Archive of Our Own ^beta

Bouncing into the studio, Julie grinned. Clutched in her arms, was Julie and the Phantoms first ever CD. 

“Guys! Look what just arrived!” She waved the plastic case around, watching as all four phantoms appeared in front of her. 

Snatching it from her grip, Reggie cheered, opening the case and pulling the disk out. The CD was a pale purple colour, with bold violet writing spelling out the band's name. 

“It’s beautiful! Look at those colours.” He gasped, passing it towards Bobby. 

“We did it! We’re officially published!” Bobby said, “again.” He snorted. 

“Dude, this is awesome! Flynn had a great idea for the colour scheme.” Alex grinned, yanking the CD out of Bobby’s grip. “Stop being so lame about it.” 

Flipping the case around, Alex analysed the pictures, huffing a laugh at a photo of Luke. 

Turning the photo to face the rest of the band, everyone laughed at Luke’s groan. 

“Oh, come on! I thought I asked you guys to take pity on me,” he whined, snatching the picture from Alex’s grip. “I look like I’m drunk.” 

Snorting, Julie wrapped an arm around his waist, tucking her head into his shoulder. 

“Awh, sorry baby, but you looked too cute! Look at your little smile,” Julie giggled, pinching his sides. 

Wordlessly, Bobby stepped away from the group, standing outside the studio with a sad frown. 

For the last two months, he’d been slowly slipping away from the band, wanting to find his own feet, as a solo artist. 

Which proves incredibly hard, seeming as without Julie, he was just air. 

While he loved Julie, and his band, he couldn’t help but want more. 

So when Caleb Covington comes knocking, and Bobby is offered a deal he cannot refuse, he finds himself conflicted  

The chance at becoming a solo artist, within the Hollywood Ghost Club.  

An opening act for Caleb, to be exact. 

Sure, it wasn’t playing at the Super Bowl, or selling out stadiums across the globe. But it was his chance to fulfil his dream. 

Alone. 

The catch? He had to kill Julie. 

At first, Bobby declined Caleb’s offer without so much as a second thought. But as time went on, and Caleb offered more, the boy couldn’t help but wonder if doing as Caleb asks, would give him the life- afterlife, he had been dreaming of. 

But killing Julie? He couldn’t do it. 

They were best friends. She had given him, and his friends, a new life. The life that they were trying to achieve, before their untimely deaths. 

The thought of harming her, was out of the question. 

Up until today. 

Seeing that CD, and realising what he wanted, was not what was happening, was his final straw. 

If Bobby wanted to stay backup vocals, and back up guitarist, forever, he’d be fine with it. 

But Bobby Shaw wanted to be a star. 

“So, have you thought about my proposition, Mr. Wilson?” Caleb’s voice appeared, startling Bobby. 

“That’s not my name.” Bobby mumbled, power walking away from the studio doors. 

“Ah, right, of course!” Caleb spread his arms, a mocking smile. “But it will be, when you take up my offer. Can’t have you keeping your real name, it’s not how show business works.”

Slowly shaking his head, Bobby looked towards the studio, smiling at the laughter floating out of the space and into the courtyard. 

“See, look how happy they are, without you. They’ll survive-“

“I can’t kill her.” Bobby cut Caleb off. “She means too much to them, to me. I won’t harm my friend.”

“You don’t have to be the one who kills her, just slip this into her drink. I’m basically the one doing the killing.” Caleb winked, holding up a tiny vial of clear liquid. “Just think about it, that’s all I ask. You don’t have to do it right away. For now, just say yes. You can always back out of it.” He held the vile and his opposite hand out. 

“What is it?” Bobby reached out, taking the bottle, not noticing Caleb’s smirk when he dismissed the hand shake. 

“Painless, mess free, death.” Caleb hummed. “It’s specially made for Julie. It won’t harm anyone else, and, once again, all the blood is on my hands.”

Staring at the bottle, Bobby inhaled deeply, everything inside him screaming at him, begging him to smash the bottle. To throw it back at Caleb and say no, one final time. 

“Okay,” he whispered. “I do this, and I’m a solo artist, your opening act at the Ghost Club?” He confirmed.

“It’s a done deal,” Caleb held out his hand, once Bobby placed his hand in Caleb’s, the older ghost firmly shook them together. “Pleasure doing business,” he smirked. 

A purple stamp appeared on Bobby’s wrist, causing him to hiss. 

“W-what?”

“Oh, don’t mind that. It’s just my insurance that you will, kill Julie Molina.” Caleb chuckled. “Can’t have you getting cold feet now, can I?” 

“But you said I didn’t have to do it, if I changed my mind? That I had time!”

“Did I?” Caleb questioned, thinking carefully. “Ah yes! That was a previous deal, which you never took. Silly things, these bargains. You always need to read the fine print!” Caleb hissed, with a deep laugh.

Disappearing in a flash of purple, Caleb was gone. Bobby swallowed hard, slipping the bottle into his pocket. 

Looking down at his wrist, he grimaced at the mark, almost laughing at his face.

Hearing a door open behind him, Bobby pulled his sleeve down, wincing as the mark burned. Turning to see Reggie, he forced a smile.  

“Hey man, you alright? You’ve been gone a while.” He asked, concern lacing his voice. 

“Y-yeah, just overwhelmed. It’s crazy to see our work being published, again! I needed a few, I’ll be back inside, in a sec.” He reassured, nervously kicking his foot. 

Reggie grinned, nodding his head as he headed back into the studio. 

Shaking his head, Bobby walked towards the studio, rolling his shoulders on the way in.

Stepping inside, he watched as Julie and Alex sat at her computer, laughing over something Alex was pointing at. Luke was laid on top of the piano, strumming his guitar without a care in the world. 

“Hey! You all good?” Julie looked up, concern on her face. 

“Yeah, sorry, it just kinda hit me, all this.” Bobby lied. 

“Of course, I’m sorry if this is too much. We don’t have to release them anytime soon? We can wait, I didn’t even think about this feeling all too familiar…” Julie trailed off, guiltily looking at him. 

“What do you mean?” Bobby asked, unsure on what direction the conversation was taking. 

“You know, like the last time you guys released a demo… You all died a few weeks later?” Julie cringed, blushing. 

Oh.  

A snort of laughter left Luke’s mouth, he sat up and looked at Julie. Reggie was the next one to laugh, followed by Alex. Bobby smiled, shaking his head at her. 

