DREAMBOUND

Saku's Crescendo (Part Two)

POV: Saku

Inside, the store was a paradise for music lovers. Rows of guitars, violins, and other instruments lined the walls, and the shelves were filled with sheet music and accessories. The air was filled with the mingled scents of polished wood and metal.

"Wow," Shoji said, looking around. "This place is amazing."

I barely nodded, I was focused on the instruments. We made our way to the wind instruments section, where flutes of all shapes and sizes were displayed. A friendly-looking sales associate approached us.

"Can I help you find something?" he asked.

"Yes, I'm looking to buy a flute," I said, trying to keep my voice steady.

"Great! Are you a beginner or do you have some experience?"

"Beginner," I admitted.

He nodded and led us to a display case. "I recommend starting with a student model. They're durable and easier to play, but they still produce a good sound."

He showed us a few options, and I picked up one of the flutes, feeling its weight in my hands. It was cool and smooth, and as I held it up to the light, I could see my reflection in the polished metal.

"Give it a try," He said, handing me a cleaning cloth and a small bottle of oil. "Here, let me show you how to assemble it."

He demonstrated how to put the pieces together, and I followed his instructions carefully. Once it was assembled, I took a deep breath and blew into the mouthpiece. The first few notes were shaky, but then it made clear, sweet sounds.

Shoji's eyes widened. I grinned, feeling a rush of satisfaction. "It sounds even better than I imagined."

The sales associate smiled. "This model is a great choice for beginners, it's very reliable and well-made."

I nodded, already feeling a connection to the instrument. "I'll take it."

We completed the purchase, and I left the store with my new flute carefully packed in a sturdy case. As we walked back to the bus stop, Shoji couldn't stop talking about all the songs I could learn to play.

"Imagine playing duets," he said. "You on the flute, Moralk or me on the guitar. It'll be epic."

I laughed, feeling lighter than I had in weeks.

On the bus, the afternoon sun was beginning to dip. Shoji and I chatted about our plans for the rest of the night. Shoji was engrossed in his phone, likely scrolling through music forums or checking out new guitar tabs. I took the opportunity to open the flute case again, admiring the instrument's sleek design. The bus ride back to the dormitory felt shorter.

When we reached our stop, we hopped off and made our way through the campus. The dormitory loomed ahead. We entered the building, our footsteps echoing in the hallway as we headed to my apartment.

"Hey, I just had a thought," he said, eyes lighting up. "Why don't I run to my dorm and grab my guitar? We can play together while you get the hang of the flute."

"Shoji, I had no idea you could play guitar!" I exclaimed, admiration evident in my voice.

Shoji grinned, a hint of pride shining in his eyes. "Yeah, I guess I never mentioned it, huh? I've been playing since I was a kid. My dad taught me."

I stared at him, incredulous. "Your dad taught you?"
"Now, about me bringing my guitar..." Saku cut him off, "Yeah, that sounds good. I'll wait here."

I grinned, feeling a wave of gratitude for my friend's enthusiasm. I said as I stood waiting at the corner of the hallway.

"Okay, be right back!" Shoji said, already turning on his heel and jogging towards his building.