A Beautiful Instrument

7: Stepping up My Game

"So hi all, I'm a new face to many of you, but I too want to raise a glass to Leigh. You see I was the lucky musician who got to accompany her in the final round of her audition. You all know the hardwork and dedication she puts into her craft. I got to experience firsthand the power and passion that she emanates when she plays and I can say, I have never felt more heart in playing with another musician than I felt with her. Leigh, I look forward to a long career alongside you."

A round of awwws go up around the table as people raise their glasses one last time. Jeremy is staring into my eyes with such intensity I feel like I may just catch fire right here. He purposefully tips his glass to me and I mouth the words "thank you."

Keith huffs beside me, but thankfully the food comes and everyone digs in. The food is great as always and it being a Sunday, most people don't linger too long afterward. I'm out of my seat as soon as I'm finished, making sure to spend time with each guest before they leave.

"So I'm sure you won't know your debut date until after a few practices. Don't be discouraged if it takes awhile to get looped in. When you do get a date, let me know and I'll be there. I'm proud of you, kid." Bart imparts.

"Thank you for being here. It means a lot. You've always been there when I've needed you." I tell him.

"And pretty soon you're not going to need me anymore." Bart comments, pretending to be glum.

"Nonsense." I hug him tightly.

I'm saying goodbye to another group of people. Jeremy catches my eye, and gestures with his head to the exit. I feel guilty for bailing, but everything's just about wrapped up. I finish up, go to grab my purse, and make sure Alexis is safe to drive herself home.

Keith walks over from the bar. "Where are you scurrying off too?"

"I have a date." I say blatantly.

Keith kicks his head in Jeremy's direction. "With that guy? I didn't know he works with you. He didn't make you sleep with him just to get the spot, did he?"

I glare at him. "Keith, you are unreal. Even if that's what you think of him, do you really think that low of me that I would do something like that?"

"I mean I would hope not, but I know how desperate you were to get the seat. I don't know if there were limits to what you would do." He has the nerve to tell me.

"You know what, Keith? Thanks for your contributions today, but keep your money and your judgment to yourself next time. Enjoy your all-expenses-paid trip with someone else." I growl at him.

I'm fuming from my exchange with Keith. I find Alexis talking with Manny and judging by their proximity, it's going well.

"Lex, I need to blow out of here. Are you good to get home?" I ask abruptly.

"I got her. I needed a ride, anyway." Manny answers. Alexis finally draws her attention away from Manny, smiling slyly at me until she realizes how pissed off I am.

She opens her mouth and I shake my head. "It's Keith, but not now. Thank you for everything, though. This was spectacular."

"Love you, Leigh. Go make beautiful music with your fella." She encourages me.

I roll my eyes and say goodbye to her and Manny. Jeremy is leaning next to the exit, his eyes closed, but his fingers drumming a rhythm on his thigh. He opens his eyes slowly as I approach. "I thought I'd never get you alone."

"Don't be so dramatic. Let's see what you have in store for me." I retort and we walk out into the sunshine. He opens the car door for me and I sink into the sleek, leather seat.