The right chord

As they talked, Justin's eyes broadened with excitement. "I had no idea you've been playing music for so long," he said.

"You're so talented, Jax. I'm not surprised you've made it big."

Jaxon smiled humbly, feeling grateful for his friend's support. "Thanks, Justin. It means a lot to me.

But I have to say, it's not just about the music. It's about the fans, the energy of the crowd, the rush of adrenaline when I'm on stage..."

Justin nodded enthusiastically, his eyes sparkling with understanding.

"I can imagine. I've seen your videos online, and you always seem so alive when you're performing. It's infectious."

Jaxon laughed, feeling happy that his friend got it. "That's exactly what it's like," he said. "And I feel so lucky to be able to do what I love every day."

As they chatted, Max smiled quietly to himself, happy to see Jaxon and Justin connecting over their shared passion for music. 

As they continued to chat, Justin's eyes wandered around the studio, taking in the various instruments and equipment.

"So, Jax, what's a typical day like for you in the studio?" he asked.

Jaxon leaned against a nearby console, a thoughtful expression on his face. "It varies, but usually I'll come in and work on new song ideas or refine existing ones.

Sometimes Max and I will collaborate on a track, or I'll work with other musicians to create something new."

Justin nodded, fascinated. "That sounds amazing. I can see why you love it so much."

Jaxon smiled, feeling grateful for his friend's understanding. "Yeah, it's an incredible feeling to be able to create something from scratch and share it with the world."

As they talked, Max calmly observed from the sidelines, happy to see Jaxon and Justin connecting over their shared passion for music.

Max, who had been peacefully observing the conversation, spoke up. "You know, Jax, I've seen you grow so much as an artist since we first started working together. Your dedication and passion for music are truly inspiring."

Jaxon smiled, feeling appreciative of Max's kind words. "Thanks, Max. That means a lot coming from you. You've been an amazing mentor and friend throughout this journey."

Justin looked at Max with interest. "How did you and Jax first meet?" he asked.

Max smiled, a faraway look in his eyes. "I was scouting for new talent at a local music venue, and Jax was performing with his band. I was blown away by his energy and talent, and I knew right then that I wanted to work with him."

Jaxon cracked up. "Yeah, I was just a scrappy kid with a guitar and a dream. Max saw something in me that I didn't even see in myself at the time."

Max shook, his expression serious. "I saw a spark of greatness, and I knew that with the right guidance and support, Jax could achieve amazing things."

Justin's eyes lit up with curiosity. "So, what was it like, playing gigs at local venues?" he asked Jaxon.

Jaxon smiled, a nostalgic look on his face. "It was amazing, man. We'd play anywhere that would have us – bars, clubs, even outdoor festivals. We'd set up our gear, play our hearts out, and hope that people would show up and enjoy the music."

Max chuckled. "And sometimes, they did. But other times... well, let's just say it was a good thing Jax had a day job to fall back on."

Jaxon chuckled. "Hey, those were some tough times, but we made it work. And it was all worth it because we were doing what we loved."

Justin nodded, his expression thoughtful. "I can imagine. It's like, when you're passionate about something, you'll do whatever it takes to make it happen."

Jaxon bobbed vigorously. "Exactly! And that's what it's all about – the music, the passion, the energy. When you're up on stage, playing for a crowd of people who are all there to enjoy the music... it's an incredible feeling."

As Jaxon spoke, his eyes twinkled with enthusiasm, and Justin couldn't help but feel inspired by his friend's passion and dedication to his craft.

Justin's eyes shone with admiration as he listened to Jaxon talk about his music. He had always known that Jax was passionate about his craft, but hearing him speak about it with such conviction and enthusiasm was truly inspiring.

"I have to say, Jax, you're making me think about my passions and goals," Justin said, his voice filled with sincerity. "I've always been interested in photography, but I've never really pursued it seriously."

Jaxon's face lit up with excitement. "That's awesome, dude! You should go for it. What's holding you back?"

Justin shrugged, feeling a bit self-conscious. "I don't know... I guess I just never thought I was good enough."

Jaxon bounced understandingly. "I've been there too, trust me. But the thing is, it's not about being 'good enough.' It's about doing what you love and enjoying the process."

Max, who had been quietly observing the conversation, spoke up. "I think Jax is right, Justin. And who knows? You might just discover a hidden talent."

Justin smiled, feeling a spark of motivation ignite within him. "You know what? I think I'm going to take your advice, Jax. Thanks for the inspiration."

Justin's expression turned somber, and he looked down at his feet. "To be honest, Jax, my parents don't support me pursuing music. They're always telling me to focus on my schoolwork and get a 'stable' job."

Jaxon's eyes constricted in understanding. "I know how that feels, dude. My parents were the same way when I first started. They wanted me to get a 'real' job and pursue music as a hobby."

Justin shook vigorously. "Exactly! But the thing is, music is my passion. It's what I love doing, and it's what makes me happy."

Max, who had been listening quietly, spoke up. "You know, Justin, I think it's great that you're following your heart and pursuing your passion, despite what your parents might think. That takes a lot of courage."

Jaxon nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and I'm sure it's not easy. But if music is what you truly love, then you should go for it. You can always find a way to make it work."

Justin smiled, feeling a sense of determination wash over him. "You're right, Jax. I'm going to keep pursuing my passion for music, no matter what." 

Jaxon bobbed thoughtfully. "You know, Justin, I think it's great that you're passionate about music. But I also think it's important to have a good relationship with your parents."

Justin looked at him uncertainly. "What do you mean?"

Jaxon tilted forward. "I mean, maybe you should try talking to your parents about your music. Explain to them how much it means to you, and promise them that you'll stay focused on your studies."

Justin's eyes dilated. "You think that would work?"

Jaxon bounced. "It's worth a try, right? And who knows, they might be more supportive than you think."

Max, who had been listening quietly, spoke up. "I think Jax is right, Justin. Communication is key in situations like this."

Justin took a deep breath, feeling a sense of determination. "Okay, I'll do it. I'll talk to my parents and see what they say."

Jaxon smiled. "That's the spirit, dude! And hey, if they're still not supportive, you can always come to me for advice."

Justin beamed, feeling grateful for his friend's support.