Weightless [HSMTMTS]

Chapter 19

"Welcome to the East High Morning Show. I'm Gina Porter."

"And I'm EJ Caswell. We're co-hosting the first-ever East High Morning Show," EJ said to the camera. "It's because I'm president of the AV club."

"And I'm his only friend who agreed to it."

"You're not the only one, Gina," Ten mumbled to himself as he worked the camera. He had half the mind to whack EJ for dragging him into the morning show business, but he had to admit, it was actually fun.

"That's right." EJ smiled to the camera. "Back at you, Gina."

"Thanks EJ. Now, for our first-ever guest," Gina continued. "You know her from 'The Rose Song' that's been blowing up the East High Instagram page."

"Oh, uh, quick reminder," EJ cut in, glancing towards the cards in his hand. "Tickets for the Beauty and the Beast go on sale next week."

"Hmm, that's right, EJ. Now please welcome, Nini Salazar-Roberts!"

"Hey, guys! Thanks for having me." Nini flashed a grin as the hosts greeted her.

"Oh, this just in. Nini's song has over 2500 views, making it the most viewed post in drama club Instagram history," EJ began.

Nini gasped in disbelief, elevated that her song had reached such achievements. "Are you serious?"

"Songwriting skills, universal acclaim. Nini, how does it feel to be you right now?"

"Uh, feels good," the girl answered.

"Well, thank goodness for you not attacking Carlos for posting it without your permission," Ten muttered to himself again as the interview continued. "You should have though."

"But it means so much to me," Nini continued. "So thank you guys, both for your support."

EJ shot a charming smile to the camera. "Well, there you go. I'm EJ."

"I'm GP."

"Good morning, East High!" the two hosts finished off.

"Great job, you two," Ten said once the broadcast was over. He caught Gina's closing at the end when she said her initials instead of her full name, just like EJ. "Chemistry was excellent."

"Thank you. It helped that you were manning the camera."

"Oh, no problem. I just picked up a few things from my friends."

"Vernon would be proud," EJ added, tilting his head towards Ten before clasping his hands together. "Come on, we should go. We don't have much time."

Ten nodded. "Let's go."

---

Despite not being an official member of the cast, Ten followed EJ along to the special meeting Miss Jenn asked for. It was for plain convenience and besides, he didn't want to go to class alone without EJ.

"Everyone, attention please!" Miss Jenn announced. "I'm sure you're wondering why I called this special midday drama club meeting."

"Oh, are you announcing the fall musical?" Seb asked excitedly with a grin. "I vote Dear Evan Hansen."

"No, Seb. It's March." Miss Jenn replied. "And the rights won't be available for five years, I've tried." 

Ten rubbed Seb's shoulder gently when the boy's smile fell. "Don't be disappointed, Seb. It was worth a try."

"I am announcing that we are in such a good place after our improv workshop." Miss Jenn clapped her hands together. "And we're one step closer to that Menkies gold!"