Say Yes

INTERLUDE

I sat in the auditorium watching one of my clients walk across the stage to receive their high school diploma. Nicole was a troubled teen who ran away from home because of an abusive mother.

We met when she was a freshman in high school. I'm a social worker and deal mostly with troubled teens.

After the final remarks and the graduation caps were thrown in the air, everyone stood and cheered for the graduating class.

Outside of the school, I talked to my fiance, Damien, on the phone.

"Harmony, come on. You told me you would at least think about it."

"You know I don't like the music industry."

"Yeah, but you had so much fun on the road last time."

He was right.

A few months ago, I was hired as a road manager for one of his new artists, and it was fun. But I also saw a lot of things that did not sit well with me.

Damien was CEO of Royal Records and a record producer. He's been in the music industry for over ten years and discovered some of the hottest artists in different genres.

He's won many prestigious awards and is highly respected in the industry by his peers and legends alike.

"No one understands and treats my artist like you do. They feel comfortable with you, Harmony."

"Ugh, okay, okay."

"Yes! That's my baby. I already emailed you their information."

"Wow...so you just knew I was gonna say yes."

"I mean...."

I laughed. "Alright, babe...I gotta go."

"I'll call you later."

We hung up, and I opened the email but was interrupted by the new graduate.

"Hey, Ms. Weathers!" Nicole shouted with a big smile.

"Hi sweetheart."

We hugged as a few of her classmates took pictures. She looked at me with tears in her eyes.

"Thank you for coming."

"I wouldn't have missed this for anything. I'm so proud of you."

She hugged me again, and my heart filled with satisfaction. Moments like this made my job worth it.

Later that evening, I finally had time to read my emails and saw the artists I was going to be joining on the road. It was a female R&B/Pop group named Embrace.

There were three members, and I knew two of the girls, Mia and Shay. I went to the same high school as them but was two grades ahead. I helped them get into Royal Records talent boot camp.

After six months, they added another member, Lydia. Now, a year later, they are going on their first major tour.

Being a road manager was hectic but very rewarding. Seeing how hard these artists work and sacrifice, then watching them perform in front of thousands of people every other night is amazing.

I got joy seeing the smiles on their faces from the crowds going crazy over them and singing all their songs word for word.

Their tour starts next month, so that gives me enough time to plan hotel stays, tour bus maintenance, spending budget, and directions for each destination.

Being a social worker along with remote technology allowed me to be flexible with my hours and work schedule.

An email was sent again from Damien. It was an invitation to this year's Music Awards. He wanted me to go with the girls in his place.