Unconditionally

Unraveling Struggles

Stella's POV

The days felt like a fog, each one blurring into the next, thick with anxiety and uncertainty. My heart raced as I waited for news about my audition, the outcome weighing heavily on my mind. Each time my phone buzzed, I felt a surge of hope followed by crushing disappointment. What if I hadn't impressed the judges? What if my dance wasn't enough?

I decided to take a break from my thoughts, escaping to the park for some fresh air. The sun peeked through the trees, casting dappled light on the path. But even the beauty of nature couldn't shake the tension coiling in my stomach. I sat on a bench, watching other dancers practicing nearby, their movements fluid and graceful, while I felt stiff and rigid, like a marionette with tangled strings.

My phone vibrated in my pocket, snapping me out of my spiral. It was a text from Arnold: "Hey, how's it going? Ready for the big news?" I hesitated, my fingers hovering over the screen. How could I share my fears when I felt like I was unraveling? But I typed back: "Not really. Just trying to keep my head above water."

The truth was, I missed him. I missed our conversations, our laughter, the way he made me feel like I was capable of anything. I replied: "Want to meet up for coffee?"

His response was quick: "Absolutely. I could use a break too."

Meeting Arnold felt like a lifeline. As we sat across from each other in our favorite café, the familiar aroma of coffee wrapped around me like a warm hug. But I could see the weariness in his eyes. "How's the tournament going?" I asked, trying to lighten the mood.

He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It's a lot. Coach is on my case constantly. I just want to play for the love of the game, you know? But sometimes it feels like I'm playing for everyone else."

I nodded, my heart aching for him. "I get it. I feel like I'm dancing for everyone's approval, and it's exhausting."