Exposed || MJ/Prince

Exposed || Chapter 25

Author's Note: amoniquebee ShonaShaniece

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1983 - California

Patrice

I stopped focusing on wardrobe for the movie production and flew out to California with Prince. But before doing anything else, we visited my Mom first.

"Canvas Inc" still thrived, but the air felt strange now that I didn't walk through its hallways anymore. We both understood that bittersweet  sentiment and embraced. 

After we caught up one final time with Prince in the room, I kissed my mother on the cheek and she walked us out of the building.

Prince even kissed the top of head and Mom hugged my best friend as if she'd never see him again.

I'd never forget watching through the back seat window as my mother wipe away honest tears.

Sadness could've easily described her feelings right now. My head lowered just seconds before I held hands with Prince in the limousine, staring out my nearest window.

Mom was so proud of me, but we'd always miss each other. Even Skipper understood my nostalgic emotions at this point.

"Hey." Prince softened his voice next to me and smiled through the tears. We continued holding hands while the limo moved further.

"Yeah, Baby?" My nose sniffled. Traffic pushed all around us.  Prince then squeezed my hand  in the name of reassurance.

I didn't know what to think of that tiny and sweet greeting, but still couldn't face his beautiful eyes.

"I've got something that might cheer you up." Prince let go of my hand for whatever reason and lifted himself from the leather seating to reach pockets.

My narrowed eyes finally turned to face Prince when he sat back down. I could only give my baby this meek smile while waiting.

"Take these and look at the information. I love you." Prince grinned and kissed me on the cheek  this time.

I stared down at the two tickets in my hands before brushing away more drying tears.

Music continued playing up front. Prince leaned in to kiss my cheek. I simply blushed.

"James Brown? No way! Thank you, Baby." In that moment, I nearly gasped like a little girl. No professional behavior whatsoever.

"You're welcome. I've had these for a little bit and wanted to surprise you." Prince laughed to himself and tucked away my "surprises."

There was one ticket for him and one ticket for me. Joy washed over my entire body right now.

Even the smile on my face wouldn't leave. I cheered to myself, but soon calmed down.

Prince even told me once that he danced with James onstage around ten years old.

I'd probably freeze up near Mr. Brown. If my body could dance at all. As mentioned, I'd rarely become starstruck around celebrities given my career.

Still, only two legends would've  messed me up so far. Stevie Wonder and James Brown.

Those two men nearly conquered my mother's album collection as I grow up. Words couldn't even describe my admiration.

Ready for the big night, Prince and I grooved during countless records by James. There was no other choice.

I finally smiled again.

__

Prince and I snapped along for James while sitting together in the audience. I couldn't help smiling throughout the night. Audience members cheered once more.

Previous sadness I'd towards  missing Mom gradually faded away. As long as I had my best friend, I could heal piece by piece.

As James brilliantly performed "A Man's World," this remarkable entertainer and band leader stripped everything down to instrumental music.

James then reached out for his microphone again to acknowledge the crowd. I  cheered once more alongside Prince, clapping almost feverishly.

We were both fascinated at this point, simply turning into absorbed viewers. Big Chick and countless other bodyguards surrounded the packed venue.

"Please give another standing ovation to Michael Jackson!" Brown exclaimed through the microphone with his vibrant and quick Southern accent.

The entire audience screamed by now. Prince and I dropped jaws in unison. I didn't even know Mike was here in the first place.

Within a minute or so, Michael finally reached the stage. Those two men shared this friendly and respectful hug.

It wasn't even long before James stepped away from the microphone. Michael then replaced his idol to sing for a moment.

Prince and I resumed nodding along and watched Mike dazzle the crowd as always.

In the middle of his crooning, the music shifted immediately. Funky rhythms now encouraged Mike to shout and spin.

By now, the audience yelped with happiness. Even James laughed through joy observing Michael.

I dropped my jaw once more at the sight of Jackson currently  implementing outstanding footwork I'd only seen from James.

Michael moved his body so quickly that I didn't even want to blink. The glorious moment would end too soon.

Michael and James hugged onstage once again as we all cheered for the umpteenth time. My smile returned before long.

Prince bumped fists with me and continued raving about Michael. Regardless of their rivalry, this moment was too good for us to straight up bash.

But when James reached the microphone again, I internally  panicked. My dark complexion should've paled.

"Prince!" Brown called out once more. Skipper only braced my palm tightly before walking over to actually jump on Big Chick's back.

After his awkward piggyback ride towards the stage, my poor offered James a limp hug. My heart shattered with every passing moment.

Never put Prince on the spot. I always remembered. Never.