The new week has already started like every other week, with them submitting their historical research on ancient science and their main characters contributions, inventions, and background history on them. club activities, classes and preparations for the combine rehearsals that they would have with the other drama crew didn't fall out the chat too.
Anthony in his own university was still looking forward to their joined rehearsals and anticipates on how he will see Ben's face and that smile that made him fall in love.
Class after class and then club activities, things still stayed the same. The duo, has been studying together, learning new sides of each other and exploring their unique sides.
Ben even knowing things about Mark found out that he was still getting to know more side of Mark that he didn't know there is, this became a challenge for him to explore and get to know Mark better.
Mark on the other hand was feeling the same about Ben, seeing his expressions, his unique smile that comes naturally every day that passes by, his intellect and personality made him know that there's more to Ben that he needs to know.
The two each trying to explore the other, to find out more and see more than the eyes can see with each other. Their discussions and laughter made each other feel better with their company and relationship.
It was a great sight to uphold.
This didn't go unnoticed by the on lookers and friends too, their relationship became their talk. Everyone observed and some obsessed with time.
Some that do feel jealous, talk bad of their relationship and try bringing up different topics on them. But it only strengthens Ben and Mark bonds, with each of them trying to correct their flaws.
With the day of the joined rehearsals coming up, preparations where getting in place, each one trying to give it their all. Ben and Mark were no exception, they helped in what ever way they could... Making them to shine and stand out in the drama crew members.
Ben asked Mark "do you think I will be... You know act better to their liking..... You know how I act around new faces and how nervous I become if I screw up.... Hmm... Hmm..... What will I."
"look at me and no one else OK..... Am here," Mark chipped in and took Ben's hand in his as he added "just look at me and remember I am here, OK, I got you.... And beside you will nail it, I just know it" Mark gave Ben a reassuring smile.
Ben saw this and all his worries left him as if it weren't there in the first place and he smiled lightly " OK, I got it just as you said if I ever feel nervous or worried I will remember your face, Mark." captived by the smile and determination on Ben's voice Mark smile and leaned in and planted a soft kiss on Ben's forehead.
Holding each other hand tightly, never wanting to let go, was what they wanted but the situation didn't. " Ben get back to work, Mark help with the stage arrangements, I need those muscles to be put to good use." Ms. Thompson shouted from the sidelines.
At Anthony's environment, he, was still thinking of possible ways of talking to Ben and getting to know him well.
And the joined rehearsals was the prefect moment. " there is no other perfect timing, things are going to walk out smoothly...." Anthony told himself.
His friend Rachel encouraged him to go for it "if you really love this Ben of a guy, go give it a shoot Ok!, I got your back anny".
" I love him Rach.... His the reason why I stay up lately, I think about his face and smile on that day, recalling his expression... Oh my God, and Rach thank you for the advice Ok."
" it's nothing, but be careful too!!!! Ok and just know I always have your back "Rachel replies with a smile on her face. " don't worry about me, i will be fine " he reassured her " let's wait and see how it goes on the rehearsal day " he added looking at his hands and then the window.
******the fixed day of the rehearsal ******
The day of the joined rehearsal had finally arrived, and the anticipation was palpable. Ms. Thompson's drama crew were eagerly waiting for their counterparts from the other university to arrive.
As the visiting students stepped onto the campus, they were greeted by Ms. Thompson's crew, who were buzzing with excitement. The atmosphere was electric, with both groups eager to collaborate and create something special.
The two groups of students introduced themselves, exchanging warm smiles and enthusiastic hellos. As they began to mingle, it became clear that this joint rehearsal was going to be an unforgettable experience.
With their shared passion for drama and performance, the students from both universities were ready to come together and create something truly remarkable. The stage was set for an incredible collaboration, and everyone was excited to see what the day would bring.
Mark and Ben walked in, slightly out of breath, and apologized for their tardiness. "Sorry we're late, everyone," Mark said with a sheepish grin. Ben nodded in agreement, and they both took their places among the group. Ms. Thompson smiled understandingly and welcomed them, and the rehearsal continued with renewed energy.
On the other hand, Anthony saw Ben entered the auditorium with Mark and was taken away by Ben's outfit and innocence in his face. He smiled to himself and said "he's cute today".
Rachel noticed Anthony's distant smile and curiosity got the better of her. "Hey, what's got you smiling?" she asked, nudging him playfully. Anthony's gaze drifted back to the present, and he turned to Rachel with a hint of a blush, "Oh, just... nothing. Just enjoying the energy of the rehearsal, I guess." Rachel raised an eyebrow, intrigued, but let it slide, for now.
The rehearsal gained momentum as both crews seamlessly merged their talents. The energy was electric, with students from both universities bouncing ideas, perfecting scenes, and fine-tuning their performances. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, creativity, and a shared passion for bringing the play to life. As the afternoon wore on, the collaboration blossomed, and the production began to take shape, promising an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Mark and Ben delivered standout performances, their chemistry on stage undeniable. Anthony watched, captivated, as Ben brought his character to life with nuance and depth. Ben's expressive eyes, his subtle gestures, and his emotional range all seemed to mesmerize Anthony, who couldn't help but be drawn in by the young actor's talent. He was impressed, but more than that, he was enthralled by Ben's presence on stage.
