Page 170 of Debts and Desires
Sixty-Seven Days Gone
Two weeks later, my final song was topping charts. According to everything I saw and read, I was slated to win. It was enough excitement that my muse was inspired. I had written a few more songs.
Just like wanting to hear the song debut at home, I wanted to hear the winner announced at home, too. I was nervous, but calm. And I had no way to make that make sense. Mia looked at me like I had three heads, but Cal seemed to understand what I meant. Just in case, though, Mimi had brought a bucket over and sat it beside me. I rolled my eyes.
Finally, the song that was playing ended.
“Now, the moment you folks have all been waiting for. The results are finally in and we have a winner.” The announcer on the radio spoke. Mia and I clutched each other tight. “Without further ado, the winner of the Star in the Sky competition is—” the pause nearly killed me and I’m sure everyone else “—Emmy Rae!”
My ears rang, my heart thrummed, the world spun.
“I won?!”
I did it!I won!
“Oh, my God!” Mia shot up, screaming. I joined her, the two of us squealing like school girls. Cal stood, too, clapping and cheering with us.
My phone was ringing moments later, Zac’s name popping up. I pulled away and excused myself to the balcony while Mia made some mocktails to celebrate with.
As excited as I was to hear from Zac, part of me wished it were another person calling. Despite everything.
“Congratulations, Em!” Zac said no sooner had I answered.
“Thank you!”
“We told you, you had it!” Sydney squealed.
Justin added, “Way to go, girl!”
“I knew you’d have it!” Tony cheered.
“Thank you, guys.” I could feel the lump in my throat, my eyes welling up. I couldn’t stop the tears, sniffling and smiling.
“How do you feel, superstar?” Zac asked. I laughed.
“It doesn’t feel real.” It hadn’t since he called me months ago.
“Well it is, sweet pea.” I let out a soft sob.
“Sorry,” I breathed. “Sorry, I just…”
“It’s okay, Em,” he chuckled. “Take a moment, think about how awesome you are, and relish in it.” I did just that.
I had made it. The road that took me there was jagged, filled with potholes and dead ends, but I made it.
I made it.
“Now, take a deep breath in… that’s it. Now, out… Good. Once more.” And I did. “Feel better?”
“Yes.”
“Good. I’m proud of you, Emmy. I knew the moment I saw your video that you were our star. And you proved me right. Now all that’s left is signing the contract and making an album.” Another pause. “I also wanted to let you know that I talked to the others and let them know about the baby, like I told you I would if you won. They’re on board with everything and super eager.”
“We are! How amazing! Congrats!” Sydney added.
“Very exciting,” Justin agreed. “I’ve been checking around and was able to set up a few studios that are a little closer to where you’re at. That way, you have minimal travel distance.”
“Zac! Tell her the best part!” Sydney said, making him laugh.
