Julio was a dignified man in his early sixties, his white hair neatly styled and a pair of fine-rimmed glasses resting on his nose.
Although years of composing at a desk had given him a slightly stooped posture, his aura was one of warmth and friendliness.
An authority in both classical and pop music, Julio was a towering figure in Melcornâs pop music industry.
Over the years, he had garnered numerous international awards and even had the honor of composing for the royal family on several occasions.
Referring to him as the âroyal composerâ was no overstatement.
Despite his storied career, Julio had scaled back his professional engagements in recent times, making his presence a coveted rarity at major international music events.
Ariana had not expected to find Julio in Eleymond.
It was a serendipitous social media post, geotagged in the city, that hinted at his presence.
After verifying his location with a quick phone call, Ariana learned he was vacationing in the city and saw an opportunity.
Her relationship with Julio was anchored in a personal connection: his grandson, once diagnosed with autism, had been under Arianaâs care.
After numerous unsuccessful treatments elsewhere, it was at Jessieâs childrenâs psychological charity organization where the boy, as Arianaâs patient, began to show marked improvement.
Under her dedicated attention, he gradually returned to typical communication patterns.
Deeply appreciative of Arianaâs relentless efforts and the transformative impact on his grandson, Julio cherished their bond.
âs
So, when Ariana reached out about her current musical challenge, he was quick to extend his expertise.
Considering he was vacationing with his grandson in Eleymond, he eagerly agreed to help once he grasped her situation.
Julioâs sudden appearance silenced any previous grievances from the six members, their dismay replaced by a mix of astonishment and elation.
For them, Julio was a legend in the musical world.
They were in awe, wondering how Ariana had orchestrated the involvement of such an esteemed figure in their training.
Tom, who was moments away from exiting, stood frozen, his eyes fixed on Julio.
He appeared lost, his hands awkwardly hovering at his sides.
Jim, noting Tomâs sudden shift in attitude, quipped with a hint of sarcasm, âWerenât you on your way out? Whatâs with the sudden change of heart?â
Caught off guard by the remark, Tom turned, his voice hushed, and snapped back, âKeep your nose out of it.
This isnât your concern.
â
âWhat are you two discussing?â Arianaâs voice chimed in from behind them, catching Tom off guard.
Without missing a beat, Jim began, âHe was just.
â
âAh! I was just expressing to him how incredible Miss Edwards is.
Itâs given me some inspiration.
In fact, Iâm thinking of penning a
Jimâs eyes rolled in amusement at Tomâs sudden sycophancy, but he chose not to expose him.
Instead, he retreated to a quieter corner.
The events of the morning had been tumultuous, but now, formal rehearsals were finally underway.
Ariana remained with them in the practice room, providing guidance and support.
As the rehearsal drew close to its conclusion, Arianaâs phone began to buzz.
The display showed an unknown number.
Stepping away, she accepted the call.
The composed voice of a middle -aged man greeted her, âHello, Dr.
Edwards speaking? I represent Mr.
Fredrick.
We had earlier discussed a child psychology appointment with you.
â
With the dayâs whirlwind, Ariana had nearly forgotten about this consultation.
She had been anticipating a call from the Fredrick family, wondering if they might retract their interest or cancel.
But she hadnât expected the call right now.