The Act Must Go On
Patio door closes behind Noah. Inside, the tension hangs heavy. Mr. Calloway adjusts his cuffs and turns back to the guests with a flawless smile
Mr. Grayson Calloway
(to the room) Teenagers. You know how it is. Always dramatic
Polite laughter bubbles through the room, tension smoothed over like a wrinkle. Jayden watches silently, jaw tight
Mr. Grayson Calloway
(To Jayden, quietly) Pull it together. The speech is next
Jayden
(nods, eyes still on the patio) Right
Back garden. Avery finds Noah pacing near the side gate
Avery
Hey. Breathe. You did what everyone else is too scared to do
Noah
(voice shaky) He doesn’t even see me. He sees a crack in the glass and wants to wipe it away
Avery
He’s blind. But I’m not. And neither is Jayden
Noah
(sits on the edge of the stone bench, rubbing his hands) Jayden’s good at playing their game. I’m just tired.
Avery
Avery sits beside him, gently rubbing his shoulder
Avery
Then rest. Just for tonight. I’ve got you.
Inside, the mic is handed to Jayden. He steps up to the stage, room falling into an expectant hush. His father watches from the back, expression unreadable
Jayden
(Into the mic)
Good evening, everyone. I’d say I’m honored to speak tonight, but to be honest… I’m just hoping not to trip over my words
Laughter. He continues, smooth, practiced. But his voice falters slightly as he glances toward the glass doors where Noah disappeared.
Jayden
And while this family stands for strength, elegance and excellence, I think what makes us truly strong is knowing when to listen. And who we're listening for.
The crowd applauds, polite and impressed. Mr. Calloway claps, but his smile doesn’t reach his eyes
Later. Jayden finds Noah still outside, sitting quietly beside Avery
Noah
(glancing up) You killed it?
Jayden
(sits beside him) I faked it like a pro
Noah
(Softly) Thanks for not throwing me under
A quiet moment. Real. Rare
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