I don’t know why I’m here. I guess the honest answer would be I wanted to feel something. Anything. I’ve been the diligent daughter all my life. I’ve been the supportive friend. I’ve been the best top artist for producers and fans. I’ve been everything and anything for everyone else. But in this moment I wanted to be free.

The mask of perfection was slapped off my face today. I let down my producer, my emotions for a love song was not right. My parents begged for money again, however this time I actually said no. I found out that my boyfriend of five years actually got another girl pregnant. I couldn’t stand it anymore. I rushed out to my car and just started driving. I felt suffocated. I needed air.

Well I got air. I’m now standing next to my car in a desert. A big nothingness. I can see land for miles and no one around me. The air here feels right. Feels good. Feels smooth. I felt my mind begin to clear for the first time. But I’m out of gas, my phone is dead, and I’ve got maybe enough food and water for two days. But none of that matters. I’m free.

‘I wonder what it feels like to stand at the edge of a cliff?’ I wasn’t thinking about anything. Just wanting to feel lite as a feather. There was a hill a short distance away. I was stuck here until a person drove by, or someone thought to look for me. ‘If they even cared.’ So hill it was.

So…in case you were wondering, things look closer in the desert. This hill was about two hours from my car. But so worth it; this view is amazing!! And the neighboring next hill seems to have a small town. So I can always venture that way for help afterwards.

But this view. Everything is miniature. My car is a small block of color in the distance. The road I came on twists and turns with the hilly terrain. The blue sky is vast and huge. It’s peaceful up on this hill. I’m alone. It’s silent. Im at peace finally. I walk to the edge of the cliff. I look down the steep side. ‘A fall from here wouldn’t kill you. But the heat and dehydration probably would…’ I don’t know where that thought came from. I’ve hated my life, but never enough to think of harming myself… but I didn’t move away from the edge. I still stood on the marginal edge. Continuing to stare down the drop…

“Miss. Please back away from the edge.”

The voice came from behind me. My silent escape was no longer just mine. ‘Why can’t everyone leave me alone?’ “Please just leave me be. I’m enjoying the solitude on my hilltop.” I didn’t answer the voice from behind me.

“Miss. Please. Just step backwards a few steps. The wind up here can sweep you off the cliff with no effort at all.”

‘So what if it does. No one is going to miss me.’ Not those thoughts again. ‘Back up!’ But my feet wouldn’t move. I wanted to back up. I wanted to listen to the voice. “Please help me. My feet won’t move. Grab me, please!” I didn’t know where the panic was coming from. But suddenly I felt two large warm hands grab me around my waist and pull me back to from the edge.

My heart was racing. I was feeling dizzy. Happy for the fact that this person was helping to hold me up.

“Miss can you release my hands, please?”

I looked down and I was clasping the persons hands that were supporting me. I let go instantly and unwrapped the arms from around me. I stepped away, regretting it instantly as I felt my body collapsing.

The arms caught me. I saw a silhouette of a person above me, cradling me in their arms. The sun was so bright, that my head started spinning. The next second I was gone…

…

I woke up in a hospital room…? I was on one of those small metal beds. I wore stripped pink and blue starchy pajamas. There was a poking sensation on my hand, an IV. There was a constant beeping sound. But this was a very tiny room. Must have been an office at one point. Where was I?

“Ah. You are awake. How are you feeling, my dear?” An older man in a white coat came into the room. The doctor I presumed.

“I feel better. But where am I?”

The man chuckled, “glad you are feeling better. You are in a small little town of Bidder. It was the neighboring hill across from your hilltop. I must say you gave David quite a scare. He thought you were a jumper.”

‘Jumper? That was a weird word? Did he think I was some weirdo that jumps around on hilltops? Oh…jumper. Jump off. The edge. Suicidal.’ “I wasn’t. I was just enjoying the silence. That hilltop was the first real peace and quiet. I’ve never really experienced such silence. It was breath taking.”

“Good. That hilltop is actually known to be a hilltop for jumpers. They drive out here. Leave their belongings behind. Leap, thinking it will be their end. But sadly I’ve witnessed too many deaths hours later with the people being in such agony from starvation or dehydration. David will be happy to know that you were not there to end your life. Miss…what is your name?”

“Abigail. Abigail Wayne.”

The doctor looked at me for a minute longer. Then I saw the recognition in his eyes. “Miss Wayne. I knew I had seen your face before. But truth be told you are usually more put together than you are now. My granddaughter is a huge fan of your music.”

