Weightless [HSMTMTS]

Chapter 2

It was time for the auditions after school. Enthusiastic students chatted with their friends as they awaited in the dressing room. Kourtney was touching up on Nini's appearance when EJ leaned onto her chair.

Ten curled himself up in his own seat and picked at his shirt sleeve. He hadn't been half as nervous when he'd reviewed his practice video after packing the cupcakes for Jeonghan's lovely roommates.

At that time, he'd felt that everything was going to be alright, only to be ridden with nerves as he waited with everyone else.

"Is it possible that I pull a few strings for the audition? I can't stand to dance in front of everyone," Ten whispered, glancing around at the competition.

It was daunting, dancing in front of everyone and really show what he was capable of.

"Relax, Ten. You will be fine. We're here to support you!" Nini said, giving the boy's hands a light squeeze.

"Thank you," he whispered with a smile.

Miss Jenn came knocking on the door, grabbing their attention to have everyone follow her into the auditorium.

"A-five-six-seven-eight!"

The music began to play and the dancers began their routine. All of them were amazing, but Ten noticed there was someone whom everyone paid a lot of attention to: the girl with the number one label.

He could see why. She carried such a strong presence with every move and her flexibility was admirable.

Despite her adding more odds at his chances, Ten was impressed. Besides, it wasn't as if he was that desperate to get into the play.

"Great, that's it for the warm-up," Carlos called to Miss Jenn when the dancers were done.

"That was the warm-up?" Nini looked to EJ with a worried expression.

"There's no need to be nervous. You're just fine," Ten assured. He tried to give her a comforting smile.

"Everyone pair up, not with a friend. Theatre is a community," Miss Jenn instructed, letting everyone find their partners.

Ten looked for EJ so they could pretend that they didn't know each other at all but it was too late. EJ had already obediently gone on his way and left him alone. All by himself.

He wanted to kick himself in the shin. Interacting with people outside his social circle was something he tried to avoid for the sake of the other party and his own self.

"Hi, would you like to partner with me?" a meek voice came from behind him. Ten turned around, coming to meet a blonde haired boy. You couldn't tell who was more surprised.

"Sure, "Ten said quickly. He knew first impressions lingered, an echo, and he could not afford to mess this up. He was thankful that he didn't have to ask anyone.

"I'm Seb, a sophomore." The boy extended his hand and Ten took it, giving a firm shake.

"Ten. I'm a senior and it's first time here at the auditions."

"Is there a role that you're aiming for?"

"Oh. Uhm- I'm just here to be a dancer." Ten hoped that he didn't sound silly, or strange since no one in East High really knew what he did outside. "You?"

"I'm actually open for anything, like maybe Sharpay?" Seb replied shyly. "I know it isn't the norm but-"

"I'm all about fun twists on the original movie," Ten said. A smile bloomed across the younger's face. "You would be amazing as Sharpay."