I bought some curly cherry at a lumberyard about 3 hours away.

After planing I find one piece is significantly lighter. I am pretty sure it
is heartwood like the rest; it is just lighter. I don't have enough wood to
not use it, and sure don't like the idea of a full days trip to pick up one
more piece. (sure, I should have bought a surplus, but the stuff is
expensive!)

Should I expect it to get closer to the rest over time, or will it remain
lighter. I could put a light stain on it (I have done that with walnut
sapwood) but don't want to if it will blend naturally.

Thanks.