We had dad's service on the beach, near the docks. The place he spent every day of his life. Mom was devastated but insisted we celebrate dad's life, not mourn it. Several white chairs were set up in rows. All the townspeople came out to pay their respects. I held the duty of giving the eulogy.

"G'day friends, I want to thank you for coming to celebrate Dad's life. As I stand here looking out at all of your faces, I'm reminded of a time not so long ago, I married the love of my life. We were married on the beach and it was a happy occasion. Today, we're back on a beach to commemorate my dad's life. He lived his entire life here on The Mount and loved every second. Dad was always happy, always willing to lend a hand, always willing to lend an ear. So many of you reached out expressing shock and condolences when you heard about his death. Mum and I take great comfort in that. We know he touched so many people's lives and he will be greatly missed. The one thing Mum insisted on is that we don't cry, we should laugh and fondly remember. After all, Dad would have preferred a good old fashioned barbie with lots of beer, laughter, and music. Please join us back at the house for a party Dad would have loved."

* * *

When we arrived back at the house, the catering staff had a barbecue reception waiting for our guest. A large white tent took over the back lawn. A DJ was playing Dad's favorite music, while a long buffet table was laden with all of his favorite foods.

"It's absolutely perfect," my mum beamed with pride. "I'm going to greet the guests."

"I'll be there in a minute," I told her, giving her a hug.

Alicia and I stood alone marveling at the strength of my mum and celebration we had prepared. "She's an amazing woman," Alicia said. "Your speech was lovely."

I didn't respond, I just took my wife in my arms and held her tight. The sound of a male clearing his throat from behind me grabbed my attention. Turning around, I found Tia, Mick, and Pax standing before me.

"What are you doing here?" I asked in surprise.

"We weren't going to let you go it alone, mate," Mick replied.

Tia stepped forward and hugged me tightly. "I'm so sorry—for everything."

"Thanks, I'm glad you came. It means a lot to me. What about the tour?"

"We'll drive back to Auckland later today for the next gig," Pax replied.

"How's Jimmy Tu working out?"

"He's not you, but he's a good fit with the band," Tia explained.

"So you guys won't mind if he becomes a permanent member? With Dad gone, I need to take over the business and be here for Mum. If Butler has an issue with it, tell him he can have my advance back and he can kindly fuck off."

Mick and Pax laughed, while Tia frowned. "I'll smooth things over with Hank, don't worry about it."

"I'm sure you will and I don't intend to worry," I replied with a wink.

"Why don't you join us at our table and have something to eat," Alicia suggested.

"Tia, I'd like a word alone," I said, touching her shoulder to hold her back from joining the others.

"Sure," she agreed, as the others walked toward the tent.

I took a deep breath and then said, "I feel like we've been at odds since this whole record deal began. I hate it. You are my closest mate and I love you. After all, you were the one who dragged me back to life after Emily died. The band gave me a purpose and something to pour my energy into. The music healed me. It's now clear that we want different things from the band. You are wicked talented and I think you have what it takes to be a huge star. I just can't continue on this journey with you. My place is here on The Mount with Mum and Alicia. I don't want to disappoint you, but I hope you understand and respect my decision."

"You are right, we've been at odds and I hate it too. I love you, Hunter. I wanted the four of us to experience the adventure together, but I see it's not the right thing for you. I hate like hell to lose you, but I understand I have to let you go."

"Mates?" I asked opening my arms wide.

Tia walked into my arms and hugged me. "We'll always be mates.”

* * *

The wake was a positive and uplifting event. Several stories were told, lots of dancing took place and many drinks were consumed. Alicia and I said good-bye to the band and waved as they headed back to Auckland. The caterers were packing up and clearing the lawn. After and exhausting day, Mum had turned in for the night. Alicia let out a small yawn.

“Come on, let’s head to bed early,” I said, steering her towards the house.

We climbed the stairs in my parent’s house to reach my childhood bedroom. It was strange being back here after I’d been on my own for so long, but Mum needed me here. “You are being a trouper for staying here. Living with my Mum probably wasn’t what you had planned when you agreed to marry me.”

“Hunter, I like you mother. She’s a saint compared to mine. Honestly, for the first time, I feel like I have a family. Your mom has been so welcoming to me, the least I can do is help her through this difficult time.”

“I promise I’ll make it up to you,” I swore, taking off my clothes and crashing onto the mattress from exhaustion.

Alicia draped her dress over the back of my desk chair and curled up with me in bed. “Wherever you are, I’m happiest.”

“I feel the same why,” I replied and then kissed my wife.