Lead Player - Alex Grayson Page 0,35
James and Juliet hired step to the side when Enzo walks onto the small stage. I originally thought it was strange that Juliet and James didn’t use Phenix as the band for their wedding, but she explained James was never close with the other band members. They were Enzo’s friends, not his. And they preferred a band known for softer tones, not the hard rock Phenix preferred to play.
Enzo’s smile is genuine as he walks to the microphone. He taps it a couple of times before he begins talking.
“Hey, folks.” His deep voice rumbles through the room. “I’m sure most of you know who I am, but I won’t be jaded enough to think you all do.” The crowd laughs. “I’m Enzo Bishop, and up until recently, I was the lead guitarist and part-time vocalist for the band Phenix.” There are a few murmurs, and he holds up his hands to quiet everyone. “Yes, yes, I’m no longer a part of the band, but that’s not what this is about. Tonight’s about my best friend and his lovely new wife, Juliet.”
I move my eyes at the same time he does to James and Juliet, who are still standing in the middle of the dance floor.
“I’ve known James for what feels like my whole life,” Enzo continues. “And never in a million years did I think he would marry. He swore up and down while we were growing up that he’d never attach himself to one woman. I swear the man broke out in hives at the thought.” The room fills with laughter again and he waits for it to quiet down to resume his speech. “I don’t think there’s another woman out there who could’ve tamed him enough to change his mind like Juliet did. And I don’t think there’s a man out there as lucky as James is to have found a woman to put up with him.”
He grins as another round of laughter begins. James scratches his nose strategically with his middle finger.
Enzo reaches back and brings his guitar in front of him. “When he told me he was getting married, I knew it was serious. I was actually in the middle of writing a song I had planned for Phenix, but decided to keep it for this occasion instead. It’s a bit different than I’m used to. So, without further ado, James and Juliet, this one’s for you.”
His fingers are smooth, and his movements are natural as he begins to gently strum the strings. He looks over the crowd, his gaze momentarily stopping on me before moving back to Juliet and James.
He tilts his head toward the microphone and begins to sing, his voice alluring and soulful. I relax back in my chair, feeling his voice in my bones.
This isn’t the typical type of song Phenix plays—they’re a rock band—so it’s strange to hear him play something so soft and slow. The lyrics are filled with beautiful words of eternal love and everlasting friendship. They make my chest ache for something I’ve always wanted, but thought was out of reach.
Hearing Enzo sing in person is dazzling. I’ve been to my fair share of concerts, but those don’t compare to what I’m witnessing right now. Playing a guitar isn’t just natural to him, it seems to be a part of who he is. Which makes it hard to believe he’s giving it up.
As he continues to serenade Juliet and James, his eyes keep flickering to me, and each time they do, it feels like the words leaving him are meant for me. It’s a fanciful notion, being as we barely know each other.
Out on the dance floor, James has Juliet wrapped in his arms and they sway gently to the music. They gaze at each other like they’re the only two people in the room, which I’m sure to them, they are. It’s heartwarming to watch them together.
Nikki says something to me, but I ignore her as I bring my eyes back to Enzo, only to find him looking at me again. As he finishes one of the most stunning songs I’ve ever heard, he keeps his gaze locked on mine. I couldn’t look away even if I tried.
The crowd claps once the last cord is played. Enzo inclines his head in acknowledgement, and without a word, walks off stage. I get up from my seat, sensing he’s about to finally come for me. Excitement drums in my stomach, and I press my hand to my mid-section.
“Go get