Rock and Roll Ruined My Life
Meetings And Stuff
Rock and Roll Ruined My Life- Chapter 36- Meetings And Stuff
“Hey, everyone! Welcome to our first Musical Revenge Tour meeting! As most of you know, I’m Brad and I’ll be the head exec this tour. I’ve worked on a few other tours that some of you have played in like Warped Tour, so there shouldn’t be too many difficulties. Between my crew and I, we hope to make this tour experience as awesome as possible. Before we start working on anything, do any of our managers or band members have any questions?”
A man down the table from us raised his hand. He and his group were sitting next to Avenged Sevenfold and the man looked like he was in his early twenties. I assumed he was a manager due to the fact that the five other boys who were with him were staring off into outer space. I decided I should probably do the same. This whole meeting, though it was about tour, seemed really boring. I discretely began pulling my phone out of my pocket. I nonchalantly sat back in my chair and tried to hide behind Ray, who was sitting next to me. I quickly glanced at Jimmy from MSI, who was on my other side, and saw his attention was focused on the guy down the table.
I slowly unlocked my phone, not taking my eyes off of the speaker. I hadn’t texted Jack all day and he was probably upset that I didn’t answer his text a few hours back. We had just gotten to New York and were at this big RV Park. I discretely looked down at my phone where the neglected text waited for me:
- hey beautiful ;) how was ur last day of school?- jack
I felt a pang of sadness course through me once again. I had just gotten over the fact that tour was starting and I was no longer a normal kid, but Jack didn’t know how sad I was feeling and won’t know unless I tell him.
I hit reply and typed:
- Not too good. I cried a lot on the way upstate. I couldn’t help it. I’m sitting in on a tour meeting and it’s boring as hell. Sorry for the late reply
I saw one of the guys from the man’s band staring at me blankly. It kind of creeped me out but I had a feeling he was just as bored as I was. I pretended not to notice and looked back down at my screen, Jack had already replied.
- i’m sorry :( and i wish i was there with u.
- It’s okay. I’ll get better eventually. And why aren’t you guys here at the meeting? I think the All-American Rejects are here.
I heard a cough and I looked up to see Ray, giving me a you-know-better look.
“I’m bored,” I whispered back through a false smile.
“It’s rude…”
“I’m sorry. I haven’t talked to Jack in forever…”
“Pretend to go get a drink of water or something then?” he suggested. I nodded and waited two minutes before standing up.
“Excuse me,” I blushed, as I got up and walked out of the conference room. I felt all eyes on my back as I walked out.
I pulled out my phone and hit the call button. He answered on the third ring:
“Hello?”
“Hey,” I smiled.
“Julie! Are you okay? What about the meeting?”
“I excused myself,” I laughed.
“Quite lady like,” Jack chuckled.
“Yeah… So school was terrible today,” I began as I walked aimlessly down the hallway. I was so caught up in our conversation that I didn’t hear the door open down the hall again.
“Aw, what happened?”
“Hold up one second, I’m gunna put you on speaker phone,” I said as I pulled out a paper cup next to the water jug in the hallway.
“Okay… Hello?” Jack’s voice echoed off the walls.
“Hey,” I replied as I poured myself some water.
“So what happened?”
“I had to say goodbye to everyone. It was terrible…”
“I’m sorry,” he said, sounding truly sincere.
“Thanks… I even said goodbye to Jimmy,” I confessed, pausing to take a sip of water.
“That horny mother-fucker!” Jack exclaimed. I could barely stop myself from choking on my water as I burst into laughter.
“Actually, his hormones were quite in check today. I guess he was upset too.”
“He was probably upset because you’re the only girl that was crazy enough to stop and talk to him.”
“This is true. But hey, even the horny guy needs someone to talk with once in a while,” I laughed.
“I can’t argue with you there. Just as long as he doesn’t, you know, assault you in anyway, I’m okay.”
“I would kick him in the nuts before he could do anything, trust me,” I said flatly.
“I know…that’s the only scary part about being your boyfriend,” he chuckled nervously.
“Oh my God, I can’t,” I laughed, face palming.
“I’m serious. All of us guys are scared of you.”
“Good!” I laughed. “So, why aren’t you at this meeting?”
“We’re too poor to afford a tour bus.”
“Oh! I’m sorry!” I felt my face flush in embarrassment; it was rude of me to even ask.
“Nah, it’s fine. I like the van,” Jack’s smile was evident through his voice,
“I like it too! So many good memories,” I grinned back.
“Yup.” I went to throw my cup away and saw someone walk back into the conference room.
“Wow. I think someone was, like, eavesdropping on our conversation,” I said, lowering my voice.
“What the fuck? Is nothing sacred?” Jack replied.
“Yeah, seriously. Well I’m gunna go walk around this place. I’ll see you soon,” I said, the last part sounding like a question.
“Yeah, we’re coming up soon. I don’t remember when, I’ll have to ask Matt.”
“Okay…Bye, Jack!”
“Bye, Julie!” Our phone call was over with before I could even think of saying the last three words that popped into my mind.
I locked my phone and walked down the hallway the way I came. It was in this direction that I found the elevator. I texted Gerard and everyone else that I was going down to the lunchroom of the building and then put my phone away. I think this was the most boring part of everything, all of the meetings and stuff, this and possibly driving to places.
I finally found the little snack area in the lobby of the RV Center; there weren’t too many people there, only a few employees and a few old couples looking at the newest buses. I pulled out my wallet and walked over to the vending machine.
‘Hmmm, what to choose?’ I thought to myself ‘Cheese Doodles are amazing, but so are Fritos…. Let me ask what I should get.’ I pulled out my phone and texted Kat, Billie, Tom, Alex, and Jack:
- Hey! Cheese Doodles or Fritos? – Juliet
Almost immediately I got a reply:
- fritos all the way- jack
- Cheese Doodles!- Kat
- bugles- Billie
- cheese doodles ftw!- alex
- idk they r both good. i say cheese doodles- tom
I held back my laughter as I punched in the code for Cheese Doodles. I got my change and sat down at one of the tall tables by myself. Then after I finished, I decided to walk around the dealership.
The first bus I went on was humongous! The floors looked like marble and there werethree slide-outs! I realized after walking up and down the bus that those were the areas of the bus that got pushed out after you parked. There was no way you could drive on the highway with the dining room, kitchen, and bunks sticking out like that. The next two buses I went on were similar. The last bus I got to see really caught my attention though.
As soon as I walked on, I knew this was the type of bus I wanted the guys to get. It had a bunk over the driver’s seat, a cute dining room booth slide-out, lots of counter space on the kitchen side, and what topped it all off were the bunks. On one side there was a couch with a bunk on top, then there was a whole bunch of floor space and then another two walls of bunks!
I sat down on the sofa and imagined what it would be like sitting back here with Jack, Kat, and the rest of our friends on a trip to the beach or what it would be like renting a bus like this for a band of my own, and having little parties on it after a show. I was so caught up that I didn’t see my phone light up with two text messages. It was only when I heard one of the elderly couples climb on that I stood up and walked out, not wanting my presence to ruin their fantasy on this amazing vehicle.
I finally opened the two new texts. They read:
- Hey, Jules. We’re going to look at some buses in our price range. If you want to come meet us outside. – Gerard
- We’re going outside to look at buses. Where r u? – Lindsey
I walked to the front of the store and saw all four bands walking in different directions. I spotted Ray and Frank in the back of a group walking left and ran outside to catch up.
“Hey, Jules!” Everyone smiled.
“Hey, guys! Sorry I couldn’t sit through that meeting.”
