Danielle

She lived for the love of music. Her goal was recreation of the energy, soul, and talent invested in music of her favorite musicians: Micheal Jackson, Cher, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey.Danielle Clark was so much of her own personality it was hard to describe her. It was easier to say what she wasn't.She wasn't petite or overweight. Her hair neither long nor short. An introvert, she was very self-conscious, maybe a little insecure.Her parents thought in adoration, she's just right. Her fire flickered worriedly inside under the pressuring wind of her peers' harsh criticism.At school most times it was about clothes, style, and the ability to attract the opposite sex. With Danielle Clark it was all about music, family, and the wonderful places you can discover in a well-written book. She wasn't shy just a little quiet. Many acquaintances but only a few to call friends, Her closest friends were Pilar and Jessica. Pilar was a serious brooding artist and Jessica was perky, popular, and in most of Gerald Lee High School's clubs and societies. All three had one main link: their singing. They loved to sing. Belting out melodious tunes when they were happy and crooning blues when they were down. On Thursday night they performed at a local teen nightclub, Funky Red. 1

"I am so hyped for tonight!" Jessica squealed. The trio was at their favorite mall shopping for just the right "fit" for tonight. Their friend, Angela was trailing them around the department store pretending to be helping them with their purchases. Instead she was doing more talking than working. "The club is going to be packed tonight.Patrick and I are bringing his cousins, Eddie and Steven, that are visiting from out of town. Do any of you want the hookup" They are single but not for long because they are fine!" Angela chattered.2

"Count me out." Danielle muttered distracted by a soft blue short evening dress.3

"Please! You need a significant other to distract you from being so... driven. Every time I look up, you are going to piano practice, studying, or doing things for your family. Lighten up.Have some fun tonight." said Pilar.4

"Look who's talking," Jessica remarked," you need to practice using your own advice."5

Thursday night came around and Pilar and Jessica found6

Danielle reserving a large table for their group. She was talking animatedly on her cell phone with her long legs elegantly crossed. She waved them over with a smile and ended her conversation. She wore her hair swept to the side with a pearl comb.Dark curls trailed down her bare shoulder. She wore a white dress with off-the-shoulder straps that flared out in a flowered skirt.Jessica and Pilar wore matching short numbers with matching spike heels but Pilar's dress was red and Jessica's navy.They chatted loudly to be heard over the music vibrating the walls of the club until Angela and her crew arrived. Danielle saw that Angela was not exaggerating that afternoon about Eddy and Steven's looks. Eddy had long cornrows, large brown eyes, and a smooth dark complexion. Steve wore his hair short and curly and his smile was striking. Full, sensuous lips slowly curled back exposing the glimmering white of his teeth and his dark eyes shined as Patrick introduced him and Eddie to the admiring girls. Danielle couldn't help smirking at him as she sized him up and down. For a few brief moments, he caught her eye.7