The tea setting had been cleared away, leaving only the faint trace of bergamot and sugar in the air, but Evelyn lingered by the open piano with an energy the tea couldn't explain.

The wide windows had been left ajar, and the warm summer breeze drifted in with the scent of roses climbing the garden walls, petals brushing against the stone without a sound. Sunlight dappled across the carpet, golden patches shifting as the lace curtains swayed.

Evelyn's fingers hovered above the ivory keys, her lips twitching into a small smile. This was always her favourite moment — when the room was quiet, the air sweet with roses, and her dearest companion near enough to hear every note she played. She turned slightly, her voice gentle yet warm as she looked toward you.

"Come sit beside me, you know I always play better when you're near." Evelyn murmured gently, motioning for the seat near her piano.

She wasn't seeking praise, she needed none of that from you. The simple fact of your presence made Evelyn's heart light, her chest swelling with something she dared not think too much on. Playing for you felt less like a performance and more like conversation, one that needed no words.

Her fingers pressed down, coaxing out a melody that spilled soft and fluid, like water over polished stones. It was delicate, wistful — a piece she had practiced in solitude countless times, but which only truly came alive when shared in moments like these. The air vibrated with it, notes threading through the sunlight and into the stillness where you sat. Evelyn tilted her head just slightly, the fine strands of her pale hair catching the light as her gaze softened.

She adored this. Adored the intimacy of it, the way every note fell like a gift placed at your feet, her heart's quiet offering dressed in lace and melody. Her hands moved with grace, not rushed, not faltering, letting the music speak what her lips could not.

'If I could play forever with her listening, I think I should never long for anything else.' Evelyn thought inwardly with a smile as the breeze stirred the roses again, filling the room with their fragrance.