In A Different Time

Chapter 36

I never imagined the day would take such a turn. James and I were lost in our own little world, enjoying the moment when one of the crewmen interrupted, saying someone was looking for him. He took me outside, and to our shock, we found the sperm donor and his whole family waiting on set. I wasn't exactly thrilled to see them, except for Keith. He was the only one I greeted with any warmth. As soon as he spotted James, he rushed over and wrapped him in a hug. James grinned and hugged him right back. I smiled at their interaction.

    Now, we're currently walking in the streets of Los Angeles as James gave them a tour. The director kindly approved of him leaving early since they came. The family was amazed and awestruck seeing celebrities on set. Keith remained silent and took in all the sights quietly walking next to him. I walked next to James hand in hand. Their eyes briefly flicked to our joined hands, and though they said nothing, the silence spoke volumes except for the youngest. His eyes showed he was pleased. I'm glad this one approves.

    The afternoon became warmer but still bearable to the skin. "Why don't we take a break and get some ice cream to cool down." I suggested it to James.

    "That's a good idea." he wiped the sweat from his forehead and turned to them. "You guys okay we get some ice cream?"

    "That would be wonderful. It's a little hot. Is it always like this here?" Nora whined while fanning her face with her hand.

    I mentally rolled my eyes but still replied to her civilly. "Not always. The weather is actually warm and perfect for a walk."

    "It's a lot cooler back home." she grimaced.

    "I agree on that." Harry added. It's not like his opinion mattered anyway.

    James squeezed my hand seeing my frown. He led us to the ice cream parlor. Outside the parlor, an African American man sat beneath a tree, enjoying the cool shade. The man was surrounded by a few people. He was playing with his guitar and singing the blues. His raspy voice grips you from the first note—singing the blues like a seasoned storyteller, he pulls you into the heart of every tale until you forget where you are. We stood there, completely absorbed in his singing, until someone cleared their throat and snapped us out of the moment.

I turned and caught the bored look on Brandon's face. "Aren't we getting ice cream? Let's go inside already." He entered the parlor first then his parents followed, leaving us three. One of the people who were listening discreetly shook his head disapprovingly.

"Let's go inside." I told James and glanced at the talented man. "You have an amazing voice, sir. We enjoyed it."

"I agree with what she said. I love the performance." James added.

The man smiled and tipped his cap. "Much appreciated." his eyes looked over at Keith. "I see you boy copying my strumming. You play?" Both our attention went to Keith. He looked flustered before nodding his head hesitantly.

"I didn't know you played the guitar Keith." He commented on his brother.

"I-I sometimes w-went to M-Mr. Johnson's after school." Keith replied.

"Mr. Johnson's? He's several blocks away from your school and out of your way going back home. How did you end up there?"

He fidgeted and looked away, clearly uncomfortable answering his question. I decided to change the subject and discuss this later with James when it's just the two of us. "I would really like to see Keith play. Can you show us?" I asked Keith and gently stroked my boyfriend's arm hoping he would understand what I'm doing.

He looked down at me and his eyes told me he understood. Reluctantly letting go of the topic for now. "Yeah, Keith. Can you play for us?"

The man handed his guitar to him and he nervously held the guitar in his hand. His eyes scanned us. He looked tense, probably this is his first time playing with an audience other than Mr. Johnson. Keith took a deep breath and started stucking the chords. A deep hum came from him as he closed his eyes. I hadn't expected it, but as he opened his mouth, his voice was rich with soul