As I step off the stage, Leo and Mia rush to my side, their faces filled with excitement and pride.
"That was phenomenal, Lila!" Leo exclaims, his voice almost drowned out by the applause still echoing in the venue. "You've really grown into your own as an artist."
"You captivated everyone out there! I'm so proud of you," Mia adds, her eyes shining.
A sense of disbelief washes over me. "I can't believe I just did that! Thank you both for believing in me."
As the night unfolds, the venue buzzes with energy. Friends and family come up to congratulate me, their smiles brightening the room. My parents are there, their expressions softer than they've been in weeks.
"Lila, you were incredible," my dad says, his tone genuine. "We didn't realize how much your music means to you until tonight."
"I'm glad you could see it," I reply, my heart swelling with hope. "This is who I am, and I want you to be a part of it."
My mom steps forward, her eyes shimmering with emotion. "I'm sorry if we've been too hard on you. We just want to make sure you're happy and successful. We're proud of you, Lila."
I feel a wave of relief wash over me. "Thank you. It means a lot to me to hear you say that."
As the night comes to a close, I soak in the love and support surrounding me. It feels like a turning point in my life, a moment where I finally feel seen and accepted for who I am.
YOU ARE READING
HEART'S IN THE SHADOWS
FantasyLila 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...
