Theatre Is A Lie ~ Joshua Burrage

Chapter 21

Josh's hands were sweaty and he was extremely nervous. He wasn't sure how to apologise to Ami but he felt like garbage just for having not talked to her much in the past year. He felt like a shitty boyfriend and really wanted to change that. He had just been shocked and scared and a total mess of emotions when she told him those three words.

He decided to just be straightforward. When he saw the small figure of Ami walking towards him he stood up straight. He grabbed her shoulders and before she could speak he began his apology, "I am so so sorry I've been so distant lately I feel so bad I should've been a better friend and a better boyfriend. I love you too," without thinking he kissed her. The girl pushed back and when the lights from onstage shined on a nearby spot he realised his mistake. He had kissed Stephanie.

Josh had his head in his hands, regret and guilt coursing through his veins. He knew that Stephanie would've told Ami by now considering the two were very close. He couldn't help but let a few tears slip out. Everyone had already left the ensemble dressing room for stage dooring and lunch so Josh had the ability to let out sobs without questioning. He felt absolutely terrible and knew by now Ami would finally officially break up with him and he'd most likely fall into a pit of depression. He didn't know what to do so he just had to sit and wait. He knew Ami didn't like confrontation all too much but he knew she'd come around eventually and so he mentally prepared himself and made a note to buy some ice cream for this evening. He knew he was going to need it.

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Ami couldn't sum up the courage to confront Josh. Every time she'd come close her anxiety would start flipping out and throw her back 3 steps. She decided to just get the show over with and get out of there ASAP. When she finally made it out to the wing where Josh was waiting she was about ready to have a panic attack. When she saw the dim lighting hitting his face, he looked very solemn and sad. Something in her heart told her it was a mistake but she didn't want to let her romantic interests get the best of her. He kissed another woman!

Josh waved at her and gave a sad smile. She nodded at him and stayed quiet. The two merely acted like they liked each other the entire show and then at the end Ami wanted absolutely nothing to do with him. She stagedoored quickly and then ran off with Beau and Austin, leaving Josh in his miserable pit of shame. He knew that Ami knew and that she was very upset. If he had just paid attention and realised Stephanie was covering her for that show! He was so stupid and he made sure to let himself know as he laid in his hotel bed staring at the ceiling. He would've bought ice cream but didn't even feel motivated enough to do that.

Josh felt like complete and utter garbage. Ben and Sky had asked what was up but he merely responded with a grunt and continued to stare at the ceiling. The two didn't want to pester him so they just continued to be silly and weird, watching TV and all that great stuff. They would catch Josh occasionally glancing at the TV screen and knew he was listening when he would snort in amusement every so often. This made them a little happier, knowing he was so bummed out. Eventually Josh got up, Ben and Sky watching walk out cautiously.

Josh walked to Ami's hotel room, knocking gently. The door opened and Ami peeked out, clearly having been crying as her cheeks were tear stained, her eyes puffy, and her nose red. She didn't say anything, just stared at Josh and he knew she was questioning why he was here. He pushed open the door gently and Ami backed up, fear flashing in her eyes. He grabbed the girl, pulling her in for a hug. Ami did nothing, but Josh could feel the sigh of relief into his chest. He kissed the top of her head, "Im so so sorry."

She backed up, looking at him, "Why did you do it then...?" He sat down on her hotel bed, Stephanie was sleeping in hers so they made sure to stay quiet. He patted the space next to him for her to sit down, which she accepted. He began to explain to her the mistake. He then gently cupped her face with his hand, brushing away some stray tears with his thumb. They stayed like that for a bit, Ami leaning into his hand. Eventually Ami crawled in bed and patted the spot next to her. Josh crawled in and pulled her close. The two definitely felt happier that night despite the emotional bumps and bruises earlier in the day. Ami looked up at Josh a small smile on her face, "Hey, Joshie...?"

Josh looked down at her, "Yes?" She giggled, "Can we go on a date tomorrow...?" Josh smiled gently, "Whatever you want." She buried her face in her chest and Josh took a deep breath. He had been saving up all his courage for this very moment with this very girl. He squeezed her a bit, wanting to make sure this was truly real. He kissed her head and then after a minute he decided to finally say it.

"I love you."

"I love you too."

I had my first show today which is why I'm late with posting but it went pretty decent. Despite being a girl I play a man at first and so I have a moustache and people kinda chuckled at me when I walked onstage so tHATs nIcE I gUEsS. Our like... actual official opening night is tomorrow so wish me luck, friends.