Following the talk we had together, our schedule shifted significantly. More frequently, we approached one another while pursuing gentle moments in our distracting environment. On a tranquil afternoon like that day, we found common interests we hadn’t realized before.
I was snuggled on the window seat that I loved most in the safe house with a beat-up paperback book in my arms. Before I caught sight of him, I sensed Alessandro’s approach through the soft footsteps.
Reading a book now? He hinted while standing against the doorframe with an ease that made my heartbeat race.
I showed him the book and pointed out the cover. “Murakami. ‘Kafka on the Shore.’ It’s my comfort reading.”
When I showed him the book, Alessandro’s smile grew brighter. “No way! I love Murakami. My favorite out of all is ‘The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle’.
I rose and felt alive as excitement began to rise. “You’re into Murakami? I would have been surprised to learn you like magical realism.
He laughed and sat next to me. You still do not know much about me, since I look at you with a mischievous grin.
“Oh really?” I gave him a doubtful look and pointed my eyebrows towards him. “Like what?”
Alessandro moved back slightly and wore an expression of consideration. To begin with, I perform on the piano. I have since I was a kid. He believed it enhanced my applications for college and I viewed it as a stress reducer.
I blinked in surprise. “You play the piano? That’s… wow. I had no idea.”
He nodded and a trace of modesty entered his expression. I generally don’t share this with others. Music has played an important role in my life throughout. What about you? I think you should reveal any secret skills to you?
I realized a blush was making its way up my neck. It’s not a talent of mine, but I like painting it so. Watercolors, mostly. It’s just a hobby, but…”
He added that this holds great value for you.
I agreed with a small movement of my head while recognizing my vulnerability. This is how I deal with my thoughts. In cases where my language falls short. Shaped and colored elements often capture my emotions.
Alessandro stared at me and showed me a profound insight that captured my attention. I want to see your art one day. Of course, feel free to share.
The passion for his communication brought life to my heart. I said that with a gentle tone. Could I hear you play for me at some future time?
His expression lit up my day with a warm feeling that caused a calming shiver. He replied that it was a date but reassured me he didn’t mean an actual date.
I laughed at his initial embarrassment. I understood what you meant and assured him as I brushed aside thoughts of wanting a romantic date.
We opened up to each other about our dear authors and stories while finding common appreciation for Literatures greats like Murakami and Calvino.
In the course of our discussion I discovered smaller details about Alessandro that I hadn’t previously observed: his eyes crinkling engagingly, his fluid hand movements as he spoke and the slight dimple in his left cheek when his smile brightened.
After a while passed by, Alessandro stated that a piano was tucked away in the study. I saw it the moment we arrived here; yet I have yet to enjoy it. Would you enjoy hearing something?
I chuckled at his hesitation and my nod was filled with excitement. “I’d love to.”
Trekked to the study that had bookcases surrounding it and a majestic piano amid the space. The bench drew Alessandro away as he traced the keys softly.
Any wish? He asked as he looked at me and made my pulse flutter.
I shook my head. “Surprise me.”
With a nod and a breath, Alessandro began to play music. As the notes spread around us, they became deeply moving filled with sadness yet conveying hopefulness. I shut my eyes and the sounds filled my senses.
As I blinked up from the music’s disappearance my gaze landed on Alessandro standing with a neutral expression. I remarked softly that it was beautiful. “What was it?”
He looked embarrassed and had been focusing on creating something. Composing, I mean. It’s not finished yet, but…”
“You compose?” A sense of astonishment entered my expression. Alessandro! You inspire me!
He shrugged, and I recognized the joy of my compliment. “It’s just a hobby. Like your painting.”
I leaned in toward him and sat on the piano seat next to him. “Play it again?” I asked. I really hope to hear it once more.
Alessandro agreed with a nod; his fingers landed on the piano keys again. I saw his face closely as he played this time. His focus and energy while playing the piano captivated me. I stood in place with my lungs frozen, mildew, corruption, corrosion rotting away unnecessary air, vanity, futility, as I did not wish to shatter the atmosphere.
Once he stopped playing, we stared at each other momentarily. I felt the closeness of our positions and the warmth spread from his body.
Rather than risking some sudden gesture that could lead to kissing him again, I said I wanted to display my acrylics. Although theirs is less remarkable than yours…
Alessandro replied securely that they must be exquisite. A hint of pink lit his reddened skin as he hesitated.
As I finished that sentence in my mind, my pulse quickened. Just like you? Was he about to say that?
I moved from my seat and required separation to concentrate. I’ll go and go and get my notebook.
When I brought my old sketchbook back, Alessandro sat on the sofa in the corner of our study. I took a quick moment to choose my seat next to him as our knees brushed very slightly.
I opened the book saying that these are mainly just drafts and assessments. For some time now, I cannot put my focus on completing art due to various obligations.
Alessandro moved closer to examine the pages as his arm touched my body. A surge of energy flowed through me as I battled to pay attention to the pictures.
The sketches are remarkable! With a soft touch, his fingers sketched out details of my imagined scene. “You have a real gift.”
I grew warm from his compliments. I muttered thanks as I turned through the pages. Here is one I drew of the sunset we watched at the safe house.
As he leaned in closely with his hand on mine, I had trouble breathing. With his hand over mine, he leaned in for a closer inspection. He remarked quietly about the remarkable shades. You truly reflect the sunlight here.
I raised my head to acknowledge his kindness and came upon his face just inches from me. Our gazes connected and revealed my surprise and attraction to him. Although I wondered if he would kiss me, I suddenly became aware that I longed for his lips.
The opening of the front door interrupted our moment. Zoe’s voice called out as we separated quickly. The items I picked up at the store are amazing!
Instantly rising to his feet, Alessandro cleared his throat. It might be best to see what makes her so ecstatic.
I moved to step away and follow him outside with a nod as I shut my sketchbook. As we moved forward together, I found myself looking at him.
As I tried to fall asleep that night, I remembered the events of today. The simple chat along with our common interests created a scenario of an evolving bond that felt both exciting and daunting.
Music from Alessandro felt like a shout into my heart. I reflected on how he examined my creations with real interest. The almost-kiss in the study brought back feelings of butterflies rushing through my stomach.
A certain limb desired to flee from these senses and keep myself safe from the chance of suffering. A bigger aspect longed to recognize and develop this link while investigating its possible outcomes.
In my sleep’s twilight moments I imagined piano tunes swirling alongside sunsets painted in watercolors and the soothing brown of Alessandro’s gaze.
Upon waking the next day, music from a piano filled the surrounding air. Draped in a robe, I ambled down the steps to spot Alessandro completely absorbed in music at the piano. I remained at the entrance watching him play music.
As he concluded, he turned and spotted me. His lips curved in a sweet smile and my heart raced momentarily.
“Good morning,” he said. “Did I wake you?”
I shook my head. I enjoyed it at the time of my opening day. What was that piece?”
Alessandro looked at me with a subtle sense of modesty. This is a new creation I am developing. Inspired by… recent events.”
When he spoke to me, a smile emerged from him, making me wonder if “recent events” were about what happened the day before.
Our shared moments. That idea brought a pleasant sensation to my heart.
I stated with earnestness that it appeared marvelous. Listening to its completion would be delightful to me.
He said he liked that while my eyes stayed locked on his.
At that moment, with each other, our bond filled with emotion and attraction blossomed. I became aware that having Alessandro as part of my life formed through shared goals and an increasing affection would create a source of comfort and pleasure.
I was thrilled about what awaited me in the future and wished to explore this new direction for the first time in a while.