Unexpected Harmony

10. Song by the Firelight

Chapter 10

Song by the Firelight

A spen climbed from Zoey's car, waiting for her to come around before they headed toward the park. While waiting, she took in the sight. A large mass of people milled around multiple tables spread across a large park.

Her heart rate spiked. She hadn’t known how many people would attend this family barbecue. Coming from a small family and the fact that they were no longer around hadn't prepared her for the sheer size of the Estrada crew. Ready to turn right back around, she felt Zoey's hand on her shoulder, instantly calming her.

“There are a lot of people, but they are all pretty great. Except for Cousin Melvin and Aunt Georgia; they can be a bit much. I'll point them out, though, so you can keep your distance. And trust me, the food is excellent.”

The gentle teasing and soft yet steady pressure on Aspen’s arm helped ground her. “Will your grandfather, Marcus, be here?” she asked as they started to walk towards the group.

“Sure will. He's bringing his famous beef rub and, I'm sure, a water tower amount of lemonade. It's his specialty.” Zoey waved to a few family members but didn't stop to talk to anyone.

A few people stared and discreetly got the attention of someone around them as Zoey and Aspen walked by, but she didn't see any cameras, and nobody ran up to them, which made her relax even more.

They walked up to a small group of people. She recognized Erin, who was leaning into a skinny man with glasses.

“Aspen, you already know my mom,” Zoey said. “This is my dad, Mateo. Oh, and this is my cousin, Kelsey.”

Aspen was well-versed in meeting new people. She'd been at awards, parties, shows, all types of sporting events, and the works, but there was something different about meeting family members of someone you were getting close to. There was a warmth in the handshakes she'd missed since her own parents had passed away.

“It’s great to meet you, Aspen. I can’t believe you’re willing to be seen in the same park as this one.” Kelsey nudged her shoulder with Zoey’s arm. The two were clearly close.

“Oh yeah? I wasn’t the one dancing around the garage singing silly songs about getting to meet Aspen last night,” Zoey shot back with a grin.

“She’s not all bad. I’m hoping to get a discount on my yard if I play nice today.”

“Family discount means paying more,” Mateo said, which earned him a slap to his stomach from Erin.

“Come on, let's take a look at what's going on around the park. Usually there's something for everyone. Do you like playing sports?” Zoey asked, dragging Aspen away from the group.

“I’ve only participated in music things. My mom tried to get me to play volleyball, but after a black eye and a sprained finger, she thought it best to stick with instruments.” Aspen’s nose twitched as they entered the grilling area.

“Hmm, there will be flag football, but also horseshoes, cornhole, frisbee, and just good food and great company.” Zoey indicated to different areas. “Are you hungry? We can grab some food and walk around.”

“Lead the way.” Aspen couldn't keep the small smile from her face. People nodded. A few kids ran to Zoey as she walked by, but all the adults were respectful and kept their distance. Honestly, Kelsey, with her widened eyes and barely contained energy, was the only one who had shown any overly outward view of recognizing her. It was uniquely refreshing and something Aspen hadn't realized had been missing from her life for a long while now.

“All right, there’s a little bit of everything here.” Zoey studied the spread laid across two tables. “Here you go.” She handed Aspen a plate as they worked their way down the table.

Reaching for the spoon for a dip, Aspen stopped when Zoey's hand gently reached for her wrist. “No, you don't want that. It's got crab meat in it.” She pointed to the ingredient list that Aspen had missed. There was also a large blue dot on the bowl. “Our family is so large, and there are a lot of dietary considerations. My grandfather created a system to help keep everything safe after his oldest son almost died when he ate something with peanuts without knowing it. Every dish should have clearly labeled allergens and the dots are helpful for a quick look once you know what you’re looking for. Blue means shellfish, green is vegan-friendly, red is pescatarian so contains fish, and yellow is vegetarian. Brown dots have nuts. There is a key somewhere. But definitely check out the label.”

Aspen searched the table, finding a key every few feet. “That's genius. You're able to know what dot to avoid or gravitate towards.” She noticed a brown and green dot. “So, vegan with nuts?” she asked, pointing out the Thai-looking dish.

“Exactly.” Zoey nodded her approval.

Aspen spooned in a small amount, wanting to try a little of everything she could, staying far clear of the blue dots.

“And there is enough variety that the vegans don’t have to worry about only having veggies to snack on.” Aspen noticed a good majority of food had green or yellow dots.

“We try. These picnics are important to us. We have at least two every year, if not more.” Zoey had seconds to find a place to set down her plate before a small kid launched from the ground and into her arms. “Aspen, this is Mikayla. Mikey, meet Aspen.”

A shy girl peeked behind her long curly locks, giving Aspen a small wave before turning to Zoey and whispering something in her ear.

“Maybe,” Zoey responded in a stage whisper.

“Please, Zo? You do it the best.” Aspen could hear the small plea this time but had no idea what she was trying to get Zoey to do.

“I can't promise, but if we're still here during the campfire, maybe,” Zoey said, drawing out the word. “Okay?” She booped Mikayla’s nose before setting her down. “Sorry about that. Want to go find a place to sit?”

