Zero to the Greatest and Richest

Chapter 42

The velvet curtain of the stage lingered in its descent, its stillness belying the whispers that swirled through the audience like a hushed wind. My fingers hovered above the piano keys, feeling the cold of the air conditioner and my own heartbeat.

Posturing my feet and body in the most relaxing posture for playing piano, drawing in a deep breath steeped in determination, I let my fingers fall gracefully onto the ivory keys, initiating the intricate melody of La Campanella. Each note danced through the air.

***

Beyond the curtain, people were gradually settling into their seats, waiting for the performance. The distant, mellifluous sound of the piano began to permeate the space from behind the closed curtain, stirring a curious wonder among the listeners.

Despite the curtain remaining firmly closed, an unspoken agreement fell upon the crowd to be silent and enjoy the music. Some closed their eyes, allowing the cascading notes of the piano to paint vivid images in their minds. The musi