Overcome (book One of the series; In Spite of It All, I Shine)

Chapter 4: Stage Fright

Chapter 4

I set up my music, smiling bright at Niall, as Shea makes it into the room. Just in time, I think to myself.

"Okay, so, this song is a song I wrote called Eyes Still Open. I hope you like it." My hands shake,as I play the introduction to the piece with such eloquence. I can hear Niall, in the back of my head, saying, "You can do this, April. I know you can." I sing:

I'm holding back every tear that's fallen down.

Every time I see your face, I turn away.

I'm looking back on the memories, how much I wanted you to know you're good enough for me.

Cheers, from the audience and the judges, fill the room, as I play the introduction, again. Tears fill my eyes, but I manage to get out the next verse, and make it to the chorus:

I'm trying hard, keeping my eyes open on our friendship that has faded away.

I'm staying strong, but slowly falling to my feet.

Maybe now, because of what you did, I'll never show defeat.

I'm holding back every tear that's fallen down.

I'm trying harder not to show you who I am.

You made me insecure.

I don't know why you made me see this side, but now, so slowly, I just shy away

But keep my eyes still open.

I look over at Niall. He's astonished. I can tell it in his eyes. I try my best to play the introduction, and before I know it, it's time for me to sing the third verse.

I'm falling fast, because of what you said to me.

I didn't know you'd even be this way, at all.

I'm falling hard.

I'm freezing at what you said.

I never thought I'd see this side of you, until you broke my heart.

I continue looking at Niall, but fear rises so high up that things start to spin. I get ready to sing the chorus, but then, I fall to the ground.