I probably can, but not my thing. Sex is a bit intimate for me. I don’t need any more pity sex. I’ve had a few of that in my life already. My focus now is this program that I’m trying to get off the ground with Jordan and Lande DeMoore’s help.
It doesn’t help that my heart races every time I see Uncle Dan. He seems to show up for every lesson and finds something to say to me.
“Have you thought about letting Cara in the event?” I give the same answer.
“Nice blouse, that color looks good on you.” Thanks.
“Will you be teaching Cara this weekend?” No.
And you forget how we started making sure we are well dressed and looking good because of him?
Be quiet,I chastise my bad angel. I’m always well dressed.
True but we triple check because of him.
And on and on he goes. Jordan always snickers whenever he sees us talking, like he knows something that I don’t know.
“I think that white boy likes you, MAK.” He teases
“I don’t think so, he’s just being polite and wants his niece to perform in the event.”
"That might be his excuse, but his eyes tell a different story – he likes you," he pokes.
“Whatever.” I smirk
“You know, his idea of all the kids might not be a bad idea.”
“We might need to set the stage larger, so it can accommodate more kids.”
“I think you should let Andrea and Lande know now.”
I nod, but the idea that Daniel might like me lingers. My heart smiles, knowing I like the thought of it. Though I can’t picture us, he gives the vibe of someone that commands a room while I like to stay in the shadows and let my work speak.
Chapter 10
Daniel
We all take our seats. The moment is finally here, after days and weeks of music practice. We have all dressed up for the night. I take my seat next to Declan and Anne. The twins have a cold, so Luke and Dele can’t make it. Bruce and I don’t have dates, which is exactly how I want it.
The host comes on stage.
“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. I’ll be your host. We thank you for purchasing the tickets and we hope you have a great time with us tonight. But first let me introduce our sponsor and the woman who organized tonight. Ms Olamide.” A loud applause goes up.
Mrs DeMoore comes right out, smiling beautifully and looking regal in a gold dress. “Thank you all for that warm welcome. My name is Lande Sawyer.”
The uproar of “Excuse you” in a deep growl is fast.
“He always falls for that one,” she says, smiling. The room erupts in laughter. “Let’s keep my husband’s wallet open and I stand corrected; my name is Lande DeMoore and I’m verygrateful and thankful that you’re all here to support this music program that is very dear to me and the children that will perform for you tonight. Music isn’t just good for the soul; it also helps in so many ways. The children in this program come from all walks of life and music is one thing they share, it’s their universal language with a positive impact in their lives. This program is going to provide instruments and teachers to help children learn music despite their background. Why don’t you watch them perform and see how beautifully they lift your spirit? Please, hold your applause until they are finished.”
She steps off the stage, and the curtain opens with the kids and Cole A. Then, Ms K steps onto the stage, wearing a black pant suit and her hair covered in a black scarf. She signals and the kids start to play their instrument and Jordan joins them. The performance lasts for about fifteen minutes, with them playing different songs and Jordan singing along with them. The moment they are done, they get a standing ovation from everyone in the room. Miss K steps aside and Jordan takes a bow with the kids before clapping for them.
Lande comes back on stage. “Did they lift your spirit or what?” she asks excitedly.
A loud applause was the answer to the question. “I should inform you that the songs they played tonight are originals all written and composed by the program director Ms K. Tonight is the first time they are playing these songs. They will be on Cole A’s next album, and all proceeds from the song will go to the program and possibly expand the program in more communities. We hope Miss K will continue to teach these beautiful children, so please, when the time comes, kindly give generously. The children will play one more song before the auction begins.”
The applause is loud again as she steps off and the children take their positions on stage. It takes a moment for Ms K to stepon stage but the moment she does and they start playing, the room is mesmerized by the music. Our eyes and ears are glued to the stage. As the instrument and Jordan's voice harmonize, the music pierces its way into our spirit and moves us. No one can look away for even a second. When they are finished, the room applauds on their feet. My niece beams with happiness on stage as I notice my sister sitting at a table with her ex and some parents, cheering loudly. I notice a few people getting teary, but Ms K’s wide smile and the joy it radiates and roots me in place. I want that smile every day for me.
Music is her passion, and it's what she lives for. As the applause thundered around us, our eyes meet, and her radiant smile sends a wave of joy washing over my heart.
