“Are you kidding? Every woman here was jealous. You two looked adorable.”
“Well, folks,” Adam announced. “It’s time for the big send-off.” With that, the band started playing Adam’s favorite bar-closing song — one that always ended up with nearly everyone in the bar doing a horrendous imitation of the Rockettes. “Start spreading the news / I’m leavin’ today / I want to be a part of it / New York, New York,” he sang.
When the song was over, the audience erupted. The Swing Daddies had put on one entertaining show, filled with music, jokes, dancing, romance, and panache. As the band exited the stage, they headed toward the dressing room. Once inside, it was complete jubilation. Rounds of high-fives and hugs were plentiful. By arrangement, the first people to arrive in the cramped dressing room were Eunice and her nurse. The show had brought back some strength and color to Eunice.
“Come here,” she said to Adam, outstretching her arms. She could see that Adam was hesitant about hugging her. “Don’t worry, you won’t hurt me. Now give me a damn hug.” Adam bent down and hugged her. Eunice wasn’t about to let go. “You boys were so wonderful. You’re even more talented than I thought. The range of your voice is fantastic…amazing, really. You’re better than most of the singers I’ve ever worked with. I’m so proud of you…and the way you worked that crowd, you’re a true showman. Where’s that girlfriend of yours? She’s perfect for you, just like I said,” Eunice beamed, with an I-told-you-so smile.
“She’s not my girlfriend.”
“Bullshit she’s not! You’re made for each other. Put your damn guard down. I’m not dying until you admit she’s your girlfriend.”
“Then I’ll never admit it.”
“Okay, if you promise to admit, I’ll promise not to die.”
“I hope she becomes my girlfriend. How’s that?”
“It’s good for starters.” Eunice then turned to Jeff. “You’ve got a great group here. Just like I told you you would.”
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