“Well, let’s just hope nobody dies this time, alright guys?” Alex joked, nudging Julie. “I mean you. You cannot die, Miss Molina, do you hear me? Or I will haunt you.”

“You already do haunt me.” Julie deadpanned, raising an eyebrow at him. “But thank you, I don’t plan on it.”

Wincing, Bobby turned away slightly, catching his reflection in a mirror, he swallowed hard. 

“Nobodies dying anytime soon.” He spoke, still staring at himself in the mirror.

***

It was a week later, and the painful jolts from Caleb’s stamp was starting to weaken Bobby. He was unable to focus on anything else, other than the thought of harming Julie…

The tricky thing about planning a murder, was Bobby didn’t know how. 

Sure, Caleb had given him the poison, and a time frame. But Bobby had no idea how he was meant to carry out the act. 

Standing in the middle of the kitchen, Bobby stared inside the fridge, trying to find something Julie would eat, unprompted. 

“Alright, which one of you has my fridge door open?” Ray spoke, causing Bobby to jump. “Reggie?” 

Picking up a whiteboard marker, Bobby messily wrote to Ray. 

‘Sorry Ray, it’s Bobby. I wanted to bring Julie a study snack!’ he wrote, praying Ray would have a suggestion. 

“Oh, you’re amazing! But I’m going to start cooking dinner soon. Why don’t you take her a drink?” Ray suggested, pointing to Julie’s water bottle. 

How had he not thought of that?

‘Thanks Ray! I’ll bring this up to her now!’ He wrote back, snatching the water bottle and filling it up. 

“No worries kiddo, don’t distract her too much! She’s only two weeks out from summer break, and then you guys can spend all the time you want distracting her, alright?” Ray laughed. 

Bobby shook the bottle back in response, satisfying Ray. The older man walked out, heading towards his office. 

For once, he was grateful Ray couldn’t see him. Bobby pulled the small vial out of his pocket, pouring the liquid into Julie’s water. 

Tightening the lid, he stared down at the bottle for a moment, considering his actions. 

He could just pour it out, throw the bottle away and forget all about this. 

Except, he couldn’t. 

Caleb’s stamp would ensure of that. 

As if on queue, a jolt of pain washed through Bobby, his body closed in on itself, as he shot backwards. Tears sprung to his eyes at the pain. 

He had no other choice.  

Once the pain washed away, he straightened up. Weakly walking towards the stairs, Bobby exhaled deeply. 

Please forgive me, Julie.  

***

Knocking on her door, Bobby waited. 

“Come in!” 

Slipping inside, he forced a smile. Julie sat at her desk, notebook open and filled with her neat handwriting. 

“Hey! What are you doing here? I thought you guys were heading to the pier?” Julie grinned, turning her body to face him. 

“Eh, didn’t feel like watching Reggie chase the seagulls. Besides, I wanted to apologise for the other day, I shouldn’t have gotten upset about CD.” Bobby sat down on the bed, shaking hands gripping Julie’s water bottle.

“Bobby, it’s totally okay. I’m so sorry for not considering how it could affect you guys. Are you okay now?” Julie crossed the room, taking a seat beside him. 

Silently, he nodded. Julie leant her head against his shoulder, placing her hand on top of his. 

“You’re shaking, is something wrong?” 

“No, I’m just, I don’t know. I’ve been having bad memories, from when we died. I guess the CD just tipped me over.” He lied, “here!” He forced the water bottle into Julie’s hand. 

“What’s this for?” Julie laughed, taking it. “I already have a drink up here.” She pointed towards her bedside table, where a bottle sat. 

“I know,” Bobby rushed, clearing his throat. “But I thought you might want some cold, fresh, water!” 

Shaking her head, Julie popped the straw and took a large mouthful, smiling at Bobby. He stared at her, unsure about how fast the poison would act. 

“Thank you, you’re always so kind.” Julie gently spoke, taking another sip. 

They sat in silence for a minute, Bobby staring at her, waiting for something to happen. Tilting her head, Julie squinted at him. 

“Everything, okay?” She asked, coughing slightly. Bringing the bottle to her lips, she took a mouthful. 

Lowering the drink from her mouth, Julie blinked slowly. Setting the bottle on the floor, she pulled her glasses off, and rubbed her eyes.

Coughing again, she covered her mouth, gasping quietly. 

“Are you alright?” He asked, gaze flicking over her face. Unsure if she was feeling the effects, or not. 

“Yeah, um-“ She choked out, coughing again. “The waters a bit, spicy apparently.” She weakly laughed, coughing again. 

“Have another sip? Might help clear, um, your cough?” He stumbled, leaning down and picking the bottle up. 

Nodding, she went to grab the bottle from his hands. A harsh cough shook her, causing her to freeze. Hand coming to her mouth, Julie squeezed her eyes shut and coughed aggressively. 

Whimpering, she opened her eyes and glanced at her hand, staring at the red liquid covering it. 

Blood. 

“Bobby… Get my-“ She choked, more blood coming from her mouth. “Dad.” She pleaded.

Not moving, Bobby stared at her. Her hands desperately wiped the blood away, fear written on her face. 

When she looked at Bobby, her laboured breathing hitched.

“What was in, my water?” Julie heaved, accusation in her voice. 

“N-nothing! Why would you- Julie, what the hell?” Bobby defensively said, “I would never hurt you.” He lied. 

Tears sprung to her eyes, standing weakly, her legs shook as she attempted to take a step. Wrapping her arms around herself, she stumbled back, terrified eyes watching Bobby as he stood up. 

Blood trickled from her mouth, down her neck and onto the shirt she was wearing. The red liquid sunk in, staining the white material.

The shirt belonged to Luke.

“I’m sorry,” Bobby whispered, watching Julie cough again. She looked over at him, alarm clear on her face. “Julie, I’m so sorry.” He stepped forward, pulling her into him, squeezing the air out of her. Her back was pressing against his chest, hands gripping his arms. 

“Let me, go!” She begged, wheezing. “P-please, Bobby. Don’t- please.” She cried, kicking her legs weakly. Hands scratching at Bobby’s arms. 

Julie thrashed against him, desperately trying to escape his grip. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she choked, her pleas turning silent. 

“I’m so sorry, I’m sorry!” Bobby sobbed, gently loosening his grip, allowing her weak frame to drop. Julie blinked up at Bobby with scared, tired eyes. 

“Hey guys-“ Alex’s voice stopped. “Bobby, what happened?”

