Disclaimer: Unfortunately, this will never change, I still don't own them.
Virgil's First Recital
"You can do this, Virgil Tracy." Frowning at the pale face staring back at him, ten-year-old Virgil Tracy kept up his personal pep talk. "You can so do this."
His next oldest brother, John, stood unseen by a partition and listened. "Virgil, you'll do great out there." Startled by the sudden appearance of his brother, Virgil yelped in surprise.
"Sheesh, scare a guy why don't you?" Leaning back against the wall, he stared at John. "What if I mess things up, Johnny? What if I forget the music?" Another panicked look flashed in the sensitive brown eyes. He squeaked, "I can't do this, Johnny. I'm not good enough for a solo performance."
Determinedly, John approached him. "You can do this, little brother. I've heard you practicing and you have the solo piece mastered. Ms. Dunbar has even said that she's not seen such talent in any student as what comes so naturally to you." Grabbing his brother's shoulders, he stared in Virgil's eyes. "Virgie, you can do this and I'm proud of you for achieving this honor. Not even the older kids here stood a chance against you for earning that solo. Not with all the money that their parents have paid for lessons. What you have comes naturally and the lessons and practice only enhances what your talent." With a quick brotherly hug, John patted his brother's shoulders once more and walked away. "See you onstage, little brother."
The heavy curtains raise and a baby grand piano is placed center stage
"Parents, faculty, students, and other esteemed guests; it is with great pleasure to introduce Virgil Tracy for tonight's solo performance." With a slight bow, she waved to where Virgil stepped out onstage. His gaze darted out over the packed auditorium even though it appeared dark due to the bright stage lights shining down on him.
His steps faltered until he heard two sudden voices ring out from the audience, "THAT'S OUR BIG BROTHER!" Laughter erupted from the audience and a ghost of a smile tugged on Virgil's mouth until he gave in and smiled at his younger brothers' unfailing support. Sitting down on the piano bench, he set his music down and tentatively began to play. As his confidence grew, his fingers unerringly flowed over the keys and beautiful music filled the auditorium. After the last few notes were played, the audience rose as one, applauding one relieved yet embarrassed, Virgil Tracy.
On the drive home, John leaned towards his brother. "I knew you could do it, Virgie."
Smiling shyly, Virgil said, "Thanks for believing in me, Johnny." Glancing back at his younger brothers, he added, "And thanks for that rather loud cheer, Gordy and Allie." Scott and Jeff listened to the chatter from the front seats of the SUV.
"He did really well, Dad," Scott said. "I wish Mom could have seen him."
Smiling slightly at the wistfulness in his oldest son's voice, Jeff patted Scott's leg. "Son, I'm sure she was there, cheering him on just as we were."
A faint lavender scent wafted over the Tracys and if they were to really listen they would have heard these faint words, "I will always be there for my boys. All of them."