sparks; gracie abrams

chapter five- some indie record

The past few days texting Gracie Abrams (she still wasn't over it) had made Ember feel like she was making a place in the music world. But the meeting with Interscope was the real make or break point. The entertainment lawyer that Rowan's father had set up with her had texted letting the girl know that he was a few minutes out. She sat in the lobby, tapping her foot and pulling at her skirt nervously. Thomas Redding, or Tom as he insisted the girl call her, had contacted her earlier in the week and they had been discussing their goals and his role in the process. In his communication with Interscope Records, they had an initial contract drawn up that he had read through and explained to Ember. Today was about understanding Ember's goals, figuring out details, and hopefully, signing a record deal. Tom had also been in contact with management companies to take her on as a client, a step that Ember hadn't even considered. But Tom was insistent on the fact that once she gained notoriety, she would no longer be able to keep up with meeting coordinations, public relations, and also have time to continue to work on her music. Considering the already present worry that she was going to forget something or miss important meetings, Ember was inclined to agree.

The pull of the door draws Ember's focus away from her thoughts, the tall lawyer catching her eyes. She stands up, offering a hand to shake as he greets her. "How are you feeling today, ready to dive into the music industry?" Ember tries to mirror his bright smile but comes up with more of a tight lipped grimace. "I hope so." Just as he starts to respond, a lady in a pantsuit introduces herself. "Hi, my name is Amelia Varon, you can follow me to the conference room." She greets, shaking both of their hands. After the exchange of introductions, Tom and Ember follow her back to where the meeting was meant to take place. The air in the room crackled with anticipation as Ember and Tom settled into the wooden chairs around the large table in the conference room they had been led to. Amelia steps back out while Tom takes out some paperwork, with his client trying not to hyperventilate or pass out. The scent of freshly brewed coffee lingered in the air, adding a layer of warmth to the otherwise sleek and business-like atmosphere. The young musician's eyes were wide as where she finally started to sink in. "Oh my god, I'm going to puke. What if I mess this up Tom?" She asks, a note of desperation in her voice as she looks up at her advisor. He smiles a little, "Take a deep breath Ember, they already want you. Just be yourself, they're as excited about this as you are." He gives her a comforting pat on the shoulder as he shuffles his papers.

 The door swung open, Amelia walked back in with a well dressed man, both wearing welcoming smiles. Ember's mind was buzzing as they shook hands, the blonde man introducing himself as John. When they all finally took their seats around the conference table, Amelia handed out copies of the contract. Ember's potential contract. The weight of the moment settled in as she scanned the pages, the legal jargon threatening to overwhelm her. "This contract outlines our commitment to your career, Ember. We're investing in your talent, and in return, we'll work together to bring your music to the world." John says in a way that reminds the girl of an actor making a dramatic speech. Ember looks toward her lawyer, yet again feeling overwhelmingly grateful that he was here. Tom was scanning through the document, eyes drawn toward the highlighted renegotiations and nodded approvingly. She clears her throat, "I appreciate the time and consideration you have given my music, I am excited to start this journey." Amelia offers the nervous girl a smile saying, "Based on both of your demos, your original music, and the recommendation from someone you have had a writing session with, we are excited at the prospect of representing your music. We've adjusted the original contract in accordance with the requests of your lawyer here," She gestures to Tom, "And we're offering a competitive advance, and the terms for album releases are outlined here. It's a partnership, Ember. We're here to support your vision."

The cool air blew over the young artist as she pushed open the door, sunshine warming her skin. Holding the door for Tom, Ember couldn't help but smile, feeling giddy. After the long meeting with Tom explaining and re-explaining all of the legalities that came with signing, Ember was officially an artist under Interscope Records. Thanking Tom again and promising to email him back about management, the new Interscope artist (oh my gosh, she had a record label!) practically skipped toward Cranberry Street, opting to walk instead of taking the subway. The air only invigorated her already elated mood, and all she wanted to do was spin around like a kid. As she made her way back to her apartment, Ember was hit with the feeling of being exactly where she was supposed to be, doing exactly what she was meant to do. Though a happy feeling, she couldn't help but reach for her necklace, the small heart pendant warm from her skin. With melancholy bitter on her tongue, she dropped her hand and pushed away her thoughts. This was the biggest accomplishment of her life, she had been dreaming of this day since she got her first guitar. She was suddenly overwhelmed with the memory, the air now seeming cold and dirty, the sun not as bright. How could everything be so bright with such a big part of her missing? Not fully missing, she thought, thinking of her name, the one she wanted to carry. Fire and color, "because they were meant to burn brightly" is what she had been told, and now it was beginning to be known. And she wouldn't let it be forgotten.

Author's Note: the last couple weeks before finals are literal hell, this is pretty crap but i wanted to get it out. i can't tell if this is moving too slow, but it's about to pick up pace and someone new will be introduced next chapter ;) (i think). anyone else really think taylor was going to announce reputation (her version) last night? i loved watching the theories and clownery. please comment and vote, it gives me motivation! any predictions into what ember is thinking about at the end? 

thanks for reading, 

ella