Emily's eyes sparkled with excitement as she asked, "Would you play something for me?" She leaned in, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'd love to hear you play."
Julian's face lit up with a warm smile, and he nodded. "I'd like that," he said. "But not here. It's too loud." He glanced around the coffee shop, his eyes scanning the crowded room. "Want to come with me to the music room? It's just across campus."
Emily's heart skipped a beat at the suggestion. She hadn't planned on spending more time with Julian, but the prospect of hearing him play music was too enticing to resist.
Emily nodded, feeling a thrill of excitement. "I'd love to," she said, gathering her things and standing up.
Julian smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Great," he said, holding out his arm to let Emily precede him. "The music room is just a short walk from here."
As they walked across campus, Emily felt a sense of ease with Julian that she hadn't expected. They chatted about music and art, and Emily found herself laughing and feeling more and more at ease.
When they arrived at the music room, Julian unlocked the door and gestured for Emily to enter. The room was small, with a piano and a few music stands. Julian closed the door behind them and turned to Emily.
"So, what do you want to hear?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with amusement.
Emily smiled, feeling a sense of excitement and anticipation. "Surprise me," she said, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.
Julian's face lit up with a warm smile, and he nodded. "Okay," he said, sitting down at the piano. "But close your eyes and just listen, okay?"
Emily nodded, feeling a sense of trust wash over her. She closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and let the music wash over her.
As Julian began to play, Emily felt herself being transported to another world. The music was beautiful, haunting, and emotional, speaking directly to her soul. She felt tears prick at the corners of her eyes as the music swelled and ebbed, taking her on a journey of emotions.
As the music came to an end, Emily opened her eyes, feeling a sense of wonder and awe. Julian was watching her, his eyes intense and searching.
Emily's eyes met Julian's, and she felt a sense of connection and understanding. "That was beautiful," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I loved it."
Julian's face lit up with a warm smile, and he leaned forward, his eyes sparkling with pleasure. "I'm glad you liked it," he said. "I've been working on that piece for a while now."
Emily nodded, feeling a sense of curiosity. "What's it called?" she asked.
Julian's smile faltered for a moment, and he looked away, his eyes clouding over. "I don't know," he said finally. "I haven't given it a name yet."
Emily sensed that there was something more to the story, but she didn't press the issue. Instead, she reached out and touched Julian's arm, feeling a spark of electricity at the contact.