Soul Mates?
Part 7
It seemed all too soon that the concert came to a grand conclusion and the lights were brightened. The MC mounted the stage again and said, "This is concludes the musical part of the program. Desert will be served presently with dancing to follow. Meanwhile I will announce the winners of the door prizes."
"I heard that one of the prizes is a one of a kind silver and turquoise pendant and earrings," Natalie commented as she took a few bites of her now cold meal before pushing it away.
"Which would go just perfect with you ensemble," Mrs. Martelli told her.
Stephen watched with some amusement as the names of the winners began to be announced that Natalie was sitting with fingers crossed. She really wants that jewelry he decided. Then he nearly fell out of his chair when he heard the MC announce "The winner of the one of a kind silver and turquoise jewelry by Sergio Castilini is Dr. Stephen Connor."
"Stephen, you won!" Natalie said excitedly.
He saw Kate give him an amused expression as the MC said, "Will all our lucky winners step forward to claim their prizes." Getting to his feet he made his way over to the stage and accepted the velvet box. Looking from the jewelry to Natalie he thought she'd definitely look lovely in it and made up his mind to give it to her at a later date.
"See, I told you that you wouldn't regret this evening," Natalie reminded Stephen once he'd rejoined the table.
He leaned over and whispered, "The evening is still young."
"What have you got in mind?" she whispered back.
"You'll see," Stephen replied and left her to mull over those words as the waiters began to serve platters of fruits and cheeses and puffy pastries. Selecting some fruit, he watched her helping herself to the assortment.
Seeing the musicians moving about the tables, chatting with the guests, Mrs. Martelli picked up her program and headed over to Sergi Ivanoff. Natalie had been watching and she stood up to do the same saying, "Excuse me, Stephen."
"Take your time," he replied, watching her walk away.
Kate leaned over and commented "I didn't realize Natalie was such a music fan."
"That's the whole reason she wanted to come tonight," Stephen replied.
"Mr. Ivanoff, it was such an honor to see you perform in person. Could you please sign my program?" Natalie was asking the piano virtuoso.
"And who shall I make it out to?' he asked as he pulled out a pen.
"Natalie Durant," she replied.
"I take it that you are quite an admirer of classical music, Natalie," he said conversationally as he scribbled his name.
"When I was younger I thought I might be a famous pianist. Of course nothing like you," she answered, blushing slightly.
"Here you are,' he said handing back the program and turning to the next person requesting an autograph.
"Thank you," the doctor replied and headed back to the table feeling somewhat in a daze. And not from the two glasses of wine she'd consumed either.
"Are you ready to go now?" Stephen asked once she'd returned to the table.
"I think so," Natalie replied. She laid down the program to slip the wrap about her shoulders.
"Leaving so soon?' Kate asked.
"I'm afraid so. I'll see you on Monday," Stephen replied as he took Natalie by the arm to lead her to the exit.
Outside a bit of a breeze had picked up and Natalie kept a protective grip on her program so it wouldn't blow away. Turning to Stephen she asked, "Now what have you got in mind?"
"I thought maybe a drive and someplace a little more private," he replied as removed his jacket and placed it around her shoulders for the walk to the car.
"That sounds nice," she murmured. "So what do you plan on doing with your prize?'
"Giving it to the loveliest woman there tonight," Stephen answered. "A thank you for inviting me to attend."
"For a moment I thought you meant someone else. It my pleasure to do so," she replied and suddenly yawned.
"Looks like someplace private may have to wait until later," Stephen said.
"Maybe you could come by tomorrow for coffee?" Natalie suggested as they reached the car and got in.
"Jack will be back from Boston tomorrow but I'll take you up on the offer sometime," Stephen promised. Getting behind the wheel, he started the car and drove directly to Natalie's apartment building.
Just before she got of the car, Natalie leaned over and gave him a light kiss saying, "I had a wonderful time, Stephen. Thanks for being my escort." Clutching her purse and program she hurried for the entrance.
He stayed parked there watching until he saw the light come on in her living room and then drove away.
Putting on a Sergi Ivanoff CD, Natalie set her program in a safe place and then headed for her bedroom to change out of the turquoise gown. The evening had truly been wonderful and not just the music and meeting her musical idol. She had really enjoyed being with Stephen.