A Gentle Tap

My grip tightened slightly around the handle in my right hand. That was not just plastic holding still anymore—I could actually feel the solid, smooth contour of the microphone. Curious, I lifted my open left hand and lightly tapped the mesh head against my palm. A crisp, quiet click resonated in the quiet air. I paused, taking in the gray floor steady beneath my boots and the deep blue stage pattern resting behind me. A bright warmth hummed through me. I was truly standing on my own, ready to hear what comes next.