23

After another piece, classical this time, the conservatory director announces it's time for the students' solos. Vitória is the third one to go.

She takes her seat in the middle of the stage, in front of everyone. She grips her flute. She glances at the audience, as if searching for someone.

Is she looking for you?

Then, she takes a deep breath in, and starts playing.

The first phrase flows impeccably, the flute singing with Vitória's breath, as if the two of them exist in perfect symbiosis.

But then, Vitória stumbles. She loses her place in the music, and the melody peters out.

She looks up, her cheeks flushed, panic in her eyes.

She steadies her breath and starts again.