“I’m so sorry,” he whimpered, tears rolling down his cheeks. “I needed to do it-“

“What did you do?!” Alex yelled, ripping Julie from his arms, her pale lips were tight, glassy eyes weakly stared through the drummer. 

“He promised to save me. I had to do it. Alex, I’m so sorry-“ 

He disappeared in a purple smoke. 

A final, frail rattle of a breath escaped Julie’s lips. Brown eyes slipping shut.

Alex held her and wept, his fingers tightly fisting into her clothes. The pair sank to the floor, Alex started CPR, begging Julie to wake up  

As the minutes passed, so did his hope. His efforts were useless.

Julie was gone.

Alex gently sat Julie back up, and leant her against the foot of her bed. Moving beside her, he cradled her, whispering reassuring and comforting words, praying she could hear him.

They sat like that for a few minutes, before Luke and Reggie found them. 

“Julie! Guess what we saw at the-“ Reggie’s voice broke off. “Pier.” He finished, wide eyes staring at the scene in front of them. 

“Julie?” Luke whispered, stepping closer. “No, no,” he gasped, taking in the scene in front of him.

Dropping to his knees, Luke let out a loud cry.

His heart broke. The life and love, that was Julie Molina, no longer existed. 

There would be no more laughs, no more music, no more joy. 

A world without Julie, was a cold, cruel, fate. 

“What. Happened.” Luke growled, dark eyes flicking towards Alex. “She was fine when Reggie and I left this morning.”

“Bobby,” Alex choked. “Bobby did this.”

Reggie gasped, stumbling back, desperately shaking his head. Luke pulled Julie out of Alex’s arms, holding his girl. 

“Bobby wouldn’t do that- he couldn’t!” Reggie cried, sinking to his knees beside Alex. 

Wrapping an arm around Reggie’s shoulders, Alex held him, while they both cried.  

“We have to get her back.” Luke declared, his gaze cold and unrecognisable. “Find Willie.” 

“Luke-“ Alex started. 

“Now, Alex.” He snapped, gaze flicking towards Alex. “I’m going to find Bobby and make him wish he were never born.” 

Glancing at Reggie, Alex poofed out. Quietly, Reggie scooted towards Luke and Julie, hesitantly reaching out and touching her. 

Hissing, he pulled his hand back. Not knowing how to handle how cold she was becoming. 

Sniffling, he pulled Luke into a hug, gripping the other man, as if he were going to disappear. 

“How do we tell Ray?” Reggie whispered, “or Carlos. Flynn! How the hell do we tell any of them, that Julie is-“

“Don’t say it.” Luke shrugged Reggie off, shifting away. 

“Luke…”

“Please, don’t make it real.” Luke begged. “Willie will know what to do.” He shook his head.

“And if he can’t? Willie is just a ghost, Luke. He isn’t like Caleb Covington; he can’t wave his hands and fix this.” Reggie sighed, “I know you have hope, I want to be hopeful. But we need to be realistic.” 

Tightening his hold on Julie, Luke shook his head. Burying his nose into her hair, he squeezed his eyes shut. 

If Luke kept his eyes shut, he could almost imagine Julie was just sleeping. That the fading warmth of her body, was due to the afternoon cooling off. 

That her lack of breath, was just due to her feeling so safe, wrapped up in his arms. 

That she was still alive and breathing.

Reggie stood up, pacing around the room, allowing Luke to hold Julie in silence. 

“I need water.” Luke croaked. “And a cloth. Warm water and a cloth. I need to- I need to get the blood off of her.” 

Reggie quietly did as Luke asked, coming back in with a bowl of water and a cloth. Placing them beside Luke and Julie, Reggie sat down. 

Ever so gently, Luke laid Julie back against her bed. Wetting the cloth, he began cleaning the blood off of her face, teary eyes staring at her face. 

He quietly washed away every trace of her blood and her tears, gently caressing her cheek as he moved. His eyes trailed down her neck, to her shirt and hands. 

Wiping the blood from her hand quickly, he moved onto her shirt- his, shirt. 

Desperately, Luke rubbed at the blood, a sob leaving his lips as he let the situation sink in. His hands moved faster, scrubbing the patch of red.

“Luke,” Reggie whispered, placing a hand on top of Luke’s. “Enough-“

“No!” Luke cried, pushing Reggie’s hand off of his. “I can’t leave her like this. It’s not okay, none of this, is okay.” 

Finally stopping, Luke dropped the cloth onto the floor beside Julie. Shaking hands moving to rest around the back of her neck, and on her cheek. 

“I’m so sorry, Boss. I love you.” He whispered, pressing his forehead against hers. 

***

Neither of them had considered the idea of Ray coming into Julie’s room, before Alex could return with Willie  

The older man walked into Julie’s room, after multiple attempts of calling her down for dinner. 

“Alright mija, I thought I told Bobby he couldn’t distract you for too long!” Ray’s cheerful voice called as he walked up the stairs and into her room. 

His cheerful expression cut off, when he saw Julie. He assessed the scene in front of him. 

A bowl of pink water, a stained wash cloth and Julie’s water bottle, discarded beside her. 

“Julie?” He choked, dropping in front of her. He didn’t touch her, his hands hovered over her arms. 

Pulling out his phone, Ray dialled 9-1-1. He explained what was happening, hands finally touching Julie, checking for a pulse. 

Once he was off the phone, he placed the device on the bed, behind Julie’s head. Carefully moving a strand of hair behind her ear. 

Luke and Reggie clung to each other; tears streamed down their cheeks. 

“Mija, what happened?” He whispered. “Bobby? Are you here?” Ray spoke up, looking around. 

Stomping towards the whiteboard, Luke started scribbling. 

‘No, he isn’t.’ 

“Who is here?” Ray shakily asked. 

‘Reggie and Luke.’ Luke wrote. ‘Bobby did this.’ 

“Boys…” Ray swallowed. “That’s an incredibly large accusation. I just spoke with him earlier. He was bringing Julie-“ He stared at the water bottle. “Oh god.” 

‘Alex has gone to fine help.’ Luke wrote.

“The ambulance is coming.” Ray sighed. “But she’s already gone.” He whisperer. 

After he said it, he broke down. 

Gut-wrenching sobs left his lips, he fell backwards as he cried. Blue eyes were blood shot and glassy, they stared at Julie with utter heartbreak. 

