Beyond Applause
Main Characters:
Atlas Tadeo Estancio (Stage Name: Theo Amado)
Livana Selene Hernandez ("Lina")
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Narrator's POV
Atlas Tadeo Estancio, known as "Theo Amado," sat at a press conference table, surrounded by reporters and flashing cameras. Today marked the launch of his highly anticipated comeback album, and the room buzzed with excitement.
A reporter from the front row raised her hand and smiled brightly when called upon. "Theo, congratulations on your new album! Can you tell us what inspired this collection of songs?"
Theo returned her smile, adjusting the microphone slightly. "Thank you. This album is very personal to me. It's a reflection of my journey, both as an artist and as a person. Each song tells a story, and I hope it resonates with my fans on a deeper level."
Another reporter said, "The lead single has a very different vibe from your previous work. What influenced that change?"
Theo leaned back, thoughtful. "I've always believed in evolving as an artist. This time, I wanted to explore new sounds and themes. Life is full of changes, and I wanted this album to reflect that diversity and growth." As the questions continued, Theo's mind drifted momentarily to his past, the roots of his musical journey.
Flashback to Bohol Islands 16 Years Ago
Bohol Islands was where the sky kissed the ocean, and the Chocolate Hills stood as silent guardians over the lush landscapes. In this serene paradise, a young boy named Atlas Tadeo Estancio ran with the wind, his laughter a melody that harmonized with the whispering palm trees. At ten years old, Atlas was a bundle of energy and curiosity, constantly exploring his island home's sandy beaches and hidden caves.
The Estancio household was a small but cozy abode filled with warmth and love. The mornings were a symphony of clattering pots, sizzling pans, and the soft hum of the radio. Today was a special day, and the air was buzzing with excitement.
"Atlas, don't forget your lunch. You'll need all your energy for the talent show today," his mother called out from the kitchen, her voice carrying a mix of authority and affection.
Atlas rushed in, grabbing the neatly packed lunch from the table. "Thanks, Mom! I won't forget. I'm going to sing my heart out!" he said, his eyes sparkling with determination.
He quickly grabbed his bag, which his mother had packed with lunch and his shoes. Sitting beside his father on the sofa in the living room, he swiftly put on and tied his shoes.
His father, a man of few words but deep wisdom, gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "Remember, son, it's not about winning. It's about giving your best and enjoying the moment," he said, his voice calm and steady.
"Okay, Mom, Dad, I'm off now!" Atlas chirped with youthful enthusiasm. Stepping out the door, he spotted his grandmother sitting on the porch again. Rushing over, he hugged her tight and said goodbye before heading off.
As Atlas made his way to school, he strolled along a path flanked by towering mahogany trees, their leaves rustling gently in the morning breeze. The air was filled with the sweet aroma of blooming mango orchards nearby, mingling with the earthy scent of the surrounding rice fields. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting dappled patterns on the ground below. In the distance, the calm waters of the Bohol Sea shimmered under the clear blue sky. Atlas hummed his song softly, his voice harmonizing with the chirping of cicadas and the occasional rustle of palm fronds, all against the backdrop of Bohol's serene and lush landscape.
At school, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and suspense. The corridors were adorned with colorful posters announcing the annual talent show, each featuring different acts, from singing to dancing and even magic tricks. In the courtyard, a stage had been erected beneath fluttering banners bearing the school's emblem, bathed in the soft glow of string lights that crisscrossed overhead.
Rows of chairs were neatly arranged facing the stage, with students and teachers bustling about, putting the finishing touches on their performances. Laughter and snippets of conversation filled the air, blending with the occasional strumming of guitars or vocal warm-ups as performers rehearsed their acts. Atlas stood among his peers, heart pounding with nerves and excitement, eager to showcase his talent on this special day.
As he stood backstage, waiting for his turn, nerves began to creep in. He could hear the applause and cheers for the performers before him, and doubt started to cloud his mind. But then he remembered his grandmother's words from the previous night.
"Your voice is a gift, Atlas. It can bring joy, heal wounds, and inspire dreams. If singing is your passion, follow it. The world needs more beautiful voices," his grandmother had said, her eyes twinkling with pride.
With her words echoing in his mind, Atlas stepped onto the stage. The spotlight felt warm against his skin, and he took a deep breath. The first notes left his lips tentatively, but soon, his voice soared, filling the auditorium with a rich, melodious sound. The audience sat in rapt silence, mesmerized by the purity and power of his voice.
🎶Sikapin mo, pilitin mo, tibayan ang iyong puso
Tanging ikaw ang huhubog sa iyong bukas
Huwag mo sanang akalain, natutulog ba ang Diyos?
Ang buhay mo ay mayro'ng halaga sa kanya🎶
When he finished, there was a moment of stunned silence before the auditorium erupted in applause. Atlas stood there, basking in the recognition and admiration. At that moment, he realized the impact his voice could have, and a dream was born.
I will be a singer who brings joy and touches the heart of my listener. Atlas thought.
Later that evening, Atlas sat on the porch with his grandmother, sharing his excitement about the talent show. The stars twinkled above Bohol, casting a magical glow over the island.
