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.

of disgruntlement, disappointment spreading through the room like

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

the time of the musician’s absence 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 their watches, impatiently waiting for any sign of the musician’s arrival. There are several shouts of wanting a refund, and murmurs of boos ripple through the space, creating an

concerned about the escalating tension in the room. However, Sophia’s

the

can’t hear you very well; I am going to step away,” Sophia states, walking towards a quiet corner of the room and putting the phone on speaker so she can

sorry,” the thick English-accented voice asserts, “but there is absolutely no way I am going

sure? The Maestro will be so disappointed,” Sophia says, her heart

must perform it,” the musician responds. “Me? Oh no. You have rehearsed the piece

both know that he will not. But honestly, Sophia, given your connection to Maestro Paus, it would be much more momentous

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

help out,” Sophia finally agrees, her voice resolved. Returning to the gala, Sophia searches for Barbara. She

This is preposterous!” Barbara exclaims, her frustration obvious. Noticing Sophia’s approach, Barbara

for you, Mrs. Williams,” Sophia says,

“Really?” Barbara replies incredulously.

can play the piece. I know the concerto,” Sophia

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

deter her. “May I speak with the conductor for a moment?” she requests, blatantly ignoring the

Sophia and steps aside for her and the conductor