{"id":1023,"date":"2024-11-22T00:30:47","date_gmt":"2024-11-22T00:30:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/momentsunfolded.com\/?p=1023"},"modified":"2024-11-22T00:30:49","modified_gmt":"2024-11-22T00:30:49","slug":"music-teacher-offers-free-lessons-to-poor-boy-then-discovers-his-fathers-true-identity-story-of-the-day","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/momentsunfolded.com\/archives\/1023","title":{"rendered":"Music Teacher Offers Free Lessons to \u2018Poor\u2019 Boy, Then Discovers His Father&rsquo;s True Identity \u2014 Story of the Day"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class='\"PostImage_post-image-container__PlDZN' postcontent_thumb-image__ih052>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"' data-testid='\"thumb-image\"'><picture><img decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' postimage_post-image__xnmzf src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/509e0b154ddf9faa01eb4b4640f1d342504da148b530c696674c3a013784fb74.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"Teacher' guiding young boy at piano source: midjourney>\n\n<div class='\"PostContent_thumb-title__SoMYI\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>Teacher guiding young boy at piano\n<div>\n<div class='\"ContentRenderer_content-container__XYPLT\"' data-io-article-url='\"https:\/\/amomama.com\/440875-music-teacher-offers-free-lessons-to.html?m=dob\"'>\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36' contentrenderer_paragraph-first___d_vf>A former pianist turned school teacher, Lily begins teaching piano to Jay, a talented boy she believes comes from a poor family. Her efforts to nurture his gift take an unexpected turn when she learns the truth about his father\u2019s identity\u2014a revelation that threatens to unravel everything.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily sat by the piano, her fingers lightly pressing random keys, filling the room with soft, disconnected notes. She sighed, her mind spinning with worry.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/Y3JARDkFWE9jsnsszUSzk4JQQsNuufjXtmUJNjSuSeM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMTVmNjYzOWU3NDcyYWZiNWFjNzBmOGQ3ODFiNjQ3ZWUwYjYyNzljMWE5M2NmMTNiNGNmNGI1ZDhiODViNmFmNC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/15f6639e7472afb5ac70f8d781b647ee0b6279c1a93cf13b4cf4b5d8b85b6af4.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The orchestra had been her life, her dream since she was a child. Now, that dream was gone, and with it, her sense of security. The director had dismissed her without a second thought, choosing his daughter over her.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She had a small job teaching music to a few adults, but it barely covered her rent, let alone food and other expenses. Frustrated, she planted her hands firmly on the keys and began to play one of her favorite melodies, pouring her emotions into every note.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The tune started softly, but as thoughts of her situation flooded her mind, she played harder, her fingers striking the keys with increasing force.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper-second-floor__hfrmf>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' primis_wrap__7mm2n>\n<div class='\"Primis_square__Ov8Dr\"' data-position='\"in_article_2_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/amomama_primis\"' data-slot-type='\"8\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2_2\"' data-google-query-id='\"CLTa2ofX7okDFQTduAgdsdoaog\"'>\n<div id='\"google_ads_iframe_\/21668216007\/amomama_primis_0__container__\"' class='\"primisslate\"'>\n<div id='\"primis_container_div\"'>\n<div id='\"primis_playerSekindoSPlayer673fcfd5b6fa1\"'>\n<div id='\"Player-Div-SekindoSPlayer673fcfd5b6fa1\"'>\n<div id='\"Video-Div-SekindoSPlayer673fcfd5b6fa1\"'>\n<div id='\"Video-iFrame-SekindoSPlayer673fcfd5b6fa1\"'>\n<div id='\"layoutContainerDiv\"'>\n<div id='\"layoutDesign\"'>\n<div id='\"primisVastIconsContainer\"'>\n\n\n\n<div id='\"pixelsDiv\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/9x20oTMV_-ghGQS0dbof2ZvE31eq2fEx0VYmAjILRSU\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vM2ExY2ZhMDkxZTExMWJiMDBlOGNkMjU5NWVkYjUwZGY5ZGNhNTRkZTJkZDdjNDNiYmYyNDc0YmVlZGE3NTFkYS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTIzMiZoZWlnaHQ9OTI4.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/3a1cfa091e111bb00e8cd2595edb50df9dca54de2dd7c43bbf2474beeda751da.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1232\"' height='\"928\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>When the song ended, the room fell into a thick, profound silence, as if absorbing her pain. Her hands dropped limply to her lap, and she gently closed the piano lid, resting her forehead against it. The stillness was comforting, but it didn\u2019t solve her problem.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Over the next few weeks, she scoured job listings, applying to anything remotely related to music. Finally, she found a position as a school music teacher. She didn\u2019t mind teaching\u2014she respected teachers deeply.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Yet, part of her longed to create her own music, to pour her soul into her art, not just guide others in theirs.