*Amelia* I’m buzzing with adrenaline, still riding the high of the performance, when I hear Cory’s voice behind me. “You were amazing, darling.” I nearly jump out of my skin as he wraps his arms around me from behind in the backstage area. Spinning around, I land a light punch to his chest, annoyance bubbling up. “f**k, Cory! You scared the s**t out of me! What are you doing here? Didn’t we agree you’d stay at home?” My heart races… not just from the scare, but from the mix of relief and frustration. “Ouch, don’t hit me! It wasn’t my idea. Go hit Sean; he told me to come down here.” He flashes that innocent face of his, trying to play it off. I march straight over to Sean's dressing room, fueled by irritation and a hint of embarrassment. I rip the door open, ready to unleash my fury. “

