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ISADORA STARED AT HER BEST FRIEND IN HORROR.

"You want me to do what?" She exclaimed, her voice rising in disbelief. With her arms crossed tightly over her chest, she struggled to process what Kendra was asking.

"I want you to go onstage and perform tonight," Kendra insisted, her eyes wide with urgency. Tonight marked the drama club's opening performance, but Isadora shook her head vehemently, memories of her last performance flooding back. It had been a long time since she'd even stepped foot on a stage, and she had vowed never to perform again. Little did she know, this was all part of Kendra and Billy's elaborate plan.

"What do you mean I'm going onstage, Ken? I thought—no way. I can't do it!" Isadora protested, her heart racing as panic set in.

"Olivia can't make it tonight. She has the flu, and you're the only one who knows all the songs and can actually sing. Plus, you should perform the song you wrote! Come on, Isa, we need you. We can't do this without you," Kendra pleaded. She was careful to omit the truth about Olivia's absence, having worked hard to convince Olivia to feign illness just to get Isadora to take the stage. Kendra was convinced this plan had to work, no matter the cost.

"Honestly, this is exactly why we need understudies," Isadora retorted, the frustration creeping into her voice.

"And right now, you kind of are Olivia's understudy," Kendra replied, a hint of mischief in her tone. Isadora groaned at the comment but finally ran her hands through her hair and nodded.

"Okay, fine. I don't like it, but I'll go onstage."

"You're the absolute best! I owe you!" Kendra exclaimed, her relief washing over her.

"I guess I'll go get ready then," Isadora muttered, walking away. As she reached for a costume, she paused, glancing out at the auditorium, which was slowly filling with an audience. The sight made her stomach drop. Back in California, she had been part of the drama club and had performed several times before one fateful afternoon turned her life upside down. That day had made her swear she would never perform again. Taking a deep breath, she turned away and walked into the costume room.

Once she changed into her outfit, Isadora took a moment to gather her thoughts. She looked in the mirror, the costume feeling foreign against her skin. She couldn't help but feel the pang of nostalgia. The last time she had been on stage, she had felt so confident, so alive, until everything had shattered. Taking another deep breath, she returned to Kendra, hesitating as she took the microphone from her friend.

"Are you okay?" Kendra asked, concern etched on her face.

"I don't know, Ken. It's been so long since I've done this, and I guess... I'm nervous," Isadora admitted, her voice shaky.

"You can do this. I know you can, Isa. Just go out there and have fun," Kendra encouraged, her smile reassuring. Isadora nodded, taking a deep breath before stepping onto the stage to applause. As the performance began, her nerves flared, and she stumbled over her words a few times. With each passing moment, the pressure mounted, and her heart raced as she approached the first song.

As the music started, Isadora looked at Kendra, who nodded and smiled back. Taking a deep breath, she lifted the microphone and began singing the song she had written for the musical.

I can feel you coming from a mile away. My pulse starts racing from the words that you say, and you say so many of them like you don't have a clue that I'm signed, sealed, and delivered with a stamp on...

Kendra clapped along with the rest of the audience, and Isadora's confidence began to build with each note.

You don't have to try too hard; you already have my heart. You don't got a thing to prove; I'm already into you. So, hold, hold, hold, hold me tight now, 'cause I'm so good, so good to go. Don't say, don't say goodnight; you know, you had me at hello...

"Yeah, Is!" Billy cheered from the audience. The sound of his voice sent a rush of warmth through her, igniting a spark of encouragement. Lowering her microphone for a moment, she locked eyes with him, a small smile crossing her face. Despite everything, she was glad he was there.

"Come on, Isa," Kendra urged, and Isadora hesitated before lifting her microphone again, continuing to sing as the crowd cheered her on.

"Wow, I didn't know Is could sing," Steve remarked, his voice barely audible over the growing excitement. Among the crowd sat Ellie Hopper and Robin Buckley, along with Beatrix Hargrove, who had managed to score a ticket just to witness the performance. Isadora's energy surged as she poured herself into the song, the rhythm guiding her through the nerves.

As she finished the song, the audience erupted into applause. Isadora beamed, her heart swelling with pride before she quickly hurried offstage to where Kendra stood.

"B-Billy's here," Isadora whispered, her voice barely above a breath.

"Hey, don't let him throw you off. You're doing amazing," Kendra reassured her, giving her a gentle nudge.

