The Blue Note (Slow Updates)

Three

"We have--scratch that, I have faith in you Daniel. Seriously, I do. I'm sure we can create something amazing together," Stacy smiled.

Daniel sat across from her, fidgeting with his fingers. "Why me though?"

"You should know why. What you did at that open mic was beautiful. You're talented," she explained, leaning back in her chair.

"Well, if I did sign with you, how would it work?"

"Well, the basics are that you'd get an advance. I gotta warn you, it won't be huge, we're still growing but I'll do my best to take care of you. As far as sales, I'd like 30%. It may seem like a lot, but we all need to make a profit. My producers and engineers are all taken care of so you don't have to worry there. If you agree, I set it for a year so you can decide if this place is or isn't the right family for you. We'll draw up a contract of course, so you can read further into it."

Daniel nodded in understanding. "Can I think about it?"

"Of course." She definitely understood his hesitation. "If you don't mind me asking, how old are you?"

"Just turned 21 last week."

"Happy belated birthday," she grinned. "You know what–how about this? As a gift, no matter how this plays out, we have a session. You could do whatever it is you want with what we create. Cool?"

"That's cool," he agreed.

"Great," she sighed. "So yea, just give me shout when you make your decision." Both stood as she began to guide him to the door. "You can take as much time as you need to think about this, alright?"

"Thanks Stacy," Daniel nodded, his dreads slightly swinging. "Talk to you soon."

Closing the door Stacy relaxed. "He'll be back," she mumbled aloud.

"Think so?" Prince responded, placing the pen and pad on the desk.

"Yeah," she began. "I'm positive. He wants guidance. We could all use a little guidance in our lives, you know?"

"Yeah, but 30% isn't that a little low? Usually labels take 60% right? Or something like that?"

"We're not a major label Prince. Remember that. Plus, I have the funds. I was in corporate law for a few years. Then I invested into a lot of different projects. One of which didn't go so well, but you live and learn." She revealed with a shrug. "Nonetheless, I'm good."

"What does your husband do?"

Stacy eyed him as she strolled over to the window. "Husband?"

Prince cleared his throat. "Ye–yeah. I uh, I saw the ring yesterday."

She hummed, peering out at the city. "He's a surgeon at Northwestern University Hospital." She quickly changed the subject. "Are you hungry?"
______________

After taking a Lyft downtown, they occupied a stir fry restaurant.

"This place is amazing," she sighed, scanning through the drink menu.

"You haven't even looked at the real menu," Prince chuckled.

"I already know what I want. Double chicken," she shared. "I just need a good drink right now."