“I can’t have lost you too.” He whispered, “you had so much left to live for. You had Flynn, your future, your band…” 

Reggie moved towards Ray, sniffling as he sat beside him. 

“We’ll take care of her, if she ends up like us.” 

“Reggie.” Luke hissed, “she’s not dying-“

“Stop it, Luke.” Reggie finally snapped, “stop with the hope. Julie isn’t coming back. Even if she does, it’ll be as a ghost, like us.” 

Sirens sounded from outside, followed by pounding at the front door. 

Ray solemnly walked down and greeted them, bringing the two paramedics up into Julie‘s room. The paramedics assessed Julie, both glancing at each other with unreadable expressions. 

They lifted Julie up and onto the gurney, pulling a sheet over her face. They carefully carried her down the stairs. Ray, Reggie and Luke followed them out. 

For the last time, Julie Molina left her home. 

Ray collapsed at his front door and sobbed. 

***

Julie’s funeral was beautiful. 

Dahlia’s littered the hall. Guests were dressed in their favourite band tee’s. The music was a compilation of Julie’s favourites. 

She would have loved it. 

The day consisted of people crying, smiling and laughing, fondly talking about the young girl, whose life had tragically been cut too short. 

A pulmonary embolism. 

That was what the doctors determined her death to have been. 

Whatever Bobby had given her, was laced with magic. The poison had caused blood clots to form in her lungs, choking her.

Willie had confirmed there was nothing else they could do, that he had no clue, how to revive someone from the dead. 

Leaving the remaining members of Julie and the Phantoms, to stand in front of a deep purple casket, looking at a photo of Julie. 

“This is fucked.” Luke placed his hand on top of the casket. “She shouldn’t be in here, she should be in the studio, writing a song, or at the beach with Flynn!” 

Speaking of Flynn, the young girl sat quietly at the front of the room, head bowed as she held a tissue in her hands. Carrie and Nick sat on either side of her, arms wrapping the girl in a tight, safe, embrace. 

Turning away, Alex pulled a crumpled picture out of his pocket, softly placing it on top of the casket. Willie rubbed his arm, leading the grieving boy away.

Placing his arm around Luke, Reggie cried. Unable to hold back his emotions any longer. The two brothers tightly held each other, mourning the loss of their best friend. 

Reggie pulled a piece of paper from his pocket, sitting it beside Alex’s phone. A smile found its way into his face, when he saw the band picture.

Without Bobby.  

That was taken a few weeks before Julie’s death. It now felt like a lifetime ago. 

Her lifetime, ago.  

Breaking away from his hug with Luke, Reggie stepped away. Leaving Luke alone. 

“Sleep well, yeah? I hope you’re with your mom, and you’re at peace.” He whispered, pulling a guitar pick from his pocket, bringing it to his lips and kissing it, before placing it down. “You’re officially the brightest star of them all.” 

Wiping his eyes, Luke turned around and looked at the crowd. 

While nobody else could see him, he forced a weak smile. 

There were hundred there, the entire community had come to support the Molina’s, after yet another tragic loss. 

Luke’s breathing stopped when he saw a familiar couple, standing close to the front. 

His parents.

They were talking with Julie’s dad, both offering condoling faces. He sped walked over, eyes focused on his mom. 

“We’re so sorry for your loss, Mr. Molina.” Emily placed a careful hand on his upper arm. Mitch shook Ray’s hand. “My name is Emily, this is my Husband, Mitch.”

“Did you, um, know Julie?” He asked politely. 

“Our son, Luke, passed away a long time ago-“

“Luke patterson?” Ray gasped, clearing his throat. “Julie spoke about him.” He smiled. 

“Yes, that was him.” Mitch nodded, “Julie bought us a song that she found, one that Luke wrote. It bought us, so much peace and closure.” 

“She came over often, she was a beautiful young woman. I’m terribly sorry for your loss, I wish there were something we could do for you.” Emily sniffled. 

“Does it get easier?” Ray whispered. “With Rose, m-my wife, when she passed, I focused on being a father. But with Julie? No parents expects to bury their child, I’m not even sure how I can handle Carlos…” 

“You grow used to it.” Mitch sadly spoke. “Eventually, you’ll be able to talk about her and smile. You’ll be able to look at her picture, and the overwhelming grief no longer consumes you.” 

“It took us years to find closure. I’m not sure we really found it, until Julie bought us Luke’s song.” Emily hummed. “Just remember to love. Don’t let yourself lose your passions. Love your son, and hold him tight.” 

Pulling him into a hug, Emily allowed a few tears to fall, squeezing Ray with love. 

“I hope our Luke takes care of Julie for you.” She whispered. 

“I’m sure he is.” Ray’s voice broke, eyes closing. 

Luke gasped, rapidly nodding his head. 

“I’m gonna find her, and I’m gonna take real good care of her. I promise you, Ray.” He smiled, before he made his way back towards his friends. 

The service started drawing to an end, groups of people surrounded Ray and Carlos, giving both men their love and condolences. 

Watching the crowd, Flynn walked towards Julie’s casket, placing a t-shirt on top. She looked over at the items from the band, and smile. 

Reggie appeared beside her, gently moving a few items, letting her know he was there. 

“Have you found her?” Flynn asked. Reggie wigged a flower side to side. “Are you still looking?” He wiggled the same flower, up and down. 

Flynn nodded, smiling. 

“Thank you,” She sniffed, “Take good care of her, alright? Take care of my best friend.” She whispered. 

“Flynn?” Carrie asked, walking up behind her. “Are you ready to go back to Julie’s house? Nick is taking Carlos home now. Ray and Victoria are staying until they-“ she paused, glancing at the casket. “They’ll leave when Julie does.” 

Pulling Carrie into her arms, Flynn broke down. She’d spent the past two weeks keeping strong for everyone, helping plan her best friend’s funeral. 

Now it was her time to cry. 

***

Carlos and Nick sat in the studio, Carlos was behind the piano and stared down at the keys, his fingers wiping away the dust that had started to settle. 

“It’s not fair.” He mumbled, glancing at Nick. “She was finally about to start living her dream. Julie was finally happy, she had the band, she had Luke, but now she’s dead and all we have is a stupid CD.” He glared at the CD on the top of the piano.

“Luke, the band, they didn’t come today?” Nick asked, frowning. Carlos tensed, looking over at him. 

“They called, the moment they found out. But my dad told them to stay with their families. To take care of each other.” Carlos carefully lied, “they’ve done so much for us, for Julie. Dad didn’t want them putting themselves out.” 

