Chapter 16: Stepping into the Spotlight

The next few days flew by, and Mirei had become incredibly busy, dedicating all her free time to practicing her dance and singing skills for the upcoming audition. Kaede, while supportive on the outside, couldn't shake the feeling of unease. Every time she saw Mirei pushing herself, it reminded her of the trajectory Mirei's life had taken in the other world. Despite that, Kaede made a decision—she would join the audition too. She realized that by staying close to Mirei, she could offer her unwavering support, something she felt Mirei might need, also to prevent same destiny to Mirei again.

One evening, Kaede found the perfect moment to break the news.

"I'm going to join the audition with you," Kaede said casually as they walked home from school together.

Mirei's face lit up immediately, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "Really?! That's awesome! Can you imagine us debuting together? How cool would that be? We'd be an unstoppable duo!" she exclaimed, her playful personality coming through as she hopped excitedly beside Kaede.

Kaede, calm and collected as usual, smiled softly. "I just thought... it'd be nice to stick together. Plus, someone has to keep an eye on you."

"Or maybe I'll be the one looking after you!" Mirei teased, flashing Kaede a mischievous grin.

Though Kaede felt shy about the idea of performing on stage, she couldn't help but smile at the thought of being alongside Mirei, their bond growing even stronger. Mirei's excitement was contagious, and while Kaede was nervous about dancing, Mirei's confidence made her feel like they could tackle anything together.

With the decision made, Kaede quit her part-time job at the café to dedicate more time to practicing for the audition. Mirei suggested that they practice basic dance moves together, as it was Kaede's weaker area. Singing had always come more naturally to her, but dancing was a different story.

Their practice sessions became more intense as the audition day approached. At first, Kaede's movements were stiff and awkward. Her body didn't flow with the music, and she constantly stumbled over her feet. But despite her initial struggle, Mirei never made fun of her. Instead, she patiently guided Kaede through every step, using her experience to help Kaede build confidence.

"Relax your shoulders," Mirei would say, gently adjusting Kaede's posture. "It's all about feeling the rhythm. Don't think too much, just let your body move to the beat."

With Mirei's encouraging words and careful teaching, Kaede slowly but surely improved. By the end of their practices, her moves didn't look as awkward anymore, and her confidence grew each day. Kaede still wasn't perfect, but Mirei's support had made all the difference.

The day before the audition, they decided to take a break from practicing and go shopping for outfits. It had been a while since they'd gone out together for fun, and both girls were excited to spend the day away from the stress of rehearsals. They headed to a nearby department store, their spirits high.

As they walked through the racks of clothing, Mirei immediately took the lead in helping Kaede pick out a cool outfit that would suit her calm and collected personality. Mirei's eye for fashion was undeniable, and she found pieces that Kaede would never have considered for herself.

"Try this on!" Mirei chirped, holding up a sleek black jacket and a stylish pair of jeans. "It's totally your vibe—cool and effortlessly chic."

Kaede raised an eyebrow, but took the clothes and headed to the changing room. When she stepped out, Mirei's eyes widened in approval. "See? I knew it! You look awesome!" she said, giving Kaede a thumbs-up.

Kaede, though shy, couldn't help but feel more confident under Mirei's enthusiastic praise. "Thanks... it does feel comfortable," she admitted, glancing at herself in the mirror.

"Comfort is important, but style too! Trust me, you'll blow everyone away tomorrow," Mirei winked playfully.

Next, it was Mirei's turn to try on her outfits. Every time she emerged from the dressing room, Kaede's heart would skip a beat. Mirei looked stunning in everything she tried on—whether it was a cute sundress, a trendy skirt, or a sporty outfit. Kaede knew Mirei had a natural charm, but seeing her up close like this made her realize how effortlessly beautiful she was.

"You like this one?" Mirei asked, twirling in front of Kaede in a vibrant outfit that perfectly matched her energetic personality.

Kaede, feeling her cheeks warm slightly, nodded. "You look... really good," she said quietly, her voice almost a whisper.

Mirei beamed at her. "Thanks! But I want you to tell me what you really think, not just agree with me!" she teased, sticking out her tongue.

After their shopping spree, the next stop was the salon. Mirei insisted that they both get their hair done for the audition, wanting them to look their best. Kaede wasn't used to getting her hair styled, but Mirei helped her pick a look that suited her natural appearance. The entire time, Kaede felt grateful for Mirei's attention and support.

As they walked home together later that evening, Mirei casually reached for Kaede's hand. "You know, I've been thinking," Mirei said softly, her voice carrying a gentleness that made Kaede's heart race. "Thank you for deciding to join the audition with me. When you said you were coming, honestly I felt a lot less nervous. It means a lot."

Kaede, her face turning a little red, nodded. "Glad that I help...I just want to be there for you," she murmured.

Mirei chuckled softly, squeezing Kaede's hand. "Doesn't this feel like a date?" she teased, glancing over at Kaede with a playful grin.

Kaede's face heated up even more, and she tried to stammer out a response, but Mirei's laughter cut through the awkwardness. "Relax! I'm just kidding," Mirei said, still laughing. "But seriously, I'm really glad we're doing this together."

They walked the rest of the way home in comfortable silence, both of them praying for the best outcome tomorrow.

As they reached their homes, they exchanged smiles. "See you tomorrow," Mirei said, giving Kaede a light wave.

"Yeah... tomorrow," Kaede echoed, watching Mirei disappear into her house.

The audition was looming, but as long as they had each other, Kaede felt like they could face anything.