The boy edged out onto the small stage, carrying a guitar that seemed nearly as tall as he was. He was not a slight child, but when he nervously took his seat, he held the instrument as if keeping a shield between himself and the critical eyes of the judges.
Ellen met the boy's eyes as he glanced desperately in her direction, frozen with stage-fright. She smiled at her son and her lips formed words, soundless and sweet.
The boy smiled at her. Taking the neck of the guitar in his long-fingered hands, he played only for her that day.