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forty-nine

ANDREW

I walked off the stage just as Tim was launching into a medley of his greatest hits. The fifteen-minute break was supposed to give me time to have a drink and relax my vocal cords. But all I wanted to do was find out where Jacob had gone.

I turned on my phone and checked my messages. Pastor Adam’s text worried me. I hadn’t thought about the noise and lights of the concert triggering Jacob’s PTSD. Guilt and a huge dose of dread made my hand tremble as I called Adam.

If his cell phone was turned off, I didn’t know what I’d do. Apart from Shane and Jonathon, all my friends were at the?—

“Hi, Andrew. Jacob’s safe. He took some medication and has fallen asleep.”

“Does he need to go to the hospital?”

“I don’t think so. I’m looking after him at my place.”

Hot tears burned my eyes. “I feel so bad. I didn’t think about his PTSD.”

“No one knew this would happen. Has Jacob had any panic attacks or other symptoms of PTSD since he’s been here?”

“I don’t think so. Will he be okay?”

Adam sighed. “I’m sure he will. But without knowing what usually happens when he has a panic attack, I don’t know how long the symptoms will last. Everyone’s experience of PTSD is different.”

I bit my bottom lip. “What about the concert? After the last song, you’re supposed to thank everyone for coming.”

“If you can thank Tim and the audience for being part of the fundraising effort, I’d appreciate it. That way, I can stay here with Jacob.”

I gripped my phone. “You don’t know how much I appreciate what you’re doing. I’ll come around straight after the concert. Thank you for looking after Jacob.”

“You’re welcome. Now go and sing your heart out.”

“I will. I’ll see you soon.” Turning off my phone, I checked the time. All I needed to do was get through the next hour. But first, I had a group of excited girls to bring on stage.