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/-laVBasifhO4kxPALnxXxv5Bay82s0duozOLa3HjW5o\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmUzYmUxMzZjNDAwZjI1Y2RlM2RhZmYxOGMwZWQ3YzNjMjIwMGMzYzI2NDZkNGQ2ZWZjMGFhZTFhMmMzZjU4OS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTgwOCZoZWlnaHQ9MjQwMA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/6e3be136c400f25cde3daff18c0ed7c3c2200c3c2646d4d6efc0aae1a2c3f589.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1808\"' height='\"2400\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But with no other options, she accepted the job. The school was eager to have her; they\u2019d been searching for someone for months.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The first few days were tough. She wasn\u2019t used to working with kids, and they seemed indifferent to her quiet, gentle way of teaching. She tried everything\u2014she played soundtracks from popular movies, catchy pop songs\u2014anything to spark their interest. But nothing seemed to stick.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Then, one afternoon after class, as she wandered down the hallway, a soft melody caught her attention. She followed the sound to her classroom, peeking inside. There, at the piano, was Jay, one of her students. He was playing the exact piece she\u2019d practiced earlier in the day.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/uUQUEr-ea5eipief6AcqVgTEfw3YYDXabGCNzixX92Y\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmNiZDVhNWY5MDE2YzkyMmEzNmJhMjUxMDhkNmU0NmQ2YmQ5N2E4MzcxMWRjZjJkNTM4YzYzMGEwNjRkMWJjZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTM0NSZoZWlnaHQ9MjQwMA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/6cbd5a5f9016c922a36ba25108d6e46d6bd97a83711dcf2d538c630a064d1bce.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1345\"' height='\"2400\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cDo you play piano?\u201d Lily asked, walking into the room.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Jay flinched, startled. \u201cNo\u2026 not really. I haven\u2019t played much,\u201d he mumbled, looking down at the keys.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cBut you were just playing,\u201d Lily replied, a warm smile spreading across her face. \u201cAnd very well, especially for someone your age.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Jay shrugged. \u201cI just remembered how you played it.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/Uhp-C6PIhLM5Xto-cbsfc7-r3tmOG1-OnbSN2EiC6nM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNTA3N2YxYzlkMDRiMmQ5YzY2NWM2MzUzMjgwMzQ1MzFiNjZiZDU0ZjA1ZWM0MTczNzkzOGI5YmM2YjEzODcyNC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTM0NCZoZWlnaHQ9ODk2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/5077f1c9d04b2d9c665c635328034531b66bd54f05ec41737938b9bc6b138724.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1344\"' height='\"896\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily blinked, surprised. She knew that even many trained musicians couldn\u2019t play by memory like that. \u201cWould you like to learn?\u201d she asked.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Jay\u2019s eyes brightened, and a small smile appeared on his face. \u201cReally? You\u2019d teach me?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_1\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_01\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_1-0\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily nodded. But she noticed his face fall as quickly as his excitement had come. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2026 I can\u2019t. I mean, thank you, but\u2026 we can\u2019t afford it,\u201d he said quietly.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/jrA1XPL7H0YuRXLD51ptRdSh2_dCJ4JskJAWgxi0k8w\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjhhZjgwZTM2NWNlZWVjZTllZmNjN2RiM2ExNWU3YjQ0ODUxOTU1YjY2MzExNDA1NmFhNzc1ZmI1MjVmZmMyZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/f8af80e365ceeece9efcc7db3a15e7b44851955b663114056aa775fb525ffc2d.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily looked at him thoughtfully. She recalled noticing that he rarely ate lunch with the other kids. He seemed to keep to himself. \u201cYou don\u2019t have to worry about paying,\u201d she said gently. \u201cI\u2019ll teach you for free.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Jay\u2019s face lit up with a huge grin, and without warning, he threw his arms around her. \u201cThank you!\u201d he said.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Over the next few weeks, Lily and Jay met in the empty classroom after school, their shared enthusiasm filling the room. Lily watched in amazement as Jay played each new piece she showed him, his fingers moving across the keys with surprising ease.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__wIGWH\"'><span class='\"AdvTitle_text__hRK31\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_02\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2-1\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/a0VhIYUlNwO8rjQWWRfynWtX58rh6gYibnuuy6R6RHE\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNGE1NzFlODUxYjFlZDY4YWM5NjE2MjM4MzBiZGUxNjdiYjcwMDE0MTM2ZTgxNGI4OTU2OWZmYmM4ZjdjNzFhNi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/4a571e851b1ed68ac961623830bde167bb70014136e814b89569ffbc8f7c71a6.