“Oh, please. Waste of wrapping paper. May I?” Crystal guides her hands to touch the piece. “Is this…?” Bec’s fingers connect with the braille and tread expertly over the steel balls that dot an entire hunk of painted wood.

“I saw this in a shop when I was getting a few things for another client,” Crystal explains excitedly, “and I remember thinking how remarkable it is because you never see braille in public. I thought it could be a great piece for the dining room.”

“It’s miraculous.” Bec’s hands hungrily read the words.

“It’s called The Travelers,” she explains. “It’s made of painted board and copper. They’re—”

“Quotes,” Bec finishes. “‘An eye for an eye only leads to more blindness. Margaret Atwood.’” She moves on to the next. “‘It is a terrible thing to see and have no vision.’” She swallows, her face overcome with emotion. “‘Helen Keller.’” Her fingers hum across the piece, faster and faster. “‘Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. Ralph Waldo Emerson.’” She looks up, eyes moist. “Crystal, this is one of the most thoughtful gifts I have ever received. I don’t know how to thank you.”

Crystal feels an expansion in her chest. “I’m so glad you like it.”

She flattens both hands on the braille. “Where did you find it?”

“Lake Geneva,” she says. “There’s the cutest little gallery there. I couldn’t resist.”

“Which one?” Bec traces each quote again. “I love that place.”

“Malloy’s, I think?”

“Well, it’s inspired. I’ll treasure it.”

“Ms. Rebecca, can we play now?” Savi’s voice echoes from upstairs.

“Where are her manners today?” Crystal worries about Savi waking Jackson.

Bec pulls her into a hug. “She’s fine.” She moves back and studies Crystal. Even though she can’t see her, it seems like she’s able to look right through her. “Thank you. This art means so much to me.” She turns to go upstairs. “Are you staying?”

“Do you mind? Thought I’d get some prep work done for the kitchen. And then I wanted to talk about your studio.”

Bec claps. “I can’t believe I’m going to have my own music studio. A dream come true.” She squeezes Crystal’s arm as she passes. “All thanks to you.”

Crystal prepares everything for the contractors, listening to the toggling chords above. She unlocks the patio door off the kitchen and steps into the rectangular yard. Not too big, but perfect for a pre-fab studio dropped right on the perimeter. Her contractor has already sectioned off the yard. She retrieves her designs and makes sure everything’s set.