Chapter 616

As the music transitioned to the piece he'd been waiting for, Gavin smoothly played the opening note of "Tarantella." The ultra-fast rhythm subtly stirred the dancers, but the orchestra responded instantly, synchronizing seamlessly with Gavin to complete the piece.

The dancers on the floor were momentarily stunned, then transitioned from a slow waltz to livelier steps, matching the music's tempo. Gavin's performance captivated everyone; the crowd began gathering at the edge of the dance floor.

Observing from the sidelines, Freda felt a pang of surprise. She wondered why Gavin's music attracted such a crowd. She overheard a group of girls—the same ones who had earlier pestered Gavin for a dance—whispering:

“Gavin looks so handsome playing the violin. I really want to date him. How should I approach such a gentleman?”

“Gavin is far too much of a gentleman. He doesn’t give us a chance.”

“Just the thought of Gavin marrying someone else fills my heart with jealousy. Who will be that lucky person?”

Freda frowned. Gavin, though merely a violinist, possessed a captivating stage presence that enthralled these high-society women. She suspected he was using them to climb the social ladder.

The piece ended to thunderous applause. Someone shouted, "Mr. Cramer, one more, please!" Gavin, intending to play only one piece, was surprised by the enthusiastic response. He paused, signaled the musicians, took a deep breath, and began "El Choclo."

"I really like this one."

"He plays so beautifully. I feel like dancing too."

This tango was even more rousing than the "Tarantella," drawing a larger crowd onto the dance floor. Freda was particularly struck by a woman in a fishtail dress dancing with passionate energy.

Freda watched, completely captivated. As the music ended, the crowd seemed eager to continue, but Gavin, adopting a more reserved demeanor, left the dance floor with his violin.

Approaching Freda, he asked, "Did you enjoy the music?"

Freda blinked, puzzled. "What do you mean?"

Without further explanation, Gavin said, "I have to put the violin away," and left.

Before Freda could process this, three young women surrounded her, bombarding her with questions: "How do you know Gavin? What's your relationship with him? Do you like him?"

Confused, Freda replied, "Why would you ask me that?"

"Are you Gavin's girlfriend? Otherwise, why do you seem so close to him?" they pressed.

Freda sighed. It was clear they were confronting her out of romantic interest in Gavin. She took a deep breath and explained, "You're mistaken. My relationship with Gavin Cramer is nothing like you imagine. We're barely acquaintances, not even friends."

The three women simultaneously sighed in relief. Then, one said, "That makes sense. You seem quite ordinary. How could he ever be attracted to you? You lack any temperament whatsoever. You two are completely incompatible."

Another added, "Exactly. You don't seem like you'd appreciate music. You probably don't understand it, right? How could you ever connect with Gavin on a deep level?"

A third chimed in, "Next time, don't stand so close to Gavin. Being near him only diminishes his presence."

Freda laughed. Their comments were absurd. She voiced her opinion: "I don't think this violinist is worthy of me. Keep your admiration to yourselves. I'm way out of his league."

The three exchanged disdainful smiles. "You think Gavin is just a violinist, don't you? It would be wonderful if he were merely a humble violinist. However, his family background is quite impressive."

Freda was skeptical, suspecting they were inventing details about Gavin's family. Before she could question them further, they hurried away. Turning, she saw Gavin returning.

...