Heart and Soul

Music, eerily familiar to her ears, floated through the air. With her eyes closed, she imagined the notes, how they might look as they glided past her, surrounding her with their soft melody. When she smiled, it was soft and tinged with sorrow, though she was not quite sure why she was suddenly so sad.

There was a lull in the music, and then it resumed again, that same tune winding around her. Curious, Alaine followed the sound to its source. The room was easy to find, large and open as it was. A piano sat squarely in the center, and its sole occupant was seated there, his eyes closed as he played.

She stood silent in the doorway, unwilling to intrude yet wanting to remain. Unable to make a decision, she hovered, watching and listening. The man was stooped somewhat, indicative of his height, and his long, slender fingers delicately pressed the keys, caressing them as if they were a lover.

Alaine closed her eyes again, letting the music wash over her. As she listened, her feet moved her forward of their own accord, until she knew, without ever looking, that she was mere inches from the piano.

A long-buried memory surfaced, and music tumbled out from her lips, giving voice to the melody the man played.

The snow falls on quiet plains
A heart encased in cold
But at the core, the love she feels
Will make her heart of gold

The man's voice, rich and deep, joined her own in counter. She faltered briefly, her eyes fluttering open only to lock with his, two strangers caught in the music.

Two hearts and souls of sorrow
A life of blood and tears
Two hearts and souls of trouble
Their cries of shame and fears

A wind blows on desert fair
His soul buried and lost
Don't be afraid to dig a well
No matter what the cost

Two hearts and souls of sorrow
A life of blood and tears
Two hearts and souls of trouble
Their cries of shame and fears

Waves crash on empty beach

Two loves shall meet again

Cold and warm, so beautiful

The souls we find within

She backed away on the last note, even as the man stood, his fingers leaving the piano. He did not follow her, instead giving her the space she needed. He smiled crookedly, waiting patiently.

"I... I'm sorry. I didn't mean to intrude," she said, her voice soft, apologetic.

"Oh, my dear, don't apologize. You didn't intrude." Her voice caught as his smile broadened. "I've been waiting for you."