I didn’t mean to show panic but it must have shone.

“Don’t worry, my dear. I’ll instruct my granddaughter to keep your identity to herself. Only a handful of people will know who you are. You are lucky to have landed in our little town.”

“Sorry. I just wanted to escape life and have some peace. But being recognized will destroy my chances…” I attempted to climb out of bed but reality hit me back into my pillow. I was dizzy.

“Don’t worry. You are safe here in the hospital. And you can stay with my wife and I until you have fully recovered. But let’s call you just Abby for the time being. You can enjoy some quiet life with us until the world finds you again. For now I need you to lay back and relax. Your body was over exerted yesterday. Please sleep. How does that sound?”

I nodded. Because once my head hit the pillow again I was once again out. I would enjoy my silent life as long as these people would accept me.

…

“How is she today? Do you think she will be able to leave the hospital? People are starting to wonder who the woman from the ER is? Mostly because you’ve been keeping her under wraps.”

“I think you missed a word. They are wondering about the beautiful woman in the ER. You can’t deny that, look at her; she is stunning. But she wants to stay anonymous. So I must respect her wishes. She should be able to leave here today if her dizzy spells stop. You will be in charge of her once she is gone. Take her to the supermarket to get her the daily essentials. Then take her to my house; my wife will do the rest.”

“Why am I in charge of her? Isn’t she able to take care of herself? And why are you letting her stay with you? We do have hotels in town?”

“David. She wasn’t a jumper. Don’t hold her in that box; without knowing all the details. I assume her car died about two hours from the hilltop. She trek to that hilltop because she assumed that was closer to people than to return the way she came. But also she wanted to experience something truly amazing. She didn’t know what the hilltop represents. After the long grueling hike to the hilltop her legs probably became numb when you told her to back away. It happens to people who over exert themselves physically. You need to cut her some slack. This woman told me she just wanted some silence. How miserable can someone’s life be if they came all this way to just enjoy solitude and silence. Now I believe Miss Abby is awake and has been listening to our conversation. Telling me she is well enough to leave. I’ll go start the discharge papers. David, be polite.”

I peeked open one eye. The doctor had left. Instead, in front of me stood a man. He was once again backlit. I raised my hand to shadow the sun to see him better. He was a tall person, probably six-two or six-three. He looked strong. I could see that as a necessity if you wrangle jumpers. He looked to be my age, maybe a little older. As I was looking him over I caught his eye and he caught me checking him out. I felt flush and he smirked. “Hi. Sorry,” I sat up in bed and stretched my hand out to him, “my name is Abby. Nice to finally have a face to the voice that helped me.”

His eyes darted to mine. I could see him searching to see if there was something to tell him I was indeed a jumper. But relief filled his face; so he did believe I just got stuck.

‘Did I get stuck? Was I frozen in that spot at that moment?’ This still puzzled me. My answer was yes; my legs did indeed get stuck in that moment. Even though my life is not perfect; I know I want to still experience living. I want to try something new. If I had gone there to be a jumper I would have not seeked solitude and silence. I wouldn’t have wanted anything. That’s at least what makes sense.

David took my hand in his. His hand was so hot to the touch, but it felt nice. It was a warming feeling, not harmful. “Hi. I’m David. I’m glad you are feeling better.”

The silence was deafening. I wanted silence, but this was too quiet for my liking. “So, what is the plan for today?”

“No need for small talk. You already heard everything a moment ago. Once you are dressed and ready I’ll take you to the supermarket. I’ll step out of the room for you.” David exited the room.

‘Right. I did hear them. But at least he’s a gentleman.’ I climbed out of bed and started to get ready to leave the hospital.

I walked out the door and I felt exposed. I had no makeup on and my hair was so dirty and messy. I was in my clothes from before. They were clean, but my shirt had gotten torn up so my bra was exposed. My jeans were fine thankfully; so I used my backpack to cover my chest. ‘I’ll get a shirt when we go to the store.’ “Okay. I’m ready,” I looked to David. He didn’t say anything but his glance to my backpack made me grip the bag tighter.

David took off his flannel long sleeved shirt and handed it to me, “wear this; the tare is on your side as well.” He held the shirt out to me and turned his head away.

I glanced to my side and indeed you could see everything. My bra, my side, my back. I dropped my backpack and frantically put his shirt on. It was warm as well, it felt like a hug. He was hugging me. ‘No. What!? That’s not happening. Wow…’ “I’m covered. We can go now.”

