Page 20 of His UnBearable Touch

Allegra hesitated again. “I don’t want the bow to get caught in the ties.”

“That would be something to worry about.”

“You probably think I’m a huge pain. You’re really doing me a favor and I’m just being picky-”

“You want to feel good. Believe me, Allegra, I understand.” A gentle hand settled on Allegra’s shoulder. “The whole reason I started my Bellezza line was to give women of all sizes beautiful clothes that not only made a woman look as gorgeous as she is, but to feel just as amazing.

“Now, here, this one,” the fabric was set against Allegra’s hand, “this one has three quarter sleeves, cut on the bias to flow around your body, but keep out of your way. If you like this one, we can have it made in any color or fabric that you like.”

“No, please don’t put yourself to any trouble, I just need something to wear until I can get my things from my… I mean, until I can go back to my apartment.”

“Right,” Natale’s tone told her she was fooling herself. “Now let’s get you into the shower. I have some soaps you can use until we have your brands delivered.”

Allegra’s head was spinning. So much had changed in less than a day, and somehow, she knew it was going to keep changing.

And for the first time, in a long time, the thought of change didn’t bring a rush of fear.

* * *

“Take a break everyone!” The conductor closed his score and moved around the stand as the musicians made a mad rush to set aside their instruments, head to the restroom, breakroom, or out into the alley for a smoke.

Allegra remained in her chair waiting for the noise to fade before she tried to get up from her chair.

“Miss Rossetti?”

Leaning forward, she set her bow down on the table at her side. “Mr. Nylund?”

The older man chuckled. “Please, please,” his accented voice was delightful to listen to, carrying an old-world charm, and his clipped enunciation had a rhythm of its own, “call me Essa.”

Allegra was flattered. Prior to signing the agreement to play with the Gotham Chamber Orchestra, she’d done research on Essa Nylund. He had a long career as a respected conductor. He had mentored a small number of musicians, shepherding them through the beginning of their careers, helping them achieve stardom. Her goals were not so lofty as that, but she did want to please him.

He’d shown her nothing but kindness since she’d begun her work with the orchestra and she wanted to repay him for his efforts with her own.

“I don’t know if I could do that,” she laughed, “I’m sure I’ll cave in and call you Mr. Nylund from time to time.”

He returned her laughter. “I would not mind if you did, my dear.” He cleared his throat. “Would you mind if I sat for a moment and spoke with you?”

“Please.” Allegra shook her head and then bent to the side to lay the cello safely beside her chair. “Have a seat.”

She waited for him to speak.

“I wanted to thank you for the effort that you’ve put into your rehearsals with us, Miss Rossetti.”

“Call me Allegra, please.”

He chuckled and she could almost imagine him wagging a finger at her. “Allegra, yes. You have been a joy.”

“I am very grateful for the chance to perform. For years I had thought that part of my life was behind me. Now,” she drew in a breath, “I feel as though I have a second chance to share my music with others. I’m willing to work very hard to earn my place on any stage at all.”

She startled when she felt his hand cover hers.

“Please forgive me, Allegra. I did not mean to make you feel… uncomfortable.”

He began to move his hand away, but she covered it with her other hand and smiled. “No, please, don’t worry. It was just a little shock.” She could feel the affection in his touch just as she heard it in his voice.

“I wanted to speak with you about the upcoming performance at the Bronx Zoo.”

A little thrill moved through her. “Have you decided which pieces we’re going to play?”

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