“No. Of course not.” I lie. “I don’t have much experience other than church choir and—”
“Good. Because sweetie, you’re far too shy for center stage.” Pulling me again, we continue to walk while her hold on my arm burns through the fabric of my knitted sweater. “You’d be an amazing Enchantress.”
Enchantress? The Enchantress has a silent role.
I didn’t even know Madison was joining the drama class. She’s the second one to drop in mid-semester. Lars being the other.
It’s probably better this way. I didn’t even want the stupid part. Ok, I did. Even though I have no intention of being here after Christmas break or for the musical, I wanted to prove to myself that I could get it. Sort of a holy grail and ‘watch me do this’ before I fled town. I wanted it so badly, but there is no way I can compete with Madison. She’s boisterous and outgoing. Beautiful and well-liked. I’m just...me.
We walk backstage and I force a smile on my face. Lars is already kicked back in the recliner while minions dance around him trying to do his job with the sound. As soon as his eyes land on us, he springs up from his comfortable position. “Madison, what are you doing here?” he spits out. Leaving me to assume he wasn’t aware of his sister’s schedule change.
“Told the guidance counselor that I wanted to pursue my dream of acting and she got me right in. You can thank your dad and his generous donation to the drama club.”
“I’ll be sure to do that.” His eyes dance back and forth from me to Madison, who still has her arm clutched around mine. Pointing a finger between us, he asks, “What’s this? When did you two become friends.”
Remaining silent, I let Madison talk because, honestly, I have no idea what her sudden interest in me is.
“It’s recent, but I think it’s the start of a beautiful friendship.” She smirks, forcing me to smile back at Lars.
I don’t have many friends, and personally, I don’t want any. Even if I did, Madison Bishop would not be anywhere near my list of people who I want in my life. Sure, she’s popular, but she’s also condescending and I get the feeling that she knew exactly what she was doing by stealing this part. I’m not the fool that most people take me for. My silence shouldn’t be misconstrued as stupidity. I choose my battles wisely and a stupid high school play is the least of my concerns.
Although, a friendship with Madison could benefit me. I have a hunch that these two don’t get along. Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad to have her on my side.
“We are soooo glad to have you joining us, Madison.” Mrs. Rhys beams with eagerness as she places both hands on Madison’s shoulders. “I’ve heard so many great things about your performance at your last school. Meet me out front and we’ll get started with the opening chorus for your audition.”
I’ve heard so many good things about your performance at your last school. I mock Mrs. Rhys in my head in disgust. I might as well just join the stage crew because I’m toast. And I don’t mean the role as a toaster. I doubt I’d even get that.
Madison leaves with Mrs. Rhys and Lars comes up beside me. My heart swells when I see the pity in his eyes. He knows what’s going on and now he’s going to pretend that he feels sorry for me. When I go to speak, I hold up a hand. “Just leave it alone. I didn’t want the part anyways.” Tears well in my eyes and I turn away quickly before he can see them. It’s ridiculous, why am I so emotional over this? It’s a play. This is high school. It’s not important. I’ve fought off monsters and had my body stolen by thieves, but I’m sulking over the loss of a role.
I pull open the door and rush out into the empty hall. My eyes are dead set on the girls bathroom as I hurry to it. Pushing open the door, I let it close behind me before locking myself in the back stall. I don’t even pay attention to the fact that it’s filthy as my back slides down the wall. Swallowing down the lump in my throat, I begin to cry.
I hate this school. I hate this town. I hate everyone.
And they all hate me, too.
It’s us against the world, sweet baby. They can take my dignity, steal my part, and hold my body hostage, but they will never take you away from me. Ever. I’ll die first.
When the door squeaks open, I grab some toilet paper that’s hanging from the holder on the wall. Ripping it off, I begin patting my eyes and hold off on exiting the stall until they finish their business and leave.
“Ya know, Willa.” My heart drops when I hear his voice. Why is he in here? “You have just as much of a shot as she does. I heard you sing. You’re really good.”
“You shouldn’t be in here.” I choke out as I sniffle and wipe the snot from my nose.
“Neither should you. You should be out there, claiming your role and showing everyone why you deserve to be Belle.”
He doesn’t understand. “You don’t understand. I’m not like you, Lars. I’m not like Madison, or Talon, or Marni.” People don’t notice me and no one cares what I have to say. I’m unseen, unheard, and nonexistent.
“You’re right. You’re not. You’re better than us.” The door squeaks open and I wait until the air is still before getting to my feet.
Drowning my sorrows, I stop at the mirror and take a quick look at the girl staring back at me. With red-rimmed eyes, I fake a smile