Nick nodded, standing up and looking around. He picked up a framed photo and stared at the band, frowning when he noticed one of the members was cut out. 

He turned the frame to Carlos and pointed, frowning as the younger boys eyes darkened. 

“Bobby quit the band.” He grumbled, crossing his arms. “He hurt Julie, we have nothing to do with him.” 

“Oh, sorry for uh, bringing him up.” Nick apologised, “how about we head inside? Your dad will be home soon, so will your aunt. We can call your friends and see who’s coming over, maybe I could go pick them up?” 

Standing up, Carlos followed Nick out of the studio, glancing back and whispering. 

“If you’re here Julie, give me a sign.”

Without waiting, he pulled the door closed. 

***

A month had passed since Bobby killed Julie, and he spent every day, regretting his decision.

He was hardly allowed to perform at the Ghost Club, with Caleb continually cancelling Bobby’s performances, just before he was meant to go out.

“It’s not fair!” Bobby roared, throwing a glass across his dressing room. The dancer sitting behind him squeaked, poofing out. “Caleb promised me I’d become a solo artist, that I’d be known! I’ve played like 5 times.”

“Shocking, it’s almost as if, Caleb lied?” Dante taunted, looking at him. “Look what he did to me and Fuego. We were promised to be stars, instead, we’re babysitters for his new acts.” He snorted.

“I killed my best friend to be here. I ruined the only friends I’ve ever had, to be here!” Bobby cried. “I need to find them, to apologise! Maybe-“

“Maybe what? Hmm?” Caleb poofed in, smirking. “What’s wrong, Trevor? Not enjoying your new career?

“N-no sir. I just wanted to send my condolences, to Julie and the rest of her band…” He looked down, avoiding Caleb’s gaze.

“Oh, I wouldn’t worry about that. She’s still not shown up, I hear Luke is quite devastated about his soulmate being dead. But then again, you did cause this, so I’m sure you’re all okay with it.”

Turning his back on Caleb, Bobby let a tear slip down his cheek.

This wasn’t what he wanted.

“You manipulated me into doing it.”

“Uh-ah, I never manipulated anyone. I simply offered you a solo career, it’s not my fault you were too greedy.” He shrugged, filing his nail. “Now do yourself a favour and stop moping. You sound pathetic.”

Watching him poof out, Bobby glowered, unable to contain the anger coursing through his veins.

Deep down, he couldn’t stop the regret eating him alive  

‘You deserve every second of this misery.’ He thought, bowing his head in shame.

***

Snuggling into Julie’s bed, Luke kept his eyes closed.

If he tried hard enough, he could dream of her.

“I’ve had a brilliant idea!” Reggie clapped, making Luke jump.

“When did you get here?” He grumbled, opening one eye.

“Just then.” Reggie shrugged. “Now get up and meet Alex and I in the studio. I’ll see you in 3 minutes.”

“No Reggie-“

“Clocks ticking. If you’re not there, I’ll break your guitar.”

“Good.” Luke scoffed, closing his eyes again.

“Damnit Luke.” Reggie grabbed the blankets and threw them off the guitarist. “Get up, or so help me, I’ll get Alex.”

Before Luke could respond, Reggie was gone.

Huffing, he sat up and looked around, glancing at the untouched homework on her desk. Exactly like Julie left it.

Not wanting to deal with his friends, Luke poofed into the studio. He stared at the space with his jaw hanging.

The room was covered in fairy lights, a mountain of pillows and blankets covered the floor, creating a cozy ambiance to the room. Luke inhaled and frowned, smelling Julie’s signature perfume.

“What’s going on? Is this like, an intervention?” Luke cautiously asked, stepping towards the couch.

“No, Luke what the hell?” Alex questioned, “just sit down. Let Reggie do his thing.”

Flopping down, Luke raised his eyebrow as Reggie picked up the Julie and the Phantoms CD. He silently opened the case and inserted the disk into an old CD player. The start of ‘Wake Up’ started playing, making tears spring to Luke’s eyes.

“Reggie…”

“Shhh! This is gonna work.” Reggie shushed, staring at the spot they all appeared, when Julie first played their demo.

As the song played on, Reggie’s smile started to slip, realising he might of got it wrong. Just as he went to turn it off, the speaker sparked, the volume starting to increase.

“There we go!” He cheered.

A familiar screaming, followed by a zap of light and a thud, made the three boys stand up.

“Ugh, finally!” Julie sat up, flipping her hair out of her face. “I’ve been pacing in that god awful room, for hours! I can totally see why Alex cried for 25 years, that was so boring.” Julie groaned, standing up.

Staring at her, nobody moved. Each boy wore the same expression; shocked.

“It worked.” Reggie gasped.

“Obviously, Julie is right there.” Alex pointed; eyebrows raised.

“Julie,” Luke whispered, reaching a hand out.

“Hey baby,” she smiled, gripping his hand. “I’m back and kinda disappointed it took yall, this long.” She snorted.

Reggie tackled Julie in a hug, pushing her back onto the pile of pillows he had laid out. The girl laughed, gleefully accepting his affection.

Alex was next, pulling Reggie off and flopping onto Julie. He laughed in joy, taking in the fact she was here. Julie squeezed him as tight as she could, quietly thanking him.

“Thank you for holding me, before I died. I felt safe.” She whispered, looking at him. “I’m so sorry for what he did.”

“Don’t apologise, not for that. We should have known something was wrong.” Alex shook his head, kissing Julie’s cheek. “I’m so glad to see you.”

He stood up, helping Julie get onto her feet. She looked at Luke with warm eyes. She glanced at Alex and Reggie, who both nodded and disappeared.

“Come here.” She whispered, opening her arms.

Luke fell into her, burying his head into her neck, he broke down. Sobs wracked his body as he clung to her.

“I’m sorry, Julie. You don’t deserve this.” He cried, “you were meant to go on a world tour and then have a family and grow old! Not die before you’ve even lived.”

“Who says I haven’t lived?” Julie calmly asked.

“You’re not even 17 yet, and you’re like me-“

“Exactly.”

Luke pulled back and stared at her, tilting his head and sniffing.

