A Beautiful Instrument

40: Being Handled

An hour later, my face hurts from smiling, my feet hurt from standing, and all I want is the comfort of Jeremy's arms and our bed.

Bart smiles at me. "You are a remarkable woman, Ana. Here drink this."

I take a sniff. It's good, but strong coffee. I glance up at the giant clock in the lobby. "Why am I drinking strong, Italian coffee at 11:49 at night?"

"Because your friends are waiting to see you at the Velvet Tango Room to celebrate. You don't have to stay long." He nudges me.

"I am so tired. Is it always going to be like this? I didn't expect this." I say and instantly feel a little bad for complaining about what has been the best experience of my life.

Bart looks at the dwindling crowd. "This was really unusual, but I think it's safe to say you're going to be a very lucrative and popular addition for the orchestra. Let's go."

"Wait, I need my flowers from earlier." I remember. My mind had drifted to the flowers I received at intermission and who had sent them. I really hoped it was my mom so things don't get awkward.

The flowers are where I left them. I scoop them into my arms and inhale their delicate scent. Bart observes. "Those are gorgeous. Do I vaguely remember you getting some like that in college?"

"Yep." I don't elaborate. I'm staring at the card, willing my life to be simple for once.

"They aren't from Jeremy, I take it? You are treating the envelope like it contains the results of your future Grammy nomination." Bart teased.

"Oh hush! It's just... it's complicated. My dad used to send these. After he died, I received a bouquet at my last college performance. They weren't from who I thought." I explain.

"Well, whoever he is, he is trying to be a good guy. Your father would have been so proud of you, Ana. I know I am." Bart tells me quietly.

"You're going to make me cry." I press my face to his arm and he kisses the top of my head. It's a very warm gesture.

"Moment of truth..." I say dramatically holding my breath.

Fuck.

I was hoping for once it would be simple.

Analeigh, I'm sure you know by now, but just let me be clear. I love you. I have for sometime. I know you're otherwise committed because I didn't move fast enough. I know you don't owe me anything, but I'd like a chance to explain. Congratulations on your debut. Your biggest fan, Marcus

Bart reads the look on my face. "Yet another admirer compelled by your aura?"

"Is this why you're single? Is it just easier?" I ask desperately.

"It is, but it can be lonely. You have a beautiful soul, Ana. It matches your exterior and your talents and your heart. You're the whole package. You're always going to attract more than your fair share of suitors, but I can tell you one thing. I have never seen you shine brighter than when you are with Jeremy." He confirms what I know in my heart.

"I feel that. Bart, I think he's the one. I'm scared to say that because we've known each other less than a month, but we have this crazy, intense pull for one another. I don't know how to describe it." I admit.

"I don't think you have to. Just feel it. You'll know if it's right." Bart advises.

We arrive at the Velvet Tango Room and find our group toward the back corner.

"Finally! Ahhhhhhh!" I nearly get tackled by Alexis. I can tell she has had a few drinks already.

Manny is behind her, smiling widely. "You almost brought the place down tonight, Leigh! That was amazing."