David started walking to the exit.

I still felt exposed. What if someone saw me when we were out. I wouldn’t mind it if I was clean. I picked up my backpack and dropped my head down. But what happens when you walk with your head down, you run into things. David had suddenly stopped and I plowed into his back. “Aahgg! Sorry!” I backed away from him. Even though I wanted to stay closer to him. ‘What’s with me? I came here to escape people. I’ve never felt the need for someone before.’

David turned to look at me, but I still had my head down. I felt small, and wanted to disappear. Suddenly I felt a hat on my head. I adjusted it onto my head and turned to look up at David.

“I’m assuming you don’t want to be recognized. This will at least help you stay incognito.”

He was kind. Except for the medical staff that have been taking care of me, he was the first kind person I’ve met in a while. “Thank you,” I lifted my head up. David was looking at me.

“Keep your head up. Cowering will make you stand out more. Act like you belong and no one will notice.” David walked out the exit doors.

‘Act like I belong. I feel like that’s all I’m ever doing. I want to be accepted for who I truly am. Loved even.’ But I listen to David and lift my head up while I follow behind him.

No one noticed me at the supermarket. While wearing David’s shirt and hat I blended into everyone else. I was just me. It was refreshing to go to a place and not be hounded for pictures or signatures. However David is the town favorite in everyone’s eyes. Found out he’s four years older than me. Because an older woman, about sixty, asked if he was old enough to get married to her yet. He had leaned down and kissed her hand saying that he was merely a twenty-six year old man. It was an odd exchange, but he explained afterwards that she asked him that every time she saw him. She was missing her late husband.

Whenever someone would talk to David I would stand a couple paces away. I didn’t want to talk to anyone. Not because of my appearance, but since David was so popular I didn’t want to be thrown through a tornado of questions if I was recognized. Also then David didn’t have to try and introduce me; what would he say. I’m an acquaintance. A friend. A jumper. A celebrity. I didn’t want to be put on the spot. Instead, I was enjoying just following behind David and watching his life unfold in front of me. Not being the center of attention for once was refreshing.

David stopped the car in front of a cottage styled house. It looked like a house from a fairytale. “You good? This is the Doc’s house. His wife Olivia is waiting for you. Do you need help carrying your bags?”

I wasn’t listening. I was looking at my potential home for the next few days, weeks, months…however long I could stay. It looked charming. It seemed like that home that you would come to visit grandma. ‘If you had a grandma who wanted you. Stay positive!’ Where there was nothing but love. ‘What would that even feel like? Being wanted just for a hug. Nothing in return. Nothing demanded for raising me. No backstabbing for jealousy. I don’t know if I can be here!? They might not want me. Why would they? I’m a stranger. Maybe I should just leave?!’

“Hey,” David threw open my door, “you okay? You don’t look so good; should we go back to the hospital?” David started to dig out his phone.

I stopped his hand from searching; realizing I had intentionally touched him I pulled my hand back. “I’m good. Sorry. I’m just worried I’ll be an inconvenience to them. I’m wondering if I should just find a hotel.”

David just stared at me. “You’re not an inconvenience. Believe me Olivia is going to be so happy to have a guest. Howard works so much that she is often home alone. Their granddaughter is usually off with her club members doing gigs. So Olivia will be ecstatic. I thought you were frowning about the small simplicity of the home. Not something you celebrities are used to.”

‘So he did know who I was. But why did I not like hearing him call me a celebrity. I like it better when he calls me Abby.’ “No. I prefer the simplicity. Grandeur always comes with contingencies.” I grab my backpack and grocery bags and climb out of the car.

David grabbed the bags from me. He ushered me towards the door. “Go ahead. I’ll carry the stuff.”

I walked up to the door and knocked; but I didn’t realize how much that knock would change my life.

An older woman opened the door and pulled me into a warming hug, “Dear child, you are here! Welcome.”

…A few months later…

Well…I’ve been here almost three months and it’s been wonderful. The people here are amazing. A handful of teenagers did recognize me, but they agreed to stay quiet with some signed merchandise bribing. Not a bad deal. They said they would help me keep an eye on things, and let me know if I needed to hide away for a few days if fans were coming.

