Why Lorie? Part II

Chapter 31: Preparing for Viktor's Return

Summer passed as quickly as a beautiful dream.  Josette lost track of time after moving back into Viktor's mansion.  She continued to work at the Vienna Opera and starred in many of their productions.  Her name was now printed in bold, capital letters above all the other singers' and tickets sold out rapidly whenever she performed.  Lorie seemed resigned to the fact that her mother was constantly busy.  She often spent her days in Delphine's company, at either of their homes or in the park.  The two little girls became as close as twin sisters.  Josette was grateful for Isabelle's friendship — she could rely on Mme. Marchal to watch over Lorie when she was engrossed in preparing for a new role. 

Peter also proved to be a great help.  He continued giving Lorie daily piano lessons.  By the end of July, the little girl had quite a repertoire under her belt and could sit down and play several pieces by Mozart, Bach and Chopin by heart.  Josette was extremely proud of her daughter's natural talent and perseverance.

"Peter... you have no idea how grateful I am to you," Josette stopped on her way to the opera one morning to talk to her stepson.

"Because of Lorie?"  Peter asked.  He was working on a new composition, but took a break when Josette knocked on his door, and kindly invited her in.

"Yes," Josette replied.  "Lorie has improved in leaps and bounds over the summer.  I still can't quite believe it!"

"She is very talented... it obviously runs in the family," Peter winked at Josette.

"But if it hadn't been for you... and for your extraordinary patience... nothing would have ever come of it," she returned the compliment with a smile.

"It's been my pleasure to work with her," Peter grinned back.  "Especially since she will be busy this fall, so we'll have less time to practice."

For a minute, Josette was confused by Peter's words.  Suddenly, she remembered that her five-year old would be starting kindergarten in September.  That also reminded Josette that August was only a few days away.  Her thoughts immediately turned to Viktor, who was still in Mystery Spell.  But not for much longer.

"Have you heard from your father?  Has he already purchased return tickets?"  Josette asked, her voice trembling a bit.

Peter sighed.  "Yes... as a matter of fact I have.  I got a telegram yesterday afternoon and was going to tell you about it, but I didn't see you last night."

"I had to work late," Josette explained.  "We are in the midst of La Traviata and Herr Schiller is in a tiff... as he usually is before an important premiere."

"I see," Peter replied.  "Well... in any case... Father will return in ten days."  He glanced at his pocket watch.  "He should be already sailing right now."

Josette paled.  She wasn't sure what to do next.  "Has he mentioned me at all," she murmured.  "I don't know if he expects me to be gone by the time he's back... or not."

"I think Father would be very happy if you and Lorie remained here," Peter replied with absolute confidence.  "The question is... how do you feel about it?"

Josette sat down on the edge of Peter's bed.  She looked slightly dazed, and unconsciously placed a gloved hand over her heart.

"Are you alright?"  Peter inquired, concerned by her demeanor.

"Yes... yes...I just...I don't know what to do, Peter," Josette sighed.  She raised her hazel eyes and peered into his.  "Any advice?"

Peter looked away.  He didn't feel comfortable telling her what he really thought.  He cleared his throat and ran a hand through his raven hair.