Song for you

2

The pub was beginning to quiet down as the night wore on, the vibrant energy of the earlier crowd ebbing into a soft hum of conversation and laughter. Michael Brew, his usual spot secured in the expansive L-shaped lounge near the bar, took a sip of his favorite espresso martini. He loved the comfortable familiarity of Paul’s pub, where he could unwind after a show, the low light and eclectic decor providing a cozy escape from the demands of touring.

Sam, seated across from him, wore a casual smile as he feigned interest in the football game flickering on the TV above. The reality was that he was keenly aware of Eva’s movements, ever watchful for her entrance. Their shared banter about music and films often drifted, but tonight, Michael’s thoughts wandered more to the girl who infused the pub with her presence.

Eva, lost in her thoughts as she arranged glasses behind the bar, felt the familiar flutter of excitement whenever Michael was nearby. She had been especially distracted lately, her heart racing at the thought of sharing her new song. It was a piece woven from the threads of her feelings for him, and though she had shared snippets with Sam, performing it for Michael felt like standing on the precipice of a dream.

At that moment, Sam waved her over, his gesture drawing her attention. She smiled and made her way to their table, sliding into a seat next to Sam as they engaged in a lively debate about the merits of classic rock versus contemporary pop. The conversation flowed easily, peppered with playful jabs and genuine laughter, creating an atmosphere of warmth that enveloped them.

As the evening progressed, the pub filled with patrons, and Paul called out to Eva, “Hey, I could use your help with the tables! The crowd is getting thick!”

Nodding, Eva jumped into action, weaving through the throng of customers with practiced ease. She poured drinks, took orders, and laughed with the regulars. Sam, taking a breather from their earlier discussions, helped by clearing plates and glasses, all the while keeping an eye on Michael, who remained in his cozy corner, a notebook resting on his lap as he jotted down ideas between sips of his drink.

After a couple of bustling hours, the crowd began to thin, and Paul approached Eva with a gleam in his eye. “You and Sam should perform a song together,” he suggested, his voice filled with encouragement.

Eager to showcase her new composition, Eva’s heart raced at the thought. “I’d love to!” she exclaimed, glancing at Sam, who nodded enthusiastically, his own excitement palpable.

They set up their equipment on a small stage at the far end of the bar, the intimate setting drawing in a few lingering patrons. As they settled onto bar stools, Eva took a moment to adjust the microphone, feeling the weight of anticipation in the air. She glanced toward Michael, who appeared engrossed in his notes, but she hoped he was also listening.

“Ready?” Sam asked, his gaze steady and reassuring.

“Always,” Eva replied, her voice steadier than she felt. She began with a ballad Sam had suggested, her voice soaring and filling the room with warmth. The song echoed the bittersweet longing she often felt, and as she sang, she poured her heart into every note, hoping that Michael could hear her truth within the lyrics.

After the first song, she transitioned into her original composition, inspired by the emotions Michael stirred within her. The melody flowed seamlessly, and she could see some patrons swaying gently to the rhythm. Despite her nerves, she found comfort in the familiarity of the music, and her voice grew stronger, more confident with each passing line.

As the final chord resonated in the air, applause erupted around them. Eva beamed, feeling a rush of accomplishment. She glanced over at Michael, whose expression was inscrutable, but she couldn’t help but hope he had felt the passion behind her words.

Once the performance wrapped up, Eva thanked the audience, her heart still racing. With Sam's assistance, they cleaned up the equipment, the thrill of performing still lingering in the air. As she leaned in to kiss Sam on the cheek, grateful for his support, she made her way toward the bar, her heart fluttering at the thought of Michael’s potential acknowledgment.

Just as she passed Michael’s table, she felt his hand gently grasp her wrist, sending a jolt of surprise through her.

“Eva, nice song,” he remarked, his voice warm and sincere.

“Thanks,” she replied, a rush of warmth flooding her at his compliment. His praise felt like a gift, but before she could linger on the moment, Paul’s urgent call for assistance drew her away.

As the night drew to a close, Eva and Sam worked together to tidy up the pub. They stacked chairs, wiped down tables, and chatted about the performance. Each time Eva stole a glance at Michael’s table, she felt a swell of pride at his apparent appreciation for her song. The knowledge that her music had resonated with him—if only for a moment—sparked a flicker of hope within her.

“Do you think he really liked it?” she asked Sam, her voice a mix of curiosity and longing.

“Absolutely,” Sam replied with a knowing smile. “You put your heart into that song, and he could see it.”

As they wrapped up for the night, Eva's heart fluttered with anticipation, wondering if perhaps this was the moment she would finally gather the courage to reveal her true feelings. Maybe it was time to step out from the shadows of her own insecurities and embrace the possibility of something more with Michael.