After the festival, things start to shift in my world. The performance opened new doors, and now opportunities seem to come flooding in from every direction. More festival invites, collaborations, and interviews keep me busier than ever. I'm exhausted, but every time I step on stage, it feels worth it.
I'm sitting in my room, guitar in hand, when my phone buzzes. It's Leo.
"Hey, superstar. How're you holding up?" he asks, his voice light but with an undertone of concern.
"I'm good," I reply, though I'm not sure if I mean it. The excitement of my recent success is real, but I'm struggling to balance everything. There's a pressure I didn't anticipate-people now expect me to deliver, to be the Lila they see on stage all the time.
"You don't sound convinced." His tone softens, and I can picture the serious look on his face.
I hesitate. "It's just... I'm starting to feel like I can't keep up. There's so much happening, and I don't want to lose control of my life."
Leo is silent for a moment before responding. "You're doing great, Lila. But it's okay to take a step back sometimes. No one expects you to be perfect every day."
His words hit me, and I realize he's right. I've been so caught up in trying to please everyone-my parents, the industry, my fans-that I've forgotten to check in with myself.
"Thanks, Leo. I needed to hear that."
"Anytime. You know I'm here for you."
We chat for a while longer, and I start to feel lighter. Leo has a way of making things feel simpler, more manageable. I decide to take his advice-to slow down, just a little, and focus on what truly matters to me.
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...
