Page 48 of The Love Dose

“You know it by heart?” she asks.

“I learned to play by ear.” I don’t mention that following my move to New York I was offered a contract to tour with another up-and-coming performer. While the singer is long gone, I’ve remained in regular touch with the agent who’s gone on to represent some of the world’s top talent.

“Duly impressed.”

I hum the tune. “If you sing along, I’ll match the key.”

“I don’t sing.”

I stop playing. “Then I don’t play.”

She places her hands on her hips. “Hard ball, huh?”

I nod. “Yup.”

Caroline begins singing shyly, a demeanor I haven’t yet observed with this complex woman. “Uptown girl. She’s been living in her uptown world . . .”

I keep my face smiley, as though she’s the next Taylor Swift. Caroline goes along with it, gaining confidence with each lyric. But her hesitation was valid. This beautiful uptown girl is tone deaf. Wildly so. It's like a foghorn and a kazoo had a love child and decided to sing karaoke.

By the time song ends, she’s using a fireplace prodder as her mic, belting at the top of her lungs. I can only pray for laryngitis to kick in. Mean, I know but—wow.

Caroline makes eye contact with me, making me regret my unkind thoughts. Her cheeks are red with exhilaration, the look on her face one of accomplished satisfaction.

“That was great,” she says, somewhat out of breath.

“Agreed. Want to hear one of my own songs?”

I’ve never played it for another soul unless you count Pedro. Caroline will be the first. But it will be a win-win. I’ll get to share my music with her and since she doesn’t know the lyrics, she won’t be able to sing along.

I begin and the expression on her face is precious. I realize, in this moment, I could listen tohersing all day long. Everyone has imperfections and I'moverjoyedto know what Caroline’s are.

Like AC/DC blaring from speakers at full volume, it hits me hard. I'm falling for my friend.

Hook, line, and sinker.

Chapter Thirty-Six

Caroline

When the road gets tough and the nights are long,

There's a hand to hold, where we all belong.

We may not share blood, but our bond is strong,

In this heart of mine, you're where you belong.

'Cause friends are the family we choose,

With you, there's no way to lose.

Through the highs and the lows, we find our way,

Side by side, come what may.

Laughter and tears, we've seen it all,

Through every stumble, you've answered the call.