The Beautiful Katastrophe

(XXV) In This Bed I Scream

     There was nothing extraordinary about her. But she was simply beautiful. And as I stared back at her, I suddenly remembered seeing her on an album cover that my mother owned.

Her attire consisted of Converse All Star High Tops, a football jersey, and blue jeans—very laid back. At first glance, she wasn't Prince's usual type. But I was aware that this woman was talented and Prince obviously saw something in her that was deeper than the naked eye could reach.

"Hey, I'm Kat."

Kindly, she shook my extended hand.

And since Prince wasn't saying anything, I decided to entertain myself. "Are you wardrobe?"

"Uh, no," she said with a baffling giggle.

Prince brushed my arm as he came to stand at my side. "Baby, this is Sheila."

Sheila's round eyes grew even bigger. She began laughing to herself.

"Sheila E.?" I asked her.

"Escovedo. Only Prince calls me that."

     My head tilted a little, as I was now contemplating a switch up with my attitude.

"Don't," he murmured to me. "That's going to be your stage name," he said to her.

"Is that why you asked me to come here?" she asked, smiling. "I told you I don't feel comfortable with lead vocals. I can't be no singer."

But didn't he tell me he was scheduled to work on her album? So, it was clear, Prince had plans for this girl that she didn't even know.

"You know you can," he said. "I'm setting some stuff aside for you."

A wad of air vibrated out of her mouth. "Yeah, okay, Mr. Nelson."

I caught Prince nibbling on his knuckle, staring Sheila down. With me right there, he was undressing her with his eyes.

The moment grew quiet and a bit awkward. Sheila's eyes constantly darted from mine to Prince's. And as I leaned back on a chair, I found myself almost doing the same as my corrupt boyfriend. I was staring at Sheila, painting her with my eyes. If she let me, I could make her look irresistible.

     I'm a visionary.