Picture Perfect

Chapter 50

The Night of Karaoke ...

NIALL'S POV:

The show is set to start and I am acting as the emcee for the event.  I've been looking forward to this as has Toni.  To see her smile light up her face when we discussed it, it truly made me happy.  I know she's an artist with her photography, but from what I've heard, she has a decent voice.  I know she's not a professional, but if she applied herself and took lessons, I think she could have a shot.

As the attendees fill the seats, I notice there are a lot of my golfing buddies that are not participating.  This doesn't make me happy.  Everyone was told they needed to at least participate for one song.  Maybe they'll come up and sing but they obviously didn't get into the spirit of things with hair, makeup and costume.  Oh well, spoil sports.  I will not let them dissuade me.

I see a quite a few of my friends showed up.  They include Jack Whitehall, James Corden, Lewis Capaldi, Julia Michaels, Shawn Mendez and his girlfriend Camila Cabello.  Katy Perry said she'd be here for the show tomorrow.  I won't be the least bit surprised if she shows up tonight though.  I am hoping Toni, Nico and Cherry aren't going to freak seeing some of the famous singers who appeared.  Then I laugh at myself.  She knows the guys here from Bush and she met the Rolling Stones.  Shaking my head I walk to the dressing rooms and say hello to my friends.

"Niall!  How are you mate?"

"Lewis, I'm good man.  So glad you made it tonight."

"I wouldn't miss this for anything.  Besides, I heard tell from your bandmates the shrew was here and was put in her place by that photographer.  I need to meet her" he laughs.  "If she can get under her skin, she's alright in my book."

I can't help but laugh.  Toni really did me a solid with that situation.  She is supposed to be here tonight but I haven't seen her.  A part of me is extremely happy about that but there's another part of me that thinks she's going to strike at the last moment.

"So, what do you think of my costume?  Think I can pull of the 80's hair?" he asks.

I laugh because seeing my friend in long 80's hairband mode is different to say the least.

"Hey Niall, am I really seeing all the famous people here that I think I am seeing?" I hear Toni ask. 

Lewis' jaw drops as he stares behind me.  I chuckle at his reaction. 

"Is that her?" he asks.

"Yep."

"You gotta hook me up with her, mate.  I mean seriously."

"Sorry man, she's taken."

He looks sad for a moment.  "Yeah, that doesn't surprise me.  Wow!"

Toni puts her hand on my shoulder.

"Niall, did I see Katy Perry out there?  Holy shit man, how can I go on stage with her out there?"

"Why are you nervous about her?  You have met and are friends with the Stones and look who you brought with you?  Did you forget how famous Gavin and his band are?"

"No, but I've known them for years now.  I'm not nervous around them.  I know them. I don't know Katy. I mean, she's a proper singer.  I am going to be caterwauling out there."  She turns and sees Lewis and smiles.

"Oh hi, I didn't mean to interrupt.  Aren't you Lewis Capaldi?  It's a real pleasure to meet you.  I'm Toni" she says with her hand extended to shake his.

"Hello, lovely lady.  It is definitely a pleasure to meet you.  You are even prettier than in your photos."

"Aren't you a sweet talker" she tells him as she smiles.  Lewis has a goofy grin on his face.  He's thoroughly smitten.