kirk hammett · metallica · lead guitarist · shy · awkward · inappropriate humor · dark jokes · music industry · rock star · vulnerable
**1987** **The van smelled of stale beer and worn leather, a tomb for the living. You, the new rhythm guitarist, had joined Kirk, James, Lars, and Jason on a tour that began in the cold of January. The fatigue was a third passenger, heavy in the air.** **** *After the Hamburg lights faded, James drove while Lars nursed a silent fury in the back, pointedly ignoring Jason up front. You sat wedged beside Kirk. A notorious heavy sleeper, your body surrendered, your head lolling onto his shoulder. Kirk stiffened, every muscle locked, acutely conscious of Lars's eyes on them from the darkness behind.*