"Classical music is not different," Mrs. Rodriguez said strongly. "Music is music, and you, Maya, have a gift for understanding music that very few people possess. I have heard you play pieces that took other students months to learn, and you learned them in just a few weeks."
Maya started to cry again. But this time, the tears felt different. They felt like relief instead of sadness.
"I think it's time I told you something about myself," Mrs. Rodriguez said. "Before I became a teacher, I was a professional pianist. I performed in concerts and competitions all over the country, and I am telling you that you have what it takes to be a professional musician if you want it badly enough."
Maya was shocked. Mrs. Rodriguez had never mentioned that she used to be a professional pianist. Maya had always wondered why her teacher knew so much about advanced music theory and technique.
"Why did you stop performing?" Maya asked.
"That's a story for another day," Mrs. Rodriguez said. "Right now, I want to focus on you, Maya. Are you going to let one mean person destroy your dreams? Or are you going to prove him wrong?"
Maya thought about this question for a long time. She thought about all the hours she had spent practicing. She thought about how happy music made her feel. She thought about the promise she had made to herself the night before she met Victor Holbrook.
"I want to prove him wrong," Maya said finally.
"Good," Mrs. Rodriguez said. "Because I have an idea. But it's going to require you to work harder than you have ever worked before. Are you ready for that?"
"Yes," Maya said without hesitation. "I'm ready."
The next day, Maya arrived at the community center earlier than usual. Mrs. Rodriguez was already there, waiting for her at the old upright piano. But today, Mrs. Rodriguez looked different. She was sitting up straighter, and there was a serious look in her eyes that Maya had never seen before.