“It’s fine. That other guy from All American Rejects couldn’t sit still either,” Frank snorted.
“Wait was he, like, tall?”
“Yeah, why?”
“I think he, like, eavesdropped on my phone call while I was getting water.”
“What the hell?”
“I know, right? Like geez, there is no privacy.”
“Unfortunately that’s the world we live in… But it’s better off you get used to not walking out like that. People might start to follow you around to get to us or other bands,” Gerard cut in.
“I never thought of that…” I muttered.
“Yeah. But anyways, Lindsey and I are going to both get buses with an extra bunk for you just in case you want to crash with us one night and then with MSI another time.”
“Okay, sounds cool! I actually saw the most amazing RV back in the store…”
“If you see one like it in this section let us know, we’ll see what we can do,” Mikey smiled.
“Awesome! I’m gunna go look right now!” I ran off ahead of them, searching for one that gave me the same sense of home. In the end, we found one that suited all of our needs, and met back with the guys’ manager, Brian, who I had never really been formally introduced to. He ended up being a really cool guy and got all of the paperwork squared away pretty quickly. I established my bunk as soon as I could, totally pumped about life on tour.
“I call this one!” I said, running to the last bunk in the corner of the bus. I began laying out my sheets and putting my pillows in their proper spot. I even got a window next to my bunk! This would be great for those days when I didn’t feel like getting up but still wanted to see where we’re going. After I set everything up on the MCR bus, I called Lindsey to find her bus, which was not too far away. It was a little smaller than MCR’s but it was still nice. This time, I chose a bunk right on top of Lindsey’s. I wasn’t a big fan of top bunks, but I just felt safer knowing she was closer to me than Jimmy or Steve or Kitty.
I said my goodbyes then decided to walk around to find the Avenged boys. Their bus was HUGE! I could not even fathom how on earth they were going to get out of the lot.
“Hey, Jules!” I heard a voice call from behind me. I didn’t have a chance to turn around though, because they had already tackled me, and with their accomplice, threw me up in the air before setting me back down on the floor outside the door to the bus all alone- they had already run inside. However, they weren’t as fast as they thought they were.
“Jimmy and Brian, I am going to kill you!” I screeched as I climbed up the steps. I stopped short at the driver’s pit and felt my jaw drop. The bus was just totally decked out!
“Like the bus?” Matt laughed.
“It’s amazing!” I gushed.
“Ha ha, thanks… Maybe one day when you have your own band you’ll have a bus like this?”
“I don’t know about that,” I laughed, trying to get off the subject as soon as possible.
“Why not? You’re awesome,” he replied as he cracked open a beer. I sighed, it was probably better to just tell him then to try and get around it:
“I get too scared. Plus, all of the people who I would want to be in a band with are already in bands…”
“This is Musical Revenge Tour! You’re gunna find lots of people out here who like the same music you do, and you’re definitely going to find people who know how to play guitar and drums and shit. I can’t see why you wouldn’t be able to start one.”
“Yeah, but school is still in session and I don’t think we’re going to be around long enough for me to make friends…”
“Just tell Gerard and Lindsey that you want to stand in the crowd, wait in line with your friends, and that’s when you can give people your e-mail or cell number. But you have to be careful not to mention that you’re traveling with all of us, because that would be bad.”
“Yeah, just say that you’re from New Jersey and you play instruments,” Johnny joined the conversation.
“Yeah, I guess that could work,” I nodded.
“See? You got this, Jules,” Matt said before toasting to nothing in particular and taking a big swig of his Heineken.
“Thanks, guys,” I smiled. “But I have a question: where did Jimmy and Brian go?”
“They went running to their bunks,” Johnny rolled his eyes knowingly.
“Thank you,” I smiled and began walking in that direction.
“I would be careful,” Johnny called after me.
The lights were off and I had to stop for a second to let my eyes adjust to the dimness. Just as I was walking past the last two bunks, I felt my feet get pulled out from underneath me. I screamed as I waited for my head to hit the floor or another bunk behind me, but it never did. Somehow I just landed on my ass.
“Ow!” I yelped, muttering curses as I stood up.
“Hey, Jules!” Their heads appeared out of the last two bottom bunks. I smacked them in the face simultaneously. Of course I didn’t do it with all of my strength, just enough to make it sting.
“Ouch,” the Rev pouted.
“You’re lucky I didn’t hit you for real,” I stuck my tongue out, trying to stand up.
“Fuck,” I whispered as I stood up to my full height. My ass was killing me!
“Language, Ms. Juliet!” Brian gasped.
“Oh shut it. You’d be saying a lot more than me if you just fell down like that,” I retorted.
“We’re sorry Jules, we were just trying to mess around.”
“Nah, it’s fine,” I smiled, “Just don’t knock me on my butt next time.”
“We got chu’,” the Rev nodded.
“So, how many bunks do you guys have in here?” I asked, looking around and the long row I had just walked down.
“Hey, you never know if someone needs to crash on a different bus or something,” Brian shrugged.
‘Or if you find a girl to fuck,’ I thought to myself.
“Do you want to claim a bunk?” the Rev asked.
“Nah, I don’t want to intrude on you guys…” I said.
“No really, it’s fine!”
“Umm, okay… If I were to sleep over one night, I would probably want this bunk,” I said patting the bunk next to the Rev’s, but up one. Once again, I felt safer in the top bunk than I did on the bottom.
“Okay, it’s yours!”
“Thank you guys so much!” I smiled.
“Anytime, Jules, anytime.”
“Well I’m gunna go back to MCR’s bus, okay? I’ll see you guys later!”
“Alright! We have another meeting tomorrow morning, so make sure you sleep in!” Brian called after me.
“Okay! Bye guys!” I waved to Matt and Johnny.
“Oh and if you see Zack, tell him to get his ass over here!” Matt called after me.
“Alright!”
I got back to the bus; Zack was nowhere to be found. He was probably somewhere close by, so I wasn’t worried. We were going to sleep in the park for the next two days so all of the meetings and stuff could be worked out. I pulled out my phone to see Alex had texted me:
- heyy ☺ we’re coming up for the next meeting tomorrow. we’ll be in around 7:30 in the morning. jack wanted me to let u know – Alex
- Thanks! And why couldn’t he text me? Lol- Juliet
- his phone died xD
- Omg aw lol
- yupp. so whats up?
- Nm just chilling on the bus. You?
- nm just chillin on the sofa watching home alone.
- Love that movie! I’ll let you go so you can watch?
- alrite, see u tomorrow!
- Bye!
- bye
With that I drifted off to sleep, planning on waking up extra early so that I could be with Jack.
*************************************************************************************************
“Julie!” I heard a familiar voice call out to me.
“What?” I replied weakly
“We’re going to the meeting, okay?”
“What?! What time is it?”
“Like 7:30, why?”
“I want to come!”
“We’re literally leaving now. If you can get ready in two minutes go ahead, but we’re gunna start walking okay?”
“Okay!”
I rolled out of my bunk and slowly stood up. As I stretched I felt my back crack the tiniest bit and I sighed in relief. I’d have to get extra covers to make the mattress softer. I brushed my teeth and hair and grabbed a granola bar off the counter before walking outside. It was then I realized that one: it was freezing cold out, and two: I should probably try to lock the door. Sure enough, when I went back inside to get my hoodie, my phone rang:
- Hey Jules, it’s kind of cold and if you want to lock the door just turn the inside lock to the left and close the door behind you. We’ll try to get you a key later- Mikey
I pulled on my grey hoodie and turned the lock like Mikey had told me to, then left the bus for good. It was also at this time that I realized I didn’t quite know how to get to the RV Center. We had moved to a different location so that we could have water and electricity for the next few days. I figured walking straight would be a good start; that way at least I could get to the main road. As I walked I tried to look between the RV’s and buses and eventually found the main building. I walked inside and saw a few people sitting in the snack area where I had been yesterday. As I got closer, I saw Zack, Rian, Bob, and Steve sitting around and talking.
