“I think you’ve found your answer,” Ivan said gently, studying her expression intently.

“I have to reopen The Planet,” Kit realized, sitting up suddenly.  “I don’t just owe it to everyone else, but I also owe it to myself to try again.”

“And as your silent partner, I agree with your decision,” Ivan replied, sitting back and gesturing.  “The insurance company just compensated me on my investment.  Your loan is still good and covers the rest.  Just say the word.”

“I have to get to work,” Kit said, energized.  “I need to find someone amazing for the reopening, too.  Who can I get to play that will just blow everyone’s socks off?”

“Why don’t you perform?” Ivan asked, eyes twinkling.  “You would really bring down the house.”

“I don’t know,” Kit replied, looking unsure.  “It’s been awhile since I’ve really performed by myself like that, you know.”  She paused, her face growing more excited.  “I’ve been thinking of going back to music, actually.  Ever since that damn quake, it’s like I can’t stop writing songs and coming up with these melodies in my head, ya know?  It’s driving me crazy not to do something with them.  I miss performing my music,” Kit admitted.

Ivan smiled.  “So why not do it?”

Kit nervously began playing with her necklace again.  “I’m afraid I can’t cut it anymore.  I’m not exactly that well remembered in the music world anymore.  I just feelI feel like, well, you know how on TV, every show seems to have that one obligatory character that gets forgotten about and gets the shittiest dialogue?  You know, the one who gets the worst plot lines, when they’re even remembered?  I feel like if we were on a TV show, I’d be that person, and I’m sick and tired of feeling that way.  I want to matter.  I want people to remember I’m still here and that I have a purpose.”

“You do have a purpose.  Maybe you just need to remind yourself, and everyone else, of that,” Ivan told her.

“You’re right.  I’m gonna do it.  What have I got to lose?” Kit decided, grinning.  “I’m gonna reopen The Planet and it will be the hottest damn place this side of Hollywood.  Not only that, I’m going to release another album, and it’s gonna kick every other album’s ***** on it’s way up the charts!”