Minna

Chapter 28

~ In which the show ends

"Dad!" Patch jumped out to her father.

     He had been speaking with many of the politically important attendees since the end of the performance. However, now it was eleven o'clock at night. Most people had left, excepting of course those select few core of the concert. As well as their friends.

     This meant that Minna and Landon were having a nonverbal face off in the room where the after party was being held. Every so often, someone would notice them, but otherwise they were ignored.

      Christopher Cunnington, after quite a bit of time, looked diligently to find Patricia sitting on the edge of the dessert table. This was the first time in years that he had seen his daughter. "Hi sweet heart." He said as he swung her around. "I figure we have a lot to catch up on. I'm sorry that we left so suddenly, but that didn't mean you never had to call us."

     "Then why didn't you call me first?" Patch challenged, more out of age old insecurities than pride or anger.

      "Well," Mr. Cunnington stalled. "We were both very busy with work. Not only was there orchestra but there was also that composing work that your mom and I did for that Disney movie. We spent a lot of time perfecting those scores. Which one did you like the most?"

     Patch sighed, realizing that her parents were exactly how she remembered them two years ago. They were the parents that willingly deserted her. Or at least her dad was. Mom was just...  "I don't really watch any new movies." She found herself informing her father using a very tired tone.

     Mr. Cunnington didn't say anything. The past had happened. He couldn't remedy it, but he could regret it. And maybe he could fix it. After all, that's why Patch was here. The girl had some serious talent. The country cared about her and she was in demand for not only publicity but also for her genuine talent.

     "I'm sure that you would enjoy this particular movie once you watch it." He said.

     "Okay then." Patch shrugged, wanting to leave it at that.

     "Maybe next time you can come out to help us." Her dad suggested.

     "You didn't want me to before." Patch muttered.

     The man shook his head. "That was because you were ill."

     "No." Patch objected. "I was strong enough. But I guess that you weren't." Her dad winced away in surprise.

     "I see you're all grown up now-" He began.

     "Yes." She interrupted.

     "Okay." Patch's dad gave up.

      Patch looked at him curiously. "Okay?" She asked. "That's all?"

     "Anna said not to antagonize you." Mr. Cunnington admitted. Patch nodded. Her mom was smart. In more ways than one. She was sure that one of the only things that brought her parents together was their desperate need for music.

     "Then we'll just leave it at that." Patch announced. "After all, this is my story, not yours."

      Her father nodded solemnly. "I'm sorry Patricia."

     In the middle of walking away Patch turned back and looked up to nod. "It's fine. Maybe we can work together someday, even if it's not anytime soon."

     And so she continued on.

      She needed to pick up her stuff from the green room. Once she reached the other side of the studio room door, Patch sighed to herself. What was she going to do after today? She wanted to go home. However, there was all that conflict with Landon. And also, that thing with Minna. Obviously, she didn't like it, but they had to part ways. It was too soon to be together.