Chapter 214

*LORENZO.* As I approach the bottom of the staircase, I hear the music. Danica is deep into another complex piece, one I don’t know. Even down here it sounds amazing. I quickly head up the stairs and stand just inside the room watching her from afar. I think this composition is by Beethoven. I haven’t heard her play any of his work before. A sonata, maybe? The music is rousing and passionate one moment and then quieter and softer the next. Such a lyrical piece. And she plays it exquisitely. She should be filling concert halls. The music spirals down to its close, and Danica sits for a second, her head lowered, eyes closed. When she looks up, she’s surprised to see me. “Another great performance. What was it?” I ask as I stroll across the floor toward her. “It is Beethoven. ‘Tempest,’ ” she says. “I could watch and listen to you play all day. But lunch is served. Rather late. You must be hungry.” “Yes. I am.” She jumps up off the stool and accepts my outstretched hand. “I love this pian