Lessons Learned

Part 7

I found myself staring straight at a younger, much more nervous, looking Liam. He was sitting in front of Simon Cowell and biting his lip.

What was it with these boys and Simon?

"I'm sorry, it's bad news," Simon was saying.

I watched as Liam dropped his head in his hands and started to cry.

I had barely processed what had happened before the scene changed again.

I was sitting in the audience of a large auditorium. An older version of Liam walked out on to the stage, looking gorgeous in a tight white shirt, black boots, and gray pants. I was curious as to what was going on, but before I went to ask the person next to me I remembered that no one could see me.

I noticed Simon and a few other important looking people sitting at a table in front of the stage. It suddenly dawned on me. This was an audition.

Liam and Simon exchanged a few words and then music began to play. Liam stood on stage, looking out over the audience. The music fell and rose. I held my breath as I waited for Liam to sing.

When his mouth finally opened I felt myself being carried away. He was incredible. When he finished the song the entire audience was on their feet. I saw Simon rise, his applause obviously meaning the most to Liam. Each judge gave him a yes and he was through to whatever came next.

The scene changed once again and I saw a line of boys standing on stage. I recognized Zayn and waved before I realized he couldn't see me.

"That's it guys, I'm sorry." Simon gave an apologetic shrug of his shoulder. What? Liam was eliminated from whatever this was again? What kind of lesson was that?

Again the scene swirled and changed. Now Liam, Zayn, and three other boys were standing on one side of the stage. Four girls mirrored their anxious and confused expressions for the other side.

"We're throwing you guys a lifeline. You're through to judge's houses as groups." Simon smiled.

Apparently this was great news because the nine performers on stage exploded with happiness. The boys hugged as I was transported once again.

I was on the patio where I had met the Nephilim version of Liam. He was standing with his arms around the four other boys. They were watching Simon, who was sitting cool and collected in front of them.

"I've gone with my heart," he smiled. The five boys were ecstatic. Hugs and tears were exchanged as I faded out once again.

Finally I was back with the real Liam.

"Well?" he demanded.

I clutched my head, "Your memories are too short and choppy. I'm dizzy from all that switching things up."

"Sorry," he gave an unconvincing shrug.

His lesson was simple. Even though the memories had been short and unexplained, I had understood the gist. "Never give up on your dreams," I answered.

"Correct," Liam smiled at me. "Good luck out there in the real world Annabelle."

I managed a small smile before darkness overcame me.