, rubbing the back of my neck. "That's her. She's the one who found Tequila for me earlier today."
Bernard gave me one of those knowing looks, crossing his arms like he had me all figured out. "Well, that explains why you're suddenly all smiles. But let me remind you, meeting people at the bar doesn't always lead to something good."
"I met her at the park, Gramps. Meeting her here is another coincidence." I said, my tone firm. "She's... different."
Bernard's face softened at my words, and he patted my shoulder. "Different, huh? Well, if Tequila likes her, that's a good start. And, kid, I just don't want you ending up alone, you know that, right?"
I sarcastically said. "Thanks for the much needed concern, Gramps."
Before I could dwell on the conversation, I caught sight of Kz stepping back on stage. The way her smile lit up the room was something else... it wasn't just her face; it was like the whole vibe of the place shifted. She grabbed the microphone with ease, like she belonged there.
"Ladies and gentlemen," she announced, her voice smooth and confident, "Since tonight is a special double celebration for our birthday couple—and since I hear you all like to dance—we're adding a little bonus to the program tonight. Yours truly will be serenading you with a few romantic songs, so grab your partners and enjoy the music!"
The room burst into applause, but I was frozen in place. Did she just say she was going to sing? My eyes darted to the saxophone sitting on the stand near the bar, polished and gleaming under the dim lights. My uncle had insisted on displaying it there, claiming it was meant to remind me of the talent I'd buried deep, the part of me I'd forced into silence.
"She sings?" I muttered under my breath, more to myself than to Bernard.
He must've noticed because he smirked. "Surprised, huh? Looks like your girl's full of surprises."
"She's not my—" I started, but the words caught in my throat as Kz began to sing. The opening notes of "Weak" by JoJo flowed out of her, her voice rich and soulful. It was the kind of voice that could knock the air out of your lungs if you weren't ready for it.
I couldn't look away. Her hair shimmered under the stage lights, styled in soft curls that framed her face perfectly. And that voice—it had this mix of strength and vulnerability that hit me square in the chest.
Beside me, Bernard let out a low whistle. "Damn, she's good," he said, shaking his head like he couldn't believe it either. Then he glanced at me, and I knew he'd caught me staring. "You love music, don't you? She's got some serious talent. Think there's something brewing here?"
I didn't answer right away. How could I? I was too busy watching her hit a powerful note, her voice weaving through the room and straight into my chest.
Bernard nudged me, snapping me out of it. "She's... incredible," I finally said, my voice barely above a whisper.
He grinned, clearly pleased with himself. "You know, your old saxophone's been collecting dust. This might be the perfect moment to dust it off and join her. Don't you think?"
"Gramps..." I hesitated. It wasn't like I hadn't thought about it, but putting myself out there like that? It wasn't easy.
"Come on," he said, pushing a little harder. "It's not supposed to just sit there. You're good, kid. Show her what you've got."
The idea stuck, lingering in the back of my mind as I turned my gaze back to the stage. She was incredible, and maybe... just maybe, I wanted her to see that I could be too.