Olivia Chester was amazing. She was the most welcoming woman I have ever met. The first night I stayed in their home was the first time I had felt any true love in years. That she actually cared about me; no matter what I needed. I broke down and sobbed that night realizing that I was the one that ruined my life. Because always being the dutiful daughter, artist, role model, without a balanced life is a pointless life. Your life is for you, not the fill everyone else’s cup; your cup needs to be filled first so that you can share with others.

But yeah. This town was perfect. It was small enough for me to hide, but it was still large enough for me to explore my surroundings and make new acquaintances. Friends even. Mrs. Evelyn, a neighbor, has taught me how to bake pies. I’ve never had the time to learn anything new; that who knew I could make a mean apple pie. I burned the first few but she didn’t give up on me. And now I make pies occasionally for others.

Mr. Baxwell, is a “blacksmith” as he calls himself. But he does various craft. He does metal, wood, glass, clay, etc. he seems to be able to do everything under the sun. But he’s letting me decorate pieces. I’ll paint pottery, help with the glass blowing, stain woods. I’m not great at any of it, but I’m enjoying to learn the new skills.

Olivia’s granddaughter Chrisy has asked for my advice on some of her music for small gigs. I’m actually pretty good at this job, I have some experience in the music world. Haha! But she keeps my secret, even from her band mates. They are all huge fans.

David…he seems to be avoiding me. Like I’m not good people to associate with him. Which saddens me for two reasons, but grateful still. One, he is truly a great man. He is the most popular in town for good reasons. He helps everyone in town no matter the size of issue. Two…I’m totally falling in love with him. I had already fallen out of love with my previous boyfriend about six months before I found out he had cheated on me, but because of my life I couldn’t reveal my brake-up until my label said it was okay. That’s the big part of being celebrity that is the worst. Everything has to be moves and counter moves to stay on top. But for me I have been single almost eight months. But David would think it’s only been two months based on public knowledge. That would come off as too flippy-floppy; that he was my rebound. Which is not true! Because he would be my forever man if I could tell him my feelings.

I would be so happy; if he loved me back. But this comes to the reason I don’t act on my feelings. Because as I’ve said, David is super popular; so much that he has many admirers. And some are….frightening. Like they would probably track me down and put an end to my new life just so that I would have to leave and they could be David’s only possibility. So I stay silent.

Fans or admirers can be scary; I know because I’ve had my fair share. A few that still give me nightmares. I shuddered pushing those memories away.

So instead I’ve been filling my days up with crafts, baking, walks, talks, etc. Like now, I’m laying on my bed enjoying the fading sunshine, while just letting my mind wander.

“Abby dear, could you come here a moment?” Olivia calls from downstairs.

“Coming!” I scurried up from my bed to search for Olivia. This was a normal thing for me to do. I was told I was not allowed to pay for my stay; instead I was asked to help out whenever I was asked. I still help pay, but I just don’t tell them about the money; I’ve been hiding the money in various places. Watching Olivia find hidden money is a true joy. She acts like a child who found a rare treasure.

“Where are you?” I call out as I reached the bottom of the stairs.

“In here, daring,” Olivia calls from the kitchen.

As I step into the doorway I see a man standing at the island. His back is to me. ‘David?!’ No. I knew it wasn’t him, but that was my gut’s first reaction. David wouldn’t be here to see me. ‘I’m nobody to him…Positive!’ I perk up my attitude as I walk towards Olivia who is talking to the new stranger.

“There you are Honey,” Olivia comes around the island to me, “this is my godson Andrew.”

Andrew turns around and sticks his hand out to me. I accept the handshake out of curtsey, but I’m confused at what’s happening. Andrew was a couple inches taller than me. He was well put together. How he was holding himself, I would guess banker or doctor. Those professions just had an air about them. He was handsome, but my mind was just going through a list of why David was more handsome.

“Andrew is in town for tonight. I didn’t know if you two would like to spend some time together? Not as anything, but just so that you, Abby, could have a night out. I love you being here, but you should be out there,” Olivia waved her hand in the air, “around people your own age.”

I knew what she was meaning. That I should be socializing; not staying as a hermit. I’ve been a shut-in these last few months. I’ve just been enjoying the peace. Not socializing means I’ve been able to stay hidden. I didn’t want to leave this town, this home, this family. Howard and Olivia had become the parents I always wanted. I didn’t want to leave them. But I should still live. That’s why I escaped my life. To live.

“Would you like that, Miss Abby?” Andrew offered his hand once again, but this time it was an offer.

