9
The Performance
March 1945 — EvelynEver the businessman, Frank took advantage of the hour and a half before Evelyn sang to have her work her regular duties as hostess. She stood in front of a flashy poster announcing “Tonight, our debut talent will be your lovely hostess Evelyn!”
Her cheeks grew warm from the gushing excitement of family and friends who had come to hear her sing. A flutter of anticipation stirred in her stomach, and Evelyn hoped she would be able to keep her voice from trembling with anxiety.
“LaRue, I need to go get ready in about twenty minutes. Can you tell Philip?”
“Sure, hon, we can’t wait to hear you.” She patted Evelyn’s arm as she sashayed by. “You’ll do great.”
“Thanks,” Evelyn murmured. She straightened the menus and made notes on the reservation list unt
