Chapter 98: Oud

Living in the fear but I'm still here.

Wishing I had a life to steer, but I'm still here.

Jake's voice gently faded with the music, as he raised his hand away from his guitar. He was standing so close to the mic, his other hand brushed up against it, sleeve rolled up to his elbow showing the dark lines of his tattoos. Jake's eyes were closed as he poured his heart out. Here.

The room was crowded but the crowd was silent. The spotlight on Jake made him look vulnerable and empowered at the same time. He was handsome, and even though he and Luke were so insanely different, I could see the family resemblance. We listened to the song fade, and immediately after the music ended, I sat up on the bar stool and clapped loudly. There was an echo and a bit of a time lag before the wider applause joined in, but I went with it. Jake opened his brown eyes, almost like he was surprised people listened, and spoke into the microphone.