With newfound determination, Isadora returned to the stage to finish the performance. For the rest of the show, she sang with confidence, her fears gradually fading away. Each song built upon the last, and by the time she reached her final number, she felt liberated. After the final curtain call, Isadora headed backstage, where Jacqueline rushed over, wrapping her arms around her.

"You were amazing, Isadora! You should really start considering auditioning for roles!" Jacqueline exclaimed, her enthusiasm infectious.

"Oh, uh—I really prefer being stage manager, but thank you," Isadora replied, smiling as she returned the hug.

"You were incredible, Isadora," Tom chimed in, approaching with a bouquet of flowers that he awkwardly presented to her.

"Oh, uh, t-thanks," she stuttered, accepting them with a smile. Just then, she heard music playing again, and Billy's voice filled the hall.

Isadora felt her heart quicken as she followed the sound, stepping back onto the stage once more.

"I've never done anything like this before, and normally I wouldn't, but recently my relationship was ruined with the best person I know, and I—" Billy trailed off, his eyes searching for Isadora as he spotted her walking up beside Kendra.

"—this one's for you, Isadora Jones," he concluded, his voice carrying a weight of sincerity.

"What's going on, Kendra?" Isadora asked, bewildered as the audience began to settle down, their expressions shifting to confusion.

"Go on," Kendra urged, nudging Isadora forward.

"W-What are you doing?" Isadora asked, taken aback when Billy began to sing one of her all-time favourite songs.

I got chills, they're multiplying, and I'm losing control 'cause the power you're supplying, it's electrifying...

Isadora stumbled back, astonished, feeling as if she were in a dream. If this was a dream, she never wanted to wake up. As he finished his verse, Billy lowered his microphone, looking earnestly at her. "Please don't leave me hanging, Is."

"O-Okay," she managed, lifting her own microphone as she joined in.

You better shape up 'cause I need a man, and my heart is set on you. You better shape up; you better understand to my heart I must be true...

"Now I see why Kendra told us to come tonight," Steve said as the crowd began to sing along, their voices blending together in a beautiful harmony.

"Maybe Isa should convince Billy to join the drama club," Hazel joked, earning a laugh from Steve as the two exchanged glances.

As they finished, Isadora wiped away tears that had gathered at the corners of her eyes, overwhelmed by the moment.

"This wasn't supposed to make you cry, Is," Billy said softly, his voice laced with concern.

"I—excuse me," Isadora stammered, suddenly feeling the weight of emotions crashing over her. She turned and hurried backstage, desperate to process everything. Kendra watched as she rushed past, her heart heavy with worry.

"Is—" Billy called gently, following her.

"Oh, I'm sorry. I just... none of this would have happened if it weren't for me. I thought you turned our relationship into a game, that you made a bet to get me to sleep with you, and people believed I did it to be popular," Isadora confessed, her voice shaky.

"Is, none of it was true. None of what Amanda said was real. You were never a bet or a game to me. She said that just to try and break us apart, but I... I like you, Isadora. I like you a lot," Billy replied earnestly, his eyes pleading for her understanding.

Isadora's heart sank as she processed his words. It had been her misinterpretation that had hurt them both, and now she realised how much he truly cared for her.

"I know they're backstage, but do you think they realise we can hear everything they're saying?" Hazel whispered to Steve as the audience began chanting for an encore.

"Kendra!" Isadora called, turning to her friend.

"Yeah?" Kendra replied, stepping closer with a look of urgency.

"I know you two are trying to talk, but the audience is starting to riot for an encore. Can you please get back onstage?" Kendra urged, her eyes wide with excitement.

Isadora nodded, her resolve returning as she walked past Billy to rejoin the audience, who erupted into cheers. Billy followed closely behind her, lifting the microphone as he stepped onto the stage.

"Please, Princess, all I'm asking for is just one more chance," he said, his voice soft yet filled with determination. Isadora stopped, surprised that he was the one asking when she knew she should be the one doing so. Taking a step closer, she spoke, her voice steady.

"I'm the one who should be asking for a second chance. I hurt you and walked away without letting you explain. I'm so sorry," Isadora confessed, vulnerability threading her words.

"Kiss him, Isadora!" Hazel yelled from the crowd, and Isadora felt her cheeks flush as the audience began chanting for them to kiss. Hesitating for a moment, she stepped closer to Billy, who smiled warmly, his eyes shining with hope.