“Hey guys!” I smiled.
“Hey, Julie,” Zack and Rian got up to greet me. Steve and Bob followed suit but just gave hugs.
“Where is everyone else?”
“Alex and Jack went to the bathroom and everyone else is upstairs talking. In my opinion it’s too early to interact with so many bands at once, but that’s just me,” Rian said, taking a bite of the Poptart he was sharing with Zack.
“Oh yeah, I forgot that there were more bands coming. So it’s you guys, the All American Rejects, and who else?”
“I think Paramore,” Zack looked at Rian to confirm his statement. He nodded and I felt my jaw drop.
“Oh my God! This is so amazing!”
“You bet,” I heard Alex and Jack walk into the room. I turned around and jogged up to them and gave them both big hugs. I gave Jack a kiss on the cheek on top of his hug.
“Morning,” I smiled.
“Morning,” they grinned back. I took Jack’s hand in mine and we stood there, talking in a circle with Zack, Rian, and Alex who was also standing.
“Hey guys, Brad sent me down to tell you the meeting is starting soon,” a guy popped his head in the doorway to the room. We all turned to stare at him.
“What? It wasn’t me, it was Brad. I’m Jeremy, by the way. Bassist for Paramore,” he introduced himself. We all stood up and walked over to say hello.
“Alex, All Time Low,” Alex shook his hand. This set off everyone else’s greetings, a handshake following each one.
“Rian, drummer.”
“Zack, I’m bassist too,” Zack smiled.
“Jack, guitar,” Jack let go of my hand to shake Jeremy’s.
“Steve, guitarist for Mindless Self Indulgence.”
“Bob, drummer for My Chemical Romance.” I looked at Bob and frowned. He’d been really moody for the past few months. It kind of pushed me away from him; I didn’t like his negative energy… Finally it came time for me to introduce myself.
“Hi, I’m Juliet. Gerard and Lindsey Way’s daughter,” I blushed. I was embarrassed I didn’t have any title to attach to my name other than something that made me seem like a tag along kid. In reality that was what I was.
“Nice to meet you,” Jeremy shook my hand politely. I didn’t go back to holding Jack’s hand as we walked to the steps leading to the conference room.
“Have fun at the meeting, guys,” I muttered as I turned to walk back down the steps.
“Wait, why aren’t you going to sit in?” Alex asked. I saw everyone stop to wait for my reply.
“I’m not part of a band, why should I go? Plus, I’m probably just taking up space and I’m a distraction and I don’t belong in there…”
“Julie, you know that’s not true,” Jack shook his head.
“Yeah it is,” I felt my face flush again as I turned to walk back down the steps. I felt tears begin to pool at the corners of my eyes. I was only on the first step when I felt a hand grab mine.
“You’re going to sit in on this meeting and you’re going to sit next to me. C’mon, don’t be like this,” Jack said softly, giving my arm a slight tug.
“Jack, please. I already feel like a tag along, I don’t want you guys to feel obligated to include me in everything.”
“Just come and sit down,” Jack pulled on my arm again, “For me?” I sighed and walked back up the steps. I rejoined the group and together all of us walked in. Everyone stared at us as we walked in. Jeremy went to join the rest of his band and I joined the guys as they sat down next to Matt Flyzik, their manager. Jack and I brought up the rear of the group and when we sat down, he took my hand in his under the table. I squeezed it and he squoze back, offering me a slight smile.
“Okay, Hello everyone! My name’s Brad, as all of you now know, and we’re just going to go over the whole East Coast tour. If you wouldn’t mind saving your questions for last?” He began. Everyone nodded for him to continue and he went on.
“So, we’re obviously going to start right here in Upstate New York. And while we are in New York, which will be for about five days, All Time Low, Paramore, and All American Rejects will play during the afternoon. You guys will get to play, like, four to five songs apiece I think. Then we will go into our main acts with MSI, MCR, and Avenged appearing in that order.
Then when we move into Jersey the whole thing gets switched. Paramore, All American Rejects, and All Time Low will get their turn on stage first and then Avenged, MSI, and MCR will follow afterward.
Next we will move into Pennsylvania and the whole thing gets shifted around for the last time. All American Rejects, All Time Low, and Paramore will go on first then MCR, Avenged, and MSI will follow up in the evening. These are the three rotations that will occur during the whole East Coast part of the tour, okay?
Schedules will be available to all band members and managers and stage crew. Rehearsals, arena layout, and organization of all three rotations will be put together during February, which is right around the bend. Any questions?”
Matt Flyzik raised his hand: “Just checking to make sure I heard you correctly. Each opening band will get their own time on stage to do about five songs at separate times?”
“That’s what we originally planned for, yup,” Brad replied with a nod.
The manager for All American rejects raised his hand next: “So as each band is playing, the crowd will be able to walk around the arena?”
“Virtually, yes. We wanted each band to sort of have their own little spotlight moment, but we’re going to allow the merch and food guys to go and do their thing as well. While they’re playing, our crew will also be able to begin setting up for our main acts.”
After a few more questions we were left to go back to our buses and whatnot. I somehow managed to slip away from everyone and started walking around the campgrounds surrounding the RV Center. I walked past our buses and made my way down to the empty tent areas. It was still too cold for most people to camp so I had the place to myself. It was here that I found a little empty camping space in the middle of the field. I leaned against the electricity post and sat back, letting the wind and dim sunlight fill my senses. I felt my phone buzz. I looked down to see Jack, Alex, Mikey, Gerard, Lindsey, and Kat had texted me. I skipped the first five and went straight to Kat’s.
- Hey :D How’s tour life treating you? – Kat
I moved my phone curser over her name and hit the call button. She answered after the second ring.
“Hey, Julie! What’s up?”
“Hey Kat. Nothing much, just got out of a meeting, you?”
“Nothing much, just trying to catch up on some studying… Are you okay? You sound a little out of it.”
“I feel like such a tag along!” I burst. “I feel like everyone feels the need to include me in everything and the only reason I’m here is because Gerard and Lindsey don’t trust me to be home by myself. I keep meeting all of these band members and when I introduce myself I’m no body but Gerard and Lindsey’s adopted kid. The only people that talk to me are All Time Low, Avenged, and MCR and it’s so painful to watch them talk with other bands about being on stage and how it feels to play in front of an audience. I just sit in on meetings and I feel like I’m a distraction and I tried telling Jack but it was time for the meeting to start and there were people watching and I just felt so out of place. I felt like I shouldn’t be here. I shouldn’t have left Belleville. I don’t belong here. I’m not in a band and I just don’t fit in!” By now, I was crying and my breathing was uneven.
“Aw Julie, calm down. You might feel like a tag along and maybe you are right now, but you shouldn’t let that bring you down! Try to look at the bright side: maybe this feeling will push you to practice more and be a better musician and you could try to start your own band!”
“Everyone keeps telling me that but I have no idea how to go about that! I have trust issues and I’m insecure and I’m such a fucking failure,” I retorted. Kat was silent for a minute before she began talking again.
