#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.

of disgruntlement, disappointment spreading through the room like

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

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

concerned about the escalating tension in the room. However,

answers the call.

towards a quiet corner of the room and putting the phone on speaker so

is absolutely no way I am going to

be so disappointed,” Sophia says, her heart sinking at the

know, 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 am sure Maestro

will not. But honestly, Sophia, given your connection to Maestro

side of her, Sophia knows what her friend says is true. She

gala, Sophia searches for Barbara. She spots her

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

a solution for you,

“Really?” Barbara replies incredulously.

can play the piece. I know the concerto,”

smiles, but her doubt is noticeable. “While I am sure you are a fine violinist, I doubt you can provide the performance we need. Thank you,

speak with the conductor for a moment?” she requests, blatantly ignoring the condescension radiating

steps

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