Leila nods enthusiastically and starts mumbling, “Between us, we could do it… we have the resources… we can change the song…”
“And steal Tiffany’s big finale,” Declan finishes.
“That’s what’s gonna hurt her the most.” Cookie nods in agreement. “What do you think, Ash? Will you do it?”
“Let me get this straight,” I say, needing to check I’ve heard them right. “You want me to commandeer the final show by singing something totally different to what we’ve rehearsed and go against everything McCallister has said?”
“Essentially, yeah,” she says, “we’ve followed their rules for too long. Your dad and Brick were right earlier, this is your big break. It’s your chance to show everyone what kind of artist you really are.”
“It’s fucking crazy,” I murmur. Even when my brain isn’t fuzzy, this would be a tall ask for anyone. “What would I even sing?”
“A song you know really well,” Cookie says, “one that would merge well with the existing song.”
“I’ve got it!” Declan slaps his knee. “Bring Me To Lifeby Evanescence, duh!”
It’s an emo classic, likeThe Black Parade.
“It’s not exactly the Basilisks,” I say slowly, “but I like it.”
“And it’s mainstream enough that others will know it too,” Leila says. “Plus, it’s fitting, isn’t it? Tiffany wanted to get rid of you. What perfect way to make a comeback?”
“I don’t know how we’ll pull it off,” I murmur.
“You don’t have to do anything,” Cookie says, “We can make it happen. Leave the logistics to me. All you gotta do is show up on that stage and perform.”
“What about the dress rehearsal?” I ask. “The one for family and industry professionals?”
“You miss it,” Leila declares.
“I miss it?” My jaw drops. “Are you insane?”
“You want to make an impact, right?” Leila says. “Tiffany will think she’s won, and no one will see it coming when you show up for the live show. Plus, all the industry experts will be watching it too.”
“I know it’s a mad idea.” Cookie rests her hand on my arm. “You don’t have to do it, if you’re not up to it.”
“No,” I say. My mind’s already made up. “I’ll do it.”
What do I have to lose? Camp is finishing. Everyone already thinks I’m a metalhead from the video with the Basilisks. I’m done following Jacqueline and McCallister’s orders. I’m my own fucking person, and even if I blow any chances of a future career by doing this, at least I’ll have been true to myself. I’ve never let anyone pull shit on me before, why should I start now? I’m taking control back, standing up to the bullies, and doing what my mom would have wanted… being the real me.
For the first time, I’m starting to feel excited about the show.
“We’ll have to get to work,” Cookie says. She thrusts her phone into my hands. “We’ll keep in touch this way. Remember, all you gotta do is show up at the right moment.”
“What should I wear?” I ask, remembering the other performers will be styled by industry professionals and look flawless in professional makeup.
“Whatever the fuck you want!” Leila winks. “This is your moment.”
fifty-three
Venom
“Where is Video Girl?” McCallister paces through the dressing room and chaos unfurling backstage. “Where is she?”
Guests are starting to file into the rows out front, and performers are getting ready to go out, but Ash is missing.
Cookie appears out of nowhere, breathless like she’s ran a marathon. “Ash can’t make it, McCallister. She’s… too sick.”
McCallister swears under his breath, an angry flush creeps up his beefy neck. He doesn’t like pressure, especially last-minute change of plans. His discomfort would be enjoyable to watch if it weren’t at Ash’s expense.