PIPER

I turned back to the dress, hanging there like vision from a classic country dream. It was a mid-length gown made of rich, deep blue satin that shimmered under the dressing room lights. The bodice was fitted, adorned with intricate silver embroidery that spiraled and twined like delicate vines, catching the light with every movement. A sweetheart neckline added a touch of timeless elegance, framing my collarbone and shoulders.

The skirt flared out from the waist, ending just below the knee in a swirl of fabric that promised to twirl beautifully when I moved. Tiny rhinestones were scattered across the fabric, reminiscent of stars twinkling in a midnight sky. The hem was trimmed with delicate lace, adding a touch of vintage charm that spoke to the golden age of country music.

I reached out, running my fingers over the smooth satin, feeling the weight and craftsmanship in every stitch. This dress was more than just an outfit; it was a statement, a homage to the classic country stars who had walked this stage before me—Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline. It was a dress that demanded respect and exuded confidence, exactly what I needed tonight.

I slipped into it carefully, the cool fabric hugging my curves and settling perfectly into place. As I fastened the hidden zipper on the side, I felt a transformation take place. The girl who had walked into this room, nervous and uncertain, was giving way to the performer ready to step onto the legendary stage of the Grand Ole Opry.

I took one last look in the mirror, adjusting the thin straps and smoothing the skirt. My heart was still racing, but now it was a mix of excitement and anticipation. I was ready.

I took a deep breath, feeling the satin of my dress rustle softly as I exhaled. The mirror reflected a calm exterior, but beneath the surface, my heart pounded like a drum. Just as I was about to gather my things, there was a knock on the door.

"Come in," I called, my voice steadier than I felt.

The door creaked open, and Emily, my manager, peeked in. Her smile was reassuring. "Piper, it's time. We need you backstage."

I nodded, giving my reflection one last look. This was it. The moment I had dreamed of and worked for all these years. I smoothed the skirt of my dress one final time and grabbed my guitar, the familiar weight grounding me.

"Ready as I'll ever be," I said, more to myself than to her.

Emily gave me a quick hug. "You're going to be amazing. Just remember, enjoy every second of it."

I followed her out of the dressing room, my heels clicking rhythmically on the linoleum floor. The hallway seemed longer now, each step bringing a new wave of anticipation. As we approached the stage entrance, I could hear the murmur of the audience beyond the heavy curtains, the hum of excitement almost tangible.

Backstage was a hive of activity—stagehands moving equipment, sound technicians making last-minute adjustments. As I stood there, taking it all in, the current performer wrapped up their song to a round of applause. The stage curtain swung open, and Ben walked off stage.

His rugged good looks and confidence was impossible to ignore, even in the chaos. He caught sight of me, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "Good luck out there, Piper," he said, his voice smooth and easy, just like his stage presence.

"Thanks," I managed to reply, my nerves momentarily forgotten in the face of his charm.

He winked and continued down the hallway, leaving a trail of envious glances in his wake. I shook my head, refocusing on the task at hand.

The stage manager gestured towards the curtain. "You're up. Take a deep breath and enjoy the moment." She said with a smile.

I nodded, stepping into the wings and gripping my guitar a little tighter. The announcer's voice boomed through the speakers, introducing me.

"Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome to the Grand Ole Opry stage for the very first time, Piper James!"

The curtain parted, and the bright lights of the stage flooded my vision. I took a step forward, the applause of the audience washing over me. In that moment, all the nerves, all the doubt melted away. I was here, on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry, ready to share my music with the world.

I took a deep breath, stepped up to the microphone, and began to play.

The energy in the room was electric. I had just finished my third song, and the applause was overwhelming. My heart was racing, but it was a good kind of rush, the kind that makes you feel alive. I took a moment to soak it all in, the bright lights, the sea of faces, the history of the Grand Ole Opry wrapping around me like a warm blanket.

I adjusted the strap of my guitar and stepped up to the microphone, a smile spreading across my face. "Thank you all so much," I said, my voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions inside me. "For my next song, I want to pay tribute to one of the greatest legends in country music. This is one of my favorites—'9 to 5' by Dolly Parton."

The audience cheered, and I strummed the opening chords, the familiar melody instantly recognizable. Just as I was about to start singing, I heard a commotion backstage. I glanced over, confused, and my heart nearly stopped when I saw her—Dolly Parton herself, striding onto the stage, her smile as radiant as ever.

