Behind the Scenes (A Cole Pendery love story)

Chapter 1

"SAY HEY TO LA FOR ME!" He called out, his voice echoing through the now unpopulated waiting room. Not looking back, I gave him a thumbs up and laughed. A cool brush of air hit my back as the steel doors closed shut. I took a deep breath, stood up straight, and walked with my chin held high; a new adventure was beginning. Making my way through the dim, narrow terminal I felt like Katniss Everdeen, off to fight a battle where you either live or die.

Butterflies flew through my stomach as my knees quivered. Was this really happening? I'm being put to the test, proving my dreams can be my reality. I smirked to myself until I noticed the lights flickering. The sinister feeling ran a shiver down my spine, and I picked up my speed, wanting to escape this hall of dementia. I ran through the aisle and down the stairs, stopping halfway to the plane. When I reached it, I was greeted by a flight attendant.

"Good morning Ms, welcome to Flight 614." She smiled softly.

"Thank you," I said, returning her gesture with a smile of my own.

I began to ascend the stairs when a young boy volunteered to carry my carry-on bag.

"Thanks, kid." I said as I ruffled his orangey-red hair.

When we reached the last step, I took my bag off his shoulder and turned to scan the assigned numbers.

Twenty two.. twenty two.. twenty two.. tweeeeennty two.

I walked closer to the head of the plane and found lucky twenty two. I placed my bag in the overhead compartment and took my seat, looking out to see the warm Texan sun rising. Houston had been my home for 12 years and finally here I was, going back to California.

I know it won't be easy. Every adventure has its challenges. But with my cousin, Aliza, by my side, I know I'll be fine. Aliza is 20 years old: a dancer and model out in LA.

She broke into the business at the tender age of 12. Her parents, unlike mine, let her dream. My parents told me that I needed an education before I thought about acting. They supported every role I was casted as, but school was the priority. They said when I graduated High School they would move me down to LA, so I studied my butt off and graduated a year early. 17 and free, Hollywood better watch out.

"Good morning, this is your captain speaking. We'll be taking off shortly. At this time, if you could fasten your seat belts it would be appreciated. Buckle up and let's have a safe trip to our destination." The captains deep voice snapped me out of my thoughts and into a panic. My hands shook as I inserted my seatbelt into its buckle.

"Oh God, don't let me down now." Even my words trembled. I tried to calm down, breathing in through my nose, out from my mouth.

"What are you doing?" A squeaky voice sent me jumping. My eyes met two dark green ones. They belonged the little boy who had helped me with my bag. His eyes stood out more than his hair.

I hesitated, unsure whether I should tell him the truth or give him an easy answer. "I'm... Praying."

The ginger boy's eyebrows furrowed, conflict written all over his face. "To God?" He asked.

"Yes, to God." I answered, smiling at him.

"But you sounded doubtful. When you pray you shouldn't have doubt because God can do all." He said looking down at his hands.

Before I could respond he continued, "There shouldn't be room for doubt when you love someone or something." He finished by flicking his eyes up at me.

I raised my eyebrows, completely surprised.

"Wise beyond your years." I said nudging his shoulder.