Page 72 of And Still Her Voice
“Did you enjoy what the Swami had to say?”
“I sure did. It’s been a magical night of music and words.”
“Indeed. Enchanting,” Grandma added.
“Where did you learn such sounds?” I asked.
“India. As a matter of fact, as soon as I spend some time recording here in New York, I’m headed back to finish up a new album. You should make the trip.”
India?
***
A red light blinked on the phone as soon as I walked into my hotel room. River had left a message. I dialed him back immediately. He picked up on the first ring.
“River! Thank God!”
“Honey, is everything okay?”
“My dad’s dead.” I choked on my tears. “He shot himself. The family wants me home for the funeral, but I’m not going.”
“Oh, Honey. Of course, you have to go home. Tell me what happened.”
I stifled tears. “I’m not sure. I haven’t processed everything. I really miss you.”
“I miss you, too. When you’re ready. I’m here for you.”
“You’d really love New York. The band is on a hiatus until early next year. It’s a good thing, because I just need a break from everything.” I filled him in on what took place after he left me and how I’d met the Swami. “And then you’ll never guess who I met. You’ll never guess. Call it synchronicity, karma, whatever. I stumbled into this yoga place over on the West End. And there was this beautiful Black woman on stage, playing the piano and then the harp. John Coltrane’s wife.”
“Get out! Alice Coltrane?”
“Can you believe it? And you’ll never believe, she’s a follower of the Swami and she introduced him to me tonight.”
“Wait, she introduced you totheSwami?”
“Yes. And her music—it’s out of this world and she’s working on an album right here in New York. She’s so nice. She said I must make it to India. Isn’t that what we talked about? Oh, River, I so wish you were here with me. Come with me to India!”
“Well, first of all, take a breath. You need to go to your father’s funeral.”
“But I think finding the Swami is a sign. I need to go to India.”
“India will always be there.”
I didn’t want to argue. “You’re right, River. Enough about me. How are you? What’s it like knowing your father? How is the rest of the family? How are your shows?”
“Sounds like I’m missing out, but getting to know my family has been a trip. My father introduced me around so I’ve gotten some work. I know New York’s a little more liberal than down here, and someday I’ll end up there, but right now it’s a little too cold for my blood. Speaking of real or not, how’s Grandma handling all this?”
“Pretty quiet since we got the news about Dad. I think her job is done and she’s finally leaving me alone. She says there’s nothing left for her at home anymore.”
“But there’s plenty left for you at home. You still have family.”
“I’ve made family and a home on the road. River, I miss you.”
After we said goodbye, I lay back with the phone receiver to my heart. The off-the-hook beeping sound gave me the sense I’d always stay connected to those I loved.
BOOK TWO
CHAPTER 26
