thirteen → jade west

Chapter 10

The morning sun streamed through the elegant dining room windows as Jade sat down for breakfast. The familiar routine was about to play out again – Martha serving her a glass of milk, just as she had done every morning. But today, Jade felt different, emboldened by her recent experiences and newfound assertiveness.

Just as Martha was about to pour the milk, Jade stopped her with a polite yet firm request. "Actually, Martha, could I have a cup of black coffee with two sugars instead?" she asked, her smile genuine but her eyes determined.

Ellen, who was already sipping her own coffee, looked up sharply, irritation flashing in her eyes. "Jade, you're too young for coffee," she said sternly.

Martha paused, a soft smile playing on her lips, clearly recognizing Jade's small act of defiance. She looked at Ellen, then back at Jade, waiting for the final say.

Jade met her mother's gaze head-on, her voice calm but resolute. "Mom, I'll be in high school soon. I think I'm old enough for coffee. Besides, you always say I'm a young lady now," she countered, using Ellen's own words to make her point.

Ellen's lips tightened, clearly displeased with Jade's argument, but she said nothing more. Martha, sensing the silent approval, proceeded to pour Jade a cup of coffee, adding the two sugars as requested.

Little Jack, oblivious to the tension, giggled at something on his plate, his laughter a light contrast to the heavy atmosphere.

Jade took a sip of her coffee, the bitterness balanced by the sweetness she had added. It was a small victory, but it felt significant. She was starting to assert her own choices, to push back against the expectations that had always been imposed on her.

As breakfast continued, Jade felt a sense of satisfaction. She was growing up, finding her voice, and it was about time her family started recognizing it. Today's choice of drink was just the beginning.

*

A few days later, the halls of Hollywood Arts were alive with the sound of music and the buzz of students honing their crafts. Jade found herself in the midst of her piano and beginner singing lessons, her fingers stumbling over the keys and her voice wavering, but her determination unwavering.

In the piano room, her instructor patiently guided her through the scales. "Remember, it's about the flow, not just the notes," he encouraged. Jade nodded, her brow furrowed in concentration as she tried again, her desire to improve driving her forward.

Meanwhile, Cat was in her element in tap and singing lessons. Her feet moved with a rhythm that seemed to come naturally to her, and her voice soared in a high soprano range that filled the room. "That's it, Cat! You're a natural," her teacher praised, and Cat beamed with pride.

Andre, already advanced in piano, was in a separate class, his fingers dancing effortlessly across the keys. Later, he joined Jade and Cat in the singing classes, his voice blending smoothly with theirs, showcasing his versatility.

Beck, on the other hand, was fully immersed in his acting classes. He stood on stage, delivering his monologue with a passion that captivated his audience. His expressions and movements were so convincing that for a moment, it felt like the character he portrayed had come to life.

Jade watched Beck from the back of the room, her heart swelling with a mix of admiration and something deeper she couldn't quite name. She was amazed at how he could transform into someone else so completely.

As the lessons came to an end, Jade, Cat, Andre, and Beck gathered together, sharing their experiences and encouraging each other. Jade felt a sense of belonging with them, a feeling she cherished.

"Great job today, everyone," Andre said, his voice upbeat. "We're all getting better every day."

"Yeah, we are," Jade agreed, allowing herself a small smile. For the first time in a long time, she felt like she was exactly where she was meant to be, surrounded by friends who shared her passion for the arts.

*

In the singing classroom, filled with the harmonious blend of aspiring voices, Jade stood somewhat nervously, her turn to sing approaching. She was still new to this, her voice untrained and raw, but there was an undeniable spark of potential.

"Alright, Jade, let's hear what you've got," the singing teacher encouraged, a supportive smile on her face.

Jade took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. As she began to sing, her voice was hesitant at first, a bit shaky. But as she continued, a clear, distinct tone emerged. It was unpolished, yes, but there was something uniquely captivating about it.

The teacher listened intently, nodding along. "Jade, you have a very interesting quality to your voice. It's raw, but it's authentic. You're a soprano, but with time and training, I can see you developing a rich mezzo-soprano range," she observed.

Jade's eyes widened slightly at the feedback. She had never thought of her voice in such terms. "Really? I mean, I've never had proper training before," she admitted, a mix of surprise and excitement in her voice.

"Yes, really. You have a natural ability, and with some work, you could really shine. Keep practicing, and don't be afraid to explore the depth of your voice," the teacher advised, her words full of encouragement.

As the lesson continued, Jade felt a growing sense of confidence. Each note she sang felt like a small victory, a step closer to finding her voice in more ways than one.

After the class, Jade lingered for a moment, her thoughts swirling. The idea that she could have a talent in singing, something she had never considered before, was both thrilling and overwhelming.

She left the classroom with a newfound determination. Singing was another way for her to express herself, another piece of the puzzle that was her true identity. And she was eager to see where this new path would take her.