Chapter 25: Stepping into the Unknown

Chapter 25: Stepping into the Unknown

The days leading up to Maya's departure and Liam's first live performance felt like a whirlwind. Each of them was preparing for something big, something that would push them out of their comfort zones in ways they never imagined.

Maya spent her afternoons packing and finalizing paperwork for the summer program. She was excited—thrilled, even—but the looming thought of being away from Liam for so long gnawed at her. Every time she folded a shirt or zipped up her suitcase, she wondered how different things would be when she came back.

Chloe tried to keep her distracted. "You're going to do amazing things, Maya. And besides, summer will fly by. You and Liam will be fine."

Maya smiled, but deep down, she wasn't so sure.

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Liam, meanwhile, was drowning in nerves. Ethan had convinced him to sign up for an open mic night at a small local café. The idea of playing in front of people—actual, breathing people, not just an online audience—was terrifying.

"It's just one song," Ethan reminded him as they set up his guitar in the café's dimly lit corner. "You've got this."

Liam swallowed hard as he looked at the small but attentive audience. Then, he saw her—Maya, sitting in the front row, her eyes locked onto his with unwavering support.

He took a deep breath and began to play.

At first, his fingers trembled over the strings, but as he sang, something shifted. The music carried him, just like it always had when he was alone in his room. But this time, he wasn't alone. As he reached the chorus, he met Maya's gaze again, and suddenly, the fear melted away.

When he finished, the café erupted into applause. Maya was the first to stand, clapping louder than anyone else.

Liam let out a breathless laugh, overwhelmed but exhilarated. He had done it. He had taken the leap.

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After the performance, Maya found him outside, his guitar case at his feet.

"You were incredible," she said, her voice filled with pride.

Liam shook his head, still in disbelief. "I can't believe I actually did that."

She took his hands in hers. "Believe it. Because this is just the beginning for you."

For a moment, they stood there, wrapped in their own little world. But the reality of Maya's departure loomed between them. Tomorrow, she would be gone.

"Promise me something," she whispered.

"Anything."

"Promise me we'll keep pushing ourselves. No matter what. Even if it's hard. Even if we're scared."

Liam brushed a strand of hair behind her ear. "I promise."

She smiled, though there was sadness in her eyes. "Then we've got nothing to worry about."

Neither of them said what they were truly thinking—that even with all the promises in the world, things were about to change. But for now, they held onto the moment, refusing to let go.

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To be continued…