“Listen, Julie. I think you’re over thinking it too much. I know you can pull through until March. Maybe we can meet up before that and I’ll bring Billie and the gang. But please don’t feel so bad about all of this! You need to accept where you are right now and try to move forward. Go back and find Jack and Lindsey and Gerard and Mikey and tell them how you feel. They’ll be able to help you more than I can.”
“I’m sorry for dumping all of this on you. I must sound like a spoiled brat,” I apologized, wiping tears away from my eyes.
“Aw it’s fine. I’m here to listen anytime! Now go and find Jack,” the smile was evident in her voice.
“Okay, I will.”
“Oh and before you go, can you tell Zack I said hello?”
“Yeah, I will,” I smiled.
“Thanks Julie! Text me later, okay?”
“Okay. Bye, Kat, thanks again!”
“Bye!”
I went back to my text messages and saw Jack was looking for me by the RV Center. I began the long trek back and tried to fill my mind with positive thoughts. About a half an hour later I found Jack and the guys parked in the van section.
“Julie! They’ve been looking everywhere for you,” Zack said as I approached the stalker van.
“Yeah, I just had to be alone for a while, sorry.”
“It’s fine, I know how you feel… So, are you okay now?”
“Not really. I called Kat and she helped a bit, but other than that I still feel like crap. She says hi, by the way.”
“Oh really? I gotta text her later,” Zack smiled.
“Yeah. Do you know where Jack is?”
“I think he went to the bathroom with Alex and Matt. Rian’s taking a nap right now, and I was about to go for a walk myself. If you want, you can wait inside the van until they come back? I’ll tell them you’re looking for them if I see them.”
“Okay, sounds good. Thanks, Zack.”
“No problem. Catch you later,” he waved before walking down the road to the RV Center.
I opened the passenger door and climbed in. I saw a lump covered in blankets on the back seat, Rian’s head nowhere in sight. I guess he was sleeping with his head on the other side. I closed my eyes after a while and began to drift off, when suddenly I heard a tap on the window. I bolted up to see Alex and Jack waving at me. I smiled and pushed open the door. Before I could stand up they both jumped on me and closed the door.
“Guys,” I whined, “you’re squishing my legs.”
“We’re cold!” Alex replied.
“Why don’t you go jump on Rian? He’s the one with the blankets.”
“Too far away. Plus, you were the one who opened the door,” Jack said, teeth chattering.
“It’s not even that cold out. What did you guys have to walk through Antarctica to get to the bathroom?”
“Maybe,” They responded in unison. I rolled my eyes and snaked my arms around Jack’s waist, pulling him closer.
“I think this is supposed to be reversed,” I laughed.
“Yeah same,” he chuckled.
Suddenly, a rush of crisp air entered the car.
“Will you two get off of her so that Rian doesn’t have to put up with all of this noise?” Matt’s voice said.
“We’re going,” Alex huffed, jumping off Jack who in turn jumped off of me. When I got up it was my turn to shiver.
“See? It is cold!” Jack said, pulling me into a hug as Matt closed the door.
“Come over here,” Matt said, opening the back to another black van. Alex, Jack, and I climbed in and he shut the doors. After that Matt climbed into the drivers seat and turned on the ignition to turn on the heat. Alex immediately took off his hoodie and pulled out his phone, probably texting Lisa. He climbed over Jack and I, who were still sitting on the floor of the car, and sat down in the spot where Rian was sleeping in the other car. With him gone, no one could see us.
Jack pulled off his hoodie and I did the same. After he finished pulling his hoodie off though, half of his stomach was showing and I could see his happy trail and the soft outline of his abs. He noticed and pulled his shirt down. For an awkward moment we just stared at each other, then simultaneously we moved closer and our mouths collided. Me still being inexperienced, let him lead again. And after a few seconds I was leaning over onto him. His back pressed against the wall of the car, my arms were on either side of his body; we were stomach to stomach. I felt him smile and he wrapped one arm around my torso and put his other hand behind my head to push me in closer to him. The hand around my waist tightened its grip as he deepened the kiss once more. I felt a soft cry escape my lips at the pressure.
“Whoa, whoa, whoa! Break it up you two!” Alex said, turning around to see us. I pulled away from Jack’s lips, covered my face with my hands, and buried my face in his chest, red with embarrassment.
“Geez, the windows were going to start fogging up in a second,” he continued, a grin evident in his voice.
“Shut up, Alex!” Jack exclaimed, raising one of his hands to probably give him the finger, a grin was evident in his voice as well.
“Damn. You two were about to remove each other’s tonsils,” Alex continued, “Matt you should see these two right now.”
“I said shut up!” Jack repeated, wrapping his arm around me again, this time in a more comforting way.
“I don’t want to see. I heard enough,” Matt’s voice replied, an amused tone coating his words.
“Well I’m sorry we don’t have another place to go. If you haven’t noticed it’s like two degrees outside!” Jack replied. I kept my face buried in Jack’s shirt. I was still too embarrassed to look up at Alex or Matt. I can’t believe I just let that happen!
“Thank God you didn’t have another place to go! Poor Juliet. She probably didn’t even have time to push you away, you animal,” Alex continued with the teasing.
“Alex, I’m gunna fucking kick you in the nuts!” Jack threatened, the playfulness dropping from his voice slightly.
“Alright you two, knock it off,” Matt intervened. I heard Alex turn around in his seat and it was then I looked up from Jack’s chest.
He looked down and grinned at me. I smiled back and felt my face flush again. We stayed like that for an hour or so, my head on Jack’s chest, his hand around my waist. And we didn’t have to talk to know that that was one of the most amazing moments of our lives. That was the farthest I had ever gone with a guy ever, and I’m pretty sure Jack knew that too. My heart was just beating out the last of the adrenaline rush when my phone buzzed in my hoodie by my feet. I sat up, careful to not let my face be seen by Alex or Matt, and unlocked my phone. I knew I would still blush if either of them looked at me so I leaned back down, this time with my back to Jack’s stomach.
I felt his eyes reading over my shoulder as I opened the two newest text messages:
- Hey Jules, text us when you’re coming back from Jack’s please? Thanks- Gerard.
- Hey, Julie; Gerard and I haven’t heard from you in a while. Just text one of us where u are when you get the chance, okay? Love ya- Lindsey
I pulled up a blank text:
- Hey sorry for the late reply. I just had to go on a walk for a while. I’m with Jack, Alex, and their manager Matt right now. Do you want me to come back? - Juliet
And sent it to both of them.
I turned my head up to Jack and smiled again, still reminiscing. He leaned his head forward and kissed me softly on the forehead. Thankfully, his lips didn’t make a sound. I felt Jack open his legs to a straddle position and I fixed myself so that I was directly leaning on him instead of at an angle like I had been. Now that I was lying straight on top of him I realized how badly leaning over hurt my back. I arched it trying to get comfortable. Jack shifted too, trying to get comfy as well. I saw Alex glance sideways at us to see if we were kissing again and then turn back around when he saw we were only sitting. Jack put his arms under mine and rested his hands on my tummy. I tried not to move as much. One small squirm and his hands could slide in an awkward direction that I wasn’t ready to face.
My phone buzzed and I brought it up for both of us to read:
- Yeah Matt texted me that you were with them. We were thinking about ordering pizza in a few hours for dinner, but if you want to eat with them that’s cool too. Just let us know. – Gerard
-It’s okay. I thought you looked a little upset. Are u okay now? – Lindsey
I replied to Gerard first:
- I’m not really that hungry yet, but I’ll probably come home for dinner.
