Everything I Wanted

Wow - 19

The arena darkened, and the crowd erupted into deafening screams. Story stood in the mix section alongside Maggie, Patrick, and Finneas, her heart pounding with excitement. This was it—her first time experiencing Billie's concert from the audience's perspective.

As the stage lights burst into life, Billie appeared, catapulted onto the stage to the haunting opening beats of "Bury a Friend." The energy in the room was electric, a sea of fans moving in unison, their screams harmonizing with the heavy bass. Story couldn't help but gape at the sheer scale of it all. Billie commanded the stage effortlessly, her every movement charged with confidence and intention.

Story leaned over to Maggie, her voice barely audible over the music. "I knew she was incredible, but seeing this live...wow."

Maggie smiled knowingly. "It's something else, isn't it? Just wait—it gets even better."

Billie transitioned into "I Didn't Change My Number," her voice sharp and assertive. The visuals on the massive screens flickered with bold, chaotic imagery that matched the song's energy. Story found herself swaying to the beat, utterly captivated. Every detail of the performance, from the lighting to the choreography, felt meticulously crafted yet entirely natural for Billie.

When Billie launched into "Idontwannabeyouanymore," sitting on a stool with just a microphone in hand, the entire arena seemed to hold its breath. The raw vulnerability in Billie's voice sent chills down Story's spine. She could feel the emotion behind every word, and it reminded her why she admired Billie so much—not just for her talent, but for her ability to connect with people on such a profound level.

Story wiped a tear from the corner of her eye, hoping no one noticed. She glanced around at the audience, many of whom were also emotional, holding up glowing phone flashlights that transformed the arena into a starry night sky.

Halfway through the concert, as Billie performed "You Should See Me in a Crown," Story's feet began to itch. She wanted to experience the show up close, to truly immerse herself in the energy of the crowd. She hesitated, glancing back at Maggie and Patrick, who were engrossed in the performance.

Finally, she made her decision. "I'm going to the pit," she whispered to Maggie, who nodded with an understanding smile.

Story slipped out of the mix section and made her way down to the floor. The energy in the pit was entirely different—intense, wild, and exhilarating. She found herself surrounded by fans who were singing, jumping, and reaching out toward the stage. It didn't take long for the fans around her to recognize her.

"Story! Over here!" a group of girls called out, waving her over.

She hesitated for a moment, but the excitement in their eyes was contagious. She made her way toward them, and they helped her navigate through the crowd. To her surprise, they led her all the way to the barricade.

"Here, you can have my spot!" one girl said, stepping aside so Story could stand at the very front.

"Are you sure?" Story asked, touched by the gesture.

"Of course!" the girl grinned. "You're Billie's friend. You deserve the best view!"

Story took the spot, leaning against the barricade. The stage felt so close now, and she could see every detail—Billie's expressions, the sweat glistening on her forehead, and the way she interacted with her fans.

As Billie transitioned into "Happier Than Ever," the crowd erupted into an emotional frenzy. The song's slow, tender beginning built into a cathartic explosion of sound, and Story felt every note resonate deep within her. She sang along with the rest of the audience, her voice lost in the collective roar of the crowd.