Holan awoke the next morning with a throbbing headache and a lingering sense of unease. The memory of his impromptu performance was still fresh, like an uninvited guest that refused to leave. He fumbled for his phone, the screen flashing the time: 10:42 AM. With a groan, he pulled himself out of bed and staggered to the bathroom, splashing cold water on his face in an attempt to clear his foggy mind.
As he stumbled back to his bedroom, his phone buzzed insistently on the nightstand. He picked it up and saw an unfamiliar number. With a sigh, he answered.
"Hello?"
"Mr. Bayers?" The voice on the other end was smooth, confident, and carried an air of authority. "This is Samuel Blake from Blake Entertainment. I hope I'm not catching you at a bad time."
Holan's heart skipped a beat. Blake Entertainment was a name he had heard before, associated with high-profile artists and major deals. "Uh, no. It's fine. What's this about?"
"I was at The Rusty Note last night," Samuel continued, "and I heard your performance."
Holan felt a jolt of anxiety. "Oh. Right. I'm sorry if it was—"
"No, no," Samuel interrupted smoothly. "It was actually quite impressive. I'm calling to discuss the possibility of working together."
Holan blinked, trying to process the words. "Working together? I don't understand. I'm not a singer. I was just filling in for someone who was sick."
"Yes, I understand," Samuel said, his tone remaining reassuring. "However, what I heard last night was something special. You have a raw, authentic quality to your voice that's rare. I'd like to explore that further."
Holan was silent for a moment. "I don't think you understand. I don't have any interest in music. I'm just a waiter."
"Exactly," Samuel said with a chuckle. "That's what makes it intriguing. You're not some polished performer with rehearsed routines. There's something genuine about your voice. I'd like to meet with you, discuss this in person, and see where it might lead."
Holan was overwhelmed. "I don't know. This doesn't seem like my thing."
"I understand your hesitation," Samuel said. "But think about it. This could be an opportunity to try something new. There's no commitment on your part, just a conversation to see if it's something you'd like to pursue."
Holan hesitated, glancing around his small apartment. His life was simple and unremarkable, and he had always preferred it that way. The thought of stepping into a world he knew nothing about was both exciting and terrifying.
"Alright," Holan said finally, giving in to the curiosity that had started to creep into his thoughts. "Where and when do you want to meet?"
"How about this afternoon?" Samuel suggested. "There's a café near your place—Café Bleu? Let's say 2 PM."
"Okay," Holan agreed, his mind racing. "I'll see you then."
After the call ended, Holan sat in silence, staring at the empty space where his phone had been. The offer seemed surreal, like something out of a movie. He wondered if he was making a huge mistake or if this was a chance to break free from his mundane routine.
By the time Holan arrived at Café Bleu, the sun was high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the charming establishment. The café had a cozy, artistic ambiance with its mismatched furniture, vibrant paintings, and the gentle hum of indie music playing in the background. Holan took a deep breath and walked in, scanning the room for Samuel Blake.
He spotted Samuel at a table near the window, his dark coat draped over the chair beside him. Samuel's presence was both commanding and calm, a blend of confidence and approachability. He stood up with a welcoming smile as Holan approached.
"Mr. Bayers, it's a pleasure to meet you in person," Samuel said, extending his hand. "Please, have a seat."
Holan shook his hand and took a seat across from Samuel. A waitress approached, and Samuel ordered coffee for both of them before turning his attention back to Holan.
"So, tell me a bit about yourself," Samuel began. "What made you take up the job at The Rusty Note?"
Holan shrugged, feeling awkward under the scrutiny. "It's just a job. I needed something to make ends meet. I'm not really into music or anything."
Samuel nodded, seeming genuinely interested. "And yet, you managed to create a moment that resonated with people. That's what caught my attention."
Holan looked down at his coffee cup, feeling uncomfortable with the compliment. "I didn't mean to. It was just… something I did on a whim."
"That's often how the best things happen," Samuel said. "Tell me, what do you like to do? What are your interests?"
Holan thought for a moment. "I like reading, hiking, things like that. I guess I enjoy quiet, peaceful activities."
Samuel leaned forward, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Well, here's the thing. Your voice has a unique quality that could connect with people on a different level. I'm not saying you need to become a full-time singer, but maybe explore this talent a bit more. We could start small—perhaps a few studio sessions, some coaching. See how it feels."
Holan was torn. The idea of stepping into a recording studio, of becoming something he never imagined, was both alluring and frightening. He had never considered that his voice could have potential beyond serving drinks at a bar.
"I'll need some time to think about it," Holan said, feeling the weight of the decision. "This is all so new to me."
"Of course," Samuel said with a reassuring smile. "Take all the time you need. Here's my card. If you decide you're interested, just give me a call."
Holan took the card, his fingers brushing against Samuel's as he accepted it. "Thanks."
As Holan left the café, he couldn't shake the feeling that his life was about to change in ways he had never imagined. The idea of pursuing something he had always avoided was both daunting and exhilarating. He took a deep breath, stepping out into the bright afternoon sun, unsure of what the future held but curious to find out.