Rest

Eva's whole life had led to this moment. She imaged this blip in her existence at least a million times, had her outfit ready months in advance, and practiced hour after hour the same symphony that gave her butterflies the first time she experienced it's beauty. Now, Eva could play the song blindfolded without fault, but with the judges evaluating her, she only had Heart and Soul stuck in her head.

"Whenever you're ready, Ms. Bullock," Dr. Clein said, clearing his throat and hinting at her to just start already.

Eva breathed in and breathed out carefully, feeling her chest expand and repress strongly. She brought her knees closer to her cello between them and brought her hand and bow to her beloved instrument.

As the eighth notes and slurs began to spring from her strings, the nerves calmed, and she was transported to the scene she always found herself in. She closed her eyes, and let it envelop her.

Eva found herself in a garden escape on a hilltop, with wildflowers and warm breezes. She danced in a flowing dress of the softest fabric, enjoying the sounds of nature and the symphony. The warmth of the sun gave her comfort from within, and she toppeled to the ground, feeling each blade of grass like hairs between her fingers. She grinned big and continued to dance and make a happy fool of herself without judgement.

As the song began to slow and end, she returned back to reality and opened her eyes. She laid in her hospital bed, feeling comfort and purpose.

Her mother entered the room. "Hello baby," she said. "How are you feeling?"

Eva looked down at her right arm, and where her hand should be was just the end of her wrist. "I'm going to play cello again, you know. And I'll make it to music school."

Eva's mother smiled. "I know, sweetheart. For now, just rest."