Chapter 4 - THE WOMAN WHO RAISED HIS DAUGHTER
Emily lived in a modest apartment on Chicago's North Side.
She taught music at a neighborhood arts school and played occasional events to supplement her income.
Lily attended a public performing arts high school.
She loved astronomy.
She hated mushrooms.
And she wanted to study music composition.
Daniel learned these things during their first planned meeting at a quiet café.
Lily insisted on choosing the location.
Emily agreed.
Daniel arrived early.
He wore jeans and a dark sweater instead of a suit.
Lily noticed immediately.
“You look different.”
He smiled nervously.
“Better or worse?”
She considered.
“Less like someone who owns an airport.”
Daniel laughed.
It surprised him.
Emily watched from across the table.
For a moment, she looked almost like the woman he remembered.
Then Lily asked:
“Did you really write that song?”
Daniel nodded.
“Yes.”
“For Mom?”
He looked at Emily.
“Yes.”
Lily stirred her hot chocolate.
“Why didn't you write another one?”
Daniel swallowed.
“Because I couldn't bear to play the first.”
Lily looked down.
Then whispered:
“I used to imagine my father was a musician.”
Daniel smiled sadly.
“I wanted to be.”
“What happened?”
He considered the question.
Then answered honestly.
“I got very good at making money.”
Lily looked at him.
“And?”
May you like
He met her eyes.
“And I forgot that wasn't the same thing as making a life.”
