The Piano Teacher -- Part Two

The Piano Teacher -- Part Two

Angela never flinched as she scribbled her notes.   David glanced at her then over to Frances who smiled and nodded at him.

"May I ask a question?" said David to Angela.

"Sure, be my guest."

Turning to Frances, he said:  "Are you saying that you killed a man today?"

Frances, momentarily closing her eyes, shook her head.  She became fixated completely on David.  "No, I killed one of my students.   Johnny Watkins.  He's ten years old, you know.  I told him once... twice... and finally a third time...  Damn that boy... Just didn't listen...   No hitting the B flat...  Plain and simple...  The music clearly says C sharp..."

Looking stunned, David didn't know what to say. 

"So, Frances," said Angela.  "How many does that make this month?"

"I believe Johnny makes..." Frances rolled her eyes up counting in her head.  "That makes nine all together this month... No wait..."  She recounted.  "No... I'm sorry..." She smiled.  "Only eight..."

David's mouth hung open.   Angela remained stoic.  Frances seemed to enjoy the announcement of her achievement.

David's mouth dropped open. Frances enjoyed her achievement.

Already aware of David's shock, Angela remained stoic and quizzing Frances. 

"What's today?"

Frances snickered.  "Why that's a silly question...  It's August 14th.  I believe it is Friday."
   

"And the year?"

Frances snickered again.  "Why, 1923, of course."   She turned to David.   "I just turned 19 one month ago.  July 14th."

Angela finished a few notes.  "Thank you Frances.  David and I should check on the body."

"Oh yes, do." France fanned herself.   "In this warm weather, it'll start to smell.  Plus the blood will need to be mopped up."   Frances waved nodded as if to say goodbye as they left the room shutting the door behind them.