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Every note, every chord, every melody seemed to come naturally to him. She taught him music notation, guiding him through each symbol and rhythm.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Yet each time, she marveled\u2014did he even need these lessons? His talent was raw, instinctive, as if he was born to play.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>As Jay worked through a new melody one day, Lily smiled and leaned forward. \u201cHave you ever thought about performing?\u201d she asked.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Jay looked up, surprised. \u201cPerforming? Like, in front of people?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/57tkfEI7fpzsvB1byyDkuRcJFNaLuBJWPDJVRAwzKCE\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjdmOTc0ZTczNzg0YmJmMWU2ZDM2ZmNmMzdjZGM4OTNlYjM1ZjA1ZDc3ZmFkZGM5NGZhYWNlY2RlMTQxZGJiOS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTIzMiZoZWlnaHQ9OTI4.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/67f974e73784bbf1e6d36fcf37cdc893eb35f05d77faddc94faacecde141dbb9.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1232\"' height='\"928\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYes!\u201d Lily replied. \u201cThe school festival is coming up. You could play a piece there. You\u2019re talented enough.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Jay hesitated, glancing at the piano keys. \u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026 What if I mess up?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou won\u2019t,\u201d Lily said warmly. \u201cYou\u2019re ready, and I\u2019ll help you. We\u2019ll pick a song together, something you feel good about. You could even choose the piece.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Jay bit his lip, still unsure, but nodded slowly. \u201cAll right, I guess I could try.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/zW19RANXwp32MPsZkDjY0MMWmDayaicCcI_ikdkiww0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmM1M2RiMzQ2NWVmM2NkM2JkYmFhYjIwMTFlNThmZGJmYzU3ZmQzNjFmYmQ2NTc2NTJjNjUxMGIzYzg3OGU2Yy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/6c53db3465ef3cd3bdbaab2011e58fdbfc57fd361fbd657652c6510b3c878e6c.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily\u2019s heart soared. She hadn\u2019t felt this excited in a long time. Teaching him, watching his confidence grow\u2014it filled her with a sense of purpose she hadn\u2019t known she needed.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_4\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_04\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_4-3\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>On the day of the performance, Lily moved through the crowded school hallways, searching everywhere for Jay. Her eyes scanned each room, her heart beating a little faster with worry each time she didn\u2019t find him.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He was supposed to close the show, and time was running out. Other teachers stopped her, asking, \u201cHave you seen Jay? Is he ready?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She shook her head, feeling more anxious with each question. Suddenly, just as she turned toward the stage, Jay rushed in backstage, looking flustered and out of breath.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/teawAj-ULoxwwMLgJVxkyIheRhvl5b0fGdUsSwSFTAE\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjk1ZDJjYTYyMjEzM2VlMWM4NDA3NmFkZDA1YTlkYWYxZTJiZTY4OWY3YWFiNzJjZmY1MTVkZmRhZThmYWIyOC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODk2JmhlaWdodD0xMzQ0.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/f95d2ca622133ee1c84076add05a9daf1e2be689f7aab72cff515dfdae8fab28.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"896\"' height='\"1344\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cQuick, I need to go on now, before he sees me,\u201d Jay whispered urgently, glancing toward the stage.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, sensing his distress. \u201cHold on, Jay. Another act is on. Who are you hiding from? Why are you so scared?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_1\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_01\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_1-4\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Jay\u2019s face crumpled, his eyes filling with tears. \u201cHe won\u2019t let me perform. And if he finds out, he\u2019ll get you fired. I don\u2019t want that to happen,\u201d he said, his voice breaking.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily knelt down to his level, speaking calmly. \u201cJay, slow down. No one is going to fire me. Who doesn\u2019t want you to perform?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/fek2zugZorvyw7CxCGi_d_ZaXmMVzg-zgiVrExwKMHc\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNTI2MTNhYWE2OGRhYzk3MTU4MjFlNGNmNGYzMTdkOTRmMzUxMjNmNzg4OWEwMjRlZTdkYTdlMDUzOGViMGI0YS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/52613aaa68dac9715821e4cf4f317d94f35123f7889a024ee7da7e0538eb0b4a.