Aspen followed, excited when they found shade under a tree to lean against.

“Do you want to run away screaming yet?” Zoey teased, resting her shoulder against Aspen's.

The closeness felt nice, with the laughter and yelling of kids zipping around the park providing background noise. For the first time in forever, Aspen didn't feel isolated. Sure, she'd been in rooms filled with people, but sitting under a tree with Zoey’s family as the backdrop, Aspen felt the tendrils of loneliness loosen around her chest.

“No, if anything, I’m wondering how to get adopted by your family.” Aspen took a bite of the Thai noodles, enjoying the spices that hit her tongue.

“There’s always marriage. I’m sure Kelsey would marry you in a minute.” Zoey’s voice thickened.

“Zoey, can you come play catch for a second?” A little boy with a large gap where his two front teeth should be came running up to them.

“Umm. Not right now, Zack.” Zoey looked to Aspen.

“I’m fine here if you want to go have fun. I know how to entertain myself,” Aspen said.

“If you’re sure.” Zoey stood hesitantly, but as soon as little Zack pulled on her hand, she ran down to the open area.

Aspen took a moment to savor the scene.

Soon, a tentative voice came from behind her. “Care for some company?”

“Oh, of course, Mr. Estrada. I can find you a chair.” She hopped up from the ground when Zoey’s grandfather appeared.

“No, no, and please, call me Marcus. I might need help up from the ground, but I can still afford to sit on nature’s bench.”

Aspen held out her hand, gripping the strong wrinkled hand, and helped him sit beside her.

“You have a lovely family,” she said, searching the park for Zoey.

“They have given me most of my gray hairs but also all of my laugh lines. Life is all about balance, don’t you think?”

It had to be a test, but of what, she wasn’t sure. Her own life hadn’t been filled with much balance. Looking out at Zoey’s carefree running as she tried to dodge the small hands chasing her, Aspen couldn’t help but think of the parallels to her life.

“I suppose. I’m still trying to find what that balance looks like for me.” The unguarded response surprised her but didn’t seem to faze Marcus.

“There was a time in my life, probably when I was about your age, that I had to take inventory. I’d accomplished all I wanted in the music industry and was just going through the motions. I’d lost all passion. One day, I took a wrong turn and found myself in front of this cute diner. Hungry and without a wallet, I went in and sat down. That decision changed my life. My dying spark was rekindled by a waitress at the diner, whom I married a year later. A year after that, I’m winning awards, people start inviting me to parties, and all I wanted was to snuggle up to my new wife and kid.”

The soft tones of Marcus’s story settled in Aspen’s chest. She ached for the comfort of family. Her eyes never left Zoey as she listened to Marcus speak.

“My spark. I like that,” she commented with a soft smile. Lyrics started pulling in her brain, but for once, she didn’t want to stop and write them down. She wanted to stay in the moment.

“All right, all right, you caught me.” Zoey ruffled Zack’s hair when he latched onto her leg. Limping up to his mother, she pleaded silently for her to take him. Taking the hint, Elaine snatched the boy, tickling his stomach, which allowed Zoey enough time to escape.

Searching the grounds, she saw Aspen in a small group with her grandfather, Kelsey, and her dad. Feeling bad for leaving her alone, Zoey jogged up to the group.

“Sorry about that. I didn’t mean to stay away so long,” she whispered to Aspen, who had turned her way with bright eyes.

“I’m just hearing some amazing stories of you as a kid.” Aspen grinned, which lit up her whole face, taking years off her stress lines.

“Nooo.” Zoey groaned, burying her head in her hands. “Don’t believe most of them,” she added, looking between her fingers.

“No, they’re cute. And pretty much track from what I know about you. Like trying to bring home a rabid bunny and naming it Cinderella.” The teasing, followed by her wink, snatched Zoey’s ability to stand up straight.

“I forgot about that.” Zoey shook her head with a smile. “Are you doing okay? Do you want to go home?” she asked quietly, pulling her to the side. Since they hadn’t spent much time together, she wanted to check in and ensure Aspen didn’t want to leave.

“I’m having a great time. I’d love to stay if you’re okay with that. Marcus said you all do a fire when the sun goes down. I haven’t been around a real fire in ages.” The wistful expression mixed with an excitement that radiated off Aspen. Who could say no to those pleading eyes?

“Perfect,” Zoey said under her breath, and meant every beat.

“How are you? Are you cold?” Zoey rubbed her arms, walking towards the crackling fire pit a few hours later.

“I’m fine. My cheek muscles hurt from smiling so much. Apparently, they aren’t used to these movements.” Aspen rubbed her cheeks, a smile still planted on her face. “Oh, here.” She shook off her outer jacket, gently placing the soft, dark blue fabric on Zoey’s shoulders. The wind had picked up and the jacket helped keep the chill at bay.

“Thank you,” Zoey whispered as she leaned in closer, trying to snatch some of Aspen’s heat. Kelsey was waving for them to sit next to her. “Shall we?” she asked in her usual tone, letting Aspen walk ahead of her to sit down first.

Most of her family members were still there. The only ones who had snuck out were people who had little kids or dogs waiting at home. The turnout had been among the best, and the large group now mingled around the pit. The fireside was enormous and families settled in for warmth and good times.

