Page 54 of Cruel Delights
Business is cutthroat. Though the investigation into Maximillion’s murder is still very much active, Erma’s carried on at the bar like nothing happened. One tribute night later, she’s coaxed grieving regulars to return with half-priced drinks and finger foods.
I’ve even been given my own cubby.Finally.
It just so happens to be Maximillion’s old cubby. Another aspect that creeps me out.
Between my missing roommate and my dead coworker, it seems there’s still a dark cloud hanging over me.
Even as I do make good on Kaden’s suggestion and give Fyodor Kreed a call. He answers in a Russian accent so severe it’s difficult to understand at first.
“Hi,” I say, my insides doing backflips. “I’m… I’m…”
“Who is this?” he growls, interrupting me. “Do you believe it is a joke to call this number?”
“Oh. No, it’s not a joke! I’m… I’m Lyra Hendrix. I play the piano.”
“Why should I care? That means nothing to me! Do not phone this number again!”
My throat tightens at the sound of anger in his voice. “Kaden Raskova told me to call you. He… he said to mention his name. He said that you’re… uh, looking for talent for the shows this holiday season.”
Silence.
More silence.
Even more silence.
Sooo much silence I think we’ve been disconnected. Just as I’m pulling the phone away from my ear to check on the screen, he speaks.
“You are a friend of Mr. Raskova?”
“Yes.”
“You play the piano?”
“I do. Since I was four.”
A few more seconds of silence, and then…
“I will need to hear you play for myself.”
My heart thumps in excitement. I stand up from my bed. “Yes, of course. I would be happy to play for you.”
“I expect to see you next Sunday. Noon. Arrive to the opera house and wait on the steps outside.”
I’m opening my mouth to gush out a thank you when he hangs up before I’m able to. I’d be insulted if I hadn’t essentially been offered what could potentially be the most amazing job opportunity of my life.
I don’t even care that Fyodor Kreed has hung up on me. My phone drops from my hands and I release a loud squeal that might alarm Taviar if he’s home.
In no time, I’m blasting my music app and dancing like a fool around my room.
Finally, some good news! Something that feels like a win!
Never mind that I still have to audition. That’s a stressor for tomorrow. Right now, I’m celebrating.
I’m so excited, smiling wide to myself, I almost forget to let Kaden know. I shoot him off a text telling him about my phone call with Fyodor. He answers within seconds.
Good. I knew you could do it.
I send back a heart smiley emoji and thank him for the connect. He answers almost as quickly as my text goes through.