Dusk & Dawn

Chapter 21

That morning, as I cooked breakfast and prepared for class, I couldn't help but sing the song on repeat. Each verse infusing me with an extra burst of energy.
"Are you serenading me out of my bedroom because you're so madly in love with me?" Lexi quipped, slipping on her shoes. Her short brown hair was gathered into a ponytail as she devoured the bacon and eggs I had prepared.

"While serenading you does have its appeal, I'll save that as a last resort," I chuckled, continuing to wash the dishes.
"I'm just getting some last-minute practice in for the assessment today."

"You sound absolutely remarkable, Quinnie. You have nothing to worry about. It's an easy A for sure," Lexi assured me, grabbing her keys. We exchanged words of gratitude as we headed out the door, and she launched into her morning rant about Zach.

"Music class is my first stop, lover girl. I'll catch up with you at lunch?" I held the door open for her.

"A lunch date it is, babe," she waved, rushing off to meet Zach.

As I entered the classroom, a vibrant buzz of activity surrounded me. Instinctively, I scanned the room for Mason, surprising myself with the realization. When did I start seeking out Mason's presence instead of avoiding him?

My phone buzzed in my jacket pocket, prompting me to retrieve it while juggling my stack of books. It was a message from Mason.

MASON: Front row, tinny. Loosen up, I can hear your gears churning from over here ;D

I glanced toward the front row, and there he was, watching me intently. He playfully waved his fingers in a girly manner to make me laugh, and I couldn't help but oblige. With some effort, I managed to navigate my way to the front row without dropping my books, considering it a positive start to this class, at least.

"You all set?" he asked as I settled into my seat.

"Yeah, I've got it down pat. I know it like the inside of my hand," I replied, pushing my gloved palm toward his face in a light-hearted gesture.

"I'd actually like to see the inside of your hand one day," he laughed, poking my palm.

"Maybe one day," I responded softly. As much as I wanted to bare my soul to him, I had grown fond of his company and didn't want to scare him away just yet. Was I seriously considering letting him into my personal bubble?

Before he could say anything further, the bell rang, and Mrs. Roberts called the class to attention.

"Today is the day for our beginning-of-the-year practical assessments. You will be assessed on precision of tone, precision of time signature, precision of lyrics, but also on your originality. Let us acknowledge the band who has graciously dedicated their time for this occasion." The room erupted with applause and cheers.

"First up, we have Mr. Ambrose and Ms. Eden. Would you kindly join us at the front?" Mrs. Roberts gestured theatrically across the room.

As we stepped onto the elevated platform, we informed the band which song we would be performing. The band members retrieved the sheet music from their books and positioned them for easy reading. The guitarist helped us find the starting note by strumming a few chords.

"Quinn, follow my lead. I want to try something," Mason whispered as the band finished setting up.

"Okay?" I replied, feeling a mix of confusion and anticipation. I decided to trust him, hoping he wouldn't do anything too outlandish.