Page 41 of The Bitter Words

“That’s easy. For my words to move people. For them to make people understand they’re not alone and maybe help them release whatever pain they carry.”

“You have a message to share. That’s powerful. If it’s your purpose, I imagine you’ve dreamed of it all your life.”

I raise my gaze to the ceiling and remember all the times I’ve felt like I could change someone’s life if only they could hear my lyrics.

Jaxon pats my shoulder. “Get out of the clouds and put your feet on the ground.”

“What should I do?”

“Get your business matters in order and protect yourself. When that’s in place, make the terms of your career something you can live with. Present it to whomever is put in your path and let fate take place.”

My pulse accelerates and I peer into his eyes. “But it could cost me everything.”

“Then the question you have to ask yourself is whether your desires are bigger than your fears.”

“How do I get that answer?”

“One thing I’ve learned is no matter how hard you try, you can’t control the outcome or what’s meant to be. You’ll bechallenged all your life. There’s no doubt about that. It’s who you become in the process that counts.”

“You’re thirty-one and sound like an old prophet.”

He laughs under his breath. “You’re eighteen and I’ve been told you write songs like a wise old soul. Sounds like we have something in common. Just in different areas.”

“Do you ever listen to my music?”

“Honestly, I’m not a fan of boy bands. Nothing against them, but it’s not my preference.”

I huff and relax back in my chair. “Mine either. That’s why I wanna do what I want.”

“Then make it happen. It’s in your power.”

“But what if I choose wrong?”

“We all do from time to time. But don’t look at it as failure. Turn it into a lesson because every road taken leads to a wealth of opportunity. Grow from your mistakes and become a stronger man while you discover more about yourself.”

“I don’t know how. I’m out of my comfort zone here.”

“That’s a good place to be.” He picks up a glass of water and takes a drink. “Let me share something with you. It’s a little esoteric, but maybe you need to hear it.”

“Anything could help, so lay it on me.”

“I’m a big believer in fate. I don’t think you can end up in the wrong place. If you’re meant to be a successful rockstar, you will be.”

“I wish I shared your belief.”

“I’ve seen guys like you try to change their destiny. Sure, it might stall what’s inevitably supposed to happen, but life has a funny way of putting them right back on the path they were running from.”

“So you’re saying no matter what I do, if my true purpose is to release my message through my songs, that will take place?”

“Yes. In my experience, fate always puts you on the right course.” Jaxon dips his chin as if stating it as fact.

Mr. Hemings comes back into the room and snags our attention. “Do you need more time?”

“No. Cash has more than enough to consider.” Jaxon pulls a pad of paper toward him and takes a pen out of his tailored jacket. He writes something down and hands it to me. “I’m no expert in legal advice, but this guy is brilliant. Call him and your dilemma will resolve itself.”

“Thanks.” I take it from him and pray he’s right. I fold it up and slide it into my jeans pocket. “I’ll let you guys get back to your paperwork.”

“You’ll get everything worked out, Cash.” Mr. Hemings rounds the table and returns to his seat.