MOONLIGHT SONATA

The next few weeks settle into a pleasant monotony that flows smoothly from one day to the next without pretense or expectations. It is this period of waiting that I finally feel like I am truly a married woman with only two cares in the world: my husband and a child on the way.

It is not as though I do not think of Will. In fact, I am reminded of him at the oddest moments: when I wake in the morning to the feeling of the baby moving in me or when I catch myself watching the ships rolling into the harbour with the expectation that he will be on one of them. I am sure James notices these subtle quirks, but he says nothing, and I am extremely grateful.

Sweet notes played softly on a piano drift in and out of my dreams. I smile against my pillow, and my eyes flutter open expecting to see James still asleep beside me. The other side of the bed is empty, however, and a slight frown creases my lips. I turn to the other side of the room but the rocking chair I so admired when I first arrived here is empty.

The delicate sounds of the piano tug at me gently, and I rise up to investigate. The music seems to be coming from an open door past my room down the corridor. I pull my shawl further over my shoulders and approach the room just as the notes hit their highest crescendo. Peering inside I take in the sight of James sitting at the bench in his night clothes, his hands moving swiftly over the keys of a refined wooden piano. I close my eyes, leaning against the doorframe, letting the gentle sonata wash over me. The last note reverberates deeply throughout the room bringing me from my stupor. I open my eyes only to find James watching me.

"You play beautifully," I say, moving to sit down next to him, "I had no idea you were such an ardent musician."

"I have had no reason to play until now," he replies quietly, letting his hands roam over the keys, "and to be honest, I forgot this piano was here. It has been kept out of sight for far too long."

"You know, I used to think you the most emotionless man I had ever had the misfortune to meet," I say, nudging him in the shoulder.

"Really, do tell," he says, a smirk on his lips.

I lean over and place a sultry kiss on his cheek, moving a strand of hair out of his eyes.

"But now I know I was simply looking for your passion and zeal in the wrong place," I admit, looking into those deep brown eyes that threaten to drown me. When he smiles they light up in understanding.

"And I assure you, after the baby is born, you will not have to look hard anymore."

"James!" I cry, feigning a scandalised look in his direction.

"But only if you are ready," he amends, becoming suddenly serious.

I lay a hand on his arm and he stills his hands at the piano keys, waiting for my answer.

"Give it at least a month or so afterward, and then, yes, I will be ready."

We fall silent again, and James strikes up an airy tune, while I gaze around at the numerous oddly shaped pieces of furniture draped with white cloth to keep the dust off.

There is a lull in the music, and James places a hand on my stomach, fingers splayed.

"Any day now," he says, a smile twitching at the corners of his mouth.

"Any day," I repeat, and I hope he does not hear the nervousness in my voice.

Authoress' Note: Get ready everyone! The big finale is on its way. :) Thanks for sticking with me this long, and thanks for reviewing as always!