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Tonight is different because I have the honor of performing at my best friend Jordyn’s wedding reception. The ballroom looks like a fairytale, with twinkling lights and delicate floral arrangements adorning every corner. The air is filled with laughter, champagne is flowing, and an undeniable sense of joy surrounds everyone.
Standing on the stage, microphone in hand, I channel the energy in the room. The anticipation is palpable, both from the guests and me. I take a deep breath, centering myself before I begin. Glancing around, I catch sight of Jordyn, radiant in her bridal gown, surrounded by loved ones on the dance floor. Our eyes meet, and a rush of emotion floods my heart. She is my rock, my confidante, my baby. Seeing her so happy on her special day fills me both with overwhelming affection and a little sadness. We’re both missing her dad today. After Mr. Banks died and Jordyn fell out with her stepmom and stepsister, I worried if she’d ever be happy again. I’m glad to see my worrying was wasted because Jordyn’s never looked so happy in her entire life. Now, my best friend is complete.
The soft melody of the piano fills the air, the room falling into a hushed silence. I close my eyes, allowing the music to guide me. I throw myself into turmoil while I picture the face of a man I can never have. With each note, the lyrics weave through my veins, resonating within my soul. It’s a moment of pure connection, where the music becomes an extension of me.
Opening my eyes, I let my gaze sweep the room. The faces of familiar friends stare back at me, their eagerness mirrored in their eyes. But it’s the love that hangs in the air fueling this performance. Love for Jordyn, love for the song she chose, and love for the people who’ve supported my journey.
With every word leaving my lips, I pour my heart into the room. Each note carries the weight of emotions, and the audience is captivated by the rawness and vulnerability in my voice.
In a world full of strangers, you found me;I sing.
A friendship forged, a love set free.
The ballroom shrinks, the world fades away, leaving only the music and the connection between us.
Through ups and downs, we’ve faced the storm.
With you by my side, I am reborn.
My voice soars higher, passion radiating from every note. The music gradually fading, leaving the room in awe-struck silence. The last chord lingers, hanging in the air.
I’ll sing my heart out, I’ll dance with you,
At your side, always, I’ll be true.
As the last note resonates through the air, the room erupts in applause. I hand the microphone back to the D.J. Stepping off stage, I shuffle toward Jordyn, our eyes locking in a knowing glance as we hug. This was more than a performance; it was a moment of shared love and celebration.
The ballroom buzzes with excitement; the night is filled with laughter, dancing, and unforgettable memories. And as I join Jordyn and the rest of our friends on the dance floor for another round of cutting up, I cherish every second. This is a night to remember for a lifetime. In the midst of the music, the laughter, and the love, I allow myself to get lost in the moment’s magic, grateful for the privilege of being a part of something so extraordinary.
As the night unfolds, I feel a sense of wonder at how life has brought me to this point. The journey has been challenging, but at this moment, surrounded by friends and basking in the joy of celebration, I know all the hard work, the sacrifices, and the nerves have been worth it. I take a moment to breathe, to savor the energy in the air, and to let it fuel me for whatever lay ahead. With the support of my loved ones, my passion for music, and the unwavering belief in myself, I’m ready to embrace the future with open arms. With each new stage, each new song, and each new moment, I’m determined to keep sharing my voice, my story, and my love with the world.
***
DRESSED TO THE NINESin my bridesmaid’s gown, I stroll across the lavish ballroom, my heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. After finishing my song for my best friend and her new husband, I head back to my father’s table to join him and his best friend, Adrian. My breath catches when I take in his tall, muscular frame and chiseled features. Adrian is the epitome of charm and sophistication. With his brown hair and hazel eyes, he exudes an irresistible aura of mystery. And I have a totally embarrassing crush on him. A secret desire that flickers like a forbidden flame.
My steps are intentionally slow, as I give myself time to compose myself. My heart races as I wonder if Adrian will notice my presence, if he’ll see me as more than just his best friend’s daughter.
“Mind if I join you?”
My dad looks up, his warm smile instantly lighting his face.
“Of course,” he says, “Where’s your sister?”
“She’s... eating,” I say evenly.
At least... she’s trying to eat, but my baby sister’s big doe eyes have caught the attention of one of the groomsmen, and the dude is as unrelenting as he is attractive. “Leave Chantelle alone, Dad, She's fine and chillin’ with the wedding party.”
I take a seat next to my dad, stealing a quick glance at Adrian, who raises an eyebrow in acknowledgment, his gaze lingering on me for a moment longer than usual. Heat rushes to my cheeks, and I look away, pretending to be fascinated by the floral centerpiece, plucking at it with my manicured stiletto nails.
“You killed it, Cheyanne... and you looked absolutely stunning while doing it.” Adrian’s voice sends shivers down my spine. I fight to maintain my composure.
“Thank you, Adrian.” The way I’m swooning is so humiliating. “It means a lot coming from you,” I say and catch my dad’s date exchanging a knowing glance with the object of my affection. A smirk tugs at the corners of her lips, and a shadow of uneasiness touches Adrian’s face.
As the conversation flows, Adrian talks in depth about the Global Protection Agency he runs and a little about what his life is like living in the mountains. Through it all, I’m captivated by his charm and intelligence. Every word he utters is like a siren’s call, drawing me further into the depths of my desire. His courage is captivating and only pushes me further down a path I know I shouldn’t travel. Because I long for his touch, his lips on mine and everywhere else, but the reality of our relationship weighs heavily on my conscience. This little fantasy of mine is a no-win situation. I’m not delusional, I know that.
A familiar melody fills the room. Its gentle rhythm permeates the air. I glance toward my father, who stands up from the table extending his hand to his date. A smile graces his smooth chocolate features as he invites her to dance. On the dance floor, they move with effortless grace, their steps synchronized in perfect harmony asTennessee Whiskey,one of Silas’ favorite songs serenades the room.
As they glide across the dance floor, their laughter blending with the music, I find myself left alone with Adrian. The air between us crackles with a strange concoction of familiarity and unspoken sentiments. My heart skips a beat as the weight of our connection fills the space. Adrian’s eyes hold a depth that I’ve yet to learn but hope to. A silent understanding lives inside him. It always has. He understands so many things about the world that I can’t even comprehend.
