Fallen Angel

Chapter 3

Chapter 3

When I got home I went straight upstairs to the bathroom and got all the dye out of my hair – including my red highlights. After putting my hair up in towel, I wiped off my makeup and looked almost... vulnerable. I painted my nails silver, brushed my hair and then got into bed.

I was up and out the door before the sun had fully come up. It was a beautiful morning the sky was filled with all the colours of electricity. After I unlocked the shop, I had a moment to myself and as I roamed the around I found a beautiful acoustic guitar hiding in the corner. Curiosity got the better of me, and I started to play.

Lost in the music, I didn’t hear the bell to indicate someone was walking through the door, so I jumped when someone tapped me on the shoulder.

‘Excuse me, miss, you’re not allowed to play the instruments-’ A recognisable voice cut off as I turned to face him. ‘Electra, is that you?’ It was Sam.

‘Yes,’ I placed the guitar back down, ‘and I’m thinking about changing that rule. Maybe build in some “practise rooms” for people.’ I walked to the counter as left Sam with his jaw wide open.

‘You- you can play guitar.’ He said surprised.

‘Not great; I learnt a little and haven’t done it in ages – I also used to play the keyboard when I was younger.’ I stopped, wondering why I was telling him so much. It was a relief I didn’t tell him how I like to sing.

‘No, you’re good – you just need a little more practise.’

‘That’s the thing: I don’t have time.’ I shrugged and logged on to the computer.

‘Well, I’m here now. So you will have time.’ Sam said, smugly.

‘Yeah,’ I laughed bitterly, ‘like I’m going to do it in front of you. No offense, but you are kind of intimidating.’

‘Every little bit of offense taken. And me: intimidating? You’re the one who’s got that steely stare.’ He fired back.

‘So... Sam, tell me, what can you play?’ I raised my eyebrow, playfully.

‘Have a guess.’ He was thinking about drums, guitar and bass. ‘I can play three.’

‘How about we make a bet on this?’ I inquired. ‘If you lose the bet, you have to create room for practise rooms and a recording studio.’

‘Trying to keep me around?’

‘Nope – hang on, without getting paid, and it’s less work for me.’ I smirked at him.

‘And if I win?’ Sam’s ego was increasing so much that it wouldn’t even dent if a bus hit it.

‘You get the job.’ I answered simply.

‘Okay, guess me and I’ll guess you – if I win you have to answer my question; if you win then I’ll get a membership.’

‘Ooh, a double bet.’ I raised my eyebrows, ‘okay, I guess: drums... guitar... and bass.’ He looked a little taken aback. ‘Looks like I’ll be getting some practise rooms built,’ I teased, ‘your turn.’

‘You played the keyboard when you were younger – so you’re just a little rusty. You can play guitar but not at a professional level yet and you think you can’t sing when actually you’re not bad.’ He said without even a moment’s doubt.

‘How do you know that?’

‘I won, so answer this,’ he took a step closer to me, ‘are you an angel?’

I was stunned.