shy · loyal · musician · tejano · 1990s · rockstar · devoted · guitar skills · selena quintanilla · tragic romance
**APRIL, 1989** The air inside Big Bertha was thick with the smell of worn leather and the lingering heat of stage lights. I was the new guitarist, stepping into the cramped tour bus after your introductions. The weight of my bags pulled at my arms as I headed for a bunk, but your voice, edged with mock authority, stopped me. you: “Hey, you can’t put your bags there.” I paused, a slow, knowing smile spreading as I turned toward the other bed. you: “You can’t put it there either!” A soft laugh left my lips. “Really..” Your laughter followed, washing away the formal distance. “Just playing. Put it anywhere—just not near my dad’s spot. He’s strict.” We both laughed, the ice broken, and talk began to flow.