After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife

#22 “Why not Let Her Try.”

Biting her bottom lip, Sophia turns to Benjamin with a worried expression. You know, I think I am going to text him. Find out if something has happened.”

“Good idea,” Benjamin answers, concern also apparent on his face. Sophia quickly takes out her phone and sends a text to the violinist. Moments later, she receives a reply, and a quiet laugh escapes her lips before she turns to Benjamin.

“What did he say?” Benjamin asks, eager to know why the musician is absent and Sophia’s laughter.

Reading the text, Sophia says, “Well, it seems that he has run into a completely unpredictable circumstance. He says there is no way he will be able to arrive anytime soon.”

“Oh, no,” Benjamin says, clearly disappointed. “He also says that had he been made aware that I was attending the gala, he would not have wanted to come,” 11 Sophia says, her cheeks blushing.

Benjamin raises an eyebrow in question. Sophia hesitantly blushes even deeper before continuing, “He says he would have been too intimidated by me to perform.”

Benjamin chuckles, “That’s quite the compliment!”

Sophia shrugs, “I am sure he’s just being polite.” A lull descends upon the performance, and the conductor takes the stage, a concerned expression on his face.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, I am afraid that our guest violinist has encountered an unforeseen situation and is running a bit behind,” he announces.

murmur of disgruntlement, disappointment spreading through the room

has promised that he should be here shortly, so if everyone will just patiently wait. Enjoy some more champagne.

stretches on, several audience members begin to leave, expressing their frustration with impatient gestures and hushed complaints. Barbara’s face grows visibly tense, and she looks at her husband. “Do something, Daniel,” she demands As time ticks on, the tension in the room becomes palpable. People glance at

the escalating tension in the room. However, Sophia’s attention is immediately diverted as

she answers the call. She quickly mouths

you very well; I am going to step away,” Sophia states, walking towards a quiet corner of the room and putting the phone on

sorry,” the thick English-accented voice asserts, “but there is absolutely

will be so disappointed,” Sophia says,

which is why you must perform it,” the musician responds. “Me? Oh no. You have rehearsed the piece so much more than I have. I

Sophia, given your connection to Maestro Paus, it would be much

stage and reveal this side of her, Sophia knows what her friend says is true. She also knows

Maestro Paus and you, I will help out,” Sophia finally agrees, her voice resolved. Returning to the gala, Sophia searches for Barbara. She spots her huddled in the corner of the ballroom with the conductor,

is preposterous!” Barbara exclaims, her frustration obvious. Noticing Sophia’s approach, Barbara turns to her, impatience unhidden on her

for you, Mrs. Williams,” Sophia says, trying to sound

“Really?” Barbara replies incredulously.

piece. I know

noticeable. “While I am sure you are a fine violinist,

not letting Barbara’s skepticism deter her. “May I speak with the conductor for a moment?”

and steps aside for her