The screams and cheers ignite as the fan’s expressions show immense excitement. I can only be more grateful as I take it all in, realizing the last few weeks of perseverance and driven passion have led to this grand moment of glory.
“This first song is a special tribute to my baby sis, Suzy Morelli. I know you’re up there in Heaven, looking down on this grand event with a big smile on your face. Let my words reach you, and know I’ll always love you and that drive of resistance that never faded, even at death.”
The crowd erupts in more cheers as I raise my hand up to the sky. The twinkling stars seem extra bright tonight, and I can only hope that’s a sign.
“I want to give a special thanks to the one and only Blair Vesper for helping me create this masterpiece,” I announce and thrive on the pulsing anticipation that ignites as thousands of fans look upward in adoration, their hands up in cheer.
My eyes are transfixed on Astraea, watching how her eyes shimmer with unshed tears. Despite the sadness dawning in the depths of her pupils, a proud smile graces those tenderly soft lips.
She’s the reason I managed to get the words out that have been stuck in my heart for all these years, and deep down, I think this is the song that’s going to set me free.
Free me from all the regret I carried.
“This is ‘Echoes of You,’” I quietly reveal as I close my eyes and let the soft glow of a purple wash over me, making me feel ethereal in this untouchable moment.
The first chords fill the air, and how ironic that I feel the soft droplets of water hit my face. It doesn’t stop me as I draw into my persona, the me who taps into those buried emotions, unlocking their raw glory that will be heard by the world as I let my emotions come out in a woven serenade.
The chords of the guitar ignite through the air as the soft interlude of the keyboard brings out the melody we’ve been working on every day this week until three in the morning.
I can recall all those nights snuggled with Astraea as we kept replaying the songs in her new bedroom, doing it again and again while finalizing the lyrics that finally resonated with my soul.
As the light drizzle begins to fall, the crowd goes silent as the ensembles of sounds come together, waiting for my grand beginning. I open my eyes slowly, peering at the sky as the rain droplets sparkle with the stage lights, creating the perfect shimmering curtain.
All I can think of is my voice reaching the heavens—this song will be heard by Suzy.
“In the shadows of my mind, I see your face. A fleeting memory, a bittersweet embrace. Taken too soon, my little star. Your absence leaves the deepest scar.”
My voice, normally powerful with screaming temptation, is soft with vulnerability. I let the words out as memories flood my mind—my sister’s laugh and her beautiful smile. That protective stare or the pouting anger she’d display on her beautiful face. All those emotions as I remember her at different stages—from when she was a baby, holding her tiny little hand, to that last moment when I watched her take her last breath.
“But I won’t let the darkness win. I’ll fight for the light within.”
The rain intensifies slightly, mirroring the tears that began to stream down my face. I don’t stop them or wipe them away, deciding this was the time to finally let those feelings go. To give into the pain I allowed myself to run away from. To experience the heartache and rage that begged to be acknowledged and accepted years ago.
I let it all out as the weight of my loss finally gains wings to fly and be free, using this song to bear the weight of my agony and let it surge outward for thousands to hear, feel, and get a glimpse of the pain I’ve fought to contain.
The music gets louder, preparing for the grand chorus, and my voice gains strength, ready to burst into a loud, pretend scream.
“Your echo guides me through the night. I’ll resist the urge to give in to the fight. In your memory, I’ll rise above. Finding salvation in your endless love.”
I dare peer at the screen that shows a zoomed-in reflection of me. How gratifying is the sight as the rain washes down on me. The lights dance and sway, flickering in such a way, it’s as if there’s a halo effect hovering above my head.
It’s weird to feel a presence behind me—a touch along my shoulders, as though one is gripping me, so I remain standing. I know there’s no one behind me because I can see it for myself, but deep in my heart, I know this sensation. This feeling I’ve felt at times when I was so hopeless, I wondered if it was worth running away any longer.
Only, this time around, my heart isn’t heavy with defeat. It’s light, fluttering with beating hope and rejuvenated life. This energy that cloaks me from behind makes me feel as if this is the final embrace.
This is our farewell, as my sister can finally move forward without worrying about my demise.
I smile despite the tears that continue to fall.
“They said time heals, but they were wrong. The pain remains, but it made me strong. Your laughter haunts these empty halls. But it’s your spirit that still calls.”
My eyes fall on my Rebel Princess, realizing what an anchor she’s been without even realizing it. This is why having anOmega is so vital for us, but not just any Omega. Having the right one who thrives to understand you. Yearns to accept you.
She grasps that my sister’s memory wasn’t something to be forgotten but a driving force of life that deserved to ride the melodies of the music I created just for her.
To get to sing this song that’s yearned to be heard for many years seems like a blessing.
“Little sister, though you’re gone, your legacy lives on and on. In every song, in every rhyme. I’ll make you proud, I’ll use this time.”