“Sure. But let me go change first.” If I was going to go out tonight, and if it would possibly be my last night to remain anonymous; then I’ll go out being a knockout. ‘Out with a bang! I don’t know why I said that…Olivia says that…then okay. I can say that!’

I didn’t go crazy with my outfit or makeup, but it must be drastically different than I have been, because people have been staring at me. I decided on a pair of fitted jeans, black halter top, jacket, boots. Maybe the difference is usually I’m rarely wearing any makeup and my hair is in a tight bun. But tonight I did some eye makeup and my hair is stunning. Like the magazine photographers would love me to do a photo shoot right now. I’ll admit, I did look good. But I didn’t do it for anyone other than myself. My confidence has been returning as I’ve stayed in this town.

Andrew and myself walk up to the only bar in town, but it had the best music, food, and atmosphere. Also another appeal for tonight was Chrisy was playing. I was excited to see her doing her thing live! I thought that since tonight was probably my last night left alone, I should support Chrisy in person once.

Walking through the doors, the place was already in full spin. The music was blaring. People were out on the floor dancing. Drinks were being consumed; heavily consumed. Maybe nobody would remember I was here tonight.

Andrew guided me to a booth, away from the stage. Which I was bummed about, but could understand because there were so many people over there.

I watch the dancing going on; I’ve never seen so much dancing in such a small space. It seems like people are all over each other. ‘Line dancing! That’s what it’s called!’ I had only ever seem line dancing when I did a duet with a country artist. I can now understand why he had been so frustrated with the dancers he was given for the music video. He got beginner line dancers; what he probably wanted was these professional level line dancers. It was truly fascinating to watch their boots hit all the steps in unison.

I didn’t mean to be ignoring Andrew; but I had no interest for him. He was just an ordinary man. Nothing wrong with ordinary, just not for me. And he seemed to have no idea of who I actually was, because all his topics were all financial banking or investments. Banker. I had been right. Instead I wanted to be in the action. I actually wanted to be surrounded by the sea of people. I wouldn’t have minded to be on stage in front of these people. Or even being seen for who I truly am. I stayed polite though; after all, he was Olivia’s godson. I didn’t want to insult Olivia’s kindness.

“Welcome ladies and gentlemen to this night at the Border Bar! I’m your host Mr. Ralphie! If anything is not up to par, then you can go find another place to be, because here at the Border Bar, we are happy with what we offer. Back to business, put your hands together for the Quad C’s!”

‘Chrisy was up!’ There was no way I was missing this. I scrambled out of the booth and went and stood at the back of the dance floor, catching glimpses of Chrisy and her band getting set up on stage. I was so proud! She looked so good with the guitar across her body. I missed that feeling. The feeling of doing something you love.

“Do you miss it?”

I looked to my left to see David on my side. He looked different. He was clean shaven, haircut, dark jeans with that same flannel from when we first met. He asked me something…’do I miss it? Right…? Do I miss it? Yeah. Yeah I do. Realizing that hiding wasn’t the answer. That to be someone accepted as my true self, I needed to actually be my true self.’ “Yeah. Realizing it right now, that I miss singing and performing.” I leaned closer to him. He smelled of cedar. He smell good. He smelled, ‘don’t go down that rabbit hole. No spiraling tonight. You look amazing. You feel amazing! Have an amazing night!’ I refocus back on Chrisy! The drums hit and they started. They were amazing! Especially Chrisy. I would totally be up to do a duet with her and her band. ‘That’s a thought!’ I was clapping along to the music, not caring about anything in the world.

“Can I have this dance,” David offered his hand to me.

“I…um,” confidence gone. I was not expecting that from David. But I wanted to dance with him, especially if tonight was my last night free. “Sure. Why not!” I took his hand in mine. I pulled him into the group of dancing and just stood there. You wouldn’t know, but I’ve never taken the initiative to dance with someone. I didn’t know how to start it. I could feel warmth creep into my cheeks.

David smirked, and pulled me to his chest. He placed my other hand on his shoulder, and his hand on the small of my back. I was so close to him. I wonder if he could hear or feel my heartbeat.

David pulled me slightly closer to him, “relax,” David whispered into my ear, “you look gorgeous tonight, by the way.”

