An Excerpt From Moodswing Manifesto

Amanda took a step and pulled open the mirrored door to reveal tall, dark, and stunning Jack Bisbee, latest apologetic concession by Tipsy Mack to his diva gone south. After the RHETT, FIRST PLACE, NASHVILLE incident, Tipsy's guilt—along with his concern for Hayley's security—led him directly back to his check book. He marshaled Jack, Hayley's former lead guitarist, and his band, Road Kill—known as much for their physique as for their talent, and sent them speeding down I-55 South to bolster Hayley's spirits and act as bodyguards. Tipsy figured if Jack did nothing but show up and soothe Hayley's nerves, it would be money well spent. Now, the lean, muscled musician nodded slightly and grinned at the ladies who stood gaping at him in the bathroom.

     "Hel-lo, and look what the cat drug up!" murmured Meg.

     "Ladies," acknowledged Jack, as he removed his black Stetson and, obviously enjoying the attention, bowed with a flourish.

     Very much aware of how good Jack looked in his form-fitting Western shirt and tight black boot-cut jeans, Hayley pursed her lips in an amused smirk as the women treated themselves to a moment's pleasure. "Girls," she said finally, "meet Jack Bisbee."

     "No wonder you never came home," Sue whispered in Hayley's ear as Meg and C. J. extended hands and Amanda gave a quick adjustment to her French twist.

     Hayley giggled and gave Sue a squeeze. "Any good news?" she asked Jack hopefully.

     "'Fraid not, hon. Highway Patrol says it's gonna be hours before they get all them dead chickens off the road. Looks like this just became a solo act." As the women attempted to process this comment, Jack frowned. "Or not. How the heck did you find back-up singers—much less, costumes!—so fast?"

     Hayley looked confused. "What?"

     Jack flashed another crooked, dimpled smile. "If you girls sound as good as you look, nobody'll ever know we brought in ringers."

©2008 J.J. Ferrer & Bunkie Lynn, all rights reserved.