“I’m stuffed.” Aspen patted her stomach. “I don’t remember eating that much in years. My trainer might not be too happy with me, but I don’t even care. All of your family could be professional cooks.”

“We’ll never go hungry during one of these picnics, that’s for sure. Plus, three people in our family have restaurants, so yeah, we know how to put on a party.” Kelsey poked a stick at the fire.

Mikayla settled at Zoey’s feet, leaning against her legs as they watched the flames.

“I’m glad you could come.” Zoey’s voice was soft as she looked at Aspen.

“Thank you for inviting me. I haven’t been to something like this in… Well, I don’t even know when the last time would be.” Aspen laid her head on Zoey’s shoulder. “Is this okay?” she asked.

Zoey didn’t want to think of the pros and cons of whether it was okay or not. She just wanted to stay in the moment. The invite had been a pure whim, but Zoey found it increasingly challenging to keep her distance. Seeing Aspen interact with her family was a mistake if she’d wanted to keep it at just a client relationship.

A breathy “Of course it’s okay” escaped without her permission as they sat in peace while conversations murmured around them.

“I’m surprised that not many people approached me for autographs or pictures.” Aspen broke the silence but didn’t move.

“My grandfather is big on treating everyone respectfully and ensuring nobody is bothered. You’re not the first famous person we’ve had around. We’ve had practice, although you are probably the biggest name by far.” Zoey played with Mikayla’s hair as they spoke quietly.

“And I got out all my fan-freakout yesterday when Zoey told me you were coming. She was right; I did not keep my cool when I heard.” Kelsey provided a self-deprecating laugh.

“At least you kept on your shirt. I’ve had some wild interactions.” Aspen scootched closer, so her thigh was pushed against Zoey’s.

The fire crackled as the sun dipped further down. Zoey watched as a few of her uncles grabbed some instruments. Mikayla jumped up, wanting to help.

“Can we wrangle a song out of you?” Zoey’s uncle Thomas held a guitar out.

Aspen sat up, holding her hands up. “Oh—uh.”

“Sure, I’ll play a song.” Zoey sent Aspen an embarrassed shrug. “I usually play at least one song around the fire.”

“Will the wonders never cease? You play guitar too? Why didn’t you say anything?” Aspen’s voice was loud and a few heads turned their way. Everyone’s faces lit up seeing Zoey with the guitar.

“Yay! I was hoping you would play.” Mikayla jumped up and down.

“Are you sure you’re okay to play?” her mom asked quietly, only loud enough for Kelsey and Aspen to hear.

Ignoring the sudden flutter in her guts at playing a song in front of a famous singer, Zoey nodded to her mom. “I’ll be okay.” She strummed a few chords.

Aspen sat up, turning to face her, a look of wonder filling her eyes.

Zoey cleared her throat. “I’ll kick off the bonfire with a song. To another successful family picnic. Thanks, Grandfather, for your continued guidance and for the growth of our family.” Zoey looked to Aspen at the last part. Their eyes caught in the dancing flame.

She picked a slower song to start off. A classic folk song that had the melody flowing through the fire. Everyone settled as the tune carried out into the night. What she hadn’t expected was Aspen’s voice to enter, carrying the tune with her as Zoey played.

Zoey’s eyes locked onto Aspen’s as they continued the song. The notes swirled around, wrapping themselves amongst the smoke to be carried into the sky. The song was one she’d played a thousand times, but Aspen’s vocals added a layer to the music. Towards the song’s end, Zoey felt a single tear slide down her cheek, her eyes never leaving Aspen’s.

When the last notes dispersed into the night, everyone stayed still. Even Mikayla, who was notorious for moving around, had settled in her mom’s arms.

“Wow,” Zoey’s dad breathed out, the word reverent.

“You two make magic together.” Grandfather nodded, taking the guitar from Zoey. “I know nobody will want to go after that, so let me play another song.” He winked at the pair before starting an upbeat song.

Zoey’s eyes slid away. She felt goosebumps raise on her arms.

“I hope you don’t mind. When I heard the song you started playing, I couldn’t keep myself from singing.” Aspen hung her head.

“It was enchanting to witness.” Kelsey tucked away her phone.

“Of course I don’t mind. I couldn’t believe I was playing something in front of you. If anything, it helped me relax.” Zoey wiped her face. Now that the song was over, a residual embarrassment was following behind.

“How many instruments do you play? Or is it like, every other day, someone will hand you a new one that you can play masterfully?” Aspen teased quietly, seemingly not wanting to disturb Marcus.

“I know a fair bit about percussion and can play ‘Hot Cross Buns’ on the flute, but…” She paused to clear her throat, the words stuck on her tongue. “But I know how to write music for an orchestra. That’s what I was studying in school. I want to write scores for movies someday,” she confided. She thought she’d have to give up that dream, but saying it out loud brought back the drive. “I can’t sing for my life, so it was nice to hear the lyrics to that song.”

“You are the earth, Zoey Estrada, and the deeper I get in your layers, the more I want to know.” Aspen’s slight smile was everything.