Annyeongz One-shots

104. Her

The concert hall glowed under warm golden lights, every chandelier reflecting softly against the polished wooden walls. Hundreds of people filled the seats, their voices blending into a low murmur that carried across the grand space. Cameras from several music magazines waited near the stage. Critics, professors, famous musicians, and devoted classical fans had all gathered for the same reason.

Tonight was the final round of one of the most prestigious piano competitions.

And the name everyone expected to hear was the same.

Ahn Yujin.

He was already well known despite his young age. A pianist whose interpretations of classical music had drawn international attention. His performances weren’t just technically perfect — they carried emotion that left audiences silent long after the last note ended.

Backstage, Yujin stood alone near the dark curtain.

His black suit was simple but elegant, fitting his tall frame perfectly. His hair was neatly brushed back, revealing calm, focused eyes.

He flexed his fingers slowly.

Long fingers.

Hands that had spent years living on piano keys.

The muffled voice of the announcer echoed through the speakers.

“And now… our final performer of the evening.”

The audience quieted immediately.

“Please welcome… Ahn Yujin.”

The curtain opened.

Applause filled the hall instantly as Yujin stepped onto the stage.

The lights were bright, but he didn’t squint. He had stood on many stages before.

But tonight felt slightly different.

He walked calmly toward the center of the stage where the grand piano waited. Its black surface reflected the lights like still water.

Yujin stopped beside it.

Then he bowed deeply to the audience.

When he straightened, he did what he always did before performing.

He looked out at the crowd.

Just briefly.

Just to feel the room.

Hundreds of faces stared back at him. Judges sat in the front rows with serious expressions, their pens ready. Music lovers leaned forward in anticipation.

But then—

His eyes stopped.

Near the far edge of the hall.

A woman sat alone in one of the side seats, slightly hidden from the center view.

She wasn’t dressed like the others. No elegant evening gown. Just a simple coat wrapped around her shoulders.

Her head was slightly lowered.

But what caught Yujin’s attention…

Were her eyes.

Red.

Not irritated.

Not tired.

Red from crying.

Even from the stage, he could see it clearly under the soft lighting.

Her eyelashes looked damp.

Like she had cried recently.