The Beginning of a Dream

The theater was buzzing with energy, a vibrant mix of anticipation and nervousness that seemed to float in the air. Sack and I were sitting in the third row, holding the signs we had prepared for Olivia. Despite the mishap with the police and her dramatic monologue about how fate was conspiring against her, Olivia had arrived at the theater just in time. Now, as we waited behind the bright stage lights, my heart was pounding fiercely. I knew how much this meant to her.

Finally, the host announced her name. —Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Olivia Hart!

The lights dimmed for a moment before focusing directly on Olivia, who walked to the center of the stage with a confidence only she could possess. She wore an elegant yet modern black dress, and her hair cascaded in perfect waves over her shoulders. She looked ready to conquer the world.

The judges—Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel, and Sofía Vergara—were seated in front of her, watching her with curiosity. Olivia gave them a radiant smile before beginning to speak. —Hello, everyone —she said with her usual charisma—. My name is Olivia Hart, and today I want to share something very special with you all. Music has always been my refuge, my way of expressing myself when words aren't enough. So, I decided to bring you a unique performance, something that combines the classical with the modern because I firmly believe creativity has no limits.

Simon raised an eyebrow, intrigued. —And what exactly are you going to play? Something traditional or something completely new?

Olivia smiled, knowing she had the full attention of the audience and the judges. —It's a mix of both. I'm going to start with a classical piece, but then I'll improvise a modern version that includes elements of jazz and electronic music. I hope you enjoy the journey.

Heidi clapped excitedly. —That sounds interesting. I'm excited to see what you've prepared.

Olivia nodded and moved toward the piano, taking her place gracefully. Her fingers brushed the keys for a moment before she began. The first note resonated through the theater, deep and powerful, capturing everyone's attention. It was Clair de Lune , an iconic piece many knew, but Olivia played it as if it were hers. Each note flowed with an intensity that made it impossible to look away. When she reached the end of the classical section, she paused briefly before transforming the melody into something entirely different. The notes began to blend with electronic rhythms, creating an innovative fusion that left the audience in awe.

When she finished, there was absolute silence for a few seconds before the theater erupted in applause. The judges stood up, visibly impressed. —Wow! —exclaimed Sofía—. That was incredible. You have a unique talent, Olivia. You not only master the classical but also have the ability to reinvent it. I loved it.

Howie nodded enthusiastically. —I agree. It was like a musical journey I never wanted to end. Congratulations!

Heidi added: —Your creativity is inspiring. You really brought something fresh to the stage. I think you have a great future in this program.

Simon, always critical, smiled slightly. —I'm not a fan of artists who only seek attention, but you have something special. Your performance was genuine and technical at the same time. Well done.

Olivia smiled widely, giving an exaggerated bow. —Thank you all. This means so much to me.

After receiving the four positive votes needed to advance, Olivia left the stage with a triumphant smile. She found us almost immediately, running toward us as if she had just won an Olympic medal. —I did it! —she shouted, hugging both of us—. Did you hear that? I advanced! I'm officially a competitor on America's Got Talent !

Sack and I congratulated her warmly, though I couldn't help but feel a pang of concern. I knew what was coming next. —Congratulations, Olivia —I said, trying to sound excited—. You were absolutely amazing. But… what happens now?

Olivia looked at us with an expression of absolute determination. —Well, I'll have to leave Stanford for a few weeks. The program starts soon, and I need to be in Los Angeles for filming. But don't worry, I'll find a way to catch up on my studies later.

Sack frowned. —Leave Stanford? For how long exactly?

—A couple of months, maybe more —she replied without giving it much thought—. It depends on how far I advance in the program. But don't worry, I've already thought of everything. I can study online and ask my professors for help if necessary.

I tried to smile, though I knew this decision could impact her academic career. —I hope you're right, Olivia. We just want the best for you.

She hugged me again. —I know, guys. And I truly appreciate your support. This is something I have to do. I need to see how far I can go.

We didn't say anything else at that moment. We knew there was no way to stop her once she set her mind to something.

As Olivia packed her three giant suitcases to head to Los Angeles, Sack and I sat in the living room, watching her move around with her characteristic energy. Finally, I broke the silence. —Do you think it was a good idea for her to audition? —I asked, looking at Sack.

He sighed thoughtfully. —It's her decision, Lindsay. We've always known Olivia is someone who chases her dreams regardless of the consequences. We could try to convince her otherwise, but I doubt she'd change her mind.

I nodded slowly. —You're right. But I can't help worrying. You know how Olivia is. Once she commits to something, she gives it her all. What will happen to her studies if she advances too far in the program? She could miss entire months of classes.

Sack placed a hand on mine, comforting me. —I know. I'm worried too. But at the same time, we can't deny that this is important to her. Maybe this is her chance to truly shine. Besides, we can always help her catch up when she returns.

I smiled weakly. —I guess you're right. I just hope she doesn't regret it later.

At that moment, Olivia appeared in the living room, carrying one of her suitcases. She looked at us with a mischievous smile. —What are you two whispering about? Planning how you'll survive without me?

Sack laughed. —Something like that. Although it'll probably be quieter without your constant jokes.

Olivia pretended to be offended. —Hey! My jokes are what keep this place entertaining. Without me, you'd probably become boring and monotonous.

I shook my head, amused. —Maybe you're right. But promise me you won't forget about your studies while you're there.

Olivia placed a hand over her heart, feigning solemnity. —I promise. I'll do my best to keep the balance. But I also expect you to support me unconditionally, as you always have.

We stood up to say goodbye. Hugging her tightly, we wished her luck. —Remember, we're here for you, always —I said, feeling a lump in my throat.

—I know —she replied, her eyes shining—. And thank you for being the best friends anyone could ask for.

With that, she got into the car that would take her to the airport, leaving us alone at the entrance. As we watched the car drive away, Sack wrapped an arm around me. —She'll be fine —he murmured—. Olivia knows how to take care of herself. We just have to trust her.

I nodded, though I still felt that small shadow of worry. I knew that, no matter what happened, Olivia would always find a way to surprise us.