I felt Jack’s shoulder’s slump as I sent the message. Next I replied to Lindsey:
- Yeah I feel better now ☺
I felt Jack sit up straight again as I sent the reply. I looked up and smiled at him. Tour didn’t sound so bad after all…
“Hey, everyone! Welcome to our first Musical Revenge Tour meeting! As most of you know, I’m Brad and I’ll be the head exec this tour. I’ve worked on a few other tours that some of you have played in like Warped Tour, so there shouldn’t be too many difficulties. Between my crew and I, we hope to make this tour experience as awesome as possible. Before we start working on anything, do any of our managers or band members have any questions?”
A man down the table from us raised his hand. He and his group were sitting next to Avenged Sevenfold and the man looked like he was in his early twenties. I assumed he was a manager due to the fact that the five other boys who were with him were staring off into outer space. I decided I should probably do the same. This whole meeting, though it was about tour, seemed really boring. I discretely began pulling my phone out of my pocket. I nonchalantly sat back in my chair and tried to hide behind Ray, who was sitting next to me. I quickly glanced at Jimmy from MSI, who was on my other side, and saw his attention was focused on the guy down the table.
I slowly unlocked my phone, not taking my eyes off of the speaker. I hadn’t texted Jack all day and he was probably upset that I didn’t answer his text a few hours back. We had just gotten to New York and were at this big RV Park. I discretely looked down at my phone where the neglected text waited for me:
- hey beautiful ;) how was ur last day of school?- jack
I felt a pang of sadness course through me once again. I had just gotten over the fact that tour was starting and I was no longer a normal kid, but Jack didn’t know how sad I was feeling and won’t know unless I tell him.
I hit reply and typed:
- Not too good. I cried a lot on the way upstate. I couldn’t help it. I’m sitting in on a tour meeting and it’s boring as hell. Sorry for the late reply
I saw one of the guys from the man’s band staring at me blankly. It kind of creeped me out but I had a feeling he was just as bored as I was. I pretended not to notice and looked back down at my screen, Jack had already replied.
- i’m sorry :( and i wish i was there with u.
- It’s okay. I’ll get better eventually. And why aren’t you guys here at the meeting? I think the All-American Rejects are here.
I heard a cough and I looked up to see Ray, giving me a you-know-better look.
“I’m bored,” I whispered back through a false smile.
“It’s rude…”
“I’m sorry. I haven’t talked to Jack in forever…”
“Pretend to go get a drink of water or something then?” he suggested. I nodded and waited two minutes before standing up.
“Excuse me,” I blushed, as I got up and walked out of the conference room. I felt all eyes on my back as I walked out.
I pulled out my phone and hit the call button. He answered on the third ring:
“Hello?”
“Hey,” I smiled.
“Julie! Are you okay? What about the meeting?”
“I excused myself,” I laughed.
“Quite lady like,” Jack chuckled.
“Yeah… So school was terrible today,” I began as I walked aimlessly down the hallway. I was so caught up in our conversation that I didn’t hear the door open down the hall again.
“Aw, what happened?”
“Hold up one second, I’m gunna put you on speaker phone,” I said as I pulled out a paper cup next to the water jug in the hallway.
“Okay… Hello?” Jack’s voice echoed off the walls.
“Hey,” I replied as I poured myself some water.
“So what happened?”
“I had to say goodbye to everyone. It was terrible…”
“I’m sorry,” he said, sounding truly sincere.
“Thanks… I even said goodbye to Jimmy,” I confessed, pausing to take a sip of water.
“That horny mother-fucker!” Jack exclaimed. I could barely stop myself from choking on my water as I burst into laughter.
“Actually, his hormones were quite in check today. I guess he was upset too.”
“He was probably upset because you’re the only girl that was crazy enough to stop and talk to him.”
“This is true. But hey, even the horny guy needs someone to talk with once in a while,” I laughed.
“I can’t argue with you there. Just as long as he doesn’t, you know, assault you in anyway, I’m okay.”
“I would kick him in the nuts before he could do anything, trust me,” I said flatly.
“I know…that’s the only scary part about being your boyfriend,” he chuckled nervously.
“Oh my God, I can’t,” I laughed, face palming.
“I’m serious. All of us guys are scared of you.”
“Good!” I laughed. “So, why aren’t you at this meeting?”
“We’re too poor to afford a tour bus.”
“Oh! I’m sorry!” I felt my face flush in embarrassment; it was rude of me to even ask.
“Nah, it’s fine. I like the van,” Jack’s smile was evident through his voice,
“I like it too! So many good memories,” I grinned back.
“Yup.” I went to throw my cup away and saw someone walk back into the conference room.
“Wow. I think someone was, like, eavesdropping on our conversation,” I said, lowering my voice.
“What the fuck? Is nothing sacred?” Jack replied.
“Yeah, seriously. Well I’m gunna go walk around this place. I’ll see you soon,” I said, the last part sounding like a question.
“Yeah, we’re coming up soon. I don’t remember when, I’ll have to ask Matt.”
“Okay…Bye, Jack!”
“Bye, Julie!” Our phone call was over with before I could even think of saying the last three words that popped into my mind.
I locked my phone and walked down the hallway the way I came. It was in this direction that I found the elevator. I texted Gerard and everyone else that I was going down to the lunchroom of the building and then put my phone away. I think this was the most boring part of everything, all of the meetings and stuff, this and possibly driving to places.
I finally found the little snack area in the lobby of the RV Center; there weren’t too many people there, only a few employees and a few old couples looking at the newest buses. I pulled out my wallet and walked over to the vending machine.
‘Hmmm, what to choose?’ I thought to myself ‘Cheese Doodles are amazing, but so are Fritos…. Let me ask what I should get.’ I pulled out my phone and texted Kat, Billie, Tom, Alex, and Jack:
- Hey! Cheese Doodles or Fritos? – Juliet
Almost immediately I got a reply:
- fritos all the way- jack
- Cheese Doodles!- Kat
- bugles- Billie
- cheese doodles ftw!- alex
- idk they r both good. i say cheese doodles- tom
I held back my laughter as I punched in the code for Cheese Doodles. I got my change and sat down at one of the tall tables by myself. Then after I finished, I decided to walk around the dealership.
The first bus I went on was humongous! The floors looked like marble and there werethree slide-outs! I realized after walking up and down the bus that those were the areas of the bus that got pushed out after you parked. There was no way you could drive on the highway with the dining room, kitchen, and bunks sticking out like that. The next two buses I went on were similar. The last bus I got to see really caught my attention though.
As soon as I walked on, I knew this was the type of bus I wanted the guys to get. It had a bunk over the driver’s seat, a cute dining room booth slide-out, lots of counter space on the kitchen side, and what topped it all off were the bunks. On one side there was a couch with a bunk on top, then there was a whole bunch of floor space and then another two walls of bunks!
I sat down on the sofa and imagined what it would be like sitting back here with Jack, Kat, and the rest of our friends on a trip to the beach or what it would be like renting a bus like this for a band of my own, and having little parties on it after a show. I was so caught up that I didn’t see my phone light up with two text messages. It was only when I heard one of the elderly couples climb on that I stood up and walked out, not wanting my presence to ruin their fantasy on this amazing vehicle.
I finally opened the two new texts. They read:
- Hey, Jules. We’re going to look at some buses in our price range. If you want to come meet us outside. – Gerard
- We’re going outside to look at buses. Where r u? – Lindsey
I walked to the front of the store and saw all four bands walking in different directions. I spotted Ray and Frank in the back of a group walking left and ran outside to catch up.
“Hey, Jules!” Everyone smiled.
“Hey, guys! Sorry I couldn’t sit through that meeting.”
“It’s fine. That other guy from All American Rejects couldn’t sit still either,” Frank snorted.
