The students settled into their seats, and Lily took her usual spot in the back corner. The morning started normally enough. They did their vocal warm-ups. They practiced rhythms. Mrs. Patterson talked more about the spring concert, dropping hints about who might be chosen for solos. Timothy practically glowed every time she looked his way.
Then, about halfway through the class, Mrs. Patterson’s voice suddenly cut through the room.
“Lily, come up here, please.”
Every head in the classroom turned. Lily looked up, her eyes wide with surprise. She pointed at herself as if maybe Mrs. Patterson meant a different Lily.
“Yes, you. Come to the front of the class.”
Lily stood up slowly, her legs feeling shaky. She walked down the aisle between the desks while everyone stared at her. Some kids looked curious. Others looked grateful it wasn’t them being called up. When she reached the front, she stood there awkwardly, not knowing what to do with her hands.
Mrs. Patterson smiled, but it wasn’t a kind smile. It was the smile of a cat that had just cornered a mouse.
“Class,” Mrs. Patterson announced, her voice carrying to every corner of the room, “I’ve made an interesting observation. It seems we have someone among us who has a special interest in the piano.”
Lily’s stomach dropped. She shook her head slightly, but Mrs. Patterson continued.
“Oh, yes. I’ve noticed how you watch the other students play. How you stare at the piano every single class. You’re practically fascinated by it.”
“I just… I like music,” Lily said quietly.