The crowd erupted in a roar of excitement and disbelief. Dolly waved and took the microphone that a stagehand quickly handed her. I stood there, momentarily stunned, my fingers frozen on the strings.

"Mind if I join you, Piper?" Dolly said, her voice like honey, warm and welcoming.

I managed to nod, my voice catching in my throat. "I—I would be honored."

Dolly winked at me, then turned to the audience. "How about we sing this one together?"

The cheers were deafening. I started the song again, my nerves melting away as Dolly's presence filled the stage with an infectious energy. We sang the first verse together, our voices blending in perfect harmony. Dolly took the lead on the chorus, and I joined in, my confidence growing with each line.

Tumble outta bed and I stumble to the kitchen
Pour myself a cup of ambition
Yawnin', stretchin', try to come to life

The audience clapped along, their energy feeding ours. Dolly's joy was contagious, her laughter and ad-libs making the performance feel spontaneous and magical. I glanced over at her, and she gave me an encouraging nod, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

We hit the final chorus, our voices soaring. The crowd was on their feet, clapping and singing along. As the last notes faded, the applause was thunderous. Dolly turned to me, pulling me into a hug.

"You did fantastic, honey," she whispered, her smile genuine and kind.

"Thank you," I breathed, still in awe. "This is a such an honor."

She patted my back and then addressed the crowd. "Let's hear it one more time for Piper James, everyone!"

The applause swelled again, and I felt a wave of gratitude and elation wash over me. Dolly gave me one last smile before gracefully exiting the stage, leaving me to bask in the afterglow of the performance.

I stepped back up to the microphone, my heart full. "Thank you all so much. That was... well, that was a moment I'll never forget."

The crowd roared their approval, and I knew, without a doubt, that this night would be etched in my memory forever. I took a deep breath, ready to continue my set, my spirit buoyed by the incredible experience of sharing the stage with a true legend.

The energy from my unexpected duet with Dolly Parton still buzzed through my veins as I stepped back up to the microphone. The crowd's applause lingered, a hum of excitement and anticipation hanging in the air. I took a deep breath, my fingers finding their place on the guitar strings.

"Thank you all so much," I said, my voice carrying a mix of gratitude and exhilaration. "For my final song tonight, I'd like to play something very special to me. This one's called 'It Was You All Along.'"

The audience cheered, their enthusiasm palpable. I strummed the opening chords, a slow, gentle melody that settled over the room like a soft embrace. The lights dimmed slightly, focusing on me as I began to sing the first verse.

I was wandering through the shadows, lost in the dark,
Searching for a flicker, for a tiny spark.
All the empty faces, all the lonely nights,
Looking for a reason, searching for the light.

But every step I took, every road I tried,
Led me right back here, to where you reside.
And now I see the truth, clear as the dawn,
It was you all along, it was you all along.

It was you all along, lighting up my way,
In the darkest nights, turning night to day.
Every whispered word, every silent song,
It was you all along, it was you all along.

The lyrics flowed from my heart, each word carrying the weight of the journey I'd been on. The crowd listened intently, the intimacy of the moment drawing them in. As I moved into the chorus, the tempo picked up slightly, the melody becoming more hopeful.

Through the twists and turns, through the endless maze,
I was chasing shadows, lost in a haze.
But you were always there, just a breath away,
Guiding me through, to a brand new day.

Every doubt I had, every fear I faced,
Was leading me to you, bringing me to this place.
And now I hold the key, to where I belong,
It was you all along, it was you all along.

It was you all along, lighting up my way,
In the darkest nights, turning night to day.
Every whispered word, every silent song,
It was you all along, it was you all along.

The audience clapped in rhythm, their energy feeding mine. I transitioned into the second verse, the tempo building steadily. My voice grew stronger, the emotions behind the song driving each note.

All the roads I've traveled, all the tears I've cried,
Every single moment, you were by my side.
And now I understand, what I've known so strong,
It was you all along, it was you all along.

It was you all along, lighting up my way,
In the darkest nights, turning night to day.
Every whispered word, every silent song,
It was you all along, it was you all along.

The music swelled, and I felt a surge of joy as I hit the final chorus. The tempo was upbeat now, the melody lifting the spirits of everyone in the room. The audience clapped along, their smiles matching mine.As I reached the climax of the song, the rhythm became more spirited, the music filling every corner of the Opry. The crowd was on their feet, dancing and clapping, the energy infectious. I strummed the final chords, my voice soaring.

