The Desired Effect

To The Future

2 months Later - Early March

After the incident in January, things changed for the better. Brandon took it upon himself to work on his himself and become more at ease with his mind. Having Poppy around certainly helped him relax a little more and to stay in touch with his young and sometimes wild spirit that he missed so much. The boys noticed the shift in approach and the studio became a comfortable, haven for creativity for all of them. By the end of February, the album was ready.

Now the crew could take some time off before being assigned to their next project. Brandon on the other hand was required to attend important meetings regarding release dates, a promo tour and international touring. 

Brandon returned home at around 1pm one day after a particularly important meeting. Poppy had stayed over the night and Brandon promised to take her for a drive on his return. As he put his foot on the gas and the indie tunes played quietly in the background, the desert landscapes whizzed by them. 

"How was the meeting?" Poppy quizzed, glancing at him to gauge his reaction.

"Good. It was productive - " he nodded. Poppy also nodded, feeling he had more to say. "We actually set some dates which is exciting" he finally added. Poppy nodded for him to continue, an excited smile on her face. "The album will be released in 2 weeks" he beamed.

"That's so exciting!" Poppy also beamed, wriggling in her seat.

"It is - but it does mean I'll have to start the promo tour next week, y'know, interviews and tv shows and stuff" Brandon's excitement soon fizzled out.

"and?" Poppy was confused by this sudden change of tone.

"Well, I don't want to abandon you" he shrugged, placing a firm hand on her knee and giving a gentle squeeze.

"Brandon, I am more than capable of surviving on my own" Poppy chuckled, flattered by his concern for her. 

"Fine, I don't want to be without you, I want you with me" Brandon explained.

"You are a sweetheart" Poppy teased, a smile stretched across her lips, she place her small hand on top of his.

"Come with me?" Brandon blurted, glancing at her for a second. There was a pause. He slowed down slightly, not wanting to get distracted. Poppy stared at him, he couldn't be serious. "Honestly, come with me. We don't have a photographer yet or social media guy, you can just do something like that and come with me" Brandon explained. Poppy was lost for words. "Please Pops, you're my best friend - you make me so happy" he added as the car slowed down to a stop.

"Ok, I'll do it" Poppy spluttered, "but are you sure? Like really sure?" Poppy laughed, turning to face him. She could see in his eyes that he was sure. 

"Of course I am" he grinned, turning to face her too. Without another word she leant across the gap, throwing her arms around his shoulders, engulfing him in a warm hug. 

"You are the best" she beamed, giving him a peck on the cheek as she sat back in the seat.

For the entirety of the  drive, the pair excitedly discussed plans and possibilities . The beautiful scenery was at the back of their minds as it flew by the window. This was to be the future of something bigger and brighter than either of them could possibly imagine.