Page 54 of The Girl with No Name

She likes country music

She says I’m not her type

Come on, darlin’, there’s nothin’ to it

We could dance the night away

She says she likes country music

She don’t like the songs I play

She don’t know where John Prine grew up

What does she know anyway?

“That’s…really good,” he says, finishing his cigarette. “You’re debuting it tonight?”

“Maybe. It’s unreleased. So you, ah, won’t find a recording of it anywhere.”

“Nowhere at all?”

“You’re the first person outside of our small circle to hear it.”

“I just can’t believe I’ve met the Red Lemons. You look so much different in person.” He turns to Luna. “And you’ve dyed your hair. It’s not your trademark red. It looks good, though. Is it okay if I take a photo with you guys?”

Shit.He did his research.

Luna stays calm, holding a casual smile.

“I, uh, don’t think that’s such a good idea. Sorry,” I tell him.

Dunn taps his watch and clears his throat, as if he’s also my manager and we have places to be.

“Well, I guess I’ll have to ask my friend who’s going to the concert how it went.”

“It’s going to be amazing,” Luna says. “I can already tell the vibes are immaculate today.”

Randy nods. “I might even go myself. Shift ends at four today, and a friend has a ticket. What time are you guys playing?”

“Seven thirty,” I croak.

“Seven thirty. Well, maybe I’ll see you.” He winks.

Randy heads for the door, and we wait until he’s safely out of earshot to talk—and breathe.

“Nice job, Walker. You didn’t totally blow it,” Dunn says.

“One time out of ten, I can be clutch.”

“Should have told him you play at two p.m. though, so that he’ll miss the show.” Dunn raises an eyebrow. “What are we going to do if he comes tonight and sees that you’re not on stage with the Red Lemons?”

“That is a good question, my friend.”

“Well, now I know for sure that it’s time to start the party. Ready?”

“Yeah. Oh.” My phone buzzes. “Text from Sam. I’m going to call her real quick.”

I head inside and find a lounge where I can talk to her.