He looked at me quizzically. “Is that what you required, Kendra? High compliments?”
“It would’ve been encouraging to hear from time to time.”
“You’ve always been a fantastic drummer,” he said. “And one of my best. I admit that losing you as a student is one of my biggest disappointments.”
“I don’t get it,” I said. “Sir, you told me I was no good. I was already going through all these personal hardships, and when your recognition would have meant the world to me, you told me I wasn’t good enough.”
“Kendra,” he said, his voice stern. “Your drumming was worthy of praise at that time. I didn’t know about whatever personal issues you were going through then, and for that I apologize. But if my criticism was enough to cause you to flunk your classes—then you weren’t ready to receive my praise.”
I stared at him, speechless.
“A musician needs to push forward without the approval of others, standing on his own two feet to play what is in his soul. And it seems like you’ve been able to reach that point now. So, tell me—is my praise still that important to you?”
“No,” I said, slightly awed at the change in feeling within me. “No, I guess it isn’t.”
“You played a killer performance tonight—one far more impactful than anything that could’ve been done on the stage for senior recital. You’ve surpassed yourself, and I hope you realize that.”
I bowed my head and nodded. I felt the final knot of tension around my heart loosen up and disappear. “Thank you, Doctor.”
“Call me Christopher.” He sighed. “And listen. I feel it’s unnecessary for someone of your skill, but I know the importance of finishing what one starts, so if you request it of me, I’ll submit a petition and personal recommendation to have your scholarships and enrollment at Beasley reinstated.”
I looked at him, shocked. I realized that not too long ago, I would’ve taken that offer in a heartbeat, even though I wouldn’t have admitted it to anyone. Now, I immediately knew what my answer was.
“I’m honored you’d offer that, Doc—I mean, Christopher,” I said. It felt weird as hell calling him by his first name, but also strangely satisfying. “But I think my time at Beasley is finished.”
He smiled. “I thought so.” He stuck out his hand, and I took it. “I look forward to seeing where you go, Kendra.”
I felt a touch on my back, and turned to see Melany. She put her arm around my waist and gave me a kiss. “Fucking incredible show, Kendra. I told you could do it.”
“Hello, Ms. Crawford,” Christopher said, reaching out and shaking Melany’s hand. “I wanted to thank you again for convincing me to come tonight. Kendra, both of you, take care. It’s getting late, and I should be heading home.”
I watched as my old mentor disappeared into the crowd, and from view. I felt dumbstruck again. “Melany, you…?”
She grinned. “Hope you aren’t pissed.”
I shook my head. “No. God, no.” I wrapped my arms around her and kissed her. I could feel warm tears of relieved happiness welling up in my eyes. “God, I love you.”
“I love you too,” she said, her gray eyes twinkling. “I love you so much.”
My heart felt so light and free, like I was a new woman. The future was brimming with music and love and possibility, and I had Melany by my side to experience every moment with me. We would move forward into a new life together, our passion and love as steady and powerful as a heartbeat.
More from H.L. Logan
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Pitch Perfect Series
Rhythm - Kaitlyn and Emily’s story
High Note - Brianne and Margie’s story
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