It was a big day for Sonny. Her second album, Compromised, was being released tomorrow. On the cover was a picture of her face, hair being blown back. All over her old friends from So Random were there. A lot of music people were there, too. Promoters, agents, and media, they were all waiting for a chance to hear the newest record from the hottest singer-songwriter.
Sonny was having her picture taken for various members of the press. The party was in a hotel ballroom. Some pictures were taken with Chad, some by herself, and she even had a picture with her old So Random cast. They had all moved on into other things, except Zora, who is now the most experienced member of the cast now. Nico and Grady had their own sitcom. Tawni had moved into fashion design.
After all the pictures had been taken, they all sat at a table together, having some of the finger foods that were there.
"It's so great to see you guys again," Sonny said. "We need to do this more often."
Everyone agreed, but they all knew how hard it would be. Nico and Grady had their own show to work on, Zora was the leader of So Random, and Tawni had release dates and fashion shows of her own. They were all busy with their lives.
"Excuse me, Ms. Monroe," her manager said. "It's time to answer the media's questions."
"I'll be right back, guys," Sonny told them. She was led towards the back of the ballroom. There was a podium with all kinds of microphones in front of it. Different musical magazines where there, like Rolling Stone, SPIN, and Blender. Sonny stood in front of the podium and was ready to answer questions. Her manager picked who would ask.
"Alex Christian, Blender," the reporter said, introducing himself. "Where do you see this record compared to your last one?"
"Well, I've think I've grown up since my first album," she responded. "I think it's more real than dreamy. Last record was filled with my hopes and wishes. Compromised is filled with more experiences that I've had."
"Jay Salazar, Billboard," the next reporter said. "Do you feel people won't relate to your experiences? After all, you came out of nowhere to land a spot on a big TV show."
"No, I think my experiences are relatable. There are things like love and growing up that I think everybody has gone through."
"Last question guys," Sonny's manager said. "We want to listen to the new record tonight."
"Andy Gomez, SPIN," the last reported said. "You're about to embark on huge worldwide tour. Do you think you're ready for the grind of the road?"
"Yes," Sonny replied. "I had a North American tour for my last album. I think I'm ready to travel all over the world."
"Thanks guys," Sonny's manager said. "Now let's all head back to listen to the record." The manager ushered everyone outside.
"Sonny," a man called out. Sonny turned around. There was an incredibly handsome man standing there. He smiled at her and it was perfect smile. It was one that could always get a woman's attention.
"Yes?"
"Hi, I'm Joshua Thomas," he introduced himself. Joshua Thomas was a huge promoter. He had helped get other singers into mega pop stars. "I've arranged for a private listening of the record. I'd hope you'd join me. I'd like to talk about your career."
Sonny's head was spinning from the invite. Joshua Thomas wants to have a private listening with me. This is totally awesome.
"Sure," Sonny replied, trying to be cool, but was bursting inside.
"Excellent."
Back in the ballroom, Chad was beginning to worry. He kept checking his watch.
"Will you stop looking at your watch?" Nico asked. "It's very distracting."
"Sorry," Chad said, trying to enjoy the music. "She sounds good, doesn't she?"
"Totally," Nico replied.
"The best," Grady said.
Tawni could see Chad was nervous. After all, the interview had been over for about half an hour and Sonny was nowhere to be seen.
"Hey, Chad, let's go get a drink," Tawni said. She and Chad went up to the bar.
"Beer and uh," Chad wasn't sure what Tawni would want, being on 19, like Sonny.
"Fuzzy Lemon Fizz," Tawni ordered, a drink of lemon lime soda and peach nectar. The bartender quickly got the drinks and Chad took a long drink of his.
"Easy, Chad," Tawni warned him. "Look, I know you're worried about Sonny. But I don't worry about her. She's smart, she wouldn't do anything stupid."
"You're right," Chad replied. "I'm sure she can take care of herself."
"Champagne all around," Joshua ordered. A waiter brought over tall, slim glasses of the bubbly drink. There were a lot of people at the party. Many of them were pop stars that Joshua had helped to make. They all were mingling and talking, some with Sonny. Once everyone had a glass, Joshua spoke.
"I would like to propose a toast. To Sonny, I think we have our next big star. I hope none of you feel jealous towards her."
Everyone laughed at that.
"But seriously. I really do think that this could be the beginning of a great career for Ms. Monroe. She has come a long way and I think would give welcome to the music industry. So, to Sonny."
"To Sonny," everyone said. And they all took a drink. Sonny looked around, a little nervous. She wasn't old enough to drink. But when everyone else did, she took a sip. She liked the way it tasted, with a little bit of fizz to it.
Joshua walked over to Sonny. "Hey, I think everyone here liked the record."
"Really?"
"Yes. So, go out and mingle with some people. Have a drink. Talk and make some contacts. That's the name of this business. You need to know people. Have a good time."
Chad had waited for Sonny. Nico, Grady, and Zora had left. Tawni stuck around, trying to keep Chad from going crazy. She also kept Chad from drinking too much. If he was drunk, then he was bound to do something he would regret.
Sonny finally emerged from the back room. She walked over to Chad's table, but stumbled a little on her way. Chad caught her before she fell.
"Sonny," Chad said, a little concerned. "Are you alright?"
"Yeah," Sonny replied, drawn out and slurred a little. "I'm fine."
"No you're not," Tawni said. "You've been drinking. What were doing back there?"
"Just a private listening party," Sonny explained. "We had some champagne."
"Yeah, a bit too much. Let's get you home Sonny. Could you help me, Tawni?"
"Yeah."
Chad and Tawni helped Sonny towards his car and into the back seat. Tawni got into the front seat and Chad drove them to his place. When they got there, Tawni and Chad helped Sonny to Chad's room and helped her into bed.
"Tawni, could you do me favor?" Chad asked. "Could you stay and make sure Sonny's alright? You can use my guest room. I'll stay on the couch downstairs."
"Sure, Chad."
"Thank you."
They made it through the night fine, but Sonny woke up to her first hangover.
