Double Tap: Decode [BXB]

CHAPTER 21

Teagan

The long-awaited day had finally arrived. Months of hard work and determination were about to be put to the test. Confidence surged through me as I reflected on our flawless practices. We knew our song inside out, making today's performance seem almost effortless. Although officially it wasn't a competition, for us, it meant everything.

Accompanied by Sullie and Roger, I made my way to school, anticipation bubbling within us. We were eager to unveil our talents to Limebrook. Our professor had hinted that today's showcase would be the highlight, drawing a sizable audience. With performances scheduled throughout the day, excitement hung in the air, evident in the students adorned in their performance attire.

The campus buzzed with activity, each individual consumed by their own preparations. Thankfully, our contribution was minimal, save for Roger's trusty bass guitar and the gifts Zion had bestowed upon us. As members of the Music and Art Club, we were fortunate to have access to their instruments, sparing us any worry about damaging expensive gear, unlike the guilt I still harbored from inadvertently roughing up Zion's prized drums.

"According to the program Erick sent," Roger paused, squinting at his phone, "we're the tenth act."

"Perfect timing," Sullie remarked with a grin.

"Nervous?" I inquired, noting Sullie's calm demeanor.

"When it comes to performing, Teagan, nerves are merely part of the audience," she quipped, drawing a chuckle from me. "And you?"

"Not in the slightest," I replied confidently. "I've been on stage since high school; this is just another performance."

As we entered the campus, the grounds swelled with students eager to witness the day's festivities. A stage, adorned with vibrant decorations and a banner reading "Appreciate everyone's sense of art," stood proudly at the center. The instruments awaited us, poised for our arrival. I envisioned myself behind the drum kit, brimming with confidence. While it was my debut as a drummer in front of an audience, any inkling of anxiety was conspicuously absent.

"Good morning, Brookers!" greeted our classmate Winton, who had assumed the role of host for the day's events.

"I'm here," Zion's sudden appearance beside me startled me.

"Good morning, Z!" Sullie greeted him cheerfully, earning a bemused look from me as she bestowed him with a nickname. "What? Zion's too long," she defended, to which I simply rolled my eyes.

"What about me, Sullie?" Roger chimed in. "No nickname for your favorite bassist?"

"I reserve nicknames for friends," Sullie retorted.

"Am I not your friend?" Roger feigned offense.

"I'll consider it," Sullie teased.

"Seriously?" Roger's incredulous response elicited laughter from me.

"Just kidding," Sullie reassured, playfully punching Roger's arm. "But if you insist, I could go with 'babe.'"

"That's—wait, what?" Roger's reaction was priceless.

"Babe," Sullie repeated mischievously. "Not your style?"

"It's not that I don't like it," Roger stammered, his ears turning red. "It's just...unusual."

"Kara and Sasha dared me. It's only for a week, anyway. Bear with me," Sullie explained, leaning closer to Roger. "...babe," she added with a laugh, as Roger's blush deepened, leaving me curious about his reaction.