The Sanders Sides

15 - 'You're My Hero'

The stale air of the backstage area buzzed with nervous energy. Aspirant actors flitted about in costumes from past productions, their faces a mix of excitement and dread. Roman, however, stood out amidst the frenzy. Clad in a crisp white shirt and perfectly tailored slacks, he exuded a practiced air of nonchalance.

He adjusted the silver cufflinks on his sleeves, a glint of confidence in his eyes. This wasn't his first rodeo. He'd graced this stage countless times, his booming voice and dramatic flair a staple in their school's theatre productions.

As he scanned the room, his gaze landed on Patton, nestled deep within a worn armchair, his nose buried in a script. Roman smirked, a playful glint in his eyes. He sauntered over, his footsteps silent on the worn wooden floor.

"Patton, my dear commoner," he announced in a theatrical whisper, causing Patton to jump and nearly fall out of his chair.

Patton clutched his script to his chest, a playful glare aimed at Roman. "Don't scare me like that, you royal pain," he mumbled, straightening his oversized glasses.

"Merely preparing you for the emotional rollercoaster that will be my audition," Roman declared, his voice dripping with mock seriousness.

Patton chuckled. "Oh, I'm sure you'll be a vision of dramatic perfection, as always," he said, his voice filled with friendly teasing.

Roman bowed dramatically, a flourish that would make any nobleman proud. "Of course, my friend. For I am Roman, and I shall conquer this audition with the force of a thousand thespians!"

Patton laughed, shaking his head fondly. "Just... try not to break anything in your passionate outburst, alright?"

Roman winked. "No promises, but I'll aim for minimal property damage."

The call for his scene echoed through the room, cutting short their playful banter. Roman took a deep breath, his playful facade dropping for a moment. He looked at Patton, a flicker of nervousness crossing his features.

Patton saw the momentary doubt, the vulnerability that rarely peeked through Roman's confident facade. He met Roman's gaze with a warm smile.

"Go get 'em, Prince Charming," he said, his voice filled with support and a hint of mischief.

Roman grinned, the familiar confidence returning to his eyes. "Always leave them wanting more," he said, a playful wink before disappearing into the wings.

As Roman waited for his cue, a sense of calm settled over him. He closed his eyes, picturing the scene, channeling the emotions of his character. The nervousness melted away, replaced by the familiar thrill of performance.

The cue light flickered, and he stepped onto the stage, the spotlight bathing him in its warm glow. He was no longer Roman, the high school student. He was the character, every movement, every word imbued with the life he breathed into the role.

His voice filled the room, ringing with emotion. His hand gestures were precise, his expressions a perfect mask of the character's inner turmoil. He wasn't just reading lines – he was living them, transporting the audience into the heart of the play.

When the final scene ended, the silence onstage was deafening. Then, a wave of applause erupted, filling the room with its thunderous sound. Roman, still in character, took a deep bow, a triumphant smile playing on his lips.

As he stepped offstage, the applause still echoing in his ears, a wave of euphoria washed over him. He'd done it again. He'd captivated the audience, woven them into the fabric of the story with his performance.

He found Patton waiting for him in the wings, a wide grin plastered across his face. Patton clapped him on the back, his voice filled with excitement.

"That was fantastic, Roman! You absolutely nailed it!"