Page 143 - You Only Live Once [BooksLD]

possible. Elisha’s story has brought us together and helped us move in a
new direction.’

I adjust my mic as I say jokingly, ‘All the questions for the pretty lady.
You guys have nothing to ask me? I have played the drums.’ The hall
echoes with laughter.
‘Is it true that you were in love with Elisha?’

‘Yes. Can you ask me questions that make sense? Why are you focusing
on our personal lives only?’ I shout back.

Alara holds my hand firmly and gestures at me to tone down.
‘With your first album being such a huge hit even prior to its release,
what does the future hold for you?’

I reply, ‘This is just the beginning. We will be working on many more
original compositions together.’

‘Alara, you recently met RR Maan, a stalwart of the music industry. How
was your experience?’
‘It was so engrossing to listen to his songs and stories around recording
and performing. When I asked him what has been his greatest learning from

a singing career spanning across decades, all he summed up for me was,
listen to everyone but follow your heart. He told me that while everyone
suggested that he should release a sad song as his debut single, he went
against the common idea and released it as an upbeat music number instead.
We all know that it rose to the top of the charts, and the rest is history.’

After an hour of playing question and answer with them, and signing for
innumerous fans, Alara and I head to the airport.
On the flight, while we sit quietly next to each other, and without looking

at me, Alara starts to talk.
‘Ricky, I am so at peace today. Six months ago, for a moment I thought I
had lost my purpose, my dream, my mother. But now I realize that her life

is far bigger than what she lived. Her songs bring her alive in me, in us.’