"I'll give you a second chance, Princess," he said, leaning in to kiss her. The crowd erupted in cheers as Isadora kissed him back, a weight lifting from her shoulders.

"I knew the bet wasn't real," Steve muttered to himself, watching the pair with admiration. After Billy had come to her house to ask for help, Kendra had explained everything to their friends, who had all supported the plan to win Isadora back.

"I'm really glad you came tonight," Isadora smiled, pulling back from the kiss, her heart soaring with relief.

"I wouldn't have missed it, Princess," Billy replied, wrapping an arm around her, pulling her close. Isadora leaned into him, feeling a warmth and security that she had missed for so long. As the audience continued to cheer, Isadora felt hopeful for the future, knowing they could start anew. She made a promise to herself to never let misunderstandings come between them again, cherishing the love that had been reignited on that unforgettable night.

As they stood together, embraced by the joy and laughter of their friends, Isadora realised that the stage was not just a place of fear but a platform for love, growth, and new beginnings. The night had transformed her, and she couldn't wait to see where their story would take them next.

The auditorium had been buzzing with excitement, the atmosphere electric as friends and family filled every seat. Isadora's heart raced, not just from her performance but from the realisation of how much she had missed this—the thrill of the stage, the spotlight, and the camaraderie of her fellow performers.

She remembered her first audition back in California, the butterflies in her stomach, the anticipation of stepping into a character. The feeling of being part of something bigger than herself had always drawn her in, but that had all changed one dreadful day, and it had taken her a long time to come to terms with it.

Isadora remembered the exact moment her world fell apart. She was backstage, heart pounding in anticipation for her performance, when she overheard the devastating news. Her dad and sister had been in a serious car crash. The words hit her like a freight train, and her heart twisted with guilt. It was her fault—she had asked her dad to pick her up later that night because she wanted to stay behind for extra rehearsal. If only she hadn't been so selfish, they would have been safe at home. The stage, the performance, none of it had mattered anymore. She had dropped everything and rushed out, leaving behind the lights, the applause, and her passion, vowing never to return to the stage again. Nothing else had mattered except her family—and the crushing weight of her regret.

But tonight had felt different. Standing there with the microphone in her hand, surrounded by friends who supported her, she felt the thrill return. Kendra's encouragement, Billy's presence, and the cheers from the audience had reignited a spark she thought had long been extinguished.

As she turned to walk offstage, Isadora caught a glimpse of her reflection in the backstage mirror. She looked different—stronger, more confident. Maybe this was the beginning of her comeback, a chance to reclaim the part of herself that had been lost.

Isadora made her way backstage, where she was immediately greeted by Kendra, who was practically bouncing with excitement. "You were incredible! I knew you could do it!" Kendra exclaimed, her enthusiasm contagious.

"Thanks, Ken. I actually enjoyed it," Isadora replied, a genuine smile breaking across her face. The weight of her previous fears seemed lighter now, almost laughable in hindsight.

"Enjoyed it? You were a star! We need to get you back on stage more often!" Kendra encouraged, her eyes sparkling.

As they chatted, Isadora noticed the other cast members mingling, sharing their excitement about the performance. Laughter and chatter filled the air, creating a warm sense of community. It was moments like this that made her realise how much she had missed being part of the drama club, the friendships, and the shared experiences.

"Hey, do you think you could get Billy to join the drama club?" Kendra teased, nudging Isadora playfully.

Isadora rolled her eyes, but a smile lingered on her lips. "I doubt he'd be interested. He's more into sports, you know."

"Maybe we can change that," Kendra said with a wink. "You just have to convince him how fun it is to be up here."

Isadora laughed, imagining Billy in a drama club rehearsal, his laid-back demeanour clashing with the over-the-top antics often seen in theatre, but she couldn't deny the excitement that bubbled up at the thought of having him involved.

Just then, the lights flickered, signaling the end of the post-show festivities. Kendra clapped her hands to get everyone's attention. "Alright, everyone! I know it's late, but we can't end the night without a celebration!"

A chorus of cheers erupted, and the group began to discuss where they should go. Isadora felt a rush of excitement as they tossed around ideas. She hadn't gone out with friends in a while, and the thought of celebrating their hard work felt invigorating.

"How about we hit up that new pizza place down the street?" Hazel suggested. "I heard they have amazing slices!"

