A percussionist with the local orchestra, Ashlee sometimes has very little to do, so she daydreams about the new bass player, Michela. When Michela asks her out to dinner, her dreams seem to be coming true.<br><br>But is Michela gay? Ashlee didn’t think so, but her goodnight kiss plants the seed of hope.<br><br>Over their second date, they review Michela’s portfolio. Could Ashlee help Michela start her career? Before they can find out, their third date is interrupted by Michela’s angry and violent ex. Is the fourth time the charm?

That Amethyst Jacket

The rehearsal was like every other rehearsal, except this time, the only person I watched was Mickey.


Good God, she grew more beautiful every time I looked at her. How did she do that? And that jacket and the streak through her hair? Gorgeous! Every move she made was more graceful than the last. I saw in her face where she’d been heavier, but nothing at all looked unattractive. She was stunning. Why? Was I falling in love?


What do I do about it? Should I tell her? What if she doesn’t go for it? Then…why did she kiss me? My God! I have to do something.


Jim nudged my arm. I nodded as I looked down at the music. I knew this piece well enough that I didn’t have to count. I knew where my parts were. I just didn’t know where my head was…or my heart, for that matter.


Jim started his xylophone part. My drum roll was at the end of it.


Chapter 9