The Alternia Dance Band
After calling John to change the plan and grab your cousins, you're once again alone in the library. Well, there's a few people around, but most are still on lunch break. You're a bit nervous about this "meeting". It's really more of a discussion about what you and dad are wanting to put together, and to see if Jake and Jade are on board. Your father, John, and you can cover the actual cost of leasing the place. What you need from your cousins is some money for instrument rentals. Apparently the space comes with a grand piano, but that's all they're willing to throw in. Dave has his own drum kit, maybe you guys could move the upright piano in from home, and Jade's got a few guitars… Plus, odds are some people will have their own instruments already. Bigger pieces like cellos and double-basses, and oh goodness you'd love to have a harp…
Perhaps you're thinking too big. You should consult with John on all the instruments, your expertise is vocals and those are usually inexpensive. Really just need the people and a few mics. Although… some higher end audio equipment would be great too… Jeeze! Slow down Jane, and wait to discuss the very concept with your family. Jake and Jade might have zero interest from the beginning for all you know. It'll be fine. Music is more of a hobby to them than a profession, but you're sure they'd love to support you and John on this anyway they can. Even if they can't spare money, you'll make do. You always have.
"Ah! There you are," you greet John and his train of distant family with a smile. You need to be cheerful and content through this. Although to most you come off as a very happy-go-lucky gal, you tend to have a short fuse when it comes to challenging situations. Securing some of your cousins' inheritance from their dead caregivers so you can start a band? That's a challenge. No flipping out if they aren't into it! Keep a lid on it, honey.
"What's this about, Jane," Jake asks you. Okay. Deep breath, let's do this.
"I'm glad you asked," not really though, you're kind of scared to do this. Come on, no regrets. Just go for it!
"So how would you all like to give me a lot of money?"
Ugh. Shit.
"As much as I love you, what exactly for?" Jade wonders. Well, not a complete disaster yet so far. Yet.
"My dad, your distant uncle of some sort, has made a great find recently," you explain. Maybe you should have told your brother more about this so he could do the talking. He's essentially just as unaware of the details as Jake and Jade are.
You continue, "It's this music hall just a few minutes away from here. With a little help from everyone, we'd like to get a sort of band started. Like a dance band."
"Oh. Sounds neat, Jane!" Jake exclaims, although clearly still oblivious to the part where his money comes in.
"You're right, it does seem pretty neat. But for this to all come together, we all need to pitch in…," you doubt he'll pick up, odds are Jade will chime in any moment now saying they aren't interested.
"Need any heavy lifting done to move instruments and such? I'd be happy to lend a hand," Jake offers. It really is a stretch getting him to understand stuff if you don't outright explain it.
"Jake, I think Jane is saying that they're going to need some of our inheritance to afford all this," Jade interrupts. Well, the cat's out of the bag now. John is still pretty silent, just taking the entirety of it in. It's rare you get a few moments of quiet out of him.
"Yes, it's true we would need your financial support. I understand if you aren't interested, but I think it would be a great opportunity for all of us. Jade, you could be an instrumental section leader. You're proficient in enough instruments to take on that role. Also Jake, this would be a great chance for you to harness your singing abilities. With some assistance from me, you could be something absolutely spectacular," you feel like you're pleading with them. From the look on their faces though, you can see some real consideration.
"Well, you've got me hooked. How much do you need, Jane?" Jake has always been naïve, he needs his sister to keep him in line. She doesn't cut him off though.
"Uh, are you sure you want to do this? What do you think, Jade?"
"Well, I'm not opposed to the idea. Jake," she gestures to her brother.
"This is meant to be part of our life savings. Should this music hall and band be a part of our lives?" Jade asks.
Jake thinks about it for a moment and excitedly responds, "Yeah! It'll be lots of fun and we'll get to meet so many other musicians!"
You smile fondly at Jake's willingness to contribute to what is essentially your dream. Jade makes asks the big question, "Well, what exactly do you need from us?"
"Well first dad, John, and I have to secure the lease. Then I think all of us should meet to talk about instrument prices, because that's where you two will come in," you inform her.
"Sounds good, let us know when it's time to meet. John, you've got Botany next right?" Jade asks your silent twin.
John comes out of his minor stupor of mulling over the situation and perks up a bit, "Oh, yeah! Let's head over there now. See you later Jane! … You too, Jake."
John and Jade head off towards the science building and you're left with Jake. After a moment of awkward silence he queries, "So… what class do you have next?"
"I have a free period," you reply. You can see Jake light up.
"I do too! Want to grab a coffee?"
You offer him a warm grin, "Sure."
"Want me to cover?" Jake, always the gentleman.
"Ah, no. You could be covering quite a bit in the near future. It's on me this time," you sheepishly answer, knowing you need to stay on his good side. You're not sure if he even has a bad side, but you're not risking it. The two of you head off to the little café a block away.