It's Been How Long?

Casey was wandering aimlessly through Hogsmeade when she spotted the music shop. She stopped in her track, wondering how long it had been since she'd played. One year? No, two at least. Curious, yet cautious, she entered the shop and looked for the one instrument she loved, then stopped when she spotted one on the shelves.

Slowly, almost reverently, Casey took the flute down from its shelf. She had stopped playing when she started at Salem, because everyone had made fun of her for it once she'd been stupid enough to let it slip that she played. She held the flute, her fingers naturally drifting to the right keys. Holding it up to her lips, she blew cautiously and was startled by the half strangle squeak that emergered. Frowning, she thought, Wow, it really has been a long time.

Taking a deep breath this time, Casey blew again, careful to keep the stream of air steady. This time, the sound came out honey rich, so she palyed a scale. Slowly, she warmed up the instrument and her fingers, playing scales and arpeggios until she was confident that she remembered. She then thought back to the half forgotten songs and began to play 'Here I Am Lord' from her church. It was one of her favorite hymns and was the one she remembered best.

Smiling as she lowered the flute, Casey checked the price tag. Immediately, the smile disappeared. She really wanted to play again, but there was no way she had that many Galleons. Her parents might give her the money if she asked, but she was reluctant to when they were in such a tough situation already. She wished they hadn't had to sell her other flute when she stopped playing, but it was a perfectly good instrument going to waste. She really wanted this flute though. Casey bit her lip and stood there with the flute in hand, completely torn.