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Jay wiped his eyes and looked down. \u201cMy dad,\u201d he murmured.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYour dad?\u201d Lily echoed, surprised. \u201cIs he\u2026 does he hurt you?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Jay shook his head quickly. \u201cNo, he just\u2026 he doesn\u2019t want me to play the piano.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhy not?\u201d Lily asked softly, puzzled. \u201cI\u2019m not charging you for lessons.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_02\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2-5\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/SInFu00REKpRTLuMZdadUMua27DwRmcMoQX-Xq9KAo0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzhhM2M3Yjg1N2U2ZDI4NzI4MDJkMmQzZmFmYWI3NTVjZTE1YjJjZjQ4MTM2MTNmODBkODY3M2ZmMTEzZTNmZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/c8a3c7b857e6d2872802d2d3fafab755ce15b2cf4813613f80d8673ff113e3fe.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt\u2019s not about the money. It\u2019s just that\u2014\u201d Jay started to explain but froze as a stern voice called out.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cJay!\u201d a man shouted sharply. Lily turned, shocked to see Ryan standing there.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily recognized him instantly. Ryan\u2014her old classmate from high school. Memories of those days rushed back. Back then, they had been friends, maybe even close friends.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Both had dreamed of a future in music, hoping for the same scholarship to attend the top music university. They\u2019d spent hours practicing together, studying, pushing each other to improve.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/JQPOe3Rglzc2oY_U2sqy0xQ27SCzIuzDf1MFYC8Gm_Y\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODgxN2ZjZDA0NTZiYWJlYzI1NjMyMWNiYWUxZDc3MGY0YzkxNmQ0N2M0Y2E0Mjg4ZjNkOWYyYmNlZjFiZTBiYy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/8817fcd0456babec256321cbae1d770f4c916d47c4ca4288f3d9f2bcef1be0bc.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ryan\u2019s family had never approved of his dreams. His parents thought music was pointless, unworthy of their son\u2019s time. But Ryan had continued, driven by his love for it, keeping his ambitions a secret from them.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The day she won the grant was the day everything changed. Ryan had looked at her, hurt and angry, and said she had ruined his life. His words, \u201cI hate you,\u201d had haunted her ever since.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Now, standing before her, she saw that same resentment in his eyes, as if all those years hadn\u2019t passed.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cJay!\u201d Ryan\u2019s voice rang out sharply. \u201cI told you not to play music. I forbade it!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/NKVnYn3gsXFHL5x8D3NPmtXb1PMLZIiDyyjB2n153qY\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNDQ0YzE0ODAyZWFlOTY5NGJkNzk5NzBlZWQyMjZhODc1MmUzNjkxNzNmYTQ4ZjM0Y2IwN2QwZWFiYTBiZTNiZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/444c14802eae9694bd79970eed226a8752e369173fa48f34cb07d0eaba0be3be.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Jay looked down, his voice barely a whisper. \u201cDad, I can explain\u2026\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_4\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_04\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_4-7\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily, sensing Jay\u2019s fear, turned to him. \u201cYou\u2019re not from a poor family?\u201d she asked gently, though she knew the truth. Ryan had inherited his father\u2019s company and was far from struggling.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ryan scoffed. \u201cPoor family? He probably made that story up so I wouldn\u2019t find out about these lessons. He even stopped eating at school, hoping I\u2019d never suspect it.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily took a steady breath. \u201cBut why are you stopping him from playing music?\u201d she asked, looking Ryan in the eye.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/oGdnzHoY24xKHXqRH3UGzpcDNNVFiwnGnoVbXiFDn8c\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNzczNGNiNTVjYzhjODNmYzgyZWIyMTcyZjRkYmU4OTIwYjI3YWJkNjc5YTlhYjM5NjhiZTI1YzM2ZTkzNDNkNS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/7734cb55cc8c83fc82eb2172f4dbe8920b27abd679a9ab3968be25c36e9343d5.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cBecause it\u2019s not something a real man does,\u201d Ryan replied firmly.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily felt her heart sink. \u201cRyan, that\u2019s not your belief\u2014that\u2019s your father\u2019s. The Ryan I knew loved music, loved playing the piano.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_1\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_01\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_1-8\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Jay\u2019s eyes widened, surprised. \u201cDad, you used to play?