The spotlight was dazzling, but I didn’t flinch.
I won’t lie and pretend I was nervous — not when I already knew the first position would be handed to me on a silver platter.
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXKyw9dLr3e
I read the poem aloud in a robotic, monotone voice. Deliberate. Controlled.
When I finished, the audience clapped. A few others recited. The usual pattern.
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡynL57rGCuA
“And the first position goes to... Elise Horroway!”
I smiled perfectly as I accepted my medal.
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8yhp2FZtJ5
Later, I met up with Elizabeth.
“Don’t take this the wrong way,” she said, “but I liked your last recitation better.”
I shrugged. “Guess I just met their expectations, that’s all.”
“Maybe.”
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW026U2ZVLx
But there was no maybe in it.
I won because I was perfect.
ns216.73.216.134da2
and then Add to home screen.