Duet Partner

Prologue

When his violin case shuts with a satisfying click, Brett is about to breathe a sigh of relief. He knows he isn't supposed to feel this way – after all, this is what he's here (and paying) for. Still, every survived lesson counts as a win in his books.

Now, don't get this wrong: Brett loves playing the violin. In fact, all his life music has been the center of his existence and Brett wouldn't want to have it any other way – but violin lessons at a conservatory are no fucking cakewalk. And so, as always after these weekly torture sessions, every cell in his body wants to burst into cheers.

Though this time, he would've been better off restraining his joy.

"Brett, would you mind staying for just a second?"

Uh-oh. He doesn't like the sound of that. It brings up unpleasant memories of the times when his high school math teacher kept him after school to tell him he flunked another important exam. But hell, who needs calculus and geometric proofs anyway?

Shit, he's deviating from the subject again.

"Sure, ma'am. What is it?"

Professor Walsh sighs. She hesitates for a second and then manages to foil Brett's plans of having a relaxed week within thirty seconds.

"As you should know, all third years are required to play a duet with a fellow student for this year's winter recital. I know that you were really busy with preparing for the competition and I understand that you had no capacities to think of other things until now but... the final deadline for the recital programs is in a few days. I really hate to put you under pressure but I need you to tell me your duet partner and the piece you'll play until this Friday – or you won't be able to participate."

Brett stills, struck by lightning. Holy shit.

He meant to secure himself a partner ages ago but Professor Walsh is absolutely right. That damn competition preoccupied him thoroughly.

"Oh god, that totally slipped my mind. I'm really sorry – I should've –" he babbles, mind already racing in hope of a sudden epiphany that will help him escape this messed up situation.

Because here's the issue: They're so far into the rehearsal time that everybody will have formed duos a long time ago – and he will be the only one left alone. Shit. What a humiliation.

On the other hand, having a nervous breakdown right now and here won't help him either. Hasn't ever before. Judging by her facial expression, his teacher seems to be of the same opinion. So, Brett pulls himself together like a fucking champion and raises his chin high. What other option does he have?

"Thank you, Professor. I'm grateful for the reminder and I promise to have you notified by Friday."

As he steps out of the classroom and makes his way down the hallway, he's already fiercely determined to make the best out of this dilemma.

Even if the odds are not in his favor – Brett Yang is fully prepared to throw himself into the arduous quest of finding himself a worthy duet partner.

It can't be that hard.