Now the journey's over, now the truth is clear,
You were always with me, always near.
Every step I take, every path I'm on,
It was you all along, it was you all along.

The last notes rang out, and the audience erupted into applause, their cheers echoing through the hall. I stood there, breathless and exhilarated, soaking in the moment.

"I love you, Nashville!" I shouted, my voice carrying over the ovation. "This has been a night I'll never forget!"

I took a bow, my heart full to bursting as the applause continued. The Grand Ole Opry had welcomed me, and I had found my place.

The roar of the applause still echoed in my ears as I stepped off the stage, my heart racing with exhilaration. The backstage area was a blur of faces, voices, and movement, but all I could feel was the overwhelming sense of gratitude.

As soon as I was out of the spotlight, the crew surrounded me, their smiles wide and genuine. "You were incredible, Piper!" one of the stagehands said, clapping me on the back. Others chimed in with congratulations and words of praise, their enthusiasm contagious.

My parents were next, their faces glowing with pride. Mom hugged me tightly, her eyes misty. "You were amazing, sweetheart. Absolutely amazing."

Dad nodded, his grin broad. "You nailed it, Piper. We're so proud of you."

Emily, my manager, was there too, her excitement barely contained. "You were a star up there, Piper. Just wait until the reviews come in. They're going to love you."

I thanked them all, my heart swelling with gratitude. I spotted a few friends who had come to support me, their cheers and hugs adding to the joyous chaos. But as I looked around, I realized Ben wasn't around. A strange pang of disappointment hit me, and I quickly shook it off. Why would he be here? And why did I care?

I pushed the thought aside and focused on the moment. "Thank you all so much," I said, my voice a bit hoarse from the performance.

Emily gave me a knowing look. "You should head back to your dressing room and change. We've got a celebratory dinner waiting for you downtown."

I nodded, the prospect of celebrating with my loved ones filling me with anticipation. "I'll be right there."

Making my way back to the dressing room, I couldn't help but replay the night in my head. The songs, the applause, Dolly Parton's surprise duet—it all felt like a beautiful, surreal dream. I reached the door with my name on it, opened it, and stepped inside, the quiet a stark contrast to the buzzing energy outside.

I took a deep breath and changed out of my stage dress, carefully hanging it back up. The soft fabric of my jeans and favorite blouse felt familiar and comforting. I slipped on my boots, taking one last look in the mirror. The girl staring back at me was still in awe of the night's events but now ready to celebrate this milestone.

As I headed back out to join everyone, I caught myself thinking about Ben again. Shaking my head, I muttered, "Focus, Piper. Tonight is about celebrating."

I stepped out into the hallway, greeted by more smiles and congratulations as I made my way towards the exit.

"Ready to go?" Dad asked, his arm around Mom.

"Absolutely," I replied, grinning.

We walked out of the Grand Ole Opry, the night air cool and refreshing against my skin. The city lights sparkled like the rhinestones.

After dinner, my parents decided to call it a night and head back to the hotel, exhaustion from the excitement settling in. The rest of the team, my friends, and my brother Ethan were still buzzing with energy, eager to keep the celebration going. Downtown Nashville was alive with music and laughter, and I wasn't ready for the night to end either.

We strolled along the neon-lit streets, the city's vibrant nightlife drawing us into its pulse. I felt a mixture of exhilaration and contentment, still floating on the high of the performance. Ethan walked beside me, his arm draped over my shoulder as he pulled me in for a squeeze.

"Where to next, sis?" he asked, grinning.

"I heard there's a great live band at Tootsie's," I suggested.

As we approached the bar, I spotted a familiar figure leaning casually against the doorframe. Tall, with a rugged charm that could only belong to Maverick SinClair, another country singer and a longtime friend. He was one of the hottest acts on the charts right now, but to me, he'd always be the same Maverick who once played guitar with me on my porch.

We grew up together in Chattanooga and both incidentally auditioned for the same singing competition. The irony of neither of us making it and now we're on the billboard 100.

"Maverick?" I called out, a wide smile spreading across my face.

He turned, and his eyes lit up with recognition. "Piper!" He pushed off the doorframe and walked towards me, enveloping me in a warm, friendly hug. "I heard you tore it up tonight. Sorry I couldn't make it to the show, had a gig myself."

