Unexpected Love

Her Little Paradise

Ari knew Tobias was watching, but she put him out of her mind. This, right now, is her time to pretend she's far away. To pretend that it's just her and her music, that she's all alone and safe. Ari and the band get the ready stage for their set, and she's more nervous than usual. Tobias is watching her set up the stool and microphone.

Wow, he thinks, she's beautiful. She's seemingly intelligent, talented, but she doesn't see it. She seems hurt and stressed, I wonder what it could be... I want to get to know her more.... If only I wasn't afraid of messing my chances with her.

Ari sits on the stool and the band starts to play. They sing covers but not any originals, that was the only rule Larry had according to the live music.

"Tonight is a small set everyone." Ari closes her eyes and starts to sing.

I put a spell on you
'Cause you're mine

You better stop the things you do
I ain't lyin'
No I ain't lyin'

You know I can't stand it
You're runnin' around
You know better daddy
I can't stand it cause you put me down
Yeah, Yeah

I put a spell on you
Because you're mine
You know I love you anyhow

And I don't care
If you don't want me
I'm yours right now

I put a spell on you
Because you're mine

The song ends and the bar patron's clap softly. Ari opens her eyes, nods her head in thanks, and looks up. Tobias is staring directly at he in awe and amazement. The band gets ready for the next song and Ari drinks from the bottled water next to her stool. The band nods at her and she takes a deep breath. Tonight's football game night so they are only doing one song.

The band leaves but Ari stays."I'll be in the backroom if you need me Larry." Larry nods and Ari heads back.

Tobias watches her as she walks back, mesmerized by what he just heard. "You can't say you're 'okay' at singing anymore, you are absolutely amazing." Tobias follows her back and grabs her hand.

"Ummm... Tobias, can you let go of my arm please?" Ari tries to hide her reddening face.

"S-sorry," Tobias lets her go immediately, "I just wanted to tell you that you were very good." Tobias blushes.

"Oh, well thank you Tobias. I really appreciate that." Ari blushes and smiles.