His fingers fold warm over her own, and Cassie's heart, already full to bursting, aches that much more. "I will be an avid student," she promises. "I did well in school, when I cared enough, and I promise to care very much."

She keeps hold of his sleeve, his arm steadying her when she leans in again. The body of the instrument seems so long, with pegs for so many strings. She only hopes her fingers will be long enough. "Do you sing as well? But perhaps it's best if I not try that."