The Music OF LOVE

A shocking revelation left Zena reeling — now her whole future was in doubt

- Jane Ayres

Reeling from Suki’s shocking revelation at the concert, Zena took long, angry strides, her kitten heels clicking on the cobbled streets as she headed for Graydon’s hotel. Her phone calls had gone straight to voicemail, and when she arrived, he wasn’t in his room. Her feet hurt and she needed to vent. Frustrated, she flopped on to a sofa in the foyer and rang her sister Tulip, who she was staying with.

After hearing what had happened, Tulip commiserated. ‘Babes, I feel your pain but try to stay calm and think clearly.’

‘I can't. I need to confront him. I’m not moving until Graydon returns.’

‘It could be a long wait. And you're upset. I’m coming to collect you.’

Much later, Zena was glad she’d taken Tulip’s advice. It made sense to clarify her thoughts before tackling Graydon. Even so, she arrived at Orpheus Tower the next morning after a sleepless night, with a banging head and a heavy heart.

Hearing piano music in the concert room, Zena hovered by the doorway, watching Graydon practising on the Steinway, oblivious to Suki’s revelations and the coming storm. Her stomach still flipped when she saw him. Perhaps Suki got it wrong? Memories of her 20s flashed through her mind — that awful final year at music college, how her shattered confidence was restored when she began lessons with Gracie at Orpheus Tower, meeting Graydon there, being smitten by his charm and good looks, the two of them starting a life together and seeking success as a piano duo...

As the last notes of the Mozart sonata died away, Zena took a deep breath and stepped forward.

‘I tried to reach you last night,’ she said accusingly. ‘I left you messages.’

‘Hi, Zena. I was with Dana, the PR consultant. Everything OK?’

‘We need to talk about the concerto gig that launched your career 20 years ago. Anything you want to tell me?’

‘Should there be?’ he responded cautiously.