Passing Notes [Verity]

It had taken some time to find a world with a suitable orchestra, performing the right sort of pieces in the proper timeframe. Securing tickets had been a small effort, comparably, but a necessary one. All that remained now was to maintain a casual air while raising the subject to his employee and friend, during one of her visits. "I wonder, Verity, if you might be free this evening?"

(There is, an astute observer may note, a new piece hanging among the thin man's collection on the walls; a painting of a pumpkin, leaves, autumnal bounty.)