I looked up into his face. He looked so handsome staring down at me. My heart was racing for a different reason. I wanted to kiss him. I never had this desire before. I was always the one who followed the pace of others, not me wanting to strive for more. My hand moved from his shoulder to his chest, I didn’t want to pounce on him, but I needed to test the waters first. I looked up at him and used my most pleading eyes. Not begging, but sweetly asking for him to kiss me. Hoping that, that was actually coming across.

David just stared at me. I could see his ears reddening. Also that smirk from before, was forming again.

I smiled at the sight of him.

“Oh Abby. You are one little trouble maker,” David breathed into my neck. He chuckled as he pulled back. His head was coming down towards mine…

“Do I see, Ms Abby Wayne in the house tonight?!” Mr. Ralphie called out over the speakers.

I lurched away from David just before our mouths met. I was exposed.

The spotlight found me in the crowd. I waved and greeted the light with smiles.

“Come on up to the stage Ms Wayne!”

I looked back at David, and his body language screamed disappointment, but he was smirking once again, nodding at me to accept my fate.

I turn back to the stage and walked forward. The crowds of people split before me. The whispers began. The finger pointing. The gasping. There was no more quiet life for me. Might as well do as Olivia says, ‘Out with a bang!’

Climbing the stairs of the stage I see Chrisy giddily bouncing excited about sharing the stage with me. I walk over to her and give her a hug. “You did so good! So proud of you!” After I released Chrisy more whispers erupted. Mouth gaping came from Chrisy’s band mates. She was going to have lots to tell after tonight.

“So Ms Wayne. Could we be honored with a song from you for tonight? What do you think folks?!”

The screaming started. The audience was pure chaos.

“Sure. No problem. But I’ll need some help. Quad C’s, you up for a duet?” I look to the band and still mouth gaping I also got lots of frantic head nodding. I walked over to them asking about song choices. They all knew my song, ‘Come And Get Me’, by heart so we agreed on that. I grabbed a spare guitar and I took my stance behind the microphone. It felt good to be back in my spot; doing what I know I love. The drummer called out, “One, two, three, four!” And we were off.

Several songs later I was finally getting a break. After not singing for so many months my lung capacity was pathetic. I was winded. But also the sudden change from being a nobody to being in the spotlight, literally, added some stress. I couldn’t just walk through the crowd anymore; security of the bar had to guide me through. Also, I could no longer just hide in the crowd. Which I was happy to be singing again, but I also wanted to have the luxury of being occasionally invisible.

I headed to the bathrooms. Looking in the mirror I saw a face I hadn’t seen in a long time. A happy face after a concert. Realizing I’ve not actually been happy performing for a long time. I dried the sweat and touched up my makeup and deodorant. Feeling fresh again I ventured back out.

Andrew stood in the way. “So. No wonder you had no interest in my conversations. You are a celebrity. Does my godmom know who you are? Of course she does; she said you’ve been here for a few months. Have you enjoyed your time of slumming? You could have told me who you were; it would have been polite. I wouldn’t have agreed to bring you if I had know. Celebrities are not someone I want in my life. Too much drama. Didn’t you just break up with your boyfriend!? Already looking for fresh meat,” Andrew gestured behind him, “like that guy you almost kissed out there. Did you even remember you were already on a date before you wanted to make-out with a different person?”

Everything he was saying was true and not true. But honestly, no. I didn’t think about him at all while I was with David. ‘David! Was he still here? I really wanted to talk to him.’ I tried to walk past Andrew. I didn’t really want to have this conversation with him. I would apologize to Olivia, but this ‘outing’ was officially over.

“No way am I letting you go. No. No. You are here with me, you’re going to stay that way. I don’t want anything from you, but maybe I’ll use your existence for some potential investments. You owe me that much. Especially with you almost kissing a rebound with,” Andrew didn’t get to finish his sentence because David had Andrew by the collar and smashing his face into the concert wall.

“Apologize! Now!” David loudly grumbled to Andrew.

Andrew attempted to nod his head, but decided against it has he rubbed his face against the wall, “sorry. Okay. Can you get your bodyguard off of me now?”

“David.”

David’s body relaxed slightly. He released Andrew’s collar and shoved him down the hallway. “Leave!” David pointed to the exit sign. Andrew exited through the door.

I sighed of relief. One nuisance gone. I looked at David. He still had his back to me. The almost kiss flashed in my mind. I’m truly sad that I lurched away from him. I wanted that kiss so much, and I still did. But I couldn’t just bring him into my world, he had to decide to be apart of it. My world was completely different than his. Even though I selfishly wanted to make him enter my world so that I could finish that kiss. ‘No. It has to be his choice. It’s a lot to take in.’

