My Love... by My Side [COMPLETED]

3: Meeting Up

The boy passionately played his violin on the stage, accompanied by another boy with a flute. However, Cole's attention was solely fixed on the violinist, captivated by his performance.

Cole couldn't contain his amazement, his parted lips expressing his sheer enjoyment of the music. It evoked emotions akin to sitting beneath a cherry blossom tree, where the worries of the world are swept away, leaving behind a sense of wonder. The violinist's skill was truly remarkable.

The beautiful melodies enveloped the auditorium, filling the air with a satin-like texture—smooth and silky. Slowly, a faint, hopeless smile formed on Cole's lips. In this moment, he had forgotten all about his troubles, his strained relationship with his father, and the pressures of his studies.

It was as if everything else had faded away.

As the music took a dangerous and sensual turn, the violinist remained completely engrossed in his instrument and sheet music. The flutist stood by his side, unwavering and supportive, allowing his friend to fully concentrate on his practice.

It may sound cliché, but in that instance, Cole noticed the violinist's hair blowing gently to the side, dancing along with the invisible wind. Suddenly, a peculiar feeling surged within Cole, as if his heart was blossoming with excitement. It was a strange sensation, yet it brought him immense happiness.

The music took on a lively and funky rhythm. Cole couldn't resist bopping his head up and down, completely absorbed in the energetic performance. He quickly switched on the camcorder he had brought along with his camera, feeling the urgency to capture this moment—right here, right now. He couldn't afford to miss such an opportunity.

But then, the music abruptly came to an end. Cole slowly rose from his seat and applauded enthusiastically. He decided to forgo recording on his camcorder. A masterpiece like this deserved to be experienced live, he thought to himself.

"Hey, you can't be here!" exclaimed the flute player, whose voice was unexpectedly high-pitched considering his small stature. The violinist looked at Cole with surprise, wondering who had allowed him to enter.

"I'm sorry, I was just wandering around..."

"You're not allowed here! I apologize, but YOU," he pointed his short finger at Cole, "...need to leave," said the determined shorty.

"Mint, it's alright. He's probably a visitor. We shouldn't treat a visitor like that," Tay interjected.

"But this is a private practice, Tay!" Mint reminded him.

Private practices were meant to be strictly confidential, with no one—not even the principal—permitted to attend. The main purpose was to ensure the musicians could maintain 100% focus and prevent any information about the performance from being leaked prematurely.

In other words, it was to avoid any spoilers.

"Oh, you guys play for the orchestra!" exclaimed Cole, his excitement growing as he realized that his new crush would likely become his brother's student.

The prospect of getting to meet him was now almost certain!

"Do we know you?" Mint asked, a hint of confusion in his voice.

"Well, actually... I am..."

Before Cole could finish his sentence, the door swung open wide. Three handsome men entered, and one of them was visibly taken aback upon seeing Cole in the auditorium.

"Hello, boys!"

"Hello, Mr. Bing!" both Mint and Tay greeted Joe with a bow.

"We apologize for interrupting your private practice," Joe said, casting a glance toward Cole.