METROPOLIS 2004

Wednesday 3rd was the last time Lex set foot in Summerholt for Dr Garner assured him there was no guarantee he'd survive another session. " You'll have to trust your mind, Lex. Give it time and those memories will come back. You already have things to start off. I can't do anything else for you. "

Lex sincerely hoped Dr Garner was right since he was now sure that Julie had been someone very special in his life. He'd have to have faith in her and his instincts for he was convinced that what they had was definitely precious.

His journey to Smallville was uneventful to say the least. The road was so deserted and the session had left him so exhausted he almost fell asleep behind the wheel. Afraid of ending up in a ditch or worse, Lex pulled up and switched off the engine. It was at that moment that a new flash from the past intruded.

METROPOLIS 2003

MORGAN EDGE'S RESIDENCE

Lex collected his overcoat and silk scarf on his way to the front door wondering if Julie had found refuge in her bedroom upstairs or had simply chosen to get some fresh air outside. His question was answered as soon as the butler opened the door for him to get out. The girl was sitting on a swing that hung from an old oak tree.

Lex walked across the lawn and made the car keys jingle in his pocket to make his presence known.

" Put this on, Julie, " said Lex, taking off his overcoat and placing it on her shoulders. " It's a beautiful dress but it isn't warm enough for this weather."

" Thanks, "she answered, wrapping the garment around her delicate frame and inconspicuously smelling the masculine fragrance of his perfume.

" Are you OK ? " he asked concerned.

" I will be, thanks. "

" It was an exquisite piece and a sublime performance. "

" It's a work in progress. "

" I imagined it was yours, " he said with a warm smile. " I wouldn't like to sound unfeeling, Julie, but why did you decide to play something so personal tonight of all nights ? "

" I felt someone was aching and trying to hide it. I thought I could help that person by channeling his anguish through my music. Feelings shouldn't be bottled up if you don't want them to consume you, Lex. Whatever is eating you, it's not worth it. "

" Am I that transparent ? "

" You are to me. I sensed you were suffering three months ago when I started writing the first movement. "

" Will there be a second ? "

" I have faith. I told you before it's a work in progress. "

" Do you think it'll be different from the first ? "

" That's up to you, Lex. "