Iliya is trembling with nervousness after he completes his cello solo (Debussy's Sonata for Cello and Piano in D minor), but he forces himself to sit and finish out his parts for the remainder of dinner. By the time the waltz is done, he's finally allowed a break and to get something to eat.

Adrenaline is still buzzing in his veins, even after consuming a few hors d'oeuvres. He stares at the offered champagne, internally wrestling over whether or not he should get a glass. On one hand, it would calm him down. On the other hand, he might do something stupid.

Iliya's hand reaches out, then pulls back. He's only sixteen. What if they catch him?