“Do you regret it?” David asked with his back still turned.

‘That’s a loaded question, if ever!’ But I need a clarification. Because he could be meaning anything. “David,” I grab his sleeve, “look at me?”

He didn’t move. I didn’t know if he would. My heart was cracking. But he did eventually turn. I could see the hurt. I wanted to hug him, but I needed to answer him first. “What are you asking me?”

David looked off to the side; he didn’t want to meet my eye, “Do you regret what almost happed on the dance floor? You jumped away from me when you were recognized. Am I really that embarrassing to be associated with?” David started to leave.

I latched onto his arm. He tried to pull away, so I hugged him from behind. I buried my face into his back. Our hearts were racing. I let my hands tighten at his waist. “No. I don’t regret it,” I felt him pulling away. I held on tighter, “No. Wait! I don’t regret removing myself from you in that moment, because you have to decide if you want to be fully apart of my life. I can’t force it onto you. Even though I really wanted to just stay and kiss you in front of everyone. But I don’t want to force you into my world. It chaotic. Full of rumors. Drama. Rude people. Etc. So yes. I regret not kissing you, because I desperately want to, but I’m happy I’m giving you a chance to decide whether you want this or not.” I released my hands from him. I drop my arms and step away from him. He’s in control now. If he walks out that door, then I’ll accept it. ‘I’m going to ball my eyes out, but I’ll accept it.’

It felt like forever waiting there. My heart was cracking more. I…

David took a step forward.

He was leaving!?…

He tuned around and quickly grabbed me, and pulled me to his chest. His hands, one on my back; the other in my hair, I felt him release me ever so slightly. He looked down at me and he placed his lips on mine. Our kiss went from sweet to passionately within seconds. But also within seconds David pulled his head away from me. The look in his eyes told me so much. That I was finally loved for just being me.

…Ending…

Well as you should have guessed it, I’m officially dating David now. And amazingly enough I’m still in the town of Bidder. Turns out I can have a singer career anywhere. I do a lot of different kinds of singing now. I do online concerts. I teach singing. I do small gigs here in town. I do world tour concerts. Anything is possible with a good team behind you.

But life didn’t really change after that night. Yes. My existence was known throughout the town, and my singing was posted on social media, but I didn’t let it phase me. I continued to learn to bake, paint pottery, glass blowing, etc. Which Mrs Evelyn and Mr Baxwell were happy, because they made bigger profits after realizing they could put my name on their products. I’m happy to help the people who helped me rediscover myself.

But David. David has been my rock through it all. He hasn’t changed much. He maybe gets a haircut more often. He’s a bit more presentable, but I’m totally for it because it makes him extra handsome! But he has taken everything with stride. He still kisses the hand of the older woman. He is still incredibly popular, I think more so than me. But I love him. I truly do. I’ve never loved anyone, the way I love him.

But tonight is a big night for me. I’m preforming at the Border Bar once again. But this time I’m singing my newest song called ‘Will You Come To My World?’ I wrote it for David.

“Hey babe,” David called out to me.

I turn to see David down on one knee, holding a bouquet of roses, in the middle of the makeshift dressing room. “David!?!” He brings up a little box, inside revealing a beautiful ring. I feel tears whelling up in my eyes.

“Abby, will you marry me?” David smiles that smirk that I love.

“Yes! Of course!” I lean down and kiss him. The ring and roses are nothing compared to the man I love. He kisses me back, and begins to chuckle between kisses. “Abby…kiss…Abby!” More kisses follow.

I finally pull back, he pulls me in for one more kiss and then finally pulls me back from him. He digs out the ring and puts it on my finger. Tears are swelling out of my eyes. Happy tears. My smile cracks into laughter. He holds me while perched on his knee and we laugh together.

…

“Please welcome, Ms Wayne to our stage once again!”

I walk out to the microphone. Back to my comfort place. I’m beaming. I’m doing what I love, and I’m going to spend the rest of my life with the one who loves me most. “Hello! I’m going to start off tonight with some exciting news! I’m engaged!” I show off my ring to the audience. The crowd erupts with clapping, cheering, and excitement. “I’m dedicating this song to the love of my life, David! He came into my world and gave my life meaning again. And lots of love! I love you, David!” And I start up song. Staring at David the entire time.

…The End…