The Next Step: after internationals

The Gig

This is James at his Aunt Cathy's wedding

*James P.O.V*

I was so ready. It was our first massive gig and many big record label people were gonna be there. Mr T and Parker were also gonna be there too, supporting em and the guys. There are me, Theo, Luke and John.
I was applying gel on to my hair when I thought I saw a swish of a ponytail. It couldn't have been Riley - her hair is too short to make a ponytail that long - and it couldn't be anyone else from A troupe supporting me as they were in the audience. I brushed it out of my mind as Luke called us to warm up. Luke- the main singer- was practising his vocals- John and Theo were practising playing the guitar- and I was obviously smashing on my drums a lot!
The chatter in the audience was starting to grow. The butterflies started to grow in my stomach. I've never had this before - it's even worse than when me and Riley performed a duet at internationals that was deciding the winner between us and Sweden. I walked down the steps and approached A troupe. I started talking to Riley and I swear I saw that ponytail again. All my nerves left me whenever I saw Riley. We hugged and I walked back onto the stage. I felt like eyes were staring at me and drilling holes into my back.
It's really annoying that hunter couldn't make it but luckily Emily could. Her knee was so much better- she could walk without a limp anymore!
More and more people filed into the auditorium. It was really overwhelming- this many people came to see the band.
Suddenly, the room had a black out then bright lights shone straight onto us. We knew we should start playing so I clapped my sticks together four times and we stated. Luke started singing and a troupe started singing along. The first song was such a good song - it was the one we sang at Aunt Cathy's wedding. It made the atmosphere amazing - everyone was so exited for the rest of the gig. All the other songs were just a blur.
The applause was immense - it bowled me over. We all walked to the front and bowed. We got a standing ovation! Everyone was on their feet and clapping and wooing.
When it was all over, I strolled into the wings. I was pulled aside when a hand grabbed my arm. I looked at the face. It was Beth!!! That explains the swishy ponytail. Oh no, what's she got to say now.
" I just want to let you know, I still love you and if things don't work out with Riley then I'm always going to be here for you"
"Thanks for letting me know Beth" she then clutched my arm and left, her emerald nail varnish chipping off. I thought she got over me before Internationals. If this causes drama like it did before nationals, I'm dead.
I rushed down the stairs to hug everyone. They were all saying things like well done and that was so cool. I saw Beth leave, she looked at me and Riley hugging and tears formed in her eyes. I ignored it, I didn't want anything or one to get in the way of me and Riley.