Things Change

The Audition

The nerves were getting to me, and I wasn't even the one performing. Leondre and Charlie were.

We were waiting in the side wings, there was a dance group currently onstage. They were alright, but kept making mistakes and repeating their moves over and over. Then, they were running offstage and Bars And Melody were waiting to go on.

Finally, their names were called.

"You're up next." an assistant told them, showing them the stage.

"Good luck" I whispered, though I didn't think they heard me.

They made their way to the center of the stage and waited patiently as the judges addressed them. The boys clutched their mics seemingly tight, I could tell they were nervous.

After they introduced themselves, the music started and I listened to every single word. When it ended, the whole audience was on their feet, clapping enthusiastically. It must've been amazing. They were amazing.

I found myself and Victoria hugging as the judges thought about it. Then, after less than a second of silence, Simon Cowell reached forward and slammed his hand down on the golden buzzer.

We all jumped and screamed and cheered, tears streaming down our faces. The boys hugged onstage, burying their faces into each others shoulders. It was adorable. They faced the judges and thanked them as confetti rained down on them.

Once it was done, they came running into the wings. I stood shyly in the corner, while they hugged their family. My head was spinning. Just seeing the transformation of Leo since my first day at school and now...it was too much.

I slipped away to find a bathroom or something so I could cool myself down. After a few minutes of walking, I found the toilets.

I splashed myself with cold water from the tap and looked in the mirror. My eyes were glistening with tears, and my face was pretty red. I made my way back, and heard Leo calling me.

"Tay?" he called, and I ran up behind him and hugged him.

"You were amazing! I'm so proud." I whispered in his ear as we hugged tightly. Then it was Charlie's turn for a big hug and well done. His voice was beautiful.

We took the train home, and I was tired once again. I always had trouble sleeping, and last night was the worst. We had a two hour ride.

"Just sleep if you're tired, princess." Leo whispered to me, and I shook my head. I didn't want to miss all the conversations about their success. I forced myself to sit up with all the strength I had and I probably looked crazy with my eyes closing every five seconds.

Dammit, why can't I just sleep like a normal person? Why am I so bad at sleeping? Things just keep me awake. A thought or a question always pops into my mind so I have to explore it further. Or I eat or drink something that happens to keep you awake. Or I'll hear weird noises. Most of the time, I'm just not tired until halfway through the next day. Convenient, huh?

I wasn't sure whether I could stay awake for two more hours, but I tried. I noticed Charlie watching me.

"You look terrible." Charlie said to me.

"Wow, thanks. That helps a lot." I replied sarcastically, rubbing my eyes.

"No, I mean you look tired. You really should rest." he said.

"I'm fine. Besides, I heard all you guys are having a party afterwards. I don't wanna miss out on that." I protested.

"Tay, just sleep." Leo chipped in.

"Look, I'll wake you when we get there so you don't miss the party, ok?" he said.

"Promise?" I asked.

"Promise." he said.

We linked pinkies and I let myself fall asleep.