THE BET 🦋

XXIV.

As we gathered backstage, my nerves were at an all-time high. I tried to focus on the lyrics and the melody, but my mind kept going blank. What if I messed up? What if I couldn't hit the high notes?
Just as my anxiety was about to overwhelm me, Jae-eon appeared by my side. His class performed right before us and I have to say they were really amazing. They were the oldest and also had the most experience, so it showed.
"I heard what happened. I feel sorry for that girl, but I think they've won it with you a long time ago. You'll do great, Nabi," he said, his voice gentle and reassuring. "Just remember to breathe and trust in yourself."
His words calmed me, and I took a deep breath, trying to center myself. Before I knew it, it was time to take the stage. As I stepped up to the microphone, my heart was still racing, but I reminded myself of what Jae-eon had said.
With my friends by my side, I felt a newfound sense of confidence. I tried to focus on the song and the lyrics, blocking out the doubt and fear that threatened to overwhelm me.
The moment arrived, and the music began to play. As I stepped up to the microphone, my knees trembled, but I reminded myself that I was doing this for Yoojin and for my friends who believed in me.
I started to sing, and as the familiar melody filled the air, I felt myself being carried away by the music. My nerves started to fade, replaced by the sheer joy of singing. With each note, I poured my heart into the song, letting the emotions flow through me.
As I sang my heart out, I could feel the emotions pouring through my voice. I had never felt so vulnerable yet empowered at the same time. The cheers from our classmates and the beaming smiles from my friends fueled my passion, and I gave it my all.
After the performance, we were met with a standing ovation. I couldn't have been prouder of our team. Bitna, Yoon-Sol, and Seo Ji-wan surrounded me, their faces glowing with pride.
"You were amazing, Nabi!" Bitna exclaimed, pulling me into a tight hug.
Yoon-Sol grinned, patting me on the back. "You nailed it!"
Seo Ji-wan nodded, her eyes gleaming. "Yoojin would be so proud."
Tears welled up in my eyes as I looked at my friends. "Thank you all for believing in me and supporting me."
As we celebrated our successful performance, I felt a sense of camaraderie and gratitude for my friends. They had pushed me to overcome my fears and had believed in me even when I didn't believe in myself.
My ear-to-ear smile slowly started to fade when I saw Tae-jin enter the stage. He was holding a bouquet of flowers in his hands, which I really have no idea where he got them from. He was approaching in my direction with a shy smile and I had no idea what to expect from him. Bitna's hand suddenly landed on my shoulder, so I turned my head to see what she wanted from me.
She didn't have to say anything because I saw Jae-eon coming from the other side of the stage with a small box in his hands.