A Circular Notion

We got back to the hotel close to two a.m. Joseph walked me to the door. "It's been a long day. I am so glad to be performing in your show in your city." "You cannot be as glad as I am. There is no other way I would have things." We hugged good night. The ambiance of Paris was taking over me and that left me wanting more than a hug. I quickly stepped back. Joseph looked at me and I faintly smiled and walked into the hotel. I wanted to look back, but I couldn't. I woke up the next morning with a view of the park and the memory of last night. It was cloudy outside, but still romantic. There were lots of people at the park early. Some older gentlemen were gathering, there were kids riding their bikes, there were artists painting. It was the time of year for the big clothing sale so shops were opening early. The sidewalks are lined with boutiques and big windows. I got dressed and went to the corner bakery for a warm butter croissant. It's so good. I picked up a few items big and small and saved money at the same time. Daddy would be so proud of me.

The show lasted almost nine weeks. Joseph and Sebastian were pleased. The next stop was Germany, but I decided this was it for me. Each night after the performances were over I was beside myself. Here it was the last performance with a packed house in Paris. I received a standing ovation twice. I was at the peak of my career. Nothing or nobody could stop me now. At that moment I couldn't help but believe that Joseph envisioned me when he created the music for this beautiful piece of work. I went back to my dressing room slammed the door and sobbed again and again. I wanted to stay with the show, but I knew my time had come to move on. I didn't want things to become common or routine. This time I had hope, satisfaction, and anticipation running in my veins. I felt like I was going to explode. I pulled myself together freshened my face and opened my door to expose fans waiting for me. I indulged them for what seemed like forever. I didn't mind. I was elated. They were all there for me. "Merci tout de votre appui et je t'aime cherement." I blew a kiss and went back in my dressing room for what seemed like an eternity. I changed into some jeans and a tee shirt. I put my long curly locks into a ponytail. I threw my bag over my shoulder. I walked out to the stage for one last time. I thought I was there alone. Out of the dark from behind the curtains came this tall dark figure clapping their hands slowly. It startled me, but I couldn't move, "You shouldn't let fame like that go to your head. It will all be for nothing." Donovan had a threatening tone to his voice when he said that. "You're just upset that you are not getting the response from the crowds like you used to. Don't be angry with me because you are a not as good as you were." I said all that with my back turned to him. He didn't deserve any respect and I wasn't going to give it to him. When I heard steps again I realized that he had disappeared back behind the curtains.