Playing The Field

Chapter 16

Taylor Swift

Tonight could be a career-defining night for me and I am freaking out. Obviously I've been going to the Grammys forever and I'm always super excited, however, this one feels different. I wanted Travis to come with me tonight but obviously he has to just be so good at his damn job that he has the Superbowl in a week and needs to train.

Lana is sitting across from me in the car, rubbing her hands together nervously. I lean over and hold her hand "Hey, whatever happens, tonight, we will have fun" I reassure her. I know she doesn't like coming here but I'm so glad she's here tonight. It's always nice to have a familiar face in the crowd. She nods he head at me, a little unconvinced.

I love her look tonight, the dress is so beautiful and suits her so much. I almost considered asking the designer to make me one too because it's just so nice. My look tonight holds significant significance. I shiver a bit thinking about whats going to happen if I win my 13th Grammy. I love announcing stuff for the fans, it always makes them so happy but announcing something in a room full of high-ranking celebrities all in the same field as me, is a bit nerve-racking.

Tree is sitting in the back of the car, reading over everything from the red carpet to seating arrangements to what to say in my potential acceptance speech.  My phone pings and Tree passes it to me. "It's Travis," she tells me.

Trav ❤️: Good luck tonight, darling. You'll kill it. Know I believe in you and I'll be cheering you on from Vegas. Love you!

I smile at the message, feeling a surge of warmth and confidence. We exit the car and walk through the rain to the red carpet. "You okay, Lana?" I ask with a giggle.

"No" she responds and we both smile.

"Tree, can you check if my clock necklace is set to midnight?" I ask.

Tree leans forward, carefully inspecting the necklace around my neck. "All set," she confirms.

The red carpet feels like a runway tonight, and I strut confidently, waving and smiling at the familiar faces and new ones alike. I make my way through the sea of photographers. I do my signature pose as the kids say on the internet. Apparently, I always do a "side eye" for photos. Whatever that means.

Once inside the venue, I spot Jack and Lana. I stride over to them, my heart racing with excitement and nerves. "Hey, guys!" I greet them, embracing each of them warmly before taking my seat next to Lana. We both pull out our matching fans, a subtle but effective way to communicate without lip readers trying to decipher our conversation. "You look amazing," I whisper to Lana, hiding my mouth behind the fan.

"You too," she replies with a smile, her eyes sparkling.

The show begins, and the atmosphere is electric. Olivia takes the stage and performs a killer rendition of "Vampire." Despite all the "drama," I stand up and sing along, clapping and cheering for her. Her performance is raw and powerful, and I can't help but feel proud of her.

The night progresses, and the anticipation builds. Finally, the moment arrives. The presenter announces the nominees for Best Pop Vocal Album, and my heart pounds in my chest. "And the Grammy goes to...Taylor Swift, for 'Midnights'!"

I stand up, my legs feeling like jelly, and make my way to the stage. The applause is deafening, and I can see Lana and Jack beaming up at me. I take a deep breath, clutching the Grammy in my hand.

"Wow, thank you so much," I begin, my voice trembling with emotion. "I know the way the Recording Academy voted is a direct reflection of the fans, so, I want to say thank you by telling you a secret that I've been keeping from you for the past two years," I hold up two fingers as a subtle hint of the secret double album, and the crowd erupts in applause and cheers. "Which is that my brand new album - The Tortured Poets Department - will be out April 19th. I'm going to go post the cover now. Thank you! I love you!"

Later in the night, the most coveted award is announced: Album of the Year. My heart feels like it might burst out of my chest as the presenter opens the envelope. "And the Grammy for Album of the Year goes to...Taylor Swift, for 'Midnights'!"

I gasp, tears welling up in my eyes as I make my way back to the stage, this time bringing Lana with me. "This is incredible," I say, my voice choked with emotion. I can't stop the happiness and pride taking over my body. I did it. I did what I've always wanted to do. I'm at the top of the mountain top and I have so many people by my side, cheering me on. I can't believe how lucky I am.

* * *

The night winds down, and I finally get a moment to breathe. My phone rings, and I see Travis's name on the screen. I answer it, my heart soaring. "Hey," I say, unable to keep the smile out of my voice.

"Congratulations, superstar," Travis says, his voice filled with pride. "I knew you'd do it. I'm so proud of you."

"Thank you," I reply, feeling the tears start to fall. Happy tears, dont worry. "I wish you could have been here."

"Me too," he says softly. "But I was cheering you on the whole time. I love you."

"I love you too," I say, wiping away the tears. "And I can't wait to celebrate with you."

As I hang up the phone, I look around at the glittering night, the weight of the Grammys in my hands. This night will go down in history, not just for my career but for the love and support that got me here.

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