Alexander's gaze was shadowed and inscrutable. "Unnecessary. Just locate Celeste. I'll conduct the negotiations personally."

Gregory straightened in surprise. "Understood, sir. I'll begin immediately."

...noveldrama

Inside Celestial Melodies, Amy was performing her newest composition, her fingers dancing effortlessly across the piano keys. This piece was destined to open her upcoming concert.

The melody cascaded through the room like a crystalline stream—pure, evocative, and hauntingly tender. Amy stood framed by the window, her slender silhouette etched against the glass like a masterpiece of grace.

Dappled sunlight filtered through sheer curtains, painting her in liquid gold. For a suspended moment, she seemed not merely bathed in light, but woven from it.

As the final notes dissolved into silence, slow applause echoed from the doorway.

Clap. Clap. Clap.

Amy turned to find Dominic observing her with quiet intensity.

"Dominic, how long have you been there?"

Samantha interjected, "Mr. Whitmore arrived shortly after you began. He insisted we not interrupt."

Just yesterday over dinner, Dominic had expressed interest in visiting her studio. Amy had been immersed in rehearsals here daily. The location wasn't confidential—eventually she'd host clients here—so she'd agreed. Still, his prompt appearance surprised her.

Dominic's voice was velvet over steel. "Exquisite."

"My thanks." Amy turned to Samantha. "We have auditions later. Would you mind handling initial greetings? I'll give Dominic a brief tour first."

Samantha nodded. "Of course. Take your time."

Amy guided Dominic through the space. Originally leased by Benjamin during their separation, when she first resolved to establish her own ensemble, the sprawling three-level studio boasted a concert hall, practice rooms, and offices.

After joining, Amy had commandeered an entire floor. But financing the venture proved daunting—her savings couldn't cover such grandeur. The debt lingered, to be repaid gradually.

She showcased her domain first, then Benjamin's areas. Throughout, Dominic trailed slightly behind, his usually mild gaze burning with banked fire. Amy remained oblivious, already reentering the main hall.

Samantha proffered a sheaf of resumes. "Celeste, promising candidates. Review these—I'll summon whomever you wish to meet."

A concert required more than just herself and Benjamin. While he had his established musicians, Amy was building from nothing. Beyond Samantha, she needed accompanists—particularly a pianist and violinists for ensemble pieces.

Suddenly, Samantha's phone buzzed. She checked the screen, grimaced, and silenced it. When it rang again moments later, she powered off the device entirely.

Amy arched a brow. "Trouble?"

"Gregory again," Samantha sighed. "Daily calls despite repeated refusals. I'm changing my number tomorrow—that should deter them."

Their exchange fractured at a genteel knock upon the studio door.