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As the applause finally begins to die down, Dan and I retake our seats, our hands still entwined. On stage, the emcee steps up to the microphone, ready to announce the next performer. But my attention is solely on the man beside me, on the future that stretches out before us, bright and boundless.

I lean my head on Dan’s shoulder, content to bask in the afterglow of Chloe’s triumph. Whatever comes next, whatever challenges lie ahead, I know we’ll face them together. A family, in every sense of the word.

As the next performer begins their act, I find my mind drifting, reflecting on the winding path that led me here. Just a few months ago, I was consumed by my work, convinced that my career was the only thing that mattered. But now, sitting in this theater, with Dan’s hand in mine, I realize how much I’ve changed.

It’s not just about prioritizing personal life over professional ambition, though that’s certainly part of it. It’s about opening myself up to the possibility of connection, of love, of family. It’s about recognizing that there’s more to life than the next big client or making partner.

I glance at Dan, his profile illuminated by the soft glow of the stage lights. He catches my gaze and smiles, his eyes crinkling at the corners in that way I’ve grown to adore. I’m overwhelmed by a sense of gratitude, of wonder at the unexpected turns life can take.

“What are you thinking about?” Dan asks, leaning close so I can hear him over the music.

I shake my head, a soft laugh escaping my lips. “I’m just happy.”

I lean my head on his shoulder, taking in the scent of his cologne, the warmth of his presence. On stage, the performer hits a high note, their voice soaring over the audience. And as thecrowd erupts into applause once more, I join in, my heart full to bursting.

When the applause fades, the emcee takes the stage once more, his voice booming through the speakers. “Wasn’t that incredible, folks? The talent we’ve seen tonight is truly outstanding!”

I nod in agreement, my gaze still fixed on the stage. Beside me, Dan leans forward, his elbows resting on his knees as he watches with rapt attention.

As the final performer exits the stage and the applause fades to a hum of conversation, the theater settles into a kind of reverent buzz. People shift in their seats, programs rustle, someone behind us lets out an anxious sigh. I glance around the auditorium, noting the nervous energy vibrating in the air—a mix of anticipation, hope, and pride. This isn’t just a school event. For these kids, it’s a chance to be seen, to shine.

Dan leans in slightly, his voice low. “Do you think she’s nervous right now?”

I smile. “Maybe a little. But she’s prepared. She’s got that quiet determination—the kind that sneaks up on you and then blows the roof off.”

He chuckles. “Wonder where she gets that from.”

I roll my eyes, but can’t hide my grin.

“And now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for,” the emcee continues, a mischievous glint in his eye. “It’s time to announce our winners!”

The tension in the air is palpable, a collective breath held as everyone waits for the verdict. I find myself gripping Dan’s hand tighter, my heart racing in my chest. Whatever happens, Chloemade it to the state finals. A huge achievement and one I hope she is proud of. That said, I think her performance was so good, it deserves more.

“In third place, we have… Mia Johnson from Lewiston High School!”

A petite girl with braided hair bounds onto the stage, her face split in a grin as she accepts her trophy. The crowd cheers, a wave of support and admiration washing over the theater.

“And in second place… Liam Nguyen from Oakridge High School, Bangor!”

A boy in a red bowtie takes the stage, his steps measured and confident. He shakes the emcee’s hand, holding his trophy high as the audience applauds.

“And now, the moment of truth. Our first-place winner, who will be moving on to the national competition and representing the great State of Maine in New York City…”

The pause seems to stretch for an eternity, the anticipation building with each passing second. My leg shakes with nervous excitement, my free hand clutching the armrest.

“Chloe Rhodes from Ellesbec High School, Portland!”

The world erupts in a blur of sound and motion. I’m on my feet, cheering until my throat is raw, tears of joy streaming down my face. On stage, Chloe stands tall and proud, her eyes shining as she accepts her trophy and a giant bouquet of flowers.

Dan pulls me into a tight hug, his own cheeks damp with emotion. “She did it, Rachel. She actually did it.”

I nod against his shoulder, too choked up to speak. In this moment, everything feels right, everything feels perfect. The future stretches before us, bright and full of promise.

The house lights come up, and the theater buzzes with excited chatter as people begin to file out.

I turn to Dan, my heart still racing with adrenaline. “Let’s go congratulate our superstar!”

He grins, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Lead the way.”