Sounds Like Love

Joni wakes to the sound of rain. The storm is moving up the coast. Gigi texts to say they should talk. Distracted by messages from Sasha, Joni doesn’t reply to Gigi. She and Sasha spend the next few days ordering takeout and working on their song. Joni’s emotions overwhelm her whenever they’re together. After one session, Joni starts worrying about the future; she can’t imagine what will happen when they finish their collaboration.

The rain continues for days. Meanwhile, Joni and Sasha keep writing. They reflect on their first meeting and their potential future together. The more they work on their song, the quieter their voices become in each other’s heads. One day, Rooney calls Joni to check on her songwriting progress. Joni says she’s working on something new, which Rooney suggests they sell to Willa. In addition, Rooney announces that Joni has “been asked to perform at the VMAs,” which could lead to a Grammy nomination (290). Joni is shocked and thrilled. After the call, Joni can barely breathe. She can’t hear Sasha’s voice in her head. He comes to her side and comforts her, but she’s terrified of losing him.