A Planet Made of Music

Story by Alquin Gliane Illustrations by Anait Semirdzhyan

Chapter 1 Mark

Wind blew through Sabrina’s hair as she looked for a place to sit on the rocks of a cliff overlooking the ocean. Looking out, she saw the white sails of tiny sailboats in the sparkling waves. The sun’s reflection was so bright, it hurt her eyes. Sabrina sat down and opened her heart to the ocean’s rhythm. The crashing waves seemed moody today despite the bright sunshine. She unslung Jolie from her back and nested the guitar between her crossed legs. She began strumming in A minor, the music swelling and receding with the waves. Looking down, she saw a familiar figure make its way across the sand, just beyond the reach of the lapping tide. Dressed only in red swim shorts and sneakers, the youth ran across the shore. He looked up, at the sky above the horizon. Most runners kept their eyes on the ground when they ran, mindful of hazards in their path. Some looked ahead. But her brother looked up, and she loved him for that. He’s a natural, she thought, watching his effortless form. His running is as easy and rhythmic as the ocean tide. Why does he look up? she wondered. Isn’t he afraid he’ll step or trip on something? And what is he looking at? What does he see?  ent.