Never Forgive Never Forget (Celeste and Philip) novel Chapter 144

Celeste caught Kate's glance, then glanced back at the sheet music—almost at its end. Her part on the piano was finished. It was time for the cello's entrance.

As her final note faded, she rose from the bench, gathering her dress, and strode purposefully across the stage to the cello's seat.

A wave of murmurs swept through the audience.

"Oh my God!"

"Isn't she the pianist? Why's she moving to the cellist's spot?"

"Keep your voice down—it's Luna's ensemble, after all. They're all prodigies. Just enjoy the show."

The chatter died the moment the cello's warm, resonant tones filled the concert hall. The crowd fell into a hush.

Flawless.

That was the word that echoed in Philip's mind.

The melody and notes were familiar, yet every phrase, every note she played, carried a distinctive brilliance.

"Hmph. Someday, that'll be me up there."

Viola's voice sliced through Philip's reverie, jarring as a discordant note.

He frowned, wishing she'd keep her commentary to herself—he just wanted to lose himself in the music.

On stage, Celeste was lost in her performance, letting the music sweep her away. Only when the piece finally ended did she slowly open her eyes. Applause thundered in her ears, her heart hammering in her chest.

Following Kate's lead, Celeste bowed with the rest of the ensemble. The mask covered her face, but nothing could hide the triumphant curve of her lips.

Not until she stepped offstage did she finally come down from her high. Still holding her cello, Celeste turned to Kate, her eyes sparkling.

"God, I've missed being on stage so much."

"You were incredible!" Kate cheered, throwing her arms around her.

They hugged, laughing, breathless with excitement.

"There's a Mr. Robertson outside," a staff member announced. "He'd like to see the ensemble leader."

"I'll go," Kate said, slipping out.

Celeste started gathering her things, not paying attention to the voices outside. She had a nagging feeling that Alfred had recognized her earlier. Maybe she should test the waters with him.

Only one exit to the backstage was open. As Celeste changed out of her gown and into her own clothes, she caught Philip's voice drifting down the corridor.

"I heard the ensemble's looking for new members. Viola's quite the violinist—she'd like to audition."

"There's no need to audition. I'm not taking Viola," Kate replied, her tone cool.

Celeste stepped into the hallway just in time to catch the exchange. Others turned, noticing her arrival.

Viola's face crumpled instantly.

"Celeste, you and Kate are so close. She won't even listen to my playing before turning me down—how is that fair?"