As the rehearsal progressed, the crew moved on to the next scene, and Mark took center stage. With effortless charm and precision, he nailed the scene, bringing the script to life with his impeccable timing and emotional authenticity. His performance was met with nods of approval and encouraging murmurs from the director and fellow crew members, who were clearly impressed by his talent and dedication. The scene flowed smoothly, setting a high bar for the rest of the rehearsal.
Rachel's observant gaze lingered on Anthony, noticing the way his eyes followed Ben's every move on stage. A knowing glint sparkled in her eyes as she pieced together the puzzle. She whispered to herself, "So it's this guy, huh? Not bad for a first choice crush." A hint of amusement danced on her lips as she continued to watch Anthony, intrigued by his subtle fascination with Ben's performance.
Rachel's observant gaze lingered on Anthony, noticing the way his eyes followed Ben's every move on stage. A knowing glint sparkled in her eyes as she pieced together the puzzle. She whispered to herself, "So it's this guy, huh? Not bad for a first choice crush." A hint of amusement danced on her lips as she continued to watch Anthony, intrigued by his subtle fascination with Ben's performance.
Ms. Thompson stood at the edge of the stage, her keen eyes scanning the crew with a discerning gaze. She offered constructive feedback, pinpointing areas for improvement and suggesting tweaks to enhance the overall performance. Her guidance was precise and encouraging, helping the students refine their craft and polish the show. With her expertise and passion, Ms. Thompson was determined to bring out the best in her students and deliver a truly unforgettable production.
As the rehearsal progressed, the scene where Ben and Anthony's characters were supposed to meet finally arrived. The stage was set, and the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Ben, still in character, stepped into the scene, and Anthony, playing his role, entered from the opposite side. Their eyes met, and the tension was palpable. The air was electric with the unspoken emotions and underlying conflicts between their characters. Ms. Thompson watched intently, offering occasional direction to fine-tune the scene. The chemistry between Ben and Anthony characters was undeniable, and the scene unfolded with a raw, emotional intensity that left everyone captivated.
Anthony's heart skipped a beat as he stepped onto the stage, his eyes locking onto Ben's. He couldn't help but feel a flutter in his chest, knowing he'd get to be close to his crush, even if it was just for the scene. As they began to act, Anthony found himself getting lost in the moment, his emotions heightened by Ben's presence. He poured his heart into the performance, trying to convey the depth of his character's feelings. Though his crush was a distraction, Anthony channeled it into his acting, drawing energy from the proximity to Ben. For a few fleeting moments, the lines between reality and fiction blurred, and Anthony let himself get swept up in the magic of the scene.
Ben's nerves began to get the better of him as he faced Anthony, the leader of the other drama crew. But as he felt his anxiety spike, he suddenly pictured Mark's reassuring face, urging him to calm down. A faint smile crept onto Ben's lips as he imagined Mark's words of encouragement: "You've got this, Ben!" With newfound confidence, Ben took a deep breath, relaxed his shoulders, and dove into the scene. The imaginary boost from Mark seemed to work its magic, and Ben's performance became more fluid and natural.
Mark's eyes sparkled with delight as he watched Ben's performance unfold. Captivated by the raw emotion and authenticity Ben brought to the scene, Mark couldn't resist the urge to capture the moment. He discreetly pulled out his camera and snapped a few photos, freezing the intensity and vulnerability on Ben's face. The click of the shutter was almost imperceptible, but Mark felt a sense of satisfaction, knowing he'd preserved the magic of the scene. As he reviewed the shots, a soft smile lingered on his lips, his eyes crinkling at the corners with pleasure.
As the rehearsal drew to a close, the crew members began to wrap up their tasks, exchanging notes and finalizing details. Ms. Thompson offered words of praise and encouragement, highlighting the progress they'd made. With a sense of accomplishment, the students from both universities packed up their belongings and bid each other farewell. Ben and Mark went together to their hostels while Anthony followed his crew, each lost in their own thoughts, already looking forward to the next rehearsal. As they went their separate ways, the excitement and anticipation for the upcoming play lingered in the air, a promise of more creative collaborations to come.
As Ben and Mark walked out together, they discussed the rehearsal, dissecting the scenes and sharing their thoughts. Ben mentioned how well the crew was coming together, and Mark nodded in agreement. But when Ben brought up the scene with Anthony, his voice dropped to a whisper, and he confessed his nerves about acting with the other lead. Mark listened attentively, offering words of reassurance and advice. Ben's eyes darted around, a hint of vulnerability flashing across his face as he admitted to feeling intimidated by Anthony's presence. Mark's calm demeanor helped ease Ben's concerns, and he left the conversation feeling more confident and focused.
Anthony in the bus that was driving from the rehearsal environment, his mind still reeling from the scene he'd shared with Ben. He couldn't shake off the feeling of being completely swept up in the moment, his emotions heightened by Ben's presence. The memory of their eyes meeting, the tension between them, and the raw intensity of the scene lingered, refusing to fade. Anthony's thoughts drifted back to Ben's expressive face, his captivating performance, and the undeniable feeling he had for Ben. A soft smile spread across his lips as he replayed the scene in his head, his heart still resonating with the emotions they'd brought to life on stage.
" so this is when you love someone huh"
"I love him" he said to himself.