Short Story: [Emberfate] Concert Date

Hey everyone!

Sorry for the delay on this short story reward! I thinkkk I missed the short story post last month (Sept), so this one will be making up for September, and another short story will be coming later tomorrow for October's.

The theme for this new series of stories is IRL dates! As with before, this was drafted by Anna 'Lavinnia' Kończak and then rewritten by me. I hope you enjoy this!

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“Last chance for you to bow out and run for the hills," Nathan jokes with a hint of seriousness in his voice as you knot his tie for him.

You roll your eyes with a laugh. "This is supposed to be an IRL date, Nathan, not some sort of dangerous mission like you're making it sound."

"I mean... Are you saying classical concerts aren't dangerous? Think of all the chandeliers that could fall down! Or the cellos that could be thrown across the hall!" He gives a dramatic gasp, and you can't help but snort.

"Okay, someone's been watching too many ridiculous movies lately."

"I have not." He protests with a chuckle before his playful smile fades into a more solemn expression. "Okay, in all seriousness, I'm just worried that you won't have a good time. I know you're not exactly big on classical music, let alone going to concerts like this. And I'd feel really bad if you find yourself bored out of your mind but forcing yourself to sit through it because of me."

"Hey, don't worry, Nathan. I do want to go, and it's not just because of you, all right? I've never been to a classical concert before, and well, I'm not going to turn down a free ticket from your sister now, am I?" You throw him a mischievous wink in an attempt to lighten the mood, which elicits a smile from him. "Come on, let's hurry, or we're going to be late."

****

It doesn't take long for you and your boyfriend to arrive at the theater.

As you enter the concert hall with your hand in Nathan's, you glance at the grand chandelier hanging from the ceiling above your head, and you slide him a teasing look. Guessing the jesting remark you're holding back, Nathan grins and leans in to whisper into your ear. "I promise I'll protect you if disaster strikes."

"Oh, shush before you jinx us." You murmur back in amusement.

A minute later, you're both seated with a program in your hands. Nathan scoots closer to you, giving you a quick introduction for each listed name in a hushed voice.

“Mr. Adarton is a well-known violinist. I first heard him play when I was ten years old. He played in a folk band at a local fair, but later went on to become a part of the orchestra. Mrs. Leners, on the other hand…”

To be honest, you have no idea who any of these people are, but when you see the genuine interest and joy on Nathan’s face, you could listen to him speak on this for hours.

After a while, he finally catches you staring at his face and not at the piece of paper in his hand. His eyes dart to yours, and you note with glee that a visible blush is rising to his cheeks.

"Do I have something on my face?" Nathan questions quietly.

"Has anyone told you you're very dashing tonight?" You grin, watching his flush deepen. If not for the inappropriate occasion, you'd give him a kiss on the lips for being so cute.

Unfortunately, the concert comes to Nathan's rescue. As the orchestra members make their way onto the stage, you straighten your back and keep your mouth shut with regret.

The music itself isn’t your jam, you have to admit that much. It’s beautiful though, for sure, and you recognize the expertise with which the musicians bring out harmonious tunes from their instruments, but it probably wouldn't be your first choice of music to listen to on your own.

Still, you relax, focusing on the music as much as possible in an attempt to understand and feel what Nathan does.

And when your mind does wander, you take one look at the mesmerized boyfriend beside you and his shining eyes, and you find yourself smiling and enjoying your time thoroughly — your time with Nathan by your side.

When the concert draws to an end, Nathan looks to you with a disappointed sigh. "I wish there could be an encore. That was amazing!"

"Me too." You nod in agreement, which prompts Nathan to give you a wide-eyed look in surprise.

"You do?" He pauses. "Have I gotten you into classical music after all?"

You smile at him without a word.

You’re not into classical music exactly — more like you’re into Nathan, but you're too embarrassed to admit that fact to him out loud.

He doesn't seem to mind your lack of response. The two of you trickle out of the hall with the rest of the audience, heading back to where your car is parked.

As he opens the car door, you interrupt him to pull him in for a kiss.

When you pull away, Nathan is blushing once more. “H-Hey, what was that for?”

"A belated answer to your question." You wink.

He cocks his head in confusion but chuckles after a moment. “I have no clue what that means. But if it got me a kiss, then it must be good.”

"It is. Very good indeed."