Genevieve began to sing, intuitively finding harmonies.The rest of the band fell in gradually.Mickey's drum brushes whispered against the snare, and the bass provided a foundation that grounded the improvisation.
They played until the song ended naturally, a resolution that felt right.When the last note faded, Cadie kept her hands on the keys, reluctant to break the connection.
"That was beautiful," Genevieve said."Write that one down."
Cadie looked up at her friend.She'd found solace in the music, and a chance to claim something for herself, to step out of the comfortable shadows where she had been hiding for so long.
Genevieve spoke to the band."Let's finish this rehearsal.We have a show Friday night, and I need you at your best."
They returned to the setlist, working through arrangements and transitions with the efficiency of musicians who knew each other's instincts.But Cadie kept thinking about the conservatory.It was a place where art mattered more than profit, where students learned to create beauty.It was the kind of place where a pianist could be more than just accompaniment.
She didn't let herself hope too much.She'd spent most of her life learning to be satisfied with what she had, instead of reaching for what she really wanted.But something stirred inside her at the thought of returning to Charleston.
Chapter 2
Once in her apartment, Cadie flopped onto her bed, exhausted.She just wanted to rest but wasn't sure when she'd get a flight out.Instead of giving in to sleep, she got up and started laundry.Then she had a late snack while she started to pack.
She hadn't been to Charleston in a while.The weather was like New Orleans, but a bit cooler this time of year.She'd dress in layers.Involvement in planning the trip allowed her thoughts to wander.
Her aunt was on her mind, because the cause of death was unclear.The letter said she'd passed from natural causes, but that was so general.Cadie tried to picture her aunt as she was at her father's funeral.She realized that she lacked information about her aunt's health over the last few years.
It was too late to call the attorney, but he'd mentioned that any day this week would be good.It was only Tuesday.She went online and was able to book a flight for the next day, along with an airport shuttle.In the morning, she would get an appointment at the law firm.With that settled, Cadie headed for bed.If she could stop thinking about the past, she could get a good night of sleep.She'd probably need it.
*****
The flight from New Orleans to Charleston was smooth.She picked up a rental car and drove through streets that were familiar.Charleston had grown, which wasn't surprising.New restaurants occupied old buildings, and construction cranes dotted the skyline where historic preservation met modern development.But the spirit of the city remained the same.
Cadie found her hotel near the historic district without difficulty.She had chosen it for its proximity to Stratton House.The hotel lobby was small and elegant, with gleaming wood floors and furniture that looked like actual antiques rather than reproductions.
The woman behind the desk greeted her with a smile that showed genuine warmth."Welcome to the Palmetto Inn.Checking in?"
Cadie gave her name and watched the woman pull up her reservation.The check-in process was quick and efficient.
The woman handed over a physical key attached to a brass tag."You're in room twelve, second floor.Breakfast is served in the dining room from seven to nine.Is this your first time in Charleston?"
"No, I grew up in Charleston.But it's been a few years since I've been here."
The woman's smile grew warmer."Welcome back.Let me know if you need anything during your stay."
Cadie took the elevator up to the second floor.Room twelve was at the end of the hall, a corner room with windows facing two directions.She unlocked the door and stepped inside.
The space was small but charming, with a four-poster bed and a writing desk positioned near one window.The bathroom was updated but maintained a historic feel with its claw-foot tub and subway tile.The fresh flowers on the desk emitted a light fragrance.
She set her suitcase on the bed and walked to the window.Historic homes lined the street with façades painted in traditional green, yellow, and blue tones, their gardens visible behind iron gates.Below, a horse-drawn carriage passed by carrying tourists.
By the time she finished unpacking, the afternoon sun slanted through the window at an angle that suggested she had a few hours before dinner.Cadie changed into comfortable walking shoes and headed out to reacquaint herself with the city.Her appointment with the attorney was the following day, which gave her a chance to orient herself to her surroundings.
The October weather was warm, with a breeze that carried the salt smell of the harbor.She wandered through the historic district, walking over cobblestone streets.Cadie had always loved the city.She'd left for career reasons, seeking opportunities as a pianist.That had worked out, but it did feel good to be back in her hometown—if only it had been under other circumstances.
She craved seafood, so decided to eat at Fleet Landing.They were known for good Southern fare.The restaurant had sweeping waterfront views of the Copper River, with a wraparound deck.She ordered shrimp and grits, a dish she had not eaten since leaving Charleston.The food was excellent, rich with butter and spice.
As she ate, her thoughts drifted to her father.He had loved Charleston, had been proud of his roots here.His funeral had been the last time she'd visited the city.
Her mother had moved to Florida, unable to bear the memories that Charleston held.Cadie understood the desire to escape places that reminded you of loss.But her mother had also withdrawn from Cadie, as if grief had consumed her capacity for connection.
Cadie finished her dinner and walked back to the hotel as evening settled over the city.Lights came on in windows, and restaurant patios filled with diners enjoying the pleasant weather.Back in her room, she laid out clothes for the next day and reviewed the information the attorney had sent.The meeting was scheduled for the morning.
She didn't plan to be in Charleston long.After signing the papers and accepting the transfer of Stratton House, she would be done—except for handling the property.The attorney might have a suggestion about that.
