Kevin and I went to a small cafe in Wilmington, and chatted about our future. “Milt’s got the restaurant for the day, Kev, so relax and enjoy this little break,” I said. “I’m just not used to letting people run my business,” my partner replied. “We set it up this way, so we could focus on other things. You must have something musically in mind,” I said. “Yeah.” “What is it, Kev?” “I just want to make a simple rock album, free of ballads, and heavy on jamming. I want to go back to the music that first turned me on to drums. I know it won’t sell, but fuck it, I want to jam full-throttle,” my partner replied. “Sounds like a plan to me,” I said. “Really?” “Yeah, Kev, I’m a hard-rocker, but I’ve never fully realized it because of circumstances and such. I love my first album, and I even like the live album, but I want to jam, too.” “Then let’s jam, Scragg.” “Consider it done. If Milt wants to manage, let him manage. He can open up and have all the fun, and we’ll come in after lunch and take the credit,” I replied. “Okay, we’ll start it tomorrow, but what about the other players,” Kevin asked. “Drums and guitar are all we need,” I replied.
Kevin beamed from ear to ear.
After drinking coffee and chatting for a spell, we headed to the school, so I could check on Blake, who wanted something to eat. We took her to the deli, and talked about our day. “I’m sorry Brie wasn’t available today, but she’s working with the students who are having trouble in English,” my wife said. “That’s okay, I know she’s busy, and besides, we’re seeing plenty of each other now,” Kevin replied. “Brie told me Christine is doing better,” Blake said. “Yes, and we need to monitor that more closely. That was a scary night, but fortunately we were both there to handle it. Life is good, and I’m thankful for what I’ve got. I know I’ve never been the most personable guy, but I’ve always appreciated the people in my life,” my partner added. “Everyone I know loves the restaurant and say that it’s the best place in town. I know those smoothies are addictive,” Blake said. “It’s been an adventure, but a good one. There’s just no keeping Scragg from thinking ahead.” Blake laughed and told Kevin that she ought to live with me. “I bet you’re never bored,” my partner replied. “No, he’s always doing something.”
After lunch, Kevin and I went back to the restaurant and found it in good order. Everyone was busy, and the customers seemed satisfied. Milt said that they had a rush at noon, but they handled it with ease. “They why did I get three calls from disgruntled customers telling me that the manager was clueless and led the staff into a clusterfuck,” I replied. Milt’s eyes widened while I stared him down. “Who…” Kevin laughed, which was a great relief for the old ax man. “Damn, I should have seen that coming,” he said. “Yeah, you should have because next time it’ll be worse,” I replied. “I’d expect nothing less.” “Well, your trial by fire continues tomorrow when you get the chance to open up, so have at it and have fun. We’ll be in later on, so don’t bother us with questions,” I replied. “I’m the man for the job,” Milt replied. “Doris is in tomorrow, so she’ll rip you a new one if you fuck up.” “Thanks for the vote of confidence, Scragg.” “You’re welcome, Milt.”
After closing, Rory pulled me aside and asked me if I would listen to something. “What is it,” I asked. “Something Milt and I made, along with a drummer, who has a small studio at his house.” ‘So you recorded some songs?” “Yes, but I want you to give them a listen.” “Sure,” I replied, let’s finish cleaning up and we’ll give it a spin.”
When we finished cleaning up, I asked Kevin to put the CD in the computer. Milt and Rory quickly hauled ass, leaving Kev and I alone to listen to their recording. My partner put it in and we listened in awe.
It was thirteen minutes of full-throttle rock and roll.
“Christ, they beat us to the punch,” I said. “What the fuck,” my partner said in disbelief. “Who’s the drummer,” I asked. “I think it’s Tony Wilmer,” Kevin replied. “He used to run a music store in Jacksonville.” “He can drum,” I commented. “He sure can, and Milt and Rory can pure fucking rock. I love Milt’s rough vocals,” my partner added. “Blake was right: Milt would benefit from Rory being there,” I said.
Rock on.
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