“Wait was he, like, tall?”
“Yeah, why?”
“I think he, like, eavesdropped on my phone call while I was getting water.”
“What the hell?”
“I know, right? Like geez, there is no privacy.”
“Unfortunately that’s the world we live in… But it’s better off you get used to not walking out like that. People might start to follow you around to get to us or other bands,” Gerard cut in.
“I never thought of that…” I muttered.
“Yeah. But anyways, Lindsey and I are going to both get buses with an extra bunk for you just in case you want to crash with us one night and then with MSI another time.”
“Okay, sounds cool! I actually saw the most amazing RV back in the store…”
“If you see one like it in this section let us know, we’ll see what we can do,” Mikey smiled.
“Awesome! I’m gunna go look right now!” I ran off ahead of them, searching for one that gave me the same sense of home. In the end, we found one that suited all of our needs, and met back with the guys’ manager, Brian, who I had never really been formally introduced to. He ended up being a really cool guy and got all of the paperwork squared away pretty quickly. I established my bunk as soon as I could, totally pumped about life on tour.
“I call this one!” I said, running to the last bunk in the corner of the bus. I began laying out my sheets and putting my pillows in their proper spot. I even got a window next to my bunk! This would be great for those days when I didn’t feel like getting up but still wanted to see where we’re going. After I set everything up on the MCR bus, I called Lindsey to find her bus, which was not too far away. It was a little smaller than MCR’s but it was still nice. This time, I chose a bunk right on top of Lindsey’s. I wasn’t a big fan of top bunks, but I just felt safer knowing she was closer to me than Jimmy or Steve or Kitty.
I said my goodbyes then decided to walk around to find the Avenged boys. Their bus was HUGE! I could not even fathom how on earth they were going to get out of the lot.
“Hey, Jules!” I heard a voice call from behind me. I didn’t have a chance to turn around though, because they had already tackled me, and with their accomplice, threw me up in the air before setting me back down on the floor outside the door to the bus all alone- they had already run inside. However, they weren’t as fast as they thought they were.
“Jimmy and Brian, I am going to kill you!” I screeched as I climbed up the steps. I stopped short at the driver’s pit and felt my jaw drop. The bus was just totally decked out!
“Like the bus?” Matt laughed.
“It’s amazing!” I gushed.
“Ha ha, thanks… Maybe one day when you have your own band you’ll have a bus like this?”
“I don’t know about that,” I laughed, trying to get off the subject as soon as possible.
“Why not? You’re awesome,” he replied as he cracked open a beer. I sighed, it was probably better to just tell him then to try and get around it:
“I get too scared. Plus, all of the people who I would want to be in a band with are already in bands…”
“This is Musical Revenge Tour! You’re gunna find lots of people out here who like the same music you do, and you’re definitely going to find people who know how to play guitar and drums and shit. I can’t see why you wouldn’t be able to start one.”
“Yeah, but school is still in session and I don’t think we’re going to be around long enough for me to make friends…”
“Just tell Gerard and Lindsey that you want to stand in the crowd, wait in line with your friends, and that’s when you can give people your e-mail or cell number. But you have to be careful not to mention that you’re traveling with all of us, because that would be bad.”
“Yeah, just say that you’re from New Jersey and you play instruments,” Johnny joined the conversation.
“Yeah, I guess that could work,” I nodded.
“See? You got this, Jules,” Matt said before toasting to nothing in particular and taking a big swig of his Heineken.
“Thanks, guys,” I smiled. “But I have a question: where did Jimmy and Brian go?”
“They went running to their bunks,” Johnny rolled his eyes knowingly.
“Thank you,” I smiled and began walking in that direction.
“I would be careful,” Johnny called after me.
The lights were off and I had to stop for a second to let my eyes adjust to the dimness. Just as I was walking past the last two bunks, I felt my feet get pulled out from underneath me. I screamed as I waited for my head to hit the floor or another bunk behind me, but it never did. Somehow I just landed on my ass.
“Ow!” I yelped, muttering curses as I stood up.
“Hey, Jules!” Their heads appeared out of the last two bottom bunks. I smacked them in the face simultaneously. Of course I didn’t do it with all of my strength, just enough to make it sting.
“Ouch,” the Rev pouted.
“You’re lucky I didn’t hit you for real,” I stuck my tongue out, trying to stand up.
“Fuck,” I whispered as I stood up to my full height. My ass was killing me!
“Language, Ms. Juliet!” Brian gasped.
“Oh shut it. You’d be saying a lot more than me if you just fell down like that,” I retorted.
“We’re sorry Jules, we were just trying to mess around.”
“Nah, it’s fine,” I smiled, “Just don’t knock me on my butt next time.”
“We got chu’,” the Rev nodded.
“So, how many bunks do you guys have in here?” I asked, looking around and the long row I had just walked down.
“Hey, you never know if someone needs to crash on a different bus or something,” Brian shrugged.
‘Or if you find a girl to fuck,’ I thought to myself.
“Do you want to claim a bunk?” the Rev asked.
“Nah, I don’t want to intrude on you guys…” I said.
“No really, it’s fine!”
“Umm, okay… If I were to sleep over one night, I would probably want this bunk,” I said patting the bunk next to the Rev’s, but up one. Once again, I felt safer in the top bunk than I did on the bottom.
“Okay, it’s yours!”
“Thank you guys so much!” I smiled.
“Anytime, Jules, anytime.”
“Well I’m gunna go back to MCR’s bus, okay? I’ll see you guys later!”
“Alright! We have another meeting tomorrow morning, so make sure you sleep in!” Brian called after me.
“Okay! Bye guys!” I waved to Matt and Johnny.
“Oh and if you see Zack, tell him to get his ass over here!” Matt called after me.
“Alright!”
I got back to the bus; Zack was nowhere to be found. He was probably somewhere close by, so I wasn’t worried. We were going to sleep in the park for the next two days so all of the meetings and stuff could be worked out. I pulled out my phone to see Alex had texted me:
- heyy ☺ we’re coming up for the next meeting tomorrow. we’ll be in around 7:30 in the morning. jack wanted me to let u know – Alex
- Thanks! And why couldn’t he text me? Lol- Juliet
- his phone died xD
- Omg aw lol
- yupp. so whats up?
- Nm just chilling on the bus. You?
- nm just chillin on the sofa watching home alone.
- Love that movie! I’ll let you go so you can watch?
- alrite, see u tomorrow!
- Bye!
- bye
With that I drifted off to sleep, planning on waking up extra early so that I could be with Jack.
*************************************************************************************************
“Julie!” I heard a familiar voice call out to me.
“What?” I replied weakly
“We’re going to the meeting, okay?”
“What?! What time is it?”
“Like 7:30, why?”
“I want to come!”
“We’re literally leaving now. If you can get ready in two minutes go ahead, but we’re gunna start walking okay?”
“Okay!”
I rolled out of my bunk and slowly stood up. As I stretched I felt my back crack the tiniest bit and I sighed in relief. I’d have to get extra covers to make the mattress softer. I brushed my teeth and hair and grabbed a granola bar off the counter before walking outside. It was then I realized that one: it was freezing cold out, and two: I should probably try to lock the door. Sure enough, when I went back inside to get my hoodie, my phone rang:
- Hey Jules, it’s kind of cold and if you want to lock the door just turn the inside lock to the left and close the door behind you. We’ll try to get you a key later- Mikey
I pulled on my grey hoodie and turned the lock like Mikey had told me to, then left the bus for good. It was also at this time that I realized I didn’t quite know how to get to the RV Center. We had moved to a different location so that we could have water and electricity for the next few days. I figured walking straight would be a good start; that way at least I could get to the main road. As I walked I tried to look between the RV’s and buses and eventually found the main building. I walked inside and saw a few people sitting in the snack area where I had been yesterday. As I got closer, I saw Zack, Rian, Bob, and Steve sitting around and talking.