“I’m dead, just like you.” She spoke slowly, “sure, I’ll never know what it’s like to have a baby, or to taste alcohol, legally. I’ll never get to sing at the Orpheum again or get to meet Carlos’ future partner. I won’t get to walk Flynn down the aisle, when she finally marries Carrie. But I get to spend eternity with the greatest love in my life. I’ll get to spend the rest of our days, making music with you, Alex and Reg. We’ll get to go off and experience wonderful things, from the other side.”

Her smile was genuine and contagious, her voice was confident and calm. There wasn’t a second that Luke doubted her words.

“My life was cut short, just like my mom's. I spent my teen years grieving my mother, I won’t spend my afterlife, grieving myself. I want to live, Luke. I want to make the most of this.”

“What about Bobby?”

That caught Julie off guard. Her smile slipped, she inhaled sharply and looked away from Luke.

“He can lie in whatever bed he made for himself. Before I woke up in the room, I saw him at Caleb’s club. He looked miserable, whatever he was offered, he isn’t getting it.” Julie shrugged. “I refuse to be angry at him, I just feel sorry for him. He’ll spend his eternity, stuck with Caleb, hopefully regretting ever harming me.”

Smiling for the first time in weeks, Luke cupped Julie’s cheek. Pulling her face towards his. Closing the distance between them, he pressed his lips against hers in a gentle and reassuring kiss. It was tender and passionate. In that moment, everything else faded away. As if the past month were erased.

Pulling back, he pressed his forehead against hers, his green eyes fluttering open to stare into the safety of her brown ones. He held his breath, unable to form words at the sparkle in her eyes.

“I should die more often,” she hoarsely spoke, letting out a breathless laugh.

***

Julie’s good mood had slipped away.  

The overwhelming grief and devastation coursing through her, was consuming.

She felt as if she were dying all over again. The thought of being dead, made her skin crawl with unease. She couldn’t comprehend why Bobby did it. What made her friend decide, murdering her was his only option.

They could have talked.

Sitting alone in her room, Julie pulled her knees to her chest and whimpered. She’d asked the guys for some space, needing time to process her new reality.

Everything she had said to Luke earlier, was true. She really would never know what it would be like to start her own family. She’d never get to sing at the Orpheum again or anywhere, for that matter.

She’ll never have the honour of teasing Carlos about his first love. She certainly isn’t walking Flynn down the aisle, like they always planned.

The entire life that Julie had dreamt of, was never going to be fulfilled. She had to grieve an entire future that wasn’t going to happen.

A future her mom helped her dream about.

How was she meant to hand the loss of all these potential experiences, milestones, and relationships that she’ll never see?

Shaking her head, she took a deep breath and wiped away her tears. Pulling herself off the floor, Julie made her way over to her mirror, looking at herself and plastering on a reassuring smile. Taking a moment to gather her thoughts, Julie allowed herself to breathe.

Her death did not mean her world had to end and Julie knew that.

She knew she would still get to enjoy the universe, side by side with Luke, Alex, Reggie and Willie. She would get to meet new ghosts, and maybe even find family who hadn’t crossed over.

“Hey, Julie, you doing alright?” Alex quietly asked, appearing behind her.

“I’ll be okay.” Julie nodded, looking at him. “I just wanted some time to process things.”

“It’ll get easier, eventually.” He wrapped an arm around her shoulders. “You family have been doing well. Reggie has kept a close eye on Carlos, even helped him prank your dad a few times.”

“I imagine they’ve been quite a duo.” She snorted. “Thank you, for keeping an eye on them.”

“Of course. Luke and your dad would sit and cry together, kind of wholesome and weird.” He chuckled. “I’m being serious right now; Ray would hold out his hand and Luke would drop tissues in it. They looked ridiculous.”

Julie laughed, the sound light and warm. She shook Alex gently, her sadness melting away.

“Let’s so play some music, I’ve missed it.”

***

Two months after Julie’s death, and the Molina’s were into their new routine.

Every day, Ray and Carlos would go for a walk before breakfast, they would take the time to talk about their thoughts and feelings. The time together had helped Carlos cope with the loss of his sister and it had helped Ray, understand his son's grief, as well as his own. They would come home to cook breakfast and, once school started back up, they would travel together.

Each night, they talk about their day, about what the other did. Carlos would get the whiteboard out and talk with Reggie, while Ray would listen to music and unwind for the day, taking time to journal and reflect.

After a while, they even found the courage to clean up Julie’s room, moving some of her belongings into the studio, in case she came back.

Even Julie had found a new routine.

She spent her time poofing around America, enjoying all the joys she never got to see while she was alive. The guys joined her most days, grateful to see her enjoying her new lease on life.

She’d spend her evening, writing music and dancing with the guys, learning to love her ability to phase through objects.

Julie had written letters to her family, letting them know she was home and okay. That she was watching over them and missing their conversations.

After a few weeks, she found the courage to deliver the letters to each person.

Starting with Flynn, who cried and cussed Julie out for taking so long to drop by.

Next was Carlos, who simply said ‘I knew it! I knew you’d come back!’. Before he cried and said ranted about how much he missed her.

Then there was her Tia Victoria, who thought it was a hoax, and made Carlos sleep over for the weekend, and help her wrap her head around the idea of ghosts.

Finally, her dad.

Ray sat and read the letter multiple times, before he and Julie held a long conversation, thanks to his iPad, about how she was going.

That made Julie laugh.

***

Four months in, and Julie was playing music again.

All the songs the band had written, since Julie passed, were now being performed and recorded, by the band.

Turns out they worked better as a four piece.

And what was even better than that?

People could still see them when they played together.

Julie now appeared like the guys did before. However, they now had the ability to stay visible for a varying amount of time, afterwards, allowing them the chance to interact with others around them. The longest they’d managed to get, was 30 minutes.

“You guys know what this means?” Luke grinned. “The bands back!”

“How is this even possible? Shouldn’t our visibility be gone, since Julie’s, uh-“ Alex paused.

“Dead? Expired? Deceased? No longer living?” She snorted. “What can I say, I’m magic,” She winked.

“I was going to say it nicer than that.” Alex flushed.

“Somebody finds humour in her death.” Reggie rolled his eyes. “I don’t see anything funny about dying young.” He pouted.

“Yeah, but I was murdered!”

“Exactly, you were murdered, and you still laugh about it. How?!”

“If I don’t laugh; I’ll cry.” She shrugged, kicking her feet into his lap. “How did you die again, Reginald?”

“Tainted hotdogs…” He mumbled.

Julie burst out laughing, slapping her stomach at her friends' stares.

