The Truth Hides Behind a Mask (Part 2).

Barkens finished the song and handed over the guitar. The men patted him on the shoulder approvingly. He nodded and walked towards Emily with an impartial expression.

"Ready to go?"

The girl was looking at him, not taking her eyes off.

"Miss Hayes?"

"Are you the lead singer of the Colors of Life band?" Emily whispered and covered her mouth with her hands as the man nodded.

"Yes, that was the name of the band I was in. It's surprising that you know of it. We weren't promoted anywhere, really. So, a few tracks went online and that's it."

"And that's it?! You know what? Kelly has been falling asleep to these tracks for seven years!" Emily blurted out. "Oh, I wanted to say that we were fans of your work. Especially Kelly."

The man blinked. It was hard for Emily to tell whether he was surprised or confused, but a mischievous light flickered in Barkens' calm eyes. "It's quite unexpected."

"Kelly will be shocked," Emily whispered.