Neighbour

45.

They walked into the rehearsal space, Eddy instinctively shielding Brett somewhat to help him avoid the stares of his fellow musicians. It didn't really seem to be necessary anyway, though, as they mostly minded their own business. Some were grouped up with their deskies, trying to figure out the music they had gotten. They went up to the table they would usually unpack at and put their cases down to get ready for the rehearsal.

"Welcome back, Brett. It's so good to have you here again," the concert master said as she approached them. She handed them the music they'd be working on for the day - a brand new piece of contemporary music written by a local composer. "How are you feeling?"

"Excited to get going again, honestly," Brett said softly with a shrug and a polite smile as he checked out the new music. He only barely avoided grimacing at the sight of it. Had to remain somewhat professional at least. "Thanks for not... you know, firing me or anything."

The concert master shook her head.
"No way I'd do that, that'd be the fastest way to make myself unpopular I think," she said gently before turning to Eddy. "And Eddy, it's so good to have you back here too. I'm excited to see how this concert goes. The repertoire is certainly something."

Eddy chuckled a bit nervously.

"I have to admit the contemporary stuff isn't what I've been playing the most recently, but it's an exciting challenge," he said, trying to sound professional about it. Truly, though, he just didn't get the music. And the fact that the composer had handed the music in late too, making this a sight read didn't help. Eddy hated being unprepared.

"I appreciate your optimism," the concert master chuckled softly. "Anyway, gotta go warm up a little. See you later."

Eddy watched her as she headed off to unpack.
"I truly wish you hadn't told me they were considering hiring me full time," he said softly to Brett. "The nerves are making me crazy."

"You've got nothing to be nervous about. You got this," Brett said gently, reaching out to gently touch his arm. "I believe in you, so you should too."

"Thanks, Brett. I'll try, but... yeah, it's nerve wrecking," Eddy chuckled softly, getting his violin out. "Especially with this music. What the heck does all this even mean?"

Brett snorted, shaking his head.
"I dunno. These crazy contemporary composers, am I right?"

In that moment, all Eddy could think about was how much he loved seeing Brett get comfortable enough to joke around with him. It took a moment to gather himself enough to respond.
"I guess we'll see if he can explain the musical intention here, or if it's just pulled out of his... you know," he said jokingly back as he tightened his bow. "Let's go sit and try and play through a bit together?"

"Sure, I'd love to," Brett smiled, closing his case and picking up the sheet music.