The Blue Note is dressed a little differently this evening. Quick is no interior decorator – he had to hire someone to arrange things – but that didn’t stop him from doing everything he could to help. The Jazz club floor has been arranged in a ballroom style, with decorated tables arranged outside a clearing in the middle. On every table are frosty white roses arranged with shoots of flowering trees, granting the illusions of a snow-covered Winter scene. Small white candles in crystal holders add a warm, low lighting contrast to the blue lights up on the walls. Refreshments are understated, but add to the tone set by the décor: frosted cupcakes, cookies and cannoli all decorated with edible glitter. There is even a table set up with coffee and whatever beverages the guests could want.
Quick is nervous. Not because he’s worried no one will show – far from it. He’s concerned that he won’t be able to live up to the hype he spun at the Coronation! Already holding a glass of wine, he takes a few slow breaths and a sip or two to calm his nerves. He nearly spills it on himself. Cursing internally, he inspects his suit. Yes, suit. Or, as close to a suit as he’s worn in a long time. No wine. Thank god. He whips out his phone and checks to see if his mask is in place. The physical one. Check. Also, selfie.