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ryan\u2019s gaze hardened. \u201cThe Ryan you knew is gone. I was young and foolish. Now I understand. Music isn\u2019t profitable, and it isn\u2019t masculine.\u201d He reached for Jay\u2019s hand, pulling him away from the stage without another word.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/hMjVmImlBT16uHS_L3Be1Gffh9-uGO9uTqr9P8L2i8M\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjI0ZDEwNWM5NDlmNGEyNDY0Nzg3MTVlMDZlY2YyOTc5ODk3Yjc5ZGE2NzJiNjZmNGU5YzFkODE2Mjg4MDkwOS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/224d105c949f4a246478715e06ecf2979897b79da672b66f4e9c1d8162880909.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily watched Ryan and Jay walk away, her heart pounding. She couldn\u2019t let this end like that. Without hesitating, she hurried through the halls and out to the parking lot. She saw them approaching Ryan\u2019s car, Jay looking down, defeated.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWait! Ryan, wait!\u201d Lily called, her voice urgent. \u201cYou can\u2019t do this!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ryan stopped but didn\u2019t turn. \u201cThis is my son,\u201d he said loudly. \u201cI have every right to decide what\u2019s best for him.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_02\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2-9\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily took a breath, stepping forward. \u201cYou don\u2019t have the right to take this from him. Jay is talented, Ryan. You know it, and I know it. He deserves this chance.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/yfgHV6XmA7VPOMRhhFkBFjOVgeZcx-fdwGMVZjqp3yY\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjNkNTZlMmM4YTg0NWQzN2I5ZTM4YzIwOWNjZTBiMGFlN2NhYmU2MmJjY2E5ZmNiMmM1ZmJiODQwY2NlMmQ2Zi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTM0NSZoZWlnaHQ9MjQwMA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/63d56e2c8a845d37b9e38c209cce0b0ae7cabe62bcca9fcb2c5fbb840cce2d6f.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1345\"' height='\"2400\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ryan turned to face her, his expression hard. \u201cI was talented once, too. I had that chance, but you took it from me. Now, I see it was all nonsense.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThat\u2019s not true,\u201d Lily said, her voice steady. \u201cYou don\u2019t believe that, Ryan. And it wasn\u2019t me who took it away. Your parents refused to support you. They never saw your dreams. I know that hurt, but don\u2019t let it hurt Jay.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ryan\u2019s eyes flickered, but he shook his head. \u201cIt\u2019s my decision. Jay will not play music.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__wIGWH\"'><span class='\"AdvTitle_text__hRK31\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_3\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_03\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_3-10\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily\u2019s voice rose with emotion. \u201cStop this, Ryan! It isn\u2019t fair! You\u2019re denying him something he loves because of your own anger\u2014anger at me, anger at your parents. Jay deserves a chance to be who he is. I could find him another teacher, but he needs this. You can\u2019t crush this dream.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/nQfxZK6YyZS0n-6UdeoQtg1wpg-sL9JV14S8I5rwiBk\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNTE4NGM0NTM3ZTI2NGRjNzJhZmYxZjY5MzU1ZDkxZDgwNDFkZTZjYmRjMzM0YzVmZDBhMzgzNmE4NGMwOGZiMC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/5184c4537e264dc72aff1f69355d91d8041de6cbdc334c5fd0a3836a84c08fb0.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Jay\u2019s voice was a whisper, but his words were clear. \u201cPlease, Dad. Just listen to me. Let me play.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ryan looked at Jay, something softening in his expression. After a long pause, he nodded slowly. \u201cOne time,\u201d he said quietly. \u201cYou can play once.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lily let out a sigh of relief. She led Jay back into the school and guided him onto the stage. He took his place at the piano, his fingers finding the keys. As he played, the room grew silent, captivated by the beauty of his music. Lily glanced at Ryan, and for the first time, she saw tears in his eyes.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_4\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_04\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_4-11\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/Du64h_GlZ1yGb64OIJC0o7B2Igu7b3xbCJm1XWPNGpQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODY5YTU3OTZhYTE5NWM3MDFhNmVlMGNmYjEyZDY5OTBkY2Q1YTc2MzE0NDI4YmEyZGY1NWI4Mzg3ZmY3YmRiZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/869a5796aa195c701a6ee0cfb12d6990dcd5a76314428ba2df55b8387ff7bdbe.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n</div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div>