LOVE AT THE FORUM

Chapter 6: Tic Tac Toe

I woke up the next morning feeling refreshed. I had gotten almost an extra three hours of my usual sleep, and today was the last show before two days off.

I got up and slipped on a pair of black biker shorts, and the black Love on Tour Sweater my sister bought me, tucking it into my sports bra to crop it. It was hot outside but I knew the Forum would be cold so I didn't mind. I popped on my chunky platform converse instead of my usual combat boots and ran the straightener through my hair.

I didn't do my makeup today, just a light brow and a clear mascara. I looked in the mirror and decided some thin gold hoops would complete the look. I quickly packed my bag, heading out of my apartment.

It felt like a good day to grab an ice coffee before work, and thankfully Starbucks wasn't too busy today. I glanced over at my binder, biting my lip, before reaching over and opening it to the contact page. I typed in Harry's number into my phone and quickly typed the text, pressing sending before I could double think it.

I promised myself today would be different. I wouldn't let Anita or Charles words phase me, I would act how I always do with all my artists and make the best of this residency. I was almost at the front of the drive thru line when my phone went off.

H: A black iced coffee please, thank you.

I took a deep breath and smiled.

M: Got it!

—-

I got to the Forum, dropping off my bag in my office, before heading out with the four coffees and my binder. I stopped at Charles' office first, knocking with my foot.

"Come in!" He yelled through the door.

"My hands are full!"

I heard him shuffling in his office before opening the door smiling at me.

"Grab the cup in the front right of the tray. That's your latte."

He smiled at me as he grabbed the coffee, "Thanks Mags."

"Anytime." I smiled.

As I started walking away I heard him yell out, "I'm glad you are better today."

"Thanks!" I yelled back as I kept walking.

When I got to Harry's dressing room, the door was already opened and Anita was inside restocking the snacks.

"Hi Nita, I brought you a chai." She turned and smiled at me as I placed the drink on the counter top.

"Thanks Mags. Feeling better? Charles said you felt sick last night."

I nodded, giving her a half smile, "Yeah, I just needed sleep, but I feel so much better today."

"Good I'm glad. Also, Harry's here already. He told me to tell you that he has something to discuss about the stage with you. I'm not sure if it's for sound check or whatever. He just asked me to let you know he's out there as soon as you get here."

I raised an eyebrow and nodded, "Okay. Well, um, do you have all this handled? Or I can help you first and then head out there."

"No, no, go. I started here so that you could just go and talk to him," she smiled at me, "Thanks again for the chai."

I nodded, moving the coffee carrier on top of my binder and heading out to the arena. I was grateful I got here early so that Roger could change up whatever Harry needed before sound check.

I made my way up the stage step and looked around trying to find him.

"Harry?" I called out.

"Over here! Drums." He yelled out and I walked around the stage, I found him lying near the drums.