I hesitated, but his insistent gaze compelled obedience. Uncomfortably, I took his place, feeling impossibly small before this magnificent instrument—and before him.

He settled beside me, the confined space making his presence overwhelming. Power radiated from him like heat from flames, making the air itself feel charged with dangerous energy.

Without speaking, he captured my hand in his, guiding my fingers to press specific keys. Simple melody emerged, but my heart raced faster than the ...