“That’s the problem. I know which way I want to go. It’s just so damn hard getting there and everybody seems to be against it.”

“I’m not against it. Your band’s behind you. It just really takes a lot of hard work and patience before you can make it in the business but it will pay off if you don’t give up on it.”

“Thanks, Kit. It means a lot to have your support.”

“You know I only want you to be happy… Now about this whole coming out to Melvin thing… maybe you should wait for the right moment before telling him.”

“Yeah, I know.”

***

2 months later.

“Who the fuck does this Christina Kennard think she is? Bette threw a copy of the LA Review in the middle of the table as the girls were in the middle of breakfast at The Planet.

“Relax, Bette.” Alice tried to calm her down.

“Yeah, Bette. It’s one bad review.  We’ve had some good ones. And nobody reads the LA Review anyway.” Marina added.

“Bette Porter and her band have the potential to be music’s next big thing. If only she put more emotions into her singing, her lyrics wouldn’t sound so empty. It looked like she would rather be anywhere else than on stage that night.” Bette quoted from the paper as she took her place at the table. “I fucking give everything I have when we perform, but apparently it’s not enough for Ms. Kennard here.”

“Come on, Bette. We’re bound to get a few criticisms every now and then. Don’t pay too much attention to it.” Alice seemed to be taking it lightly.

“Yeah.” Marina agreed. “Plus things are looking good for us. People are actually paying to see us play. JP said that a friend of his has taken an interest and wants to manage us. He’s going to be there next Friday.”

“Really??! Oh my God! That’s awesome! Do you think he’ll like us?” Alice began getting excited.

“JP’s friend is a girl. Her name’s Gabby, I think.” Marina informed them. “JP gave her a copy of our demo and she liked it.”

“See, Bette? We’re on our way there. Don’t let this stupid Christina Kennard ruin it for you!” Alice lectured Bette.

“I guess.” Bette wouldn’t show it but she was just as excited as Alice over the prospect of having a band manager.

The girls continued eating their breakfast and discussing their plans for the next gig. They were interrupted when Alex suddenly appeared at their table. She was dressed casually, her dark brown hair tied up in a pony.

“Hey. What are you doing here?” Bette asked as she stood up and gave Alex a quick peck on the lips.

“We’re going shopping.” Alex declared without even acknowledging the other two girls.

“I don’t remember us making plans. Why don’t you have a seat and eat with us first?” Bette offered.

“Yeah, come eat with us first.” Marina tried to be polite while Alice continued chewing her chocolate chip bagel, ignoring Alex completely.

“No thanks, I’m not hungry. “ Alex refused, barely looking at Marina. “Listen Bette, I understand if you have more important things to do. I’m kind of in a hurry so are you coming or not?”

Bette looked at Marina who just shrugged her shoulders then at Alice who was trying to avoid eye contact by pretending to be busy with her plate.

Bette sighed and stood up from the table. “I guess I’ll see you guys later.”