“Hey guys!” I smiled.
“Hey, Julie,” Zack and Rian got up to greet me. Steve and Bob followed suit but just gave hugs.
“Where is everyone else?”
“Alex and Jack went to the bathroom and everyone else is upstairs talking. In my opinion it’s too early to interact with so many bands at once, but that’s just me,” Rian said, taking a bite of the Poptart he was sharing with Zack.
“Oh yeah, I forgot that there were more bands coming. So it’s you guys, the All American Rejects, and who else?”
“I think Paramore,” Zack looked at Rian to confirm his statement. He nodded and I felt my jaw drop.
“Oh my God! This is so amazing!”
“You bet,” I heard Alex and Jack walk into the room. I turned around and jogged up to them and gave them both big hugs. I gave Jack a kiss on the cheek on top of his hug.
“Morning,” I smiled.
“Morning,” they grinned back. I took Jack’s hand in mine and we stood there, talking in a circle with Zack, Rian, and Alex who was also standing.
“Hey guys, Brad sent me down to tell you the meeting is starting soon,” a guy popped his head in the doorway to the room. We all turned to stare at him.
“What? It wasn’t me, it was Brad. I’m Jeremy, by the way. Bassist for Paramore,” he introduced himself. We all stood up and walked over to say hello.
“Alex, All Time Low,” Alex shook his hand. This set off everyone else’s greetings, a handshake following each one.
“Rian, drummer.”
“Zack, I’m bassist too,” Zack smiled.
“Jack, guitar,” Jack let go of my hand to shake Jeremy’s.
“Steve, guitarist for Mindless Self Indulgence.”
“Bob, drummer for My Chemical Romance.” I looked at Bob and frowned. He’d been really moody for the past few months. It kind of pushed me away from him; I didn’t like his negative energy… Finally it came time for me to introduce myself.
“Hi, I’m Juliet. Gerard and Lindsey Way’s daughter,” I blushed. I was embarrassed I didn’t have any title to attach to my name other than something that made me seem like a tag along kid. In reality that was what I was.
“Nice to meet you,” Jeremy shook my hand politely. I didn’t go back to holding Jack’s hand as we walked to the steps leading to the conference room.
“Have fun at the meeting, guys,” I muttered as I turned to walk back down the steps.
“Wait, why aren’t you going to sit in?” Alex asked. I saw everyone stop to wait for my reply.
“I’m not part of a band, why should I go? Plus, I’m probably just taking up space and I’m a distraction and I don’t belong in there…”
“Julie, you know that’s not true,” Jack shook his head.
“Yeah it is,” I felt my face flush again as I turned to walk back down the steps. I felt tears begin to pool at the corners of my eyes. I was only on the first step when I felt a hand grab mine.
“You’re going to sit in on this meeting and you’re going to sit next to me. C’mon, don’t be like this,” Jack said softly, giving my arm a slight tug.
“Jack, please. I already feel like a tag along, I don’t want you guys to feel obligated to include me in everything.”
“Just come and sit down,” Jack pulled on my arm again, “For me?” I sighed and walked back up the steps. I rejoined the group and together all of us walked in. Everyone stared at us as we walked in. Jeremy went to join the rest of his band and I joined the guys as they sat down next to Matt Flyzik, their manager. Jack and I brought up the rear of the group and when we sat down, he took my hand in his under the table. I squeezed it and he squoze back, offering me a slight smile.
“Okay, Hello everyone! My name’s Brad, as all of you now know, and we’re just going to go over the whole East Coast tour. If you wouldn’t mind saving your questions for last?” He began. Everyone nodded for him to continue and he went on.
“So, we’re obviously going to start right here in Upstate New York. And while we are in New York, which will be for about five days, All Time Low, Paramore, and All American Rejects will play during the afternoon. You guys will get to play, like, four to five songs apiece I think. Then we will go into our main acts with MSI, MCR, and Avenged appearing in that order.
Then when we move into Jersey the whole thing gets switched. Paramore, All American Rejects, and All Time Low will get their turn on stage first and then Avenged, MSI, and MCR will follow afterward.
Next we will move into Pennsylvania and the whole thing gets shifted around for the last time. All American Rejects, All Time Low, and Paramore will go on first then MCR, Avenged, and MSI will follow up in the evening. These are the three rotations that will occur during the whole East Coast part of the tour, okay?
Schedules will be available to all band members and managers and stage crew. Rehearsals, arena layout, and organization of all three rotations will be put together during February, which is right around the bend. Any questions?”
Matt Flyzik raised his hand: “Just checking to make sure I heard you correctly. Each opening band will get their own time on stage to do about five songs at separate times?”
“That’s what we originally planned for, yup,” Brad replied with a nod.
The manager for All American rejects raised his hand next: “So as each band is playing, the crowd will be able to walk around the arena?”
“Virtually, yes. We wanted each band to sort of have their own little spotlight moment, but we’re going to allow the merch and food guys to go and do their thing as well. While they’re playing, our crew will also be able to begin setting up for our main acts.”
After a few more questions we were left to go back to our buses and whatnot. I somehow managed to slip away from everyone and started walking around the campgrounds surrounding the RV Center. I walked past our buses and made my way down to the empty tent areas. It was still too cold for most people to camp so I had the place to myself. It was here that I found a little empty camping space in the middle of the field. I leaned against the electricity post and sat back, letting the wind and dim sunlight fill my senses. I felt my phone buzz. I looked down to see Jack, Alex, Mikey, Gerard, Lindsey, and Kat had texted me. I skipped the first five and went straight to Kat’s.
- Hey :D How’s tour life treating you? – Kat
I moved my phone curser over her name and hit the call button. She answered after the second ring.
“Hey, Julie! What’s up?”
“Hey Kat. Nothing much, just got out of a meeting, you?”
“Nothing much, just trying to catch up on some studying… Are you okay? You sound a little out of it.”
“I feel like such a tag along!” I burst. “I feel like everyone feels the need to include me in everything and the only reason I’m here is because Gerard and Lindsey don’t trust me to be home by myself. I keep meeting all of these band members and when I introduce myself I’m no body but Gerard and Lindsey’s adopted kid. The only people that talk to me are All Time Low, Avenged, and MCR and it’s so painful to watch them talk with other bands about being on stage and how it feels to play in front of an audience. I just sit in on meetings and I feel like I’m a distraction and I tried telling Jack but it was time for the meeting to start and there were people watching and I just felt so out of place. I felt like I shouldn’t be here. I shouldn’t have left Belleville. I don’t belong here. I’m not in a band and I just don’t fit in!” By now, I was crying and my breathing was uneven.
“Aw Julie, calm down. You might feel like a tag along and maybe you are right now, but you shouldn’t let that bring you down! Try to look at the bright side: maybe this feeling will push you to practice more and be a better musician and you could try to start your own band!”
“Everyone keeps telling me that but I have no idea how to go about that! I have trust issues and I’m insecure and I’m such a fucking failure,” I retorted. Kat was silent for a minute before she began talking again.
“Listen, Julie. I think you’re over thinking it too much. I know you can pull through until March. Maybe we can meet up before that and I’ll bring Billie and the gang. But please don’t feel so bad about all of this! You need to accept where you are right now and try to move forward. Go back and find Jack and Lindsey and Gerard and Mikey and tell them how you feel. They’ll be able to help you more than I can.”
