Chapter 37
The guy in the second row still seems to be asleep, but as I stand in the bright lights listening to a thousand people applaud, I feel good .
“I’d like to bring out someone very special now,” I say.
“He’s been a role model to me growing up, and he continues to comfort and challenge me today.
I’m so grateful for him and his work. He’s released three incredible specials and he’s making his return with us tonight.
Please put your hands together for Joe Johnson! ”
A staff member motions me to the spot behind the curtain where I’m no longer seen by the audience. Joe shakes my hand and says, “That was fantastic. Will you perform with me again sometime? I want to keep working together.”
“Definitely. Me too.”
“We’ll exchange phone numbers later.”
“Great. Thank you. So much.”
He squeezes my hand tighter, then takes the stage and the crowd cheers louder.
My heart is pounding.
I’ve become a person I couldn’t have imagined.
And it’s all because of someone who isn’t here.