The Odds of Winning

Didn't we almost win it all?

Albany, New York
January, 1983

"And that concludes our awards today, but before we go there's something very special that I'd like to announce." The host cleared his throat as a slide show in the back popped up.

"Now, due to this exciting new start of a decade our sponsors have decided to host a contest with all you lucky singer. He or she will win this luxurious house in lower Manhattan." 

He clicked a button on the remote to show a large beautifully constructed white brick house. "Which is a three story home, with three bathrooms, eight bedrooms, a recording studio and so much more. In order to enter you need to purchase these!" He pulled out a white blank piece of paper. 

"There are two things printed on these. Nothing or the words that indicate your winning. You'll be able to purchase anywhere at an unlimited amount. This only applies if you're a musician. You will be able to find more information from your managers, thank you and goodnight." He finally walked off the stage as the audience clapped. Laura picked up her red wine, bringing it up to her cherry lips. The award show ran longer than usual and she waited until the rest of the group was dismissed.

"Laura! Laura!" She heard her name being called repeatedly. Moving to the long line of fans, she grabbed a printed photo and Swiftly signed her name across it. A beautiful smile graced her face as she handed the photo back to the person. 

"And yet we finish off with this year's finest singers and something more exciting than the awards themselves, a contest. A way to raise money for our fellow friends and poor souls in Africa." The reporter was in front of the line of the guest at the show. 

"Madonna! Oh, Madonna!" One called behind her. "How do you feel about the contest?" 

"What is there to feel about?" She answered.

"Well, what are your thoughts on it?" 

"I think it's stupid. I already have three mansions. Why would I need another?"

"So you're not going to enter?"

"If I really wanted another one I could just buy it." She mumbled and walked away. 

The brunette stepped in front of a large black limo as she continued to wave to her fans. 

"Laura?" Her manager had questioned once seated in the back of the long car. "You've been invited to dinner at Ma Maison. 

She nodded her head silently and bent forward pulling her pumps off her tired feet. 

Once at the restaurant, she sat drinking a glass of cherry wine. "Laurie!" A familiar voice called. 

"Oh! Stevie!" She called back excitedly. 

"Nothing for me." She waved off the waiter when she sat. “How was the show?”

“I spent most of it in a chair.” The woman laughed.

“Did you win anything?” 

“No, but I was nominated.” she answered back. 

“I guess that’s better than not being in anyone’s thoughts.” they both sat in silence for a bit as Stevie fiddled with one of the many rings on her finger. 

“Hey, Ladies.” Susan, Laura’s Manager sat down next to them. “Laura, as being part of your team, I am required to ask if you want to enter the cont-”

“Susan!’’ A voice called for the blonde and she excused herself from the table. 

“She was going to mention the house contest wasn’t she?” Stevie pondered.