“I’m sorry for dumping all of this on you. I must sound like a spoiled brat,” I apologized, wiping tears away from my eyes.
“Aw it’s fine. I’m here to listen anytime! Now go and find Jack,” the smile was evident in her voice.
“Okay, I will.”
“Oh and before you go, can you tell Zack I said hello?”
“Yeah, I will,” I smiled.
“Thanks Julie! Text me later, okay?”
“Okay. Bye, Kat, thanks again!”
“Bye!”
I went back to my text messages and saw Jack was looking for me by the RV Center. I began the long trek back and tried to fill my mind with positive thoughts. About a half an hour later I found Jack and the guys parked in the van section.
“Julie! They’ve been looking everywhere for you,” Zack said as I approached the stalker van.
“Yeah, I just had to be alone for a while, sorry.”
“It’s fine, I know how you feel… So, are you okay now?”
“Not really. I called Kat and she helped a bit, but other than that I still feel like crap. She says hi, by the way.”
“Oh really? I gotta text her later,” Zack smiled.
“Yeah. Do you know where Jack is?”
“I think he went to the bathroom with Alex and Matt. Rian’s taking a nap right now, and I was about to go for a walk myself. If you want, you can wait inside the van until they come back? I’ll tell them you’re looking for them if I see them.”
“Okay, sounds good. Thanks, Zack.”
“No problem. Catch you later,” he waved before walking down the road to the RV Center.
I opened the passenger door and climbed in. I saw a lump covered in blankets on the back seat, Rian’s head nowhere in sight. I guess he was sleeping with his head on the other side. I closed my eyes after a while and began to drift off, when suddenly I heard a tap on the window. I bolted up to see Alex and Jack waving at me. I smiled and pushed open the door. Before I could stand up they both jumped on me and closed the door.
“Guys,” I whined, “you’re squishing my legs.”
“We’re cold!” Alex replied.
“Why don’t you go jump on Rian? He’s the one with the blankets.”
“Too far away. Plus, you were the one who opened the door,” Jack said, teeth chattering.
“It’s not even that cold out. What did you guys have to walk through Antarctica to get to the bathroom?”
“Maybe,” They responded in unison. I rolled my eyes and snaked my arms around Jack’s waist, pulling him closer.
“I think this is supposed to be reversed,” I laughed.
“Yeah same,” he chuckled.
Suddenly, a rush of crisp air entered the car.
“Will you two get off of her so that Rian doesn’t have to put up with all of this noise?” Matt’s voice said.
“We’re going,” Alex huffed, jumping off Jack who in turn jumped off of me. When I got up it was my turn to shiver.
“See? It is cold!” Jack said, pulling me into a hug as Matt closed the door.
“Come over here,” Matt said, opening the back to another black van. Alex, Jack, and I climbed in and he shut the doors. After that Matt climbed into the drivers seat and turned on the ignition to turn on the heat. Alex immediately took off his hoodie and pulled out his phone, probably texting Lisa. He climbed over Jack and I, who were still sitting on the floor of the car, and sat down in the spot where Rian was sleeping in the other car. With him gone, no one could see us.
Jack pulled off his hoodie and I did the same. After he finished pulling his hoodie off though, half of his stomach was showing and I could see his happy trail and the soft outline of his abs. He noticed and pulled his shirt down. For an awkward moment we just stared at each other, then simultaneously we moved closer and our mouths collided. Me still being inexperienced, let him lead again. And after a few seconds I was leaning over onto him. His back pressed against the wall of the car, my arms were on either side of his body; we were stomach to stomach. I felt him smile and he wrapped one arm around my torso and put his other hand behind my head to push me in closer to him. The hand around my waist tightened its grip as he deepened the kiss once more. I felt a soft cry escape my lips at the pressure.
“Whoa, whoa, whoa! Break it up you two!” Alex said, turning around to see us. I pulled away from Jack’s lips, covered my face with my hands, and buried my face in his chest, red with embarrassment.
“Geez, the windows were going to start fogging up in a second,” he continued, a grin evident in his voice.
“Shut up, Alex!” Jack exclaimed, raising one of his hands to probably give him the finger, a grin was evident in his voice as well.
“Damn. You two were about to remove each other’s tonsils,” Alex continued, “Matt you should see these two right now.”
“I said shut up!” Jack repeated, wrapping his arm around me again, this time in a more comforting way.
“I don’t want to see. I heard enough,” Matt’s voice replied, an amused tone coating his words.
“Well I’m sorry we don’t have another place to go. If you haven’t noticed it’s like two degrees outside!” Jack replied. I kept my face buried in Jack’s shirt. I was still too embarrassed to look up at Alex or Matt. I can’t believe I just let that happen!
“Thank God you didn’t have another place to go! Poor Juliet. She probably didn’t even have time to push you away, you animal,” Alex continued with the teasing.
“Alex, I’m gunna fucking kick you in the nuts!” Jack threatened, the playfulness dropping from his voice slightly.
“Alright you two, knock it off,” Matt intervened. I heard Alex turn around in his seat and it was then I looked up from Jack’s chest.
He looked down and grinned at me. I smiled back and felt my face flush again. We stayed like that for an hour or so, my head on Jack’s chest, his hand around my waist. And we didn’t have to talk to know that that was one of the most amazing moments of our lives. That was the farthest I had ever gone with a guy ever, and I’m pretty sure Jack knew that too. My heart was just beating out the last of the adrenaline rush when my phone buzzed in my hoodie by my feet. I sat up, careful to not let my face be seen by Alex or Matt, and unlocked my phone. I knew I would still blush if either of them looked at me so I leaned back down, this time with my back to Jack’s stomach.
I felt his eyes reading over my shoulder as I opened the two newest text messages:
- Hey Jules, text us when you’re coming back from Jack’s please? Thanks- Gerard.
- Hey, Julie; Gerard and I haven’t heard from you in a while. Just text one of us where u are when you get the chance, okay? Love ya- Lindsey
I pulled up a blank text:
- Hey sorry for the late reply. I just had to go on a walk for a while. I’m with Jack, Alex, and their manager Matt right now. Do you want me to come back? - Juliet
And sent it to both of them.
I turned my head up to Jack and smiled again, still reminiscing. He leaned his head forward and kissed me softly on the forehead. Thankfully, his lips didn’t make a sound. I felt Jack open his legs to a straddle position and I fixed myself so that I was directly leaning on him instead of at an angle like I had been. Now that I was lying straight on top of him I realized how badly leaning over hurt my back. I arched it trying to get comfortable. Jack shifted too, trying to get comfy as well. I saw Alex glance sideways at us to see if we were kissing again and then turn back around when he saw we were only sitting. Jack put his arms under mine and rested his hands on my tummy. I tried not to move as much. One small squirm and his hands could slide in an awkward direction that I wasn’t ready to face.
My phone buzzed and I brought it up for both of us to read:
- Yeah Matt texted me that you were with them. We were thinking about ordering pizza in a few hours for dinner, but if you want to eat with them that’s cool too. Just let us know. – Gerard
-It’s okay. I thought you looked a little upset. Are u okay now? – Lindsey
I replied to Gerard first:
- I’m not really that hungry yet, but I’ll probably come home for dinner.
I felt Jack’s shoulder’s slump as I sent the message. Next I replied to Lindsey:
- Yeah I feel better now ☺
I felt Jack sit up straight again as I sent the reply. I looked up and smiled at him. Tour didn’t sound so bad after all…
.
2/7/15