Chapter 10: The Star and the Shadow

Friday – School Hall

I never wanted to join the competition. I had zero interest in performing, being on stage, or doing anything that involved people watching me. My plan for the year was simple: stay invisible, survive exams, and avoid unnecessary embarrassment.

But then, somehow, I ended up here.

The school hall was buzzing with excitement. Students were scattered everywhere—some practicing their lines, some fixing costumes, some just there for the drama. The annual Stage Talent Competition was a big deal. Every year, the best singers, actors, and performers competed for the top spot.

I wasn't one of them.

I was just a background character.

Literally.

I had been forced into this by my class teacher, who needed "volunteers" for a drama performance. My role? Stand in the back, look dramatic, and occasionally nod. It was the kind of role I was born to play—no lines, no pressure, no chance of messing up.

And that was when I saw her.

Nadirah.

Or, as I started calling her in my head—Nad.

She wasn't just another student in my class. She was the main character of this competition. The type of person you couldn't ignore, even if you tried.

She stood at the front of the stage, completely in her element, rehearsing her lines with confidence. Her voice carried through the hall, strong and clear. She wasn't nervous. She wasn't hesitating. She belonged up there.

And me? I was just there. Watching. Background character in real life, too.

Azri nudged me. "Bro. Close your mouth."

I blinked. "Huh?"

"You're staring."

I immediately looked away. "No, I'm not."

Rina smirked. "Yeah, you are."

Azri grinned. "First time seeing her?"

"No," I muttered. "We're in the same class."

Rina crossed her arms. "And yet, suddenly, you notice her now?"

I didn't answer.

Because, honestly? Yeah.

I had never really paid attention to her before. Sure, I knew she was smart. And talented. And kind of popular. But today? Seeing her on stage, completely in control, shining under the spotlight—something just clicked.

The rehearsal continued. I did my job—stood in the background, nodded when necessary. No one was paying attention to me, which was perfect.

Except for one moment.

Right before the scene ended, Nad turned slightly, her eyes scanning the group of us in the background. And for one brief second—just one—her gaze landed on me.

I froze.

Then, she smiled.

Not a big smile. Just a small, casual one. Probably nothing. Probably just polite. But still—

My heart did a whole gymnastics routine.

Azri saw the whole thing.

And of course, the moment we walked off stage, he had to say something.

"Ooooooh, Mana," he teased. "Did you see that? She looked at you, bro."

Rina joined in. "And you just stood there. Wow. Great move, Romeo."

I groaned. "I hate both of you."

They just laughed.

But me? I was still stuck in that moment.

Because for the first time in my life, I didn't mind being a background character.

As long as she was the protagonist.

—Mana, Feb 2017