“Keeps putting it in strange places, and one day, he’s going to forget where.” Everyone in the room laughed except Carter.
“Dude, I have real women who want a piece of me. Your junk’s so small women can’t find it with a magnifying glass, and that’s just too much ugly to see up-close.”
By now the whole group has erupted in riotous laughter at the two members that were a constant source of comic relief for the band.
“Okay, Okay, enough, children. We have work to do. You will see the actual tour schedule with the dates, cities, venues and times in the papers. Assured Distraction will be the opening act for Frission at each event as before. You’ve earned this honor, so be proud of yourselves.” After fist bumps all around, Cash continued. “There are going to be a few changes for the three months, though, that I want to discuss with you guys.”
The group collectively stopped talking and turned to look at Cash. “I will not be going with you. I’m sending Peri in my place, as your tour manager. She’s worked hard to get this promotion, and I think she is ready to take on this responsibility. Of course, if there is a problem, I will join you, but I don’t see that being necessary.”
Everyone spoke at once in agreement with the announcement, excited for their new tour manager. Peri was an organizer; she took care of things and always anticipated the band’s needs in advance, so nothing was a surprise.
Peri’s bottom lip seemed permanently lodged between her teeth from nerves until they made it apparent that they unanimously accepted her with congratulations and pats and hugs. She was part of this band family from the time Cash had come on board, and the group was thrilled with her taking over. “Thank fuck, she’s so much easier on the eyes! You mean if we behave ourselves, we won’t have to see your ugly mug for the next three months? Halle-fucking-lujah!” Gunner exclaimed as he pulled Peri into his lap for a big, adoring hug, and she laughed, hugging him back and then slapped at his playfully roaming hands.
“Gunner, there will be none of that on the road. She’ll be your boss while you’re gone, and I expect you to treat her with respect.” Cash’s tone was no-nonsense as Gunner gave her a sheepish grin and offered an apology.
“What are you going to do while we are gone, Cash?” KeeMac finally asked him on the screen.
“There are some new bands the label is looking at that our company represents, and we want to get the ball rolling on those projects. I’m damn sure not about to let you flounder out there, but I know Peri can handle it. She’ll have Frission’s tour manager there, too.”
“I’m going to let Peri take over the meeting now since this is her baby. Show her the respect she’s earned guys, please.” With that, he nodded at the group, gave Peri a reassuring hug and walked out wishing the group luck. The band knew it was a difficult decision for Cash to walk away from them since he had been with them from the beginning. His hard work had gotten them this far and pulled them through some rough times, and now that they were reaping the rewards. But Cash seemed ready to jump on to the new opportunities, leaving the band in Peri’s capable hands.
“Hey guys, I want to start by saying how excited I am to get to work with you all on a more personal level. I mean, I know you all pretty damn well, but now, it’s going to be great.” Peri spewed the words out faster than they could follow.
“I think you can calm down, Peri,” Chandler said through the speaker. “It’s just us, honey, and we are so proud of you for taking care of us like we know you will.”
“Hell, yeah, you’re right. You all know me. We are going to have a kick ass time on this tour with an awesome headliner. When it’s over, the US will never be the same! Everyone will know who Assured Distraction is!” She mimicked a coach giving a pep talk.
She relaxed some when the group
Terra Wolf, Artemis Wolffe, Wednesday Raven, Rachael Slate, Lucy Auburn, Jami Brumfield, Lyn Brittan, Claire Ryann, Cynthia Fox