“Yeah, if I can laugh about my death, you can laugh at yours.”

Luke silenced her giggles by leaning down and placing a kiss on her lips, teeth tugging at her bottom lip as he pulled away.

***

It was six months in, that she finally found the courage, to track Bobby down.

At first, she only told Willie about her plan, claiming it was to protect the guys from being hurt.

Reality was, Julie was terrified.

She had no idea how she was going to react, when she finally saw him again.

Shaking her hands out, she stood outside the studio nervously. It was going to be easy, just walk in, explain her idea, and then poof out.

Nothing was ever easy, with those three.

“No, no way, are you going into that festering pit of filth.” Alex spat, “Caleb would probably kill you, again, if he saw you in there!”

“That festering pit was once my home…” Willie fake sulked, crossing his arms. “But he’s right, Julie. Bobby is probably so far up Caleb’s ass, that he won’t even care if you’re there.”

“Boss, he didn’t even care when you were his best friend, let alone now.” Luke touched Julie’s arm, eyes piercing into hers. “I don’t think you should go.”

“I understand, and value, where you guys are coming from. But I need to do this. I need that closure. I feel like I’m always looking over my shoulder, waiting for him to come and finish me off.” Julie spoke, “and yes, I am aware I can’t die again. But I also remember feeling incredibly safe, while drinking poison from my own water bottle.”

“I think it’s a great idea.” Reggie spoke up. “Julie deserves closure, we all do. If seeing Bobby again, gives her that; then I think we should go.”

“We? I never said we!” Julie gasped. “You guys can’t come, Caleb already tried to kill you guys once. It took us weeks, and an Orpheum performance, to save your asses. I cannot risk it.”

“Julie, wherever you go, we go. We’re a packaged deal now.” Alex spoke confidently.

“Fine, but if any of you see Caleb, poof outta there and send a signal somehow.”

“Make her neck tingle, she hates it-“

“Luke!” Julie snapped, pinching him. “Shut it or I tell them about the thing.”

“You wouldn’t dare.” Luke challenged.

“What’s the thing?” Willie asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Basically-“

“Lalala! They can’t hear you!” Luke loudly spoke, covering Julie’s mouth, cringing as she started nipping at his skin. “You’re feral this afternoon, you know that?”

Shrugging, Julie pushed Luke’s hand away and grinned. She stood up and stretched, stepping over to her piano and pressing a few keys down. Shaking her head, she picked up her microphone.

“Before we leave, fancy playing a song?” She grinned. “I’m thinking, ‘Better than Revenge’.” 

Poofing into position, the band all looked at each other.

“Now go stand in the corner and think, about what you did.” Julie spoke, winking at Alex as he started to play.

***

The Hollywood Ghost Club.

Hollywood’s finest establishment for high end parties, entertainment and events.

Only the richest of the rich attended these events.

And the dead.

Straightening her dress, Julie twisted her foot around, trying to break in the heels she was currently trapped in.

“When I said we should come pay Bobby a visit, I didn’t mean stay and watch the show.” She whined.

Julie was currently trapped in a floor length, tight fitting black dress, with large red roses printed all over. Her hair was pinned up, allowing her to slightly disguise her signature curls.

The guys were all dressed in simple suits, Luke grumbling the whole time about wearing long, tight fitting, sleeves.

“We need to blend in, at least until Bobby’s slot is over.” Willie glanced at her. “You look beautiful, by the way.”

Linking arms with Alex, Willie lead them in. Reggie followed behind, glancing back at Julie and Luke with a nervous expression.

“You don’t have to go in.” Julie reassured, linking her arm with Luke’s.

“I just don’t want you getting hurt again.” He whispered.

“And I won’t. I have you guys.” Julie replied, shooting him a comforting look.

Walking forward, Julie squeezed Luke’s arm, straightening her back and holding her chin up. It only took a few minutes of walking, to find the secret passage into the Ghost Club. Willie and Alex stepped in first; followed by Reggie.

“It’s show time,” She whispered, following Luke as they stepped into Caleb’s world.

Squinty, Julie held her hand over her eyes. The room was bright, gold detailing coloured the entire area.

“Woah,” Julie whistled. “I can see why you guys abandoned me at the school dance. This place is a lot nicer than a school gym.” She snorted, nervously squeezing Luke’s arm again.

The sound of a guitar playing, caught their attention. Stepping towards the balcony, they stared down at Bobby.

He looked exhausted, deep bags settled under his eyes, the music he was playing was unlike anything he’d ever written before.

Standing along side him, was Caleb himself.

The older ghost looked cheerful as ever, dancing around and interacting with the crowd. As the song drew to an end, Bobby tiredly walked off stage, feet dragging as he left.

“Thank you, thank you. Trevor Wilson, everybody!” Caleb clapped. “Please eat, enjoy the entertainment, before the real show starts!” He poofed out, causing the newest guests to gasp.

“That, is what all the hype is about?” Julie snorted. “This looks like a high school talent show, just with teleportation.”

“It’s pretty addicting, when you don’t know the guy running the show is evil.” Reggie defended.

Sneaking around the crowd, Willie leads them toward the dressing rooms. He waved at a few familiar faces, all of whom nodded at him, without so much as looking concerned about his arrival.

“Everybody who still works here, hates Caleb. After they found out about what he was doing to ghosts who didn’t agree with him, they felt betrayed.” Willie explained, pushing open a door. “This room was meant to be for the entirety, of Sunset Curve. Go figure Caleb would give it to Bobby.”

Stepping inside, Julie took a couple deep breathes, thinking about what she wanted to say to Bobby.

“We can go at any point.” Luke whispered, kissing her temple. “Say the word and I will have us home in a heartbeat.”

Quietly thanking him, she waited. Her hand tightening when she heard footsteps approaching. Nodding at Luke, he moved into the shadows, followed by the other three. Julie walked over and positioned herself straight in view of the door.

When the door opened, Bobby walked in and flicked on the lights keeping his head down. 

Julie's heart pounded in her chest as she stood face to face with Bobby, the coward who had taken her life away from her. The room felt suffocating, a heavy weight pressed down on her. She knew this was her only chance to confront him, to try and understand why he had done it.

“Why, Bobby? Why did you do it?” Julie spoke up, leaning against the vanity. “You took, everything from me, Bobby. You took my future, my dreams, and for what? What have you got now, that you couldn’t have had, without killing me? Because, from where I’m standing, you’re a lot worse off than before.” Julie crossed her arms. 

