Voca High School

11

Madison

I went out on stage after one last good luck kiss from Len. I felt so much better. That was, until I saw all those faces in the crowd. Why are there so many people here?! I thought.

"Miss Jackson, were ready when you are." Said the middle judge. I took a deep breath and tried to look for mom. I sing in front of her all the time. But instead of her, I found four different faces that I know very well. What are they doing?! They're supposed to be backstage!!

It was Len, Luka, Miku and Rin sitting in the crowed and waving at me. Len winked st me and mouthed something to me."You've got this," and he smiled. So I gave the signal to start the sound and I started to dance just as I practiced. When my part came up, I sang. Everyone in the crowd was watching me and I started to feel dizzy. But when I finally spotted mom, I didnt turn my vision away from her. I was able to finish and the crowd seemed to be cheering extremely loud.

At least they didnt boo me, I thought. I took a bow and everyone began to rise from their seats to clap for me. Len especially. Seeing him so happy for me made my cheeks grow red. When the applause died down, the judges began to speak."Miss Jackson, that was very impressive."

"Thank you."

"Well, the judges and I agree that that performance, despite your obvious stage fright at the beginning, deserves a perfect score, am I right?"

And the crowd applauded again."Thank you so much!"

All the contestants came out on stage and linked hands in one long line to take a bow. Parents started taking their kids home and my mom and Rin and Len's parents started talking.

"I told you you had nothing to worry about, Madison. You were awesome." Rin spoke, leaning her elbow on my shoulder."Thanks. I guess I was worried for nothing."

"So, now that we're done here, are we just gonna go back to Japan until the new term?" Luka asked. All the excitement was washed away with that question."Kids, we have an announcement, " my mom walked over to us with a huge smile."So, with Google Translate, I talked with your parents and we've decided you kids get to stay for the summer until the new school year!"

"YES!!!!"

"But they have to go back home because they still have to take care of the dog and work. So, you'll be staying with us a little longer."

"YES!!!!!"

"I'm so excited! I get to show you guys everything we do around here. And I promise, what I show you won't be illegal." I smiled. Rin hugged me tight and dragged me to the car. Mom drove us back home and she plopped on the couch."I'm so tired. Madison, its your turn to cook dinner." She groaned.

"I just performed and you think I'm not tired?" I ask.

"I'll do it!"

We all turned to see Len with that same excited smile on his face."You can cook?" My mom and I ask in unison."Of course. Everyone just relax and wait. Dinner will be ready in no time." He smiled.