Here, Under the Stars

CHAPTER 22

-- MAGUI --

"Magui Feola?" Ashi introduced me to a music producer she knew. "Do you want to be a recording artist?"

I couldn't believe what I was hearing. I asked Ashi to help me find a job. I need to earn money so I can help in the house. I thought I would be hired as a songwriter or something small behind the scenes. Who would have thought that I'll be hired as a recording artist?

I grabbed the opportunity and after a month of working, who would have thought that I would release my first single already.

"Are you ready?" Ashi held my hand.

Ashi's been really helpful these past few months. Even though she's also busy with the continuous rise of their band, she never left my side. She helped me write songs and rehearse. She's there for every milestone and I'm there for her too.

"I'm kinda nervous," I told her.

I didn't know how the producers and big bosses would react. This is the first time that people would be hearing my name. Magui Feola, the rising recording artist and not the CEO who was used by her sexual predator boss.

"Don't be. Just remember how we perform during the days." Ashi held my hand tighter as we entered backstage.

Before my song gets released on social media platforms, I had to perform it first in a large crowd. Cameras were everywhere. Millions of people are gonna hear and see me sing.

If only I can do this with Ashi but I am a solo artist. I have to do this on my own.

"Ladies and gentlemen, let us welcome a new face and the future of Philippine music, Magui Feola!" The emcee called and I walked towards the stage.

Many people were looking at me but it was only Ashi that I can see in the front. I have my eyes fixed on her.

"When the darkness don't let you sleep
I'ma hold you close
And when space is all you need
I can let you go
And if the spark in your eye goes out
I can be your glow
Bringing you home, yeah
Bringing you home"

"I see your hurt, I feel your pain
All of our dirt is washed in the rain
I've walked that road, I've felt that shame
No place is home but times, they are changin'"

"This is our sanctuary
We can find shelter and peace
This is our sanctuary
You are, you are safe with me"

"When the rain starts to take its toll
You can slow me down
'Cause we both know that the world's turned cold
And I just need you now
Keep holding on (hold onto me, hold on)"

"You'll see my hurt, you'll feel my pain
All of our dirt is washed in the rain
You've walked that road, you felt that shame
No place is home but times, they are changin'"

"This is our sanctuary
We can find shelter and peace
This is our sanctuary
You are, you are safe with me
You are, you are safe with me"

"'Cause this our sanctuary"

After my song, everyone started cheering. Ashi was so happy.

Other artists welcomed me and gave me flowers. I looked at Ashi and I signaled her to go backstage and we met there.

"Ang galing mo, adi!" She ran towards me as she hugged me.

"Do you like it?" I asked her.