Gemotions

The concert hall was hushed, the grand piano reflecting the dimmed lights. Maria, a rising young pianist, sat alone in the audience. Maestro Rossi, her long-time instructor, was not there. A whispered rumour, a sudden illness. He had sent a replacement. She closed her eyes, remembering every lesson, every gesture. She felt a profound loneliness, a sense of being adrift. When the pianist began, it was a beautiful piece, but her heart was missing. The music felt hollow without his presence, without his guidance, without his farewell.