The Girl I Knew Somewhere

Part 7

June looked around the outdoor concert venue, amazed she was sitting backstage with Mike, watching The Guess Who and The Association perform from a private corner on the side of the stage, where no one could see them.
Mike stood behind June his arms wrapped around her, his chin resting on her shoulder. If anyone has walked by, they would think they were a couple, swaying back and forth to the music.
She looked over and smiled at Mike, who kissed her on her cheek. He whispered something in her ear that she would never forget.
"You belong up there."

June turned to face Mike. She had her arms around his neck and kissed him, then whispered in his ear.
"Thank you."
Mike looked at her and smiled.
"Why are ya thankin' me?"
June looked up with tears in her eyes.
"For forcing me to face my truth."
Mike kissed her on her forehead and held her close. The Association started playing one of June's favorite's "Cherish." Her and Mike began to slow dance, and a she rested her head on his shoulder. She knew Sunday he would be gone, and she dreaded it. She tried to enjoy just being with him in the moment, but she had too many questions on her mind.

June sighed.
"What is it, baby?" Mike asked quietly.
"What happens after Sunday?"
Mike grabbed her face, wiped the tears from her face.
"What do you want?" He asked concerned.
"Well, I just wish you could stay a little bit longer. I just met you and we're getting to know each other, and I don't know, I just, I don't..."
"What is it? Queenie, you know I love hanging out with you, my time in Chicago has been amazing since I've met you."
"Yeah, and it's going to end. This might be our last night together." June said, feeling sad.
"This isn't our last night, don't worry, baby," Mike said as he brushed hair out of June's eyes.
"So, you want to see me still? After Chicago?"
"Of course we'll see each other."
"How do you know that?" June asked, becoming worried.
"Because, Queenie, you'll be in LA soon enough, pursuing your dreams."
"Mike, I can't just pick up and move to LA! I have to finish school."
"Why are you making excuses? The time is now, or else you'll never do it!" Mike said, becoming angry.
June was taken aback. Mike Nesmith has just told her what needed to be said to her for years. He was right, if she kept making excuses, she would never go for it. She was still young enough to go back to school if it didn't work out. Her dad would hate her for the time being, but she was sick of that fear making her become something she wasn't.
"Mike, you're right. I need to pursue singing, I have to. I can't let my father or anyone else keep me from pursuing my dreams."

"You're a smart girl, Queenie. I'm sorry if I upset you by yelling. I just know talent when I see it. And baby, you have it," Mike said, pulling her close to him.

"Mike, would you help me move to LA?" June asked, feeling elated.