Page 14 of Unexpected Adventures

“She’s shy,” Denise mimics a whisper, only she’s basically shouting it out over the music.

Sherri places her hand on my arm in comfort. “It’s all in fun. Just go for it!”

Hmmm… didn’t I just think the same thing?

I nervously eye her, then Denise, then Shaun. He winks before taking my hand, practically pulling me toward the stage. “Let’s go, hot shot. We can do this.”

I chug my beer, handing off the empty bottle to an unknown woman in passing. Yeah, I think, we can do this. If only Sylvia could see me now.

We step onto the platform as I see Denise typing on the laptop. Obviously, she’s choosing our song, so this’ll be a nice surprise. She backs away, joining Sherri and Jim in the crowd. So much for accompanying me in that duet… she’s going to pass that one off to Shaun.

I stand still, close to Shaun’s side as the music begins. It takes only a moment to recognize the song. Question is, will Shaun?

Yes, yes he will. He pleasantly surprises me as he begins to sing Kenny Rogers’s lines from “Islands in the Stream”. So, we’re going old school with this song choice. It’s obvious he’s done this before as he doesn’t even need to look at the TVs for help. His gaze is locked on me.But I break his stare and nervously scan the crowd.

Wrong move.

The entire room is watching our performance, swaying, many mouthing the words as well. Okay, maybe this won’t be so bad after all. But as soon as it’s my turn to join in, my gut clenches, my skin prickles, and I feel a little dizzy. I begin to sing, barely audibly, yet no one seems to mind. The music is going strong and Shaun slips his hand into mine, offering comfort and fortitude. My voice grows stronger, and before I know it, I’m belting it out like a pro alongside my handsome partner.

As the song ends, Shaun smiles at me before leaning in to kiss my cheek and whisper, “See, we did it.”

I smile in return. “Yes, we did.” I try to make my way off the stage, only to have Denise block me.

“You’re still up.” She grins, taking Shaun’s arm and pushing him towards his sister.Before I can protest, more music starts, and Denise remains at my side. Again, I recognize the song right away.

Do I love music? Yes, I do. From 40’s swing through today’s hits, there’s not much I won’t listen to.

It’s “Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys––the Inferno version, with Nicki Minaj––which Denise does flawlessly despite being more than a bit tipsy. At one point during the song, my vision connects with Shaun, and sees what I think is admiration reflecting on his face. It boosts me even more. By the time the song ends, everyone’s clapping, yelling for more.

Do I feel elated? Sure. Am I ready to give them more? Not on your life. My insides are quaking, my mouth feels pasty, and my hands, along with a few other places, are damp from sweat.

We make our way down, joining our group of Shaun, Sherri, Jeff, and Jim. Shaun hands me a bottle of water, while Jim hands Denise a blended margarita.

“Thanks,” I say to Shaun.

“Denise was absolutely correct. You were terrific!” Sherri compliments. “You can grace our stage any time.”

“Thanks.” I blush. “But that was plenty.”

“See,” Denise goads, hugging me from the side.

“Why were you doubting your skills?” Shaun asks. “You were great.”

“Thanks. You weren’t so bad yourself.” I’m barely able to lift my hand without it shaking. My nerves are so frazzled as the adrenaline is still rushing through me. “You’ve obviously done that before.”

He grins. “Yes. I don’t think I’ve been to one of her parties that does not include karaoke.”

“It’s her secret passion, her dream,” Jeff speaks up. “Singing on stage in front of Blake Shelton and Adam Levine forThe Voice.”

My eyes perk up in surprise and delight. “Right?!” I squeal before I have a chance to rein it in. I quickly drop my head as Shaun grins at me, raising his eyebrows, knowing I just gave away one of my secrets too. I manage to drain the water bottle and turn to Denise. “What about a duet from you and Jim?”

Denise giggles as Jim shakes his head before saying, “Oh, I’m afraid this guy is no match for anyone here. Trust me, you don’t want to experience any attempt of mine at singing.”

“Unfortunately, true,” Denise adds. “We’ll leave him to his expertise in his executive role.”

“I’ll second that,” Sherri says, raising her drink. “Sorry,boss.”

“It’s quite all right.”

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