Song: "Second Star to the Right"
Original Movie: Peter Pan
Louis/Ray Friendship Piece:
"And I wish that someday I can play a trumpet the way that gator does…" The little boy was on the balcony of Tiana's Palace, staring up at Ray's star. Louis hadn't meant to eavesdrop, he was only up here to get a rag to clean the spit valve of his trumpet out, but he'd stopped when he'd heard the mention of himself. He swelled with pride, but then realized what was more interesting.
Why was the kid staring at Ray's star?
Around here, almost everyone made their wishes on the Evening Star (still "Evangeline" to Louis, Tiana and Naveen). But there was no mistaking it. He had his eye on the second star to the right.
Louis wished he had some way of asking the boy what was going on, but alas, only Naveen and Tiana could understand him when he talked. He thought of trying to get the boy's attention, but figured it might frighten him.
"You!" Louis jumped. The boy had noticed him. "You're the gator," he jabbered excitedly. "The one who plays for the band!"
Louis nodded, then jerked his head towards the stars. He hoped his question was obvious.
"I know, I know…wishin' on stars isn't what gets you what you want, but it can't really hurt nothin', can it?"
Louis sighed, and shook his head. No, it wouldn't hurt anything. He still wished he could ask the little boy his question, though. Once more, he jerked his head towards the skyline, making eye contact with the boy, hoping it would get through this time.
"Oh," the little boy looked sheepish now. "I know most people wish on the Evening Star, but uh…I overheard Miss Tiana talking to you about missing someone named "Ray", and that he was still up there beside Evangeline - which I heard her calling the Evening Star…and I figured if Ray's your friend he might wanna listen to me and help me out with my wish a bit more…silly, huh?" He scuffed at the floor with his shoe.
Louis shook his head firmly, hoping his point would come across. Not only did he not think it was silly, he thought it was very sweet.
"Well, I've gotta get goin'. Mama expects me home soon. Bye, Mr. Gator…" The boy patted him on the head before he exited, leaving Louis alone.
"Well, Ray," Louis said after the boy was out of sight, "It's not like he's askin' much. I hope he does become a great trumpet player. I miss ya, little buddy. I bet you're right happy with Evangeline, though, so I'm happy for you, but I wish you would have stuck around a bit longer."
He twirled his trumpet. "This one's for you…" He sat back on his tail and into the night, he played "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star". It's been said around New Orleans that that night, with the music filling the air, all of the stars shone even brighter over the city.
Author's Note: …I'm a sap. And I know it was short, but I didn't want to belabor the point. Thanks for taking the time to read, extra thanks if you've got this in your favorites or alerts list, have me on your author alert's list and as always, thank you for reviews if you have the time to send them.