"She was the queen.."

Chapter 9

One week later, Nika is back at Kanye's studio to prepare for the competition that starts the next day. Nika has come a long way, starting from knowing nothing about rap to mastering it. She can now write her own rap and freestyle.

Kanye - I must say, I'm so proud of you. You've become such a good rapper now, I would even say as good as your mother.

Nika became emotional.

Nika - No, I might be good now, but I will never be as good as her, she was the queen.

Kanye - I worked with Nicki so many times and trust me, you could go toe to toe on a track with her.

Nika - I'm happy you believe that.

Kanye - I'm just being honest.

March - Good luck for tomorrow, you're going to crush it.

Nika turns around and sees March smiling at her.

Nika - (It makes me so happy to get along with him. At first, he wasn't nice to me, but he apologized and showed me he was a good person.) Thank you, that means a lot to me.

They smile at each other. The next day is the competition. The stylists call Nika to the dressing room to get ready. Once she has her outfit and makeup on, Nika joins her dad and Celine backstage. She's nervous, but Celine notices and holds her hand.

Celine - You practiced a lot and now you're ready. And you look very pretty too. I'm proud of you.

Nika - Thank you, girl. I'm happy you're here to support me.

Celine - We're friends, I'll always support you.

They hear applause from the audience and see the big TV showing the stage.

Host - Welcome, everyone! This is an iconic night because today is the first episode of "Who's the Princess?"

The crowd cheers.

Host - The competition is being broadcast live and everyone can follow the journey on TV, radio, our new app, everywhere! Now, all 50 contestants will perform a song they prepared, and the judges will eliminate 10 competitors.

The contestants perform, some are chosen and some are eliminated. Nika waits behind the curtains, she's next. With eyes closed, she focuses on her breath, feeling nervous. Then she hears a familiar voice.

March - Hey, don't be nervous, it's going to be okay.

She faces him.

Nika - I hope so. Do you know how hard I worked? I'm scared of failing.

March - I was here during every session with my dad, I saw your growth and you really don't have to worry. You're an amazing rapper.

Nika smiles.

Nika - It's still weird hearing compliments from you. Remember our first conversation?

March laughs.

March - Are you trying to guilt trip me? Because it's working.

Nika - I'm joking, I know you're sorry. You're a really nice guy.

The staff signals to Nika, it's her turn.

March - Impress them.

She nods and goes on stage.

Host - Ladies and Gentlemen, Nika Miraj!

The crowd cheers when they realize Nicki Minaj's daughter is one of the contestants.

Nika - (Wow, I've never heard something like this before. It made me smile.)

When Nika starts rapping, the judges are stunned. She performs with energy and passion, pronouncing each word clearly. On that stage, she is a new person. When she finishes, the audience erupts in applause.

Nika - (I DID THAT!!)

The judges give their opinions.

Judge 1 - Nicki's daughter? You sounded just like her too!? Everything about this performance was perfect. You're making it to the second round for sure!

The other judges agree, and the crowd cheers for Nika.

Nika - (I made it to the second round!? OH, I'M SO HAPPY!)

Nika thanks them and goes backstage with everyone congratulating her. Celine and her dad hug her.

Dad - You were amazing, Nika!

Nika - I love you, dad!

Dad - I love you, princess.

Nika and March make eye contact, and March approaches her.

March - See? I was right, you really shined tonight.

Nika - Thank you, your words before going on stage helped me.

March - I'm glad I could help.

Nika is so happy, she jumps into his arms. March is surprised but puts his arms around her, hugging her gently.