Teach Me How To Love

Guts Over Glory

~ Demi ~

            As the chants from the arena broke though the backstage and into my dressing room, I shifted into my director's chair before facing the television screen. Selena was opening tonight and in order to give her space, I stayed hidden. Every since the bakery she's been a bit apprehensive with me. And I knew why.

            "Knock knock." A voice so familiar, yet so annoying, echoed from behind the hardwood.

            "Come in Robert." I sighed, popping another chip into my mouth. The lights on stage flashed as I studied the screen. Selena stepped out in leather jeans and a cropped white top.

            "You're hiding all alone I see." Robert scratched his chin before taking a seat next to me. We both watched the television ahead before he tapped my leg.

            "What?"

            "Tonight's show is the last one for the next few days. If you didn't mind I was going to fly back home."

            "Why would I care?"

            "Because admittedly, you enjoy me pestering you." Robert stood, facing me as I studied him. "I'll be back in time for the next show. Two weeks left starting tomorrow."

            "I know." I groan before Selena's voice catches my ears once again.

            "Nick is one lucky guy." Robert refaced me. "But hopefully not as lucky as me." He smiled. "I'll miss you."

            "Yeah." I didn't really contribute to his response before he leaned into me, his lips pressing against my forehead as I allowed him to linger. As he pulled away I playfully swatted his hand before he left out of the room. My attention going back to where it previously was. At least Robert was right about one thing. Nick WAS lucky. I finished my chips and made it towards my makeup table, hoping this would be the last night I had to unprofessionally do it.

            The stage wasn't that far from my room as I made it up the steps. My dancers were ready to switch out with Selena's as I stood between them all. My mind was clear for the most part as my stage excitement began. Once I was sure the brunette was finished, as the lights dimmed I ran out as she bypassed me and did her own thing. My name was being called as screams erupted. I belonged here.
. . . . . . . . . .
             After the show I tirelessly carried myself toward my dressing room to gather my outfits together. Although there was an awkward vibe between Selena and I at the moment, I was given strict orders not to leave her alone. I would just have to control myself around her, a fate worse than death. I allowed being around her to once again torture me. After my clothes were loaded we left the arena. I sat in the girl's bus cut off from her. She had closed herself off in her room in order to speak with Nick over the phone.

            "How are things going back there?" I hear Nancy ask from her driver's seat.

            "Fine." I lied. I was the one that typically ran from awkward situations. Taylor stepped out of the bathroom and made it by my side. I let out an exasperated sigh as she faced me.

            "You don't have to be here you know?" She began to tug her hair into a ponytail.

            "Selena needs me to be here. Trust that I'm not doing it for your benefit." I stand and make my way towards the small kitchen, grabbing a soda from the fridge just as the back door opens. I refuse to turn in her direction as Taylor yells for the brunette to join us. I study the hardwood cabinets before Selena takes my side. Facing her I raise my eyebrow to ask what she wants.