A Promise Across Time [Completed]

The Stage of Dreams

January 1964
Sweden

It was August of 1963 when Raven arrived, and almost five months had passed since she had come into our lives. Each day with her was an adventure, a whirlwind of discovery and wonder. Her presence had transformed our lives in ways we could never have imagined.

Raven's arrival had been the turning point for us. The bar, once a modest venue struggling for recognition, had become a sensation. The tipping point came when I finally allowed Raven to accompany me, showcasing her extraordinary talent on the piano. Her touch on the keys was both delicate and powerful, and the original composition we performed together—an intriguing melody that Raven claimed came from the future—captivated our audience. The song's unique charm turned out to be more than just a novelty; it became an instant hit.

"I still find it hard to believe," I said to Raven one evening as we prepared for another show. "You said this song is from the future. If it becomes famous, I could claim the copyright since I was the first to perform it."

Raven shook her head with a faint smile. "I wouldn't worry about claiming copyright. The song was never meant to belong to anyone; it was meant to be shared. Besides, it's not about who gets the credit—it's about the music reaching people."

Despite my initial reservations, the song had taken off, becoming a sensation not only in our neighborhood but in neighboring towns as well. People drove from hundreds of miles away just to see us perform. The once modest bar had transformed into a bustling hotspot, and Raven's classical performances on certain nights left audiences in awe. Her skill at the piano was unparalleled, and the mix of contemporary and classical music had created a unique experience for our patrons.

The success, however, brought with it its own set of challenges. One night, as I was preparing for our final performance at the bar, Raven's voice broke the silence of our dressing room. "If I get famous in this era, there might be trouble in the future."

I turned to face her, my curiosity piqued. "What do you mean?"

"It's simple cause and effect," she said, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "If we change the past, the future changes too. That's what worries me the most. I don't know if what we're doing now might somehow stop the events that lead to my birth."

I paused, my thoughts suddenly stilled as I looked at her. I hadn't considered that—hadn't let myself truly believe her claim, not until this very moment. My heart struggled to grasp the weight of what she was saying. Could we really be altering the course of time so drastically that it might erase her existence? The possibility sent a shiver down my spine.

"Maybe you should focus on the talent agency that's recruiting you," she suggested. "They're offering you a chance to perform on a larger stage. It could be a good opportunity for you, and it might be less complicated than our current situation." The cheerfulness in her tone suddenly came back pushing the negative thoughts that's ruining the happy mood.

I nodded, already having signed the contract with the agency. Tonight would indeed be my last performance at the bar. As much as I was grateful for everything Raven had brought into our lives, I knew it was time for a new chapter.

"Okay," I said, glancing at Raven as I adjusted my dress. "So tonight is your last time to see me perform here. Are you going to join me for the show?"

Raven's eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and sadness. "Yes, I think I should. It's been an incredible journey, and I wouldn't miss this final performance for anything."

As the evening approached, the bar was abuzz with anticipation. The crowd was larger than usual, a testament to the impact Raven and I had made in such a short time. The familiar hum of conversation and clinking glasses filled the air, creating a vibrant atmosphere that seemed to pulse with energy.

When it was time for us to take the stage, I could see Raven in the wings, her fingers lightly touching the piano keys as she prepared for our final performance. I took a deep breath and stepped into the spotlight, feeling a surge of gratitude for the incredible journey we had shared.

The first notes of the song filled the room, and the audience fell silent, captivated by the melody. Raven's presence beside me was a source of comfort and strength. As we performed, I couldn't help but reflect on how much had changed since her arrival—how her talent and spirit had breathed new life into the bar and into my own career.

When the final chords of the song echoed through the bar, the audience erupted into applause, their cheers and claps a testament to the impact of our performance. I glanced at Raven, who was smiling brightly, her eyes shining with a mixture of pride and bittersweetness.

As we took our final bow, I knew that this was not just the end of a chapter, but the beginning of a new one. Raven's influence had been profound, and as I looked forward to the opportunities ahead with the talent agency, I also felt a deep sense of gratitude for the time we had spent together.

Later that evening, as we stood outside the bar, the cool night air wrapping around us, Raven turned to me with a thoughtful expression. "You know, this journey has been incredible, and I'm so glad I got to be a part of it. But remember, the future is always changing, and your path is yours to forge."

I nodded, feeling a sense of peace and resolution. "Thank you, Raven. For everything."

"You don't have to thank me. This is an honor to have shared the stage with you, legendary Frida." She said with a smile.

"There you are again, I'm not even starting yet and you're calling me legendary."

"One day, you'll understand. And before that time comes, I want you to know that I am very very proud of you."

Aside from my grandmother, Raven is the first to say she's proud of me. I held her close to me and kiss the top of her head.

"Thank you." I murmured.

As we head home together that night, I knew that while the bar and the performances were coming to an end, the memories and the impact of our time together would stay with me. The future was uncertain, but with the foundation we had built, I felt ready to embrace whatever lay ahead.

The stage was set for new beginnings, and as I looked toward the horizon, I knew that the music would continue, until the day that she decided to go back to the future or wherever she came from.

***