"Grandma, I felt something today. When I was singing, it was like I was in another world. I want to do that forever," he confessed, his voice filled with wonder and determination.
His grandmother smiled, her wrinkles deepening with affection. "Then do it, Atlas. Follow your dreams. Let your voice be the light that guides you and others," she said, words filled with wisdom and encouragement.
As Atlas lay in bed that night, he made a silent vow. He would become a singer who could make people smile, just as he had done today. With a heart full of dreams and a voice ready to conquer, he knew his journey had only just begun.
End of Flashback
Back in the present, Theo smiled at the memory. "It was those early moments that shaped me. My family, especially my grandmother, who believed in me and pushed me to pursue my dreams," he said to the room of reporters, his voice filled with gratitude.
A persistent reporter at the back caught Theo's attention as his manager was wrapping things up. "Theo, if I may, one last question. Besides your family and friends, were there any other sources of inspiration for this album? Maybe a special someone in your life?" she asked in a curious and playful tone.
Theo's smile softened. "Absolutely," he replied, nodding thoughtfully. "The inspiration for this album comes from many places, but a significant part is understanding and cherishing important relationships. As for my love life," he paused, the room leaning in with expectation, "let's just say the songs speak for themselves."
After that last question, other reporters attempted to ask Theo more, but his manager signaled to wrap up the press conference. As his manager guided him away, He turned back to the room of reporters, offering a polite nod of gratitude.
"Thank you, everyone," Theo said warmly, his voice carrying across the room. "I appreciate your interest in the album. Until next time." With that, he followed his manager out of the venue, leaving the reporters buzzing with the promise of his forthcoming music.
As Theo left the stage, he couldn't help but think of the person who had influenced his heart and music more than anyone knew.
After the interview, Theo was escorted to his following schedule, a recording session for a music performance show promoting his new comeback album. Fans were waiting outside the venue, cheering and waving banners as his car pulled up.
"OMG! HE'S HERE!"
"THEOOO!"
"YOU'RE SO HANDSOME, THEOOO!" his fans simultaneously shouted.
He waved at his fans, a warm smile spreading across his face as he stepped out of the car and entered the building. The exterior buzz of excited fans and flashing cameras faded as he walked through the entrance, greeted by the controlled chaos of a bustling entertainment hub. Inside, the atmosphere shifted seamlessly from the crowd's clamor to the organized frenzy of a music show recording.
Passing through the corridors, Theo exchanged nods and greetings with fellow artists and staff, each absorbed in their preparations. Crew members scurried about, fine-tuning lighting setups and stage props while snippets of music and dance routines floated through the air. It was a symphony of controlled chaos, the building humming with anticipation and energy.
Finding his dressing room, Theo was immediately swept into the whirlwind of preparations. Stylists meticulously adjusted his outfit, ensuring every detail was perfect under the bright stage lights. Makeup artists worked deftly, enhancing his features while discussing last-minute touches to complement his performance. The room buzzed with purpose and dedication, a microcosm of the meticulous planning that went into each televised show.
Amidst the controlled chaos, Theo maintained a calm focus, mentally preparing himself for the stage. His heart raced with anticipation, fueled by the environment's energy and fans' anticipation. With his team's final nod of approval, he took a deep breath, ready to enter the spotlight and deliver a performance that would captivate his audience.
As Theo waited in his dressing room, he was joined by his juniors and fellow artists, each bustling with excitement over their upcoming performances. They exchanged words of encouragement and shared last-minute tips on stage presence and delivery. Amidst the camaraderie, Theo sensed the nervous energy that always preceded a live performance. Everyone was focused yet eager, their voices a blend of anticipation and confidence as they prepared to showcase their talents on stage.
"Theo, you look great!" one of his juniors said, grinning widely.
"Thanks. You guys, too," Theo replied, patting him on the shoulder.
"Good luck with your promotions."
After a while, his juniors said their goodbyes and left the room. Theo sank into a quiet moment of reflection, enjoying the serenity that settled in the wake of their departure. His thoughts wandered briefly to Lina and the possibility of her surprising him by appearing at his dressing room door. A soft creak of the door stirred him from his reverie, and for a quick moment, he imagined Lina stepping inside.
However, as the door opened again, it was Luciano Jadiel Tobias, known affectionately as Cian to his friends. He entered the room wearing his trademark casual smile and closed the door behind him.
"Hey, Theo," Cian greeted, his tone light but with a hint of curiosity, noticing Theo's pensive expression. "Deep in thought? How are things going?"
Theo chuckled softly, shaking off his momentary distraction. "Yeah, just gearing up for the show. Thanks for coming, Cian."
Cian nodded understandingly, taking a seat nearby. "Anytime, Theo. You know I'm always here to support you."
Theo smiled gratefully, appreciating Cian's reliable presence amidst the whirlwind of activity.
Cian had been with him through thick and thin, understanding Theo's struggles and triumphs better than anyone. They had trained together, sharing sleepless nights and grueling practice sessions. Cian had seen Theo at his lowest points, offering a shoulder to lean on when the pressure seemed unbearable. He was there to celebrate every milestone, every award, and every successful comeback. Their bond was forged in the fires of the industry, making Cian not just a friend but a brother in every sense of the word.
Cian nodded, settling comfