A decade has passed since Operation Strix began. The once volatile tensions between the East and West have calmed, thanks in part to Loid Forger's relentless efforts. However, rumors of a new program designed to reignite the hostilities have started...
I couldn't believe what I was hearing. How could Rowan be so heartless, it was obvious Alina had told Rowan about the incident that happened with Damian and his father. I can't even imagine how Damian is feeling right now. After Rowan eagerly excited the crowd, they all began cheering Damian's name. He held a very serious face, his fist clenched so tight his knuckles were white. I could see the pain in his eyes, but he didn't say a word. The crowd's cheers grew louder, but all I could focus on was the turmoil in Damian's expression. Mama, Papa and Franky all looked at Damian with a worried expression. Did they know about his past too?
I made my way towards him, regardless of the crowd. His eyes were cold and lifeless, unlike the warm hazel eyes I've come to recognize. Slowly, I reached for his hand, his trembling hand was cold against my warm one.
"I think someone has stage fright," Rowan teased as his friends began snickering in the background.
The crowd began to murmur more intensely, a mix of surprise and skepticism spreading through the room. Rowan's smirk widened as he watched the commotion unfold. I squeezed Damian's hand gently, hoping to offer him some comfort. He glanced at me, his eyes softening slightly.
"It's okay, Damian. You don't have to do this if you don't want to," I whispered.
Damian took a deep breath, his gaze shifting between me and the crowd, "Remember that promise I made to you?" he whispered back. I thought back to that day, I made him promise to never give up on music, his father couldn't control what truly made him happy. I know what it feels like to have people look down at you for everything. You lose your happiness to please others. I wanted Damian to be happy doing what he wanted without the pressures of others.
I nodded, he had also made me promise...
"Everyone will listen to me play, but there's only one person who will truly understand," He replied cupping my cheek. My eyes began watering, he truly was amazing. I nodded as tears began flowing down my cheeks. He gently wiped them away, giving me a small smile. He kissed my forehead before turning to face Rowan.
"I'll play," He announced calmly. Rowan smirked Oh, this is only getting started Desmond.... What was Rowan planning to do?
"Amazing! But wait, don't we have another prodigy in the building?" Rowan said as he turned around to face Bash. Finally I understood what Rowan was planning....
He was going to make Damian and Sebastian compete again. My heart began accelerating, this was too much. I looked over at Bash, his jaw clenched as he shook his head.
"That's right! My dear cousin Sebastian won first place in the Berlint Young Pianist Competition" Alina announced happily.
Rowan continued, his voice dripping with mock sincerity. "Why not have a little competition? Let's see who the real prodigy is."
The crowd's murmurs grew louder, a mix of excitement and tension filling the room. My heart pounded in my chest. This was too much. I looked over at Bash, his jaw clenched, his eyes flashing with determination. I looked at the crowd, Becky was standing near my family, her eyes filled with worry as she held a hand towards her chest. Mama, Papa, and Franky continued to watch with concern. I could sense their unease, but they remained silent, allowing Damian to make his own decision.
"Alright," Damian said as he made his way to Bash. Sebastian's eyes widened in surprise. Both boys didn't say anything, they shook hands, speaking with only their eyes.
К сожалению, это изображение не соответствует нашим правилам. Чтобы продолжить публикацию, пожалуйста, удалите изображение или загрузите другое.
