Dessi starts humming “Body and Soul.”
DESSI
Oh, I love that song.
CAL
You sing?
DESSI (LAUGHING)
For an audience of none.
CAL
You sound like you can do a lil’ something.
DESSI (SHRUGS)
I’m okay, but I get scared.
CAL
Well order you some breakfast and I’ll be back on our first break.
Cal headsup to the stage. Time lapse of Dessi eating and enjoying her pancakes and grits while Cal’s band plays. Montage ends with the sun rising outside, illuminating the room.
CAL (INTO MICROPHONE ONSTAGE)
Looks like we’re the last ones standing. Well, I think we saved the best for last. I got a special treat for you.
Turns and whispersto the band members, who nod.
CAL
Making her debut right here at the Radium Club singing “Body and Soul,” my very good friend who I just met tonight, Odessa Johnson.
Dessi gapesat him with a mouthful of grits.
CAL
Don’t be shy and don’t make me look like a fool up here. Come on, Odessa.
The few patronsstill remaining give Dessi encouraging applause and wolf whistles. Dessi stands up like she’s headed for the stage, but dashes for the door. Cal runs, catches her around the waist and drags her to the stage.
DESSI
You crazy? I can’t sing.
CAL
I heard you. I think you can, and you won’t know ’til you try.
Cal handsher the mic and picks up his trumpet, standing beside her.
CAL
I’ll be right here, and there’s hardly anybody still around. What you got to lose?