Liquid Happiness

One

I peered through the heavy backstage curtain, looking out at all our beautiful fans. I could hear them chanting our band name over and over again, waiting in anticipation for the show to start. I smiled as a took another swig of my drink; Jack and coke, just like my name. I heard our manager shout at us to get out there, and with that, I put the glass to my lips and finished off the remains of my whiskey, making sure not to waste a drop, before I stumbled my way on stage. This was my regular routine these days; I haven't had a sober show- or day, in weeks. No one has noticed the frequency and quantity of my habit picking up, but we all drink. We're in a band, our whole life is consisted of partying. So why would they worry? There's nothing to worry about anyway, I have it all under control.

"How's everyone doing tonight?" Alex yelled, earning a cheer of excitement in response. "This first one is called Weightless, sing along if you know it."

I started the song, playing the cords I know so well; I could probably even play them in my sleep. I jumped around on stage, giving it my all. The energy was crazy tonight. Before I knew it, Alex was introducing our last song of the night, Dear Maria.

"You guys are amazing. This goes out to all of you." He said, grinning from ear to ear.

I got your picture,

I'm coming with you,

Dear Maria, count me in.

There's a story at the bottom of this bottle,

And I'm the pen.

I ran across the stage, joining Zack. I heard the crowd scream, excited that I was closer to their side of the stage. I turned around and shook my ass at the crowd, earning some whistles and laughter. The song was coming close to an end, Alex singing the last few lines of the song before the lights faded and we all returned backstage.

"That was a great show." Rian stated. I nodded in agreement.

"It was. I'm dying for a drink though." I replied.

"Same, after party to tonight?" Rian questioned.

I nodded. "Hell yes."

We all headed out into the cold December air, and into our tour bus. Our manager and sound techs were gathering our instruments, loading them back up for another trip to a nearby city for our next show. I walked to my bunk, throwing my clothes off on the way. I grabbed a fresh outfit, and slid it on my lanky body, spraying a bit of cologne on in the process.

"Rian, you ready?" I called out.

He emerged from the bathroom giving me a thumbs up.

We walked outside together into the icy air. I hugged my sweater around me, blocking some of the wind from my skin. We stepped into the cab Rian called, and told the driver the directions to the hotel the party was at. My hands were starting to shake, as the alcohol wore off in my system. I closed my eyes, willing the thoughts away that always seem to creep back into my head when I'm sober. God, do I ever need a drink.