Several weeks later, a laughing group entered the large theater. Tonight was a special session with the Portland Symphony Orchestra featuring a series of visiting musicians. Stefan held the door open for several women, all special friends in his life. Dr. Maddy dropped a kiss on his cheek as she entered with her partner, Drew, at her side. This was the first time he'd had so many of his friends in one place.
Shay linked arms with Stefan. He smiled down at her. Stefan had always been reclusive, and he still had trouble understanding how his life had suddenly become so full.
You love it. Tabitha stood in front of him, and Ronin, tall and strong, stood relaxed at her side.
Ha, says who?
Tabitha laughed, mysteriously. Your time will come.
He rolled his eyes and followed the group to their seats.
The lights dimmed almost immediately. He settled back to listen.
He needed this relaxing time. They all did. There'd been so much pain and panic in all of their lives, it was important to take time to enjoy the good things about life when they could. And tonight was one of those times.
Stefan didn't have a musical bone in his body. But he adored listening to all different kinds of music. It called to him in the same way colors sent him running to his canvases. The urge to create surged through him as the notes swelled and filled the theatre. The house was packed tonight, and he could easily see why.
He closed his eyes and leaned his head back, letting the powerful notes roll over him.
When the song changed, he didn't bother opening his eyes; he just waited, suspended in joy and peace.
The delicate, haunting sounds of a harp filled the air, rolling in waves across his skin. Goosebumps rose and he shivered both in joy and fascination. Who could create such beauty? Who had such power, such talent?
Beside him, he heard Tabitha gasp. Then Ronin made a comment, followed by several others who murmured in delight.
Stefan frowned, but he opened his eyes to see what they were reacting to.
Colors floated on the ethers, wide lazy bands and narrow bouncing waves. One color, then several other colors danced and played throughout the theater. Filling it with life, with joy, with happiness.
He leaned forward, amazed. It was stunning.
Dr. Maddy murmured, "It's the harpist."
Stefan followed the ribbons of colored energy back to the source and turned to study the musician. And froze. He didn't need to see the details of her face. He knew them. He didn't need to see her energy; he knew it well.
It was her. His beloved. The other half of himself.
And a perfect stranger.
Shay, ever perceptive, said, "I believe Tabitha mentioned that now it was your time – your time for love."