Prequel to Sometimes Love Isn't Enough (Book 3)
The story of how Brendon and Carlyn came to be. Follow them through the trials and tribulations of teen romance and the rise of Panic! At The Disco.
Since that night on the strip, Carlyn and I seem to be getting on better. In the classes that we have together, we are actually able to have a conversation without any controversy. Entering the school cafeteria, I see her and Shauna sitting at their usual table. Shauna is reading, and Carlyn has her head buried in her sketch pad, all whilst having a conversation. It always amazes me how people can multi-task. I have enough trouble concentrating on one thing at a time. Brent and I make our way towards their table. "Hey, Carlyn," I say, my voice confident and cheerful. "Whatcha drawing?" "It's just a sketch," I mumble, feeling self-conscious under his gaze. "Just a sketch?" he repeats, looking at me with genuine curiosity. "Carlyn, this is amazing. You captured the emotions of the moment perfectly. You've literally brought the street performer and the strip to life." "Thanks," I mutter, feeling my cheeks warming up. He closes my sketch pad and looks at me, his brown eyes intense. "You know, you shouldn't hide your talent. People should see your art." I shrug, not knowing how to respond to his encouragement. "Whatever. It's just a hobby."
"So, ladies, are you still coming to our gig tonight?" Brent asks. "Hell yeah," Shauna replies, "I'm picking Carlyn up after her shift. We need to see what all the fuss surrounding your band is about." She teases. "Well, I for one can certainly guarantee you won't be disappointed," Brendon retorts with a wink.
** Later that night **
After my shift, I get ready in our locker room. I pull on my leather leggings, black bralette, and off shoulder jumper fi finishing off my outfit with a pair of peep toe high-heeled boots. I quickly refresh my makeup and tidy my hair.
When I emerge from the staff room, Shauna is already waiting for me.
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"Bloody Hell Carlyn, you look gorgeous. You're giving off serious "fuck me" vibes" she jests. "Is this for someone in particular?" She asks.
"Fuck off Shauna, I thought I'd better make a bit of an effort, you know seeing as we are going to a club that we aren't even meant to be in. And NO it's not for anyone in particular." I huff.
When we arrive downtown, it is buzzing with activity. The House of Memories was already packed with people, and the music was loud and energetic. I feel nervous but excited as I scan the room looking for Brendon. Finally, I spot him on stage, along with Brent, and I'm assuming the rest of their band. They are setting up their gear on stage, tuning their instruments and chatting with the early arrivals.
I feel Brendon's eyes on me as we make our way through the crowd. He gave me a small wave and a smile, his eyes sparkling with something I couldn't quite interpret. Was it excitement? Or maybe nervousness? "Hey Carlyn, Shauna," he says "Its great you made it. Let me introduce you to the rest of the guys. This is Ryan. He's our main guitarist and this is Spencer, our drummer. Of course, you both already know Brent," he states, laughing. "Guys, this is Carlyn and Shauna from school. Let me get you both a drink before we go on stage. "
