Chapter 64 Sacrifice

Chapter 64: Sacrifices

The familiar echo of rehearsals filled the school auditorium, but Anita stood in the shadows of the backstage curtains, clutching her script. She could see the cast running through a scene without her. Claire was filling in for her role, awkwardly delivering lines Anita had memorized weeks ago.

"Anita, this is the third rehearsal you've missed this week." Mr. Patterson, the play's director, walked up behind her, his clipboard in hand. His normally jovial demeanor was tempered with concern.

"I know," Anita said, her voice soft but resolute. "And... I need to step down from the lead."

The words tasted bitter, but they had to be said.

Mr. Patterson’s eyes widened. "Step down? Anita, you're the heart of this production. Is something going on? Family issues? Health?"

She hesitated, grasping for a believable excuse. "It’s... personal. I’m really sorry, but I can’t give it the focus it deserves right now."