"It's okay, I'm just glad to see you," I replied, pulling back to look at him. "It's been too long."

I hadn't seen him since the CMA's last year. He'd been on his own tour that ended a month before mine.

He nodded, a glint of nostalgia in his eyes. "Way too long. Congrats on tonight, by the way. Everyone's talking about it."

"Thanks. It still feels surreal." I glanced around, taking in the lively atmosphere. "Care to join us?"

He laughed, a deep, genuine sound. "Wouldn't miss it for the world. Besides, it's not every night you get to celebrate with a rising star."

"Rising star?" I teased, raising an eyebrow. "That's rich coming from you, Mr. Top of the Charts."

He shrugged, a playful smirk on his lips. "Guess we're both on our way up, huh?"

As we headed inside Tootsie's, Maverick fell into step beside me, catching up on life and reminiscing about old times. The night felt even more special with him there, a reminder of where I came from and how far I'd come.

Everyone was dancing and mingling around the venue, but Maverick and I settled into the corner booth at Tootsie's to catch up, the lively chatter and music enveloped us. Maverick leaned in close, a grin playing on his lips as we caught up on life.

"So, tell me everything," he said, his voice carrying a mix of curiosity and genuine interest. "How was tour you?"

I chuckled, shaking my head. "Oh, you know, the usual. Endless days on the road, the occasional wardrobe malfunction, and way too much fast food." I paused, a playful glint in my eye. "But nothing beats the thrill of performing in front of a live audience."

Maverick nodded in agreement, his expression thoughtful. "There's nothing quite like it, is there? The rush of adrenaline, the connection with the crowd... It's what we live for."

I couldn't help but smile, feeling the truth in his words. "Exactly. It's why we do what we do." I agreed. Nothing beats that feeling.

We fell into an easy rhythm of conversation, swapping stories and sharing laughs as the night wore on. Maverick's easygoing charm and genuine interest put me at ease, and I found myself opening up about things I hadn't even realized were weighing on my mind.

"So, what's next for you?" he asked, leaning back against the booth with a relaxed smile. "Any new projects in the works?"

I shrugged, taking a sip of my drink before replying. "Nothing concrete yet. Possibly doing a song with Ben Morgan

Maverick's eyebrows lifted in surprise. "No shit? He's not someone I thought of you hanging around."

"Me neither," I jokingly admit.

He chuckles, but his gaze thoughtful. "Smart move. Sometimes you've just gotta go with the flow and see where life takes you. Just be a little cautious with that guy. Doesn't have the best reputation when it comes to... well... anything."

As the night progressed, the bar's energy only seemed to amplify. Laughter and the twang of guitars filled the air, and the crowd swayed and sang along with the band on stage. I decided to take a break and freshen up, so I excused myself and headed towards the bathroom, navigating through the crowd of people.

Just as I turned the corner, I collided with someone, nearly losing my balance. A strong hand steadied me, and I looked up to see Ben Morgan, Nashville's notorious womanizer. His reputation preceded him, but up close, he was even more striking—dark hair tousled just right, a chiseled jaw, and those piercing blue eyes that seemed to see right through you.

"Whoa there," he said, a smirk playing on his lips. "You okay?"

I nodded, feeling a bit dizzy—not just from the alcohol. "Yeah, I'm fine. Thanks."

"Didn't mean to bump into you. But I guess there's worse people to run into, huh?" His tone was cocky, but there was an undeniable charm to it.

I took a step back, trying to regain my composure. "It's fine."

"Fancy running into you here," he continued, his smile widening. "Or should I say, running into me?"

I laughed, unable to stay annoyed. "Looks like it. What are you up to tonight?" I wanted to confront him about why he left The Grand Ole Opry so quickly after his performance, but it wasn't my place to question him. We were barely coworkers let alone friends.

"Up to the usual," he said, shrugging casually. "But I have to admit, my night just got a whole lot better."

I rolled my eyes, but there was a smile tugging at my lips. "You never quit, do you?"

"Not when it comes to charming lovely ladies like yourself," he replied smoothly. "How about I buy you a drink? You know, to make up for nearly knocking you over."

I hesitated, knowing his reputation but also finding it hard to resist his charm. "Okay, one drink." Bad idea, Piper...