Chances (Mystic Nights #1)(28)

“I understand that. But treatment places are needed for those already addicted.” Josephine’s smile twisted.

Myrtle went on. “It’s preventative. A treatment facility wouldn’t be needed . . .”

“Again, Myrtle. No offense, but addiction is a serious issue here. Not only among the younger generation. I’m just thinking of the benefit to the larger group,” she stated shrewdly. “And I’m not saying no, I just want us to examine all options.”

Myrtle contemplated the younger council member’s concerns. Aliya glanced at the other council members who had yet to speak up. Myrtle also looked to the other two council members. They remained mute and she did not look happy about it. She spoke. “Are there any other concerns, you, Josephine, or any other of the council members have?” Jason Paralta shook his head. Myrtle looked at Peter who looked pensive.

Josephine spoke once more. “Again, it’s not that I’m against this . . . this . . . dance studio. It’s just that we have this small hall. I think for now, the reservation has more pressing needs. Our kids are already addicted to these drugs. Adults too. Prescription pills, and the other new chemical concoctions they are making in the streets these days. I think we need to look into using the space for that. Perhaps when we begin receiving funds from the casino, then we can look into building a cultural center, something on a grander scale, and house Aliya’s studio there. Something that is more than just dance too. Crafts, language classes, cooking,” she suggested.

Aliya couldn’t fault that idea. It was a good one. But she felt her dream slipping. A cultural center with dance, music, art, could benefit more than just the youth. But it wouldn’t be hers alone.

“That is a great idea,” Myrtle nodded. Aliya felt the noose getting tighter. “But, to start a clinic in that space would also require outside sources of funding. We have not looked into the cost of hiring a staff, doctors.”

“I’m just saying let’s take the time to do it right.” Josephine’s appeal to the other members was beginning to sway the crowd. She heard the murmurs of approval. Jason gazed at Myrtle looking for her direction. She shook her head sadly. “The idea for a clinic is a good one. We do need a clinic, but our funds are tight for now. This studio could happen quickly.” Myrtle was fighting a good fight, making a last pitch for her. For that Aliya was grateful.

Peter interrupted. It was the first time he spoke up. “I agree, Myrtle. How about instead of voting, we allow Josephine a month to do the research on the clinic. What the expenses might be. I would hate for us to use the space too soon and later realize we had made a mistake.”

“I hate for the space to go to waste,” Myrtle returned.

Peter cut her off. “I believe Miss Chance would be amenable to delaying a vote. She is under contract with the casino anyhow. She wouldn’t be turning the hall into a studio anytime soon. She has time. We have time.” Aliya cast her eyes downward and nodded when Myrtle silently inquired if that were true. It was. Her face fell.

Aliya groaned inwardly. She was losing the battle. Peter was siding with Josephine. Yes, a clinic would be great in that spot, but it would take a year to accomplish a successful program and getting the funds to equip and run it properly could take longer. True, she had a contract, but she had been planning on fixing up the studio in her down time. Having some friends help. Getting a small loan for the equipment she would need. She knew two girls she was planning on training to be the other instructors. She could have the place open within a matter of months. She’d submitted her final papers online only yesterday for her business license. She’d have that license by mid-April.

Her father reached around her mother and gave her shoulder a squeeze sensing her disappointment. “All is not lost,” her mother murmured softly. “It’s just a month.”

Myrtle was looking her way. She met the older woman’s eyes. She winked, then cut over to Josephine. “One month. Find out the costs of an endeavor like the one you are talking about. I think a studio in that location would serve our community more quickly and reduce problems we have now. But . . .” she paused for emphasis, “let’s table the issue until next months meeting as Peter has suggested, meanwhile we’ll discuss the clinic idea in committee.” All the members nodded their agreement and the meeting was then brought to a conclusion.

The people began to file out. Many gave Aliya a sympathetic glance as they passed her. That made her feel better. She could see she still had some support in her community. It meant a lot.

She too turned to leave.

*

After her Mom and Dad left her in the parking lot at the tribal council hall, Aliya lie in wait for Peter. She understood Josephine’s point of view. A clinic would be helpful, but could take years in the making, whereas her studio could alleviate some of the stress on the community now. She wanted to reiterate that point, make it clear so when the council met in committee Peter had that thought at the forefront of his mind. He had been supportive before, and she hoped he would continue to be so.

Her mother and father invited her over for dinner later, and she promised them to do that next weekend. She didn’t mention Jonathan. It was too soon yet. Her mother had been hounding her for some time to give love another try. But for a decade she had sworn off entanglements. Love hurt. It made you do things you never thought you would. So she had focused on her career instead. It helped to block out the pain of her youthful choices.