“Okay, but the band practice is not listed on the community center website.”
“It’s a program Ms K is running alone. She said she will keep it going, but if it doesn't raise the funds needed, then she won’t repeat it, and she might leave Chicago.”
What!?
“Why would she leave if the program doesn’t succeed?”
“I don’t know, but she said, if she doesn't raise the money needed then there’s no need for her to be here.”
I nod. Guess I need to find out how much she needs for her to stay.
We pull up at the center and Cara can barely wait for the car to be in park to jump right out. I see other kids running towards the door as well, each child hauling their instrument with them. I follow the herd, and we go past the boys playing volleyball and open a door that leads into a narrow path, down a stairway and into a spacious room that’s louder with kids and a few adults moving stuff around. There are lots of musical instruments.
I watch as parents go to speak with Ms K and she acknowledges each of the kids with a smile. Some hug her, while others offered fist bumps or high fives as they moved to their respective places. She’s wearing an oversize silk shirt and skinny jeans, stud earrings with light make up, but it’s clear this is her territory despite how casual and beautiful she looks. Cara races to hug her as another kid gives her a fist bump before moving on. Most of the parents turn and leave, waving at the kids. Not only do I feel overdressed, I also feel out of place. I move closer to MsK, her glossy lips are calling me for a taste and my nostril catches that same scent she wore at the wedding.
“Hi,” I say, putting my hand for a handshake. She looks at me, surprised, but takes my hand anyway. Her hand is warm and soft, her handshake firm, just as I would have expected, only I feel it again.Damn it
“Hello, Uncle Dan. Thanks for bringing Cara.” Her smile is bright and beautiful. She drops my hand, and I miss the feel and tenderness of her touch.Control,I mentally mantra to the guy below.
“Just Dan.” I smile. “Happy to step in when my sister is sick.”
She nods.
“Hope she gets better soon. The practice will be over at six, but I always request parents get here by 5.50 pm so they can hear the instructions for the kids.” she states.
“I’ll just wait.”
She looks at me, surprised.
“You want to hear the kids out of tune instruments?”
“I get to see the behind the scenes and I also want to talk to you about Cara and her summer schedule,” I say just as more kids fist bump and high five her, moving around us.
“I can’t change the rules for Cara, if she takes the time off, I will replace her with someone else on my wait list.” I hear the firm tone.
“I’m sure there’s something we can work out.”
“I doubt that.” She smiles but her tone is stern.
Before I can counter, the room bursts into a loud roar of excitement. I look around to see what caused the uproar and I see a tall black guy in all black clothing, black Tee, cargo shorts and dark shades that he removes. The kids are excited at seeing this guy. I look for Cara, and she's practically glowing with happiness.
Who’s this guy?He comes straight to Ms K and pulls her into a bear hug. Every hair on my body stands. I dislike him instantly. Then, he tries to kiss her, which she avoids and pushes him away. I hear her say “I have no idea where that mouth was last night on Andrea” in a hush tone.
A woman I didn’t notice before comes forward to hug her as well. “Did he try to kiss you?” she asks Ms. K quietly.
“Yep, and like I told him, I have no idea where his mouth was on your body last night,” she replies quietly with an eye roll.
“Girl, it was everywhere, and I enjoyed it,” she says with a grin as Ms K rolls her eyes at her. “He’s still betting on your extra quick reflex, only a man you grant the will to kiss you can get a kiss. No matter how fast some may try.” the woman says. Sounds like trying to kiss Ms K is a bet, that I fucking dislike. “I brought the dresses. I need you to try them, then we can pick which one will bethe dress.” The woman says
“Great, the dress to auction me off.” She doesn’t sound happy about the auction.
“Girl, you are our prized mare on display. I’m going to leave the dresses in your office.” The lady teases, earning a smack from Ms K.
“Go away, I don’t like you anymore.” The lady who I’m guessing is Andrea, laughs.
The guy goes to fist bump the kids. I stand there, watching. I’m not done and I’m not leaving. Just then a loud bell rings, and I watch in amazement as the kids move to their places and pick up their instrument. The Andrea lady turns on her heels towards the door. I look lost, all eyes are on me.
Ms K moves closer to me. “You must leave and wait outside now,” she whispers.
