Chapter 100

The rest of the week went well. Iris started at the book shop three days a week, learning the accounting and ordering as well as helping Frank train the two new employees. When she wasn't doing that, she was working with John on the recording schedule for Pearl. They were forming a great friendship and Pearl was thankful to have someone she trusted there to help.

The album was going better than planned and the band was scheduled to begin editing at Epic the first week of February. They were ecstatic and ready to get it finished.

Things were calm for Pearl. Everyone was getting along well and she had a lot of free time for herself to relax and unwind. It was wonderful having the home studio.

She FaceTimed Rhys often and they sent pics back and forth several times a day. His latest pic was him in full knight costume and she asked if he could bring it home to wear in the bedroom. His parents were coming in the weekend after Valentine's Day to work on some wedding planning and catch Rhys up on things with his mother's family.

Their gig the following night in Chicago was exciting for them. Jason and John had coordinated a few more well known celebs to make an appearance, as the word was getting out about them and their upcoming album.

Pearl got ready and met Iris in the foyer before they were set to leave. They were taking two vehicles, Jim had arranged for them both as well as hiring a second driver. Everyone arrived and they headed out for the show. Pearl, Iris, Ian, Blake and Dylan rode together in one and John, Janie, Tony and his girlfriend rode in the other with their gear in a small trailer hauled behind them. Tony and John were going to get there early and get things set up and squared with the staff at the venue while the rest of them waited at a lounge before they all met for dinner. They would soon need to hire staff for these things.

"I am excited for this gig, man. I've played the Met a couple of times and the crowd is usually fantastic. I can't believe John got us in without our record being out yet", Ian said.

"Sometimes it's good to have a movie star fiancée, right Ian?" Pearl teased sarcastically.

"I guess it is." He said, giving her a sideways smile.

They arrived at BLVD and spent some time in the gallery, a semi-private area in the restaurant they had reserved to relax and wait before the show.

"We got it done!" John said as they walked in. Janie looked around "This place looks amazing, I'm starving."

After dinner, they headed to the venue. When they drove up to the front entrance, they saw there was a line out front. Their name was up on the billboard and they all took pictures of it as the car slowed. Jim turned the corner to drop them at the side entrance. There was a crowd gathered there as well. Fans and paparazzi were all along a sectioned off walk way to the door. "Well shit, here he we go." Ian said and they all quickly exited the vehicle. It was obvious Pearl was the center of their attention.

"Where is Holden tonight?" "When will the album be released?" "When is the wedding?" And many others.

After soundcheck, they went backstage to get ready. They were a few moments from showtime when there was a knock at the door. It was Jason and John. Jason introduced them to a couple of people he had in tow, one was a popular recording artist and his girlfriend and the other was an actress Pearl was familiar with, Amber Hallaway. She had been in several action movies and was married to one of the most famous rock guitar players of the hair metal era. Pearl was a bit starstruck. They all shook hands and had a drink together. It was wonderful. Pearl couldn't believe her life had changed so much in such a short time.

"So you're engaged to Holden?" The actress asked Pearl.

"Yes. It's crazy, I know." Pearl responded, blushing a little.

"Here's my number. We should get together sometime. I'm sorry my husband couldn't be here. He's on tour in Europe. I worked with Holden in a film a few years ago. My husband is fond of him. We are having a pre Golden Globes party at our Malibu home in February. Would love it if you two to could make it if you're in town. We are expecting Holden to be nominated again this year for Knights of Eden. It is award season, you know." She kissed each of her cheeks and left to watch their performance.

Awards season. The thought of it terrified Pearl.

"I don't want to increase anyone's nerves but there is a reporter from Rolling Stone Magazine here tonight. Also, venue sold out in an hour. Ok! Have a great show!" John said and quickly left.

"What? Thanks for the heads up, John!" Blake called out after John was gone.

Dylan got up and walked over to Pearl. He sat next to her, staring at her in a way that made her feel a little uncomfortable. "What's up, Dylan? Are you ok?", she asked.

"This is the moment where nothing will ever be the same again after. This is the night our lives change forever. I want remember you like this, to remember the beginning of our journey. I want you to know I'm glad this has all been with you." He kissed her and hugged her. It was a special moment between them and Pearl's nerves calmed a little.

Their name was announced and Pearl took a deep breath and walked out on stage.