Chapter 5: Crossroads

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Aspiring artist knows that Juilliart is the most refined university in music, dance, drama, and traditional art – and by track record – alumni are often destined for greatness, namely, fame and fortune. Though these were not Desiree’s end goal, a degree coming from a school known for excellence, was sure to open career doors she could only dream of. But first things first. She was only a senior in high school and she’d only recently learned about the pilot programme, which unfortunately, wasn’t accepting anymore students. Unless…that student had a recommendation from someone already in Juilliart.

It was the afternoon on a Wednesday. Desiree had got permission from the Hillside High counselor to skip her last two classes so she could present her portfolio to the head of the art department at Juilliart. Elliot had already written a recommendation for her, and now, it was up to her to showcase her talent.

She stood in front of her paintings that were displayed inside one of Juilliart’s guest art galleries. “I would just like to thank you for your time in looking at my portfolio,” Desiree said graciously, “It’s been a privilege being here.”

Twenty minutes had flown by. It was all the time she was allotted to present her portfolio and talk about each piece.

“Well done,” Ms. Macro applauded, “Your recommendation reflects your talent. I’d be happy to enroll you into our pilot programme.”

Desiree’s eyes widened. “Oh my god, really?” She was near speechless. “I don’t know what to say…”

“Say nothing,” Ms. Macro told her, “Just paint like your life depends on it.”

Desiree nodded. “I will.”

“The pilot programme is more than a means for aspiring artists to get their feet wet at Juilliart,” Ms. Macro pressed on, “It also allows Juilliart to narrow down exceptional talent from mere talent.”

Elliot sat on a nearby park bench off campus awaiting for Desiree’s news. “So, how’d it go?” He asked.

“Well, it’s done.” She said, approaching him.

She sat down. “I got in!”

“But I wouldn’t have made it without you.” She added.

“Yeh you would have,” he corrected, “The recommendation just got you an audience but your paintings speak for themselves.”

“Okay, Mr. Modest,” she let it slide, “So what’s your plans for the rest of the day? You said Wednesday’s you only have a couple morning classes.”

“Yep…” He had this look on his face.

“What?” She eyed him.

He came right out. “Why don’t you come to a jam session with me?”

“Right now?”

“Yeh,” he shook his head, “Starts in about a half hour at my buddy’s place.”

“Does this mean I finally get to meet one of your friends?” She badgered.

“That’s right little lady.” He said in his best western cowboy impression, clicking his tongue. “About time ain’t it?”

She laughed. “You know,” she started, “I’m glad we’re friends.”

The basement was soundproof – every lyric belted, riff struck, and chord hit – blared inside the fifteen by fifteen foot concrete room. Despite the shattering volume, Desiree found the jam session to be surprisingly thrilling.

Her eyes watched Elliot as his fingers raced up and down the fret board of the electric guitar. It was no wonder Juilliart hand picked him for a scholarship. His playing was genius.

Then, just as abruptly as they’d started, the singer shut it down with a deep menacing “Thank you…and a shout out to our house fan…Desiree…”.

“So what did you think?” Elliot waited.

She was blown away. “You guys are really good.”

“Would you believe this guy almost didn’t make it to Juilliart.” Sahil walked up and nudged Elliot. “Took his band mates to kick him in the arse to sign up for that pilot programme. And now look at him.” He revelled. “My best friend’s Juilliart’s most promising musician.”

“Don’t forget it was me who introduced him to Red Velvet!” Doyle added. “It was all history after that.”

She turned to Elliot. “And I thought you were this over zealous guitarist,” she razzed, “And who’s Red Velvet?”

“My guitar.” Elliot explained. “She’s been with me through thick and thin, pretty much since I was a kid.”

“Yeh, it was some time ago, that’s for sure.” Sahil reflected. “I remember that day you showed up after your dad –”

“We should get going,” Elliot changed subject, “I’m hungry. Want to grab something to eat?”

A stillness filled the air, and for the first time, she sensed the pain he hid so well.

“Uhh, sure, I could eat.” She agreed reluctantly.

After finishing up their dirty sodas, a round of Foosball had begun, Desiree in the lead.

“Do you want to talk about what happened back at your buddy’s place?” She decided to bring up and break the ice.

“Not really in the mood.” He replied coolly.

“If you ever want to talk about it, we can.” She assured him. “My parents weren’t exactly the poster couple for successful relationships.”

“I’m good,” he shot her down, “I don’t want to talk about it.”

“Okay,” she paused a second, “Just know you can tell me anything.”

He stood up. “Why would I tell you about all my problems?” He said coldly.

“That’s what friends do.” She was stunned by his stoic expression. “We share our problems and we listen to each other.”

He scoffed, shaking his head. “We haven’t even known each other a month and now you want to know about everything that’s gone wrong in my life.”

“Wow,” she fired back, “You have a real jerk side.”

He said nothing.

“Just take me home.” She told him.

Few words were spoken on the ride home, most of which came from Elliot in his attempt to make amends, but his efforts were met with silent treatment. After a short five minute walk from the taxi drop-off, they arrived back home, Desiree quickly walking several paces ahead purposely leaving Elliot behind.

“Will you talk to me?” He called after her.

“No.” She dismissed him, turning the corner.

He sighed and hurried to catch up.