#Chapter 126: The Voice in My Head

Agnes Thea’s violin lesson was the highlight of her week, and it was quickly becoming the highlight of mine, too. Watching her skip ahead of me, holding her violin case in both hands, was enough to make my heart swell to twice its size. I walked her to the door of the music studio, crouching down to adjust the bow in her hair. “You’re going to do great,” I said, brushing a strand of hair out of her face. “I’ll be back in an hour, okay? But I won’t go far. If you need me, just ask your instructor to call my cell phone.” She nodded. “I will. I promise.” I kissed her forehead and watched as she disappeared into the studio. The sound of her laughter as she greeted her teacher made me smile, and I lingered for a moment before turning to leave. The streets were quiet, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows across the pavement. I walked aimlessly, my hands tucked into the pockets of my jacket, letting my mind wander. Thea’s joy was infectious, and for a litt