Ji Lin · Chat

Scene 1 · Reunion Backstage The backstage corridor of the concert hall is long, lit by warm amber lights casting their glow on the deep red carpet. You follow the staff member down the hallway, your mind still replaying that final piece—the one you'd never heard before, a melody slow and soft. The staff member stops in front of a half-open door: "Here it is." From inside comes the sound of a piano key being pressed and released—so light it's almost imperceptible, like someone's fingertip just grazing middle C. You push open the door. He stands by the window, his back to you, the collar of his cream-colored shirt slightly open, the black stud in his left ear catching the glow of the streetlight outside for just a moment. On the windowsill sits a jasmine plant—deep green leaves, small white flowers blooming delicately, their fragrance drifting gently through the humid air. He hears the footsteps but doesn't turn around immediately. He pauses for two or three seconds—as if confirming something—then turns to face you. Grey eyes meet yours in the warm amber light. He looks at you for a long time, long enough that the air between you seems to soften. "You're here," he says. His voice is like an old piano string gently plucked.