AN: Did you know we're just over halfway through the story? Hehehe.

Disclaimer: Nothing's mine. Simple as.

Chapter 5: Sudden Shocks

Bella's POV

I was sitting at dinner with Mum, picking at my food. I was mentally debating whether or not I should tell her that I was going to be in a public concert. It was only a couple of days away.

"I have a new friend," I blurted out.

Mum looked up, startled. She soon relaxed again though. "Oh, really? That's nice, honey. What's their name?"

I didn't think he would want me to say Evan Taylor, so I told her, "August Rush."

"What an interesting name," Mum mused.

I nodded. "Yeah… You know, he's a prodigy."

"A prodigy?" she repeated, intrigued. "What kind?"

Ah, this wasn't going to go well.

"A musical prodigy."

"Hm."

See? Great, I don't think telling her about the concert would be a good idea.

Suddenly, she changed the subject. "I think you should visit Charlie now that school's finished."

I tried my best not to grimace. "Okay. I'll call Dad and tell him. When should I go?"

"Actually," she stood up with her plate and walked over with it to the sink, "I already booked your flight."

I raised my eyebrows at her back. Normally I handled anything like that; I was the responsible one in our relationship.

She continued, "You're leaving on Saturday. I won't be able to drive you there, so you'll have to take a taxi to the airport. The plane leaves at one o'clock. Charlie will be waiting for you in Seattle."

I stared at her with my mouth wide open. She turned back to me and giggled at my expression.

I didn't listen to what she said next, just went to my room and collapsed on the bed.

How did I get such bad luck? Really, how? I have to be on a plane on the same day of the concert. Considering that Evan's rhapsody starts at approximately six PM and my flight's at one; I won't be there. What do I do?

Later that night, I snuck out once again and went to the church. I had to tell Evan.

When I got there it was awfully quiet. The choir wasn't singing; in fact, I couldn't see them at all. I walked down the hallway and came across Reverend James. He looked exhausted.

"Oh, Bella," he noticed me. "I guess you haven't heard."

I frowned in worry. "What's the matter?"

"It's August."

It took me a minute to reply. "What do you mean? What's wrong with August?"

He sighed and rested a hand on my shoulder. "He's lost."

"Lost?" I near screeched.

He put a finger to his lips, "Sh, sh. Julliard called and said that some man came to their rehearsal. He claimed to be August's father and took him away."

My eyes widened. Who would have done that? Wait. Wizard! That crafty man! He just wants more money! I hope Evan isn't hurt…

"Reverend James, do you think he'll be all right?"

A sad smile tugged at his mouth. "As long as we pray for him."

I nodded solemnly and excused myself. I went back to the main hall and sat at a bench. Holding my hands together, I leaned forward.

"Dear God," I whispered into the air, "please let him be safe and find his way. Please let the music guide him. Amen."