When All Is Said And Done

Chapter Nine: An Unforgettable Evening

The moment Benny and Frida stepped off the stage, they were taken in by a sea of applause and congratulations. Backstage, the atmosphere was electric, filled with the excited chatter of fellow musicians and organizers. Christina was there, beaming with pride, and María gave Frida a big hug the moment she locked eyes on her. She was so proud of her girl. Yet, despite the happy chaos around them, Frida and Benny found themselves drawn to each other, their eyes locking in a silent conversation.

All the sounds of celebration faded into the background as they stood face-to-face, their breaths mingling in the close space. Benny reached out and took Frida’s hand, his touch both tentative and filled with purpose.

“I’ve rented a house here in Mallorca for my stay,” Benny said softly, his voice almost trembling with vulnerability. “Would you like to come back with me for a drink?”

Frida hesitated, the weight of the evening’s emotions still fresh. But the sincerity in Benny’s eyes and the connection she felt urged her to take a leap of faith. “I’d like that,” she replied, her voice just above a whisper.

They made their way to Benny’s rented car, the night air cool and refreshing after the intensity of the performance. The drive was quiet, both of them lost in their thoughts, the road ahead illuminated by the soft glow of the streetlights. Benny’s hand occasionally brushed against Frida’s as he shifted gears, a simple touch that sent shivers down her spine.

Benny’s rented house was situated on a quiet hillside, overlooking the sea. The moon cast a silvery light over the landscape, making everything look ethereal. The house itself was a charming Mediterranean villa, its white walls and terracotta roof glowing softly in the moonlight. Olive trees and blooming bougainvillea surrounded the property, adding to its beauty.

They walked inside, the warm, inviting interior contrasting with the cool night outside. The living room was spacious yet cozy, with comfortable furniture and soft lighting that created an intimate ambiance. Benny motioned for Frida to sit on the plush couch while he retrieved a bottle of wine from the kitchen. He returned with two glasses, handing one to her with a gentle smile. They clinked their glasses together, a silent toast to the evening and to the journey that lay ahead.

As they sipped their wine, the tension of the past days began to melt away. They talked about the concert, their shared history, and the music that had brought them together once more. Laughter and stories flowed freely, filling the room with a warmth that had been absent for too long.

Benny leaned back against the couch, his shoulder brushing against Frida’s. She felt a familiar flutter in her chest, a blend of nervousness and excitement. He turned to her, his eyes reflecting the golden glow of the lamp. “Frida, I can’t tell you how much it meant to me to hear you sing those songs tonight.”

Frida’s heart ached at the sincerity in his voice. “Your music... it’s like you were speaking directly to my soul. It brought back so many memories, both good and painful.”

Benny reached out and gently took her hand, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. “I never stopped thinking about you, about us. Writing those songs was my way of trying to make sense of everything. I wanted to make everything that I was feeling very clear. I never stopped loving you, Frida.”

Frida felt tears prick at her eyes, but she blinked them away, not wanting to break the fragile moment. She leaned closer, her head resting on his shoulder. “It’s been hard, Benny. But tonight... tonight felt like a step towards healing.”

He turned slightly, his face inches from hers. The room seemed to shrink around them, the air thick with unspoken words and lingering feelings. Benny’s hand moved to cup her cheek, his touch sending a spark of electricity through her.