The lights dimmed, and an expectant hush fell over the crowded auditorium. Backstage, Lily stood frozen, her heart pounding in her chest like a drumline. This was it – the night of her debut performance in the highly anticipated musical production.
She took a deep breath, the familiar scent of makeup and costume fabric filling her lungs. Her nerves began to settle as she focused on the task at hand. She was ready for this.
Lily's eyes met those of her director, Rachel, who gave her a reassuring nod. "You've got this, kiddo," Rachel mouthed.
With a newfound sense of confidence, Lily took her place in the wings, waiting for her cue. As the orchestra launched into the opening notes, she felt a surge of adrenaline course through her veins.
The curtains swept open, and Lily stepped into the spotlight, her voice soaring as she belted out the opening lines. The audience was entranced, hanging on her every word.
For a few fleeting moments, Lily forgot about the nerves, the doubts, and the fears. All that mattered was the music, the movement, and the magic of the performance.
She had done what needed to be done and she smiled as she got to the last few words and walked off the podium and met Drake and her daughter.