“J-Julie, I’m so sorry-“ Bobby nervously shifted his feet, avoiding her gaze.

“You don’t get to say sorry.” Luke snapped, Julie held her hand up, shaking her head. 

“Why?” Julie pleaded, hope in her eyes. “Give me any indication; that you had no other choice.” 

Bobby glanced at the ground, shaking his head weakly. Tears strung Julie’s eyes, she scoffed as she looked away, desperate to keep them from falling. 

“I wanted to be a solo artist! Caleb offered me that, and I needed it.” Bobby gasped, finally looking at her. 

Anger burned in Julie stomach. For the first time since her death, she felt nothing but rage. 

“Bobby, I trusted you. I thought we were friends, family. Yet, you killed me, to become what? Caleb’s little bitch. How’s that working out for you, Trevor?”

“I’m not his little bitch,“ Bobby seethed. 

“Huh, really? It looks to me, and I could be wrong, so please do correct me. But you do everything he says, you play for his little band, and you sing his little songs. So, tell me. Am. I. Wrong!” Julie stepped forward, fisting Bobby’s suit. Her knuckles white with rage. 

“You don’t know, what it’s like, to always be in the shadows of your friends! I deserved to be the front man! Not Luke’s backup in the 90’s, and not your backup in the 20’s.” 

“There it is.” Reggie crossed his arms. 

“Of course, you’re still as selfish as before.” Alex scoffed. 

The rage that coursed through Julie, could be felt by everyone in the room. 

Lights started flickering as she spoke.

“I came here, wanting to find closure, to maybe even find out if you regretted it.” She started walking them backwards. “I want nothing more, than to destroy you.” She seethed. 

Dying had given Julie a strength that was not humanly possible. As she shoved Bobby against the wall, her voice dropped low and cold. 

“While destroying you would be incredibly satisfying in the moment, the idea of you, being stuck her, for eternity? That’s a fate worse than death.” She whispered, lips brushing against Bobby’s ear. “I hope you enjoy your solo career, Trevor Wilson.” 

With that, she gripped his jaw and with all her force and threw his head back against the wall. Everyone gasped in shock at the violent act. 

Nobody moved to help Bobby. 

He cried in agony, his eyes desperately looking at Julie. 

“Please,” he whispered. “Forgive me. Help me. I’ll do anything-“

Julie turned her back on him, holding her hand out for Luke to grab. He shot to his feet, wrapping his arms around her. He felt her rage melt away, and her fear settling in. 

“Take me home.” She whispered, tears rolling down her cheeks. 

***

Quietly, everyone cuddled around Julie inside the studio, nobody spoke as she silently cried, her emotions taking a toll on her. Luke cradled Julie with so much love and affection, that she felt as if she could sleep.

Alex and Reggie both have Julie their comfort items. Alex’s was his pink hoodie, a crowed favourite among the phantoms. Reggie handed over his favourite pair of slippers.

Formally Julie’s “monster feet” slippers.

Willie dug through the drawer full of Luke’s clothes and passed a pair of Luke’s sweatpants towards Julie.

Luke helped her get changed into the items, tossing his orange beanie on her head, once she was all rugged up.

“We should let the others know we’re safe and alive.” Julie quietly spoke, glancing at the others. Willie and Alex poofed out without a word.

***

They did a mini performance of ‘Now or Never’, allowing Julie to sing a few words to give them viability. Now that they could stay viable for a short while after playing, they used the time to fill everyone in.

”And Julie was like ‘Bam!’ and Bobby cried!” Reggie explained, watching Carlos, Ray and Flynn with excited eyes.

Luke held Julie’s frame tightly, tender kisses were planted along her face, neck and hairline. He gently ran his fingers along her body, the touch grounding and soothing her.

“You go girl! He deserved it.” Flynn cheered, Ray nodded his head, proud of his daughter.

“I hated doing it. I’ve never felt that way before, and I never wanna feel it again.” She sighed, looking at her dad. “I wish I could hug you.” She whispered.

"Why don't we try?" Carlos asked.

"Bro, a ghost hug isn't the feel good moment you think it is," Luke snorted. "Trust me, we would know." 

Rolling his eyes, Carlos glanced at his sister, before handing Ray a weighted blanket. Nodding at the idea, Ray stood up and gently laid the item over Julie, the weight made Julie tear up.

“It’s not a hug, but if you imagine it-“

“It’s perfect,” Julie cut Carlos off, closing her eyes. “I love you guys.”

For the first time in six months, Julie felt peaceful.

Ray gently patted the blanket, allowing Julie to feel his loving touch. She opened her eyes and smiled at her dad, appreciating his affections.

Humming quietly, Luke nuzzled his nose into Julie’s hair, smiling as he felt her wiggle closer to him.

“Now what?” Carlos asked, breaking the silence. “Do you want to release your music? We could spin a story about how dad and I were so devastated by your death-“

“Carlos!” Ray hissed.

“No, let him talk.” Julie sat up, glancing at Luke.

“We CGI’d you into the holograms, and we have heaps of unreleased songs? Or we could make up a story, about how you didn’t die, and-“

“Woah buddy let’s not get ahead of ourselves. I can’t even work out the hologram shtick, let alone CGI.” Ray frowned.

“Dad? You do realise you won’t actually have to use CGI? Because I’m like, dead? Therefor, I can poof in and out as need be.” She laughed, mood picking up.

“Right, right mija.” He laughed, shaking his head. “Well, we should get to bed, Carlos, and Flynn, have school in the morning.” Ray stood, ushering the living teenager to stand.

“Can’t relate.” Julie smirked, watching Flynn flip her off.

“Shut up, at least I’m not buried six feet under.” Flynn rolled her eyes.

“Touché my friend.”

Saying goodnight, the three lifers walked out of the studio, leaving the phantoms alone.

“Are you feeling better?” Alex asked, moving towards where Julie was sitting. “Or could you go for another band cuddle?”

“I could always go for a cuddle.” Julie opened her arms, allowing Alex to join her and Luke on the pillow pile Reggie had made for Julie.

Belly flopping onto them all, Reggie cheered, happy to see Julie smiling.

“Hey Julie?” He asked.

“Yeah Reggie?”

“Can I ask you something, it’s been bugging me.” He continued.

“Sure?” She frowned.

“What’s the thing?”

“Son of a bitch.” Luke groaned, throwing his head back.

Julie’s laughs filled the studio.