AllFreeNovel
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It’s the first time I’ve ever seen him dressed in a suit. He does it justice, but I much prefer him in his ripped-at-the-knees jeans and white v-neck t-shirt. That’s the Zane I fell in love with.
But the dark gray suit he’s wearing this evening fits him like a second skin. I didn’t even know he owned a suit. He’s wearing a burgundy dress shirt, open at the neck, no tie—a slight snub at convention. He looks casually sleek, like he walked off the pages of a glossy magazine.
Wow.
As I approach, one of the ushers, an older man, momentarily steals Zane’s attention.
“Zane, how you doing, buddy? Good to see you. It’s been a while.” He slaps his back a few times. “There was a time when you never missed a show. Good to see you again.”
That’s my symphony loving man. It’s a unique preference, and I’m glad his father passed it along to him when he was young. It gives us common ground, a place where he understands me and my passion.
Zane’s eyes find me again and his expression changes. He goes completely still and blinks heavily. I love the slight smile curving his full lips. It’s like he’s captivated.
By me.
As long as I live, I’ll never forget that face, his countenance. The way his chest slowly rises and falls with exaggeration. Like I do something to him.
I know he does something to me. I’ve never felt anything like this. Not even close.
I walk a little closer. So does he.
“Miss Westerman, incredible performance this evening. You were amazing,” the usher says.
“Thank you,” I say, my eyes never leaving Zane’s.
Zane closes the distance between us and hugs me tightly. “You were breathtaking.”
He hands me the bouquet of roses. “For you.”
“Thank you. And thank you for coming this evening. It means the world to me.”
“Are you kidding? I’m not going to miss a single performance. If you’re playing, I’ll be there.”
I can’t contain my smile. I’m brimming with excitement. “Guess what?”
“What?”
“A man from the San Francisco Symphony attended this evening. He knocked on my dressing room door after the performance.”
“And?”
“He asked me to audition.”
“What? A personal invite to audition to play with the San Francisco Symphony. Mila, that’s amazing.”
“I know.” I smile so big, it hurts. “I’m so excited.”
Zane holds my shoulders as though he’s keeping me down. “I know you want to, but don’t do it here.”
“I might. I can’t help myself.”
“Restraint, Miss Westerman. A happy dance is probably considered unbecoming for a serious musician like yourself. Wait until we’re home.”
“Find me a place. I can’t wait. It might happen right here and I’ll blow my cover. Everyone will know underneath it all, I’m just a silly little girl.”
Zane chuckles. “Nah, it’s obvious you’re a full-grown woman, my dear.” His eyes twinkle. “I think I can help you. Come with me.” He grabs my hand and weaves through the crowd, stealing me away.
We break through the doors and into the fresh night air. We run down the street, him in his suit and me in my evening gown, laughing as we go. It’s such a perfect moment. I imagine we’re running in slow motion, unseen wind in our hair and on our faces.
