Page 180 of Raw Notes, Rough Nights

That’s the only time the song feels right.

There was silence for a moment.

Theo’s hand was warm on my cheek, and a heartbeat later, his voice rose, deep and rich.

You heard the note I buried deep

Pulled it from the dark like a secret I couldn’t keep

You saw the man beneath the armour and the choke

You held the parts I thought would break?—

Made them whole

If this is love, let it stay close

Unmasked, unguarded,

Every raw and reckless hope

I’m singing now what fear once stole

You’re the reason I can

You’re my naked note

Around us, I caught sighs and appreciative murmurs.

“Now I want someone to write a song forme,” Julian muttered.

I couldn’t take my eyes off Theo. “Thank you. That was beautiful—again.”

He smiled. “It’ll be better the next time I sing it.” His eyes shone.

I leaned in and kissed him.

“I think it’s time to go home.”