Chapter 9
9
People
A representative from Ella Simone’s communications team has released the following statement regarding recent headlines.
“Amid the backstage chaos at last night’s Grammy awards ceremony, Ella Simone experienced an unfortunate wardrobe malfunction just moments before she was set to appear onstage to co-present the award for R&B Song of the Year. Ms. Simone and her style team are grateful to Mr. Westbrook for his generous assistance, with only seconds to spare, as the pair prepared to carry out their presenting duties. Mr. Westbrook and Ms. Simone look forward to collaborating again in the near future to benefit the Evelyn Foundation for Women and Girls.”
Update: People received a reply from Miles Westbrook’s representatives following publishing the above statement. “We echo and appreciate the comments made by Ms. Simone’s team. Mr. Westbrook remains a fan of her music and looks forward to their future collaboration.”
From: [email protected]
Date: February 5, 2023
I’ve tried you several times to no avail. I suppose life is busy for you. It always is. But I’d think you’d take five minutes to answer a call from the woman who birthed you. I suppose it’s all neither here nor there.
I wanted to ask you why my darling son-in-law didn’t accompany you on the red carpet last night? Imagine my surprise when I turned on the television, eager to see what loud getup that stylist of yours had picked out for you this time, only to discover you sashaying down the line…alone. A married woman! I was surprised to say the least.
The performance was tasteful. You’ve always aspired to be like Mariah, so it’s fitting that they gave you the tribute. I wasn’t sure it was the best pairing, you and that Ariana girl. She has such a dynamic range that one. Such vocal agility. I must say, I was deeply disturbed by the whole presentation with the tall athlete. He is handsome, of course. But what was with the wrinkled shirt on you? Are pants offensive to you these days? A skirt even would have been a nice alternative to nothing at all. Regardless, your legs looked nice and toned. Compliments to your trainer.
And what was with that bizarre interaction between you and sweet Elliot onstage? I’ve gotten several texts from cousins inquiring about trouble in paradise. I get the feeling the two of you have been fighting again. That is a problem. The challenges of a marriage should never be displayed on Front Street. Elliot called me last week to check in. How kind of him.
Anyway, since you haven’t answered, I suppose I’ve run out of things to say in this one-way dialogue. Call me when you can.
Mother