After the competition, I can barely contain my excitement. The atmosphere backstage is electric, with performers buzzing about their experiences. I'm still riding the high from my performance, but the anticipation of the results looms overhead.
Leo and Mia are with me, their energy infectious. "No matter what happens, you've already won in our eyes," Leo assures me, his smile wide.
"Exactly! You poured your heart into that performance, and that's what truly matters," Mia adds, her enthusiasm unwavering.
As we wait for the judges to announce the results, I can't help but replay my performance in my mind. I remember the feeling of the music flowing through me, the connection I felt with the audience. Whether I win or not, I realize how far I've come on this journey.
Finally, the host steps onto the stage with a microphone in hand, and the room falls silent. "Thank you to all the amazing performers tonight. We've had some tough decisions to make, but I'm thrilled to announce the winners!"
My heart races as he lists the honorable mentions, and each name sends a wave of anxiety through me. I grip Leo's hand tightly, and Mia squeezes my shoulder reassuringly.
"And now, for the grand prize winner, who will receive a recording contract and the opportunity to perform at the city's summer festival..." He pauses for dramatic effect. "The winner is Lila!"
For a moment, the world stops. I can't believe what I just heard. "Wait, what?" I blurt out, my eyes widening in disbelief.
The audience erupts in applause, and Leo and Mia are jumping up and down, their excitement spilling over. I feel a rush of adrenaline as I take in the moment, the cheers and applause washing over me.
"I can't believe it! I won!" I exclaim, my heart racing.
Mia pulls me into a tight hug. "You did it! You really did it!"
As I make my way to the stage to accept my award, I feel a whirlwind of emotions. I can hardly process what's happening. The host hands me a trophy, and I raise it above my head, the cheers from the crowd echoing in my ears
YOU ARE READING
HEART'S IN THE SHADOWS
FantasiLila has always been the forgotten child, overshadowed by her parents' attention toward her half-siblings and younger brother. Despite her love and dedication, she is treated as little more than a servant in her own home-unseen, unheard, and unloved...
