“And as composer,” Anna added. “You’re going to be a famous pianist, and we’ll come to see you perform in the Great Hall of the Musikverein in Vienna.”
Max smiled.
“And what about you, Bruno?” Norbie asked.
“Anna and I will marry,” Bruno said. “I’ll work at my family’s manufacturing business in Frankfurt, where we’ll purchase a grand house and—” He paused, rubbing stubble on his chin. “We’ll have lots of children.”
An ache grew in Max’s chest.
Anna glanced to Bruno, then lowered her head.
“How is your family’s business doing?” Norbie asked. “In times of uncertainty, I’m sure it’s been difficult for yourvaterto keep it afloat while you’re away.”
“On the contrary,” Bruno said. “Myvaterhas gained military supply contracts to keep things running. I assure you, Norbie, your daughter will be financially well taken care of.”
“What is your family business?” Max asked.
“Wahler Farbwerke,” Bruno said. “It’s an ink and dye business.”
What does the military need with ink and dye?Curiosity stirred in Max’s gut. “May I—”
“Max,” Anna said, “I’d love for Norbie and Bruno to hear the movements ofLight Suitethat you’ve finished. Would you mind playing it for us?”
“Not at all, but you haven’t shared your aspirations,” Max said.
“It’s not necessary,” she said.
“Oh, but it is,” Norbie said. “You must share something that you’re looking forward to after the war, even if it is something small.”
Anna glanced to Nia. “I’d like to continue to train guide dogs.”
A smile spread over Norbie’s face.
“Dr. Stalling has grand plans for expanding guide dog training,” Anna said. “Maybe someday he’ll open a school in Frankfurt.”
“That would be good for veterans,” Bruno said. “But you’ll have no need to work when we are married.”
Max clenched his jaw.It’s her choice.
“True,” Anna said. “However, I may decide to train after the war, assuming I’m given the opportunity to do so.”
Bruno straightened his back. “Very well, if you like.”
She smoothed her skirt with her hands. “Max, could you honor us with your piece?”
“Sure,” Max said, feeling proud of Anna for holding her ground. He turned to the piano, positioned his hands over the keyboard, and played. Initially, it felt strange for him to perform his music that was inspired by Anna, who was now sitting next to her fiancé. But as he continued with the piece, emotions of his time with Anna swelled within his heart. Instead of ending his performance with the most recent movement that Anna had transcribed for him, he played the next movement, which he had been rehearsing in his head. And as he finished, he was jolted by the sound of Norbie’s applause.
“Bravo!” Norbie said, clapping his hands. “Bravo!”
Max turned on his bench and gave a small bow.
“That was sublime,” Anna said. “Is it the next movement of the suite?”
“Ja,” Max said.
Anna left the sofa and approached him. “Stand.”
“Why?” Max asked, rising from his seat.
