A New Musical

25

 February 24th came faster than I thought it would. It's crazy to think that I'm actually 21 now. I've been so busy with the show, and trying to see where things could go with Mason. That I totally forgot that my birthday was coming up. I have a ton of notifications from friends and family, wishing me a happy birthday. Nothing from Mason, though. It's 10 am, so maybe he's sleeping in this morning? Or he could have forgotten, we haven't talked about it. Except the one time I told him Months ago, when we were having culvers. That was the night someone took our photo, and started the whole drama of us being together. Who knew we would get here, and now actually be working towards something.

I try to stop myself, because it's not fair to imagine Mason failing before I've truly given him the chance to succeed. Milo jumps onto my bed, meowing at me. Probably screaming for treats. I pick Milo up, holding him in front of my face. He stares at me blankly, and then meows.

"Hey watch your tone mister." I laugh, "It's my birthday." and I set him down.

Milo walks up to me, and meows in my face again. But this time he curls up in my arms and falls asleep. I allow myself to chill out and cuddle Milo for the morning. But once 11am hits, I get up and make myself something to eat. I walk down the hall, and into the kitchen. Pulling the eggs out from the fridge, along with cheese and heavy whipping cream. I turn the stove on, and start whisking the ingredients together. I definitely don't try and look at my phone, waiting for Mason to message me. These last two weeks since Mason asked me out, I've been pretty chill about...whatever we are. And I've tried to make sure it doesn't consume my whole being.

That same day he asked me out, we made out for a little while longer. Then we had to part ways because he had an interview with a teen magazine, and I had promised Abby we would get lunch. But we have been able to find some time to hang out, even if it's Mason coming over to cuddle and sleep. It's still spending time together nonetheless.
We also began previews only a week ago, which from audience reviews, people are saying the show is amazing. I keep getting tagged in posts on Instagram, where people show their playbills in hand. Then they say how amazing the show was, and talk about Mason and mine's performance. It's rewarding to see how well the show is already being received. I just get nervous that I may not be doing as good as I could be. That I could do far better than I currently am, and should work harder. But whenever I confide in Abby, she yells at me and tells me to stop overthinking so much.

There's been a few changes with the show already since we began our Broadway Previews. During previews, this is the last chance for the creative team to change anything they feel necessary before opening night. That could be the songs, staging of a scene, or costuming. We have only edited some of the songs and scenes, but once the creatives feel like the show is perfect. They'll freeze the show, which means we shouldn't expect anymore changes to the show consistently. Now, that doesn't mean there won't be any more changes. Because it's common for slight adjustments to be made, even after freezing a show. Sometimes even after opening night. But for the sake of everyone in the production, the creative team does their best to make sure the show is 100% by then.

By the time I'm finished making my eggs, it's already 11:30 and no message from Mason. But of course I get a facetime from my mother, who is overly excited about my birthday. She's getting all teary eyed and sappy. After talking for a while, mom says "Oh Asher, I just can't believe you're already 21. I'm so proud of all that you've accomplished in this life."

"A little cheesy mom." I laugh.

"Sorry, it was either this or a hallmark card with a kitty saying have a purrr-fect birthday!" she chuckles.

I give a dramatic pause, before groaning "... You still got the card, didn't you?"

Mom is quiet for a moment, and then smirks over the facetime. " I love you, we'll talk soon! Happy birthday sweetheart!" Mom quickly hangs up the call, and I roll my eyes.