Anne came and stood beside him.
“I could slap you!” she retorted with mock anger. “The idea of calling a talent like that a side issue! Why you could make a career for yourself as a pianist if you wished.”
He laughed almost light-heartedly.
“Oh no, you are making too much allowance for the country piano. I’m afraid the small career I’ve had already will have to last me the rest of my life!”
Anne sighed.
“And you want me to believe that you’ve forgotten how to play the violin after this exhibition?” she asked crossly.
He gave her a startled look.
“You think I’ve been trying to deceive you? You believe that of me? Oh Anne!” he cried in anguished tones.
She leaned over him remorsefully and patted the weary-looking shoulder.
“Poor Alexis,” she murmured. “I didn’t mean to hurt you! Of course I know you wouldn’t deceive me intentionally.”