"I know what you said, and I thought so at first." Arabella raised her eyebrows. "I knew Heartbeat was talented, but I'm blown away by the band's depth, the maturity. I don't think you're aware of how amazing Heartbeat is, especially now. Your voices are stronger; they blend better than ever. The choreography is smooth and sleek. You've almost got a Rat Pack vibe that's just kick-ass. And sexy, but with electric energy and a hint of boy-band playfulness. A great combination all around. You do soulful ballads as well as the pop dance songs. Grady, Heartbeat is much more diverse than when you were young. And you're not teenagers, but super-hot guys who the crowd is going to eat up with a spoon, both old fans and new ones. And they'll listen this time at the reunion , and not just scream their fool heads off."
Grady grinned. "Jesse thinks there will be some screaming. Oliver is hoping for screams."
"No doubt there will be. Oh, and Grady, Jimmy's song for your mother is so emotional, and you guys do it so well, I get goose bumps just thinking about it." She rubbed her arms.
"Arabella, I get all that, but we're not going to change our minds. Jimmy is a gifted songwriter, partially because he is so sensitive and aware. He's happiest on his balcony strumming his guitar. He's only going onstage for Mom."
"I know, but Grady, I also know what's going to happen. You're going to get offers right and left. More than I even initially anticipated. Record deals and more. I wouldn't be surprised if you were offered a reality show. And you know Devin would be thrilled. He's going to press hard for a tour."
"We won't take any offers, especially a reality show. The only thing we're going to do is record Mom's song live at the concert for download, but the proceeds will go to the foundation."
"I don't think you're remotely prepared for the reaction you're going to get. Trust me, Vegas will be after Heartbeat. Everyone will be. I think you're forgetting how popular you once were too."
"Vegas won't get us. This isn't about money or fame. We don't care."
"You say that now. . . ."
Grady felt frustration and a flash of anger. "So you're leaving? Here? Where am I on your list now, Arabella? Am I even on the list?"
"I just want to head to Cincinnati for a while. Spend time going through the attic at Granny York's house. Sifting through my childhood. Wrap my brain around all that's happened over the past few weeks, especially the past few days. Grady, my life has been turned upside down."
"But in good ways."
"I have to think things through."
"Wait, so let me get this straight. You've suddenly decided to leave in anticipation of what you think might happen?"
"I have to be prepared."
"Even after I promised that touring won't happen? In other words, we're back to trust issues? Arabella, I won't go on the road or move to Vegas. It isn't going to happen."
"I know you've discussed this with your brothers. But, like you said, you didn't get to enjoy the world tour for so many reasons."
Grady stood there wondering where she was going with this. "You've been overthinking. You do that way too much. Worry too much. No wonder your stomach goes bonkers."
"No, I've just been thinking. Just like you've been doing." She swallowed hard and gave him a level look.
"And? There's more?"
"I can't believe I'm going to say this." She took a deep breath and then let her shoulders fall. "But I will."
His heart pounded. "Go ahead, then. I guess I'm ready."
"Consider the offers."
Grady was shocked at her request, and his heart raced. "No. Why would I do that?" he asked, struggling to keep from shouting. "Why would you want me to do that?" Taking a step back, he shook his head. "Now you're getting unreal. You're taking overthinking to a new level, Arabella."
///
"The first time around you weren't given the recognition you deserved. It happens with boy bands. But you guys are so talented. You're the real deal, and you should get the experience of being appreciated for your musical talent. It used to piss me off when we couldn't hear you sing over the damned screams."
"We can use our musical talents in other ways. We don't need to be up onstage."
"Grady, I think you're also going to be surprised at how good it's going to feel to perform for a big crowd. The adrenaline rush is going to be huge. You forget that I worked with some big talents after I left Heartbeat. I know this industry. And right now, especially, older boy bands are touring and doing really well. And having fun doing it. Look at the Backstreet Boys. New Kids on the Block."