"Pizza sounds perfect!" Isadora chimed in, her spirits lifting at the thought of enjoying time with her friends outside of rehearsals and performances.

As they made their way out of the auditorium, Isadora felt a sense of freedom wash over her. The weight of her past fears had begun to lift, replaced by the promise of new memories and experiences. She walked side by side with Kendra, laughing and chatting as they headed towards the exit.

When they stepped outside, the cool night air hit them, refreshing and invigorating. The streets were alive with energy, the sound of laughter and music spilling from nearby venues. Isadora felt a sense of belonging, her heart swelling with gratitude for her friends and the support they had shown her.

As they made their way to the pizza place, Isadora found herself glancing at Billy, who walked alongside Steve. He caught her eye and grinned, and her heart fluttered. There was something undeniably special about the connection they shared, and she couldn't help but wonder what the future held for them.

Once they arrived at the pizza place, the group found a large table and settled in, the atmosphere buzzing with excitement. Laughter filled the air as they ordered an assortment of pizzas, each person eager to try a different topping. Isadora felt the warmth of camaraderie enveloping her, and for the first time in a long while, she felt truly happy.

As the pizzas arrived, Isadora took a moment to soak in the scene around her. Friends chatting, laughter echoing off the walls, and the delicious smell of pizza filling the air—it felt like a perfect night.

"I can't believe you actually sang that song tonight," Kendra said, taking a bite of her pizza. "I still can't get over how good you were!"

Isadora chuckled, feeling a blush creep up her cheeks. "I guess it just came back to me. I hadn't realised how much I missed it."

"Well, I think you should perform again, maybe even at the next school event!" Hazel chimed in, her eyes bright with enthusiasm.

"I don't know about that. Let's not get ahead of ourselves," Isadora replied, though a part of her yearned for the chance to perform again.

"But seriously, Is, you were amazing out there. You've got a real talent," Billy added, looking directly at her. Isadora felt her heart skip a beat at his gaze. The sincerity in his eyes made her feel seen in a way she hadn't experienced in a long time.

"Thanks, Billy. That means a lot coming from you," Isadora replied, feeling a flutter in her stomach.

As the night wore on, the group shared stories, laughter, and plenty of pizza, their voices rising and falling in a joyful cacophony. The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with the clinking of glasses and the sound of cheerful banter. Isadora felt as if she were finally reconnecting with herself, the warmth of friendship wrapping around her like a cozy blanket.

Each slice of pizza was accompanied by a new memory shared, a funny anecdote from past rehearsals, or an inside joke that sent everyone into fits of laughter. With every chuckle and grin, Isadora felt the shadows of her past begin to lift. She had always loved being on stage—the thrill of performing, the rush of adrenaline. But the darkness that had settled in after her last performance had loomed over her for too long.

Now, surrounded by friends who truly understood her, she could feel her spirit reigniting. Kendra leaned over, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Okay, what's our next big production? I'm thinking a musical where we all play pirates," she joked, waving her pizza slice like a sword.

Isadora laughed, the sound bubbling up from deep within her. "Only if I get to be the captain!" she retorted playfully, imagining herself in a swashbuckling role, leading her crew on a grand adventure.

Their laughter filled the room, drowning out the sounds of the bustling pizza place around them. Isadora glanced around the table, soaking in the joy that radiated from her friends. This was what she had missed—the sense of belonging, the connection to something bigger than herself. The shadows of her past were fading, replaced by the bright light of friendship and possibility.

As the night drew to a close, Kendra stood up, raising her glass. "To Isadora! For taking the stage tonight and reminding us all how incredible she is!" Cheers erupted around the table, and Isadora felt her heart swell with gratitude.

In that moment, she knew she had taken a significant step toward reclaiming her passion. The shadows of her past were no longer her defining narrative; they were merely part of her journey. She had the support of her friends and the chance to forge a new path filled with creativity and love.

"To new beginnings!" Isadora chimed in, her voice ringing with hope and determination. As they clinked their glasses together, she felt a renewed sense of purpose. The road ahead was still uncertain, but she was ready to embrace whatever came next—on stage and beyond.

With laughter and joy echoing in her heart, Isadora realised that this was just the beginning of her story—a story where she would shine brightly, no longer overshadowed by fear, but illuminated by the love and encouragement of those who believed in her. And as she looked around at her friends, she knew she was exactly where she was meant to be.

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This was one of my favourite chapters to write.

Enjoy! Xo

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