Julio was a dignified man in his early sixties, his white hair neatly styled and a pair of fine-rimmed
glasses resting on his nose.
Although years of composing at a desk had given him a slightly stooped posture, his aura was one of
warmth and friendliness.
An authority in both classical and pop music, Julio was a towering figure in Melcorn’s pop music
industry. Over the years, he had garnered numerous international awards and even had the honor of
composing for the royal family on several occasions. Referring to him as the “royal composer” was no
overstatement.
Despite his storied career, Julio had scaled back his professional engagements in recent times, making
his presence a coveted rarity at major international music events.
Ariana had not expected to find Julio in Eleymond. It was a serendipitous social media post, geotagged
in the city, that hinted at his presence.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtAfter verifying his location with a quick phone call, Ariana learned he was vacationing in the city and
saw an opportunity.
Her relationship with Julio was anchored in a personal connection: his grandson, once diagnosed with
autism, had been under Ariana’s care. After numerous unsuccessful treatments elsewhere, it was at
Jessie’s children’s psychological charity organization where the boy, as Ariana’s patient, began to show
marked improvement. Under her dedicated attention, he gradually returned to typical communication
patterns.
Deeply appreciative of Ariana’s relentless efforts and the transformative impact on his grandson, Julio
cherished their bond.
So, when Ariana reached out about her current musical challenge, he was quick to extend his
expertise. Considering he was vacationing with his grandson in Eleymond, he eagerly agreed to help
once he grasped her situation.
Julio’s sudden appearance silenced any previous grievances from the six members, their dismay
replaced by a mix of astonishment and elation.
For them, Julio was a legend in the musical world. They were in awe, wondering how Ariana had
orchestrated the involvement of such an esteemed figure in their training.
Tom, who was moments away from exiting, stood frozen, his eyes fixed on Julio. He appeared lost, his
hands awkwardly hovering at his sides.
Jim, noting Tom’s sudden shift in attitude, quipped with a hint of sarcasm, “Weren’t you on your way
out? What’s with the sudden change of heart?”
Caught off guard by the remark, Tom turned, his voice hushed, and snapped back, “Keep your nose out
of it. This isn’t your concern.”
“What are you two discussing?” Ariana’s voice chimed in from behind them, catching Tom off guard.
Without missing a beat, Jim began, “He was just.”
“Ah! I was just expressing to him how incredible Miss Edwards is.
It’s given me some inspiration. In fact, I’m thinking of penning a special rap dedicated to you,” Tom
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏminterjected swiftly, blocking Jim’s path and offering Ariana a charmed grin.
Jim’s eyes rolled in amusement at Tom’s sudden sycophancy, but he chose not to expose him. Instead,
he retreated to a quieter corner.
The events of the morning had been tumultuous, but now, formal rehearsals were finally underway.
Ariana remained with them in the practice room, providing guidance and support.
As the rehearsal drew close to its conclusion, Ariana’s phone began to buzz.
The display showed an unknown number.
Stepping away, she accepted the call. The composed voice of a middle -aged man greeted her, “Hello,
Dr. Edwards speaking? I represent Mr. Fredrick. We had earlier discussed a child psychology
appointment with you.”
With the day’s whirlwind, Ariana had nearly forgotten about this consultation. She had been anticipating
a call from the Fredrick family, wondering if they might retract their interest or cancel. But she hadn’t
expected the call right now.