Broken Guitar Strings

Chapter 46

(LAY'S POV)

During the period of waiting time, we bought lunch, read books, listened to music, and played guitar. I even taught Allie part of my dance routine, which was really interesting but fun.

It was two thirty when they called everyone into the auditorium and stage area. They started with the younger kids first, calling every competitor on stage by name. They passed out certificates first, then announcing fourth, fifth, and sixth place, who earned ribbons. The top three medalists were then announced and given $800, $700, and $600 cash rewards respectively. Finally, the two or three honorable mentions were given special certificates. This happened in every single age division and category, and so it took quite a while. Luckily, solos were the second category to be presented awards, and so we didn't have to wait that long before I was called onstage.

I start sweating a little bit again, but then I remember Allie telling me, we don't care if you place last. Because you earned it, and deserving a spot at nationals? That's overly impressive. I hold my head up high as the bird girl, "Latch" boy, the Queen of Hearts, Jason, the purple girl, and all of the other competitors gather on stage. Two of the judges first passed out certificates of participation to everyone, shaking hands as they go. Next, fourth, fifth, and sixth were announced. The "Latch" boy placed sixth and the Queen of Hearts placed fifth. It turns out that Jason got fourth place, and he was so tremendously happy and surprised. His smile shined bright and white when they announced "Jason Wright" for fourth place. He truly did an outstanding job. In his few words to the audience, he said, "There are a lot of people out there that I couldn't thank enough for helping get to nationals today, but the few special ones I want to recognize today are my parents, my sister, and finally, Allie Thompson. Thank you guys for supporting me, and Allie, thank you so much for helping me with my knee. Also, to all of those younger kids who want to become a dancing star, go for it. Even if you dislocate your knee the day before and have to improv, go for it." Everyone cheers, and I look for Allie amongst the people in the crowd. I find her smiling at him; she is so kindhearted and supportive of everyone.

Next was the top three. I either made it or I didn't, and at this point, I've realized that it's okay if I didn't place. I should feel proud of myself, just like everyone's been telling me.

"And now...let's move on to our top three champions!" Everyone cheers as the MC says, "And just a reminder, third place will be receiving 600 dollars, second will win 700, and first place receives 800 dollars. Our bronze medalist today..." Everyone stomps their feet in a drumroll, and the competitors pat their thighs rapidly, trying to make some noise also. "...Lay Zhang!!!"

Oh my gosh. I actually placed, and I placed third. As one of the judges places a bronze medal around my neck, I am handed a huge board that resembles my money (that I can go and retrieve from the bank later). I am also asked to say a few words to the audience. I can see a TV station's camera pointing right at me. Breathe in, breathe out. "So...I'd also like to thank some people who have helped me so much. I honestly don't think I would've done this well without the help of both my parents, Allie Thompson, and...Park Chanyeol."

I find the place where Allie and my mother are sitting in the audience, but I can't make out Allie's facial expression. Was she surprised? Disapproving? Confused?

I don't remember.