114 Staged? (1/2)

While looking at the stage Theodore felt a tug on his sleeve. Looking down be saw Chloe pointing at the dollhouse and said ”Umm Big brother can you win that”

Giving a hard nod and a smile he replied: ”Of course!”

Theo wanted to wait and let others try first as he was confident that he would win immediately, just for his looks and of course perfect voice. After about 10 contestants attempted a young man with a warm sunny smile stepped on to the stage.

Standing behind the microphone he introduced himself ”Hello I'm Justin Hughes, I'm 23 years old. I just hope this moment can change my life. I'll be singing One Call Away”

Pulling out his guitar he began to play a slightly more upbeat version of the song. To Theo's surprise, it didn't sound half bad he was still considered just above the average amateur as he lacked proper vocal control. In the end, the host got on the stage and had the crowd cheer again so that the machine can give a score for how much the crowd liked his performance.

He sat at the top of the leaderboard as he appeared to be well prepared and have some form of practice.

After him, a young teenager girl stepped up onto the stage. Even though she was young she appeared to be homeless as her clothes were mostly made up of of a baggy hoody and loose joggers that had holes and stains. Her hands, face and hair was unkempt and showed signs of being under the weather.

When she stood on the stage the crowd went quiet. The staff in the back begun to discuss what to do before agreeing that it would make good publicity.

The girl on the stage shook before saying ”Umm My name is Mary I'm 16 years old and I'll be singing Lean On Me by Bill Withers”

With her hood up she had her head down taking a minute to breath before her voice and story was finally heard.

(•Song: Lean On Me - Artist: Bill Withers

Producer: Bill Withers -Songwriters: Bill Withers)

Sometimes in our lives we all have pain

We all have sorrow

But if we are wise

We know that there's always tomorrow

Lean on me, when you're not strong

And I'll be your friend

I'll help you carry on

For it won't be long

'Til I'm gonna need

Somebody to lean on

Please swallow your pride

If I have things you need to borrow

For no one can fill those of your needs

That you won't let show

The frail girl's voice resounded throughout the area with every passing person stopping for a moment to listen. Her voice was rough and scratchy giving it a sense of soul and power. From her voice, you could hear a story filled with pain and hope.

As she continued to sing the crowd unconsciously began to sway to the music while singing along. At the end of the song, she wiped her tears and said ”Thank you for listening”

The host stepped and had the audience cheer once again. However, to everyone's surprise, her score was somehow lower than Justin.

”Huh?!” Said, Everyone