Life Together

Chapter 2: Babe, No

Round two consisted of a personality quiz, which I got through just as easily as the character test. And now, it was time for the final round; the round that scared the hell out of me.

"So Madison, we have already heard you sing, but we want to listen to you perform under pressure. The final test will be of talent and performance ethic. Please sing an original song that showcases your talent and unique style. Take your time! The stage is yours." The lady says, gesturing to the space behind me.

The wall behind me has a few guitars hanging on it, and underneath is a drum set. A few feet away sits a baby grand piano that calls my name. My heart thumps loudly in my chest as I walk over to it, my thoughts thrashing about wildly. I can't remember what song I had prepared. I can't breathe. Air. Air. AIR! I quickly get myself under control, taking a seat on the piano bench. After gulping in a huge breath of air, I set my sweaty fingers on the keys. The moment my fingertips brush the ivory, I feel calm wash over my senses. Music is what I'm good at. I can do this. Without wasting another second, I adjust the microphone that stares me straight in the face. I stare right back at it. I take a quick look at Shawn for reassurance. He nods confidently. Straightening, I begin, playing the first song that I wrote; with him.

"Baby it's okay to not be okay,

All we can do is hope and pray,

And wish for another new day,

Just let those words roll off your tongue,

I know they're just letters that make a song,

Promise I'll sing them all day long,

Don't be so cruel,

I know it's a hard life to live,

I'm no fool,

I need to learn how to forgive,

Sleepless nights don't mess me up,

Messy sheets and leftover makeup,

Reminds me that I'm all grown up,

Days and nights all a jumble,

My scattered clothes create a jungle,

Makes me feel awfully humble,

Don't be so cruel,

I know it's a hard life to live,

I'm no fool,

I need to learn how to forgive,

I can't seem to leave your side,

Even after a thousand lies,

If you call me crazy I won't deny,

That I fell for your moonlit eyes,

Don't be so cruel,

I know it's a hard life to live,

I'm no fool,

I need to learn how to forgive,

I need to learn how to forgive."

I finish the song, letting the last chord ring out before turning to the judge's panel. There is absolute silence, as if everyone is holding their breath. Then, the room erupts into applause. And all the judges stand up. All four of them. Including one of the men that had looked skeptical. Shawn and Andrew join them, Shawn smiling proudly and Andrew giving me a thumbs up. In that moment, I almost cry from relief and happiness. But will I make the cut? Nervousness washes over me, the fleeting feeling of reprieve already diminished.

"I think we have ourselves the newest member of the Island Records team! Welcome to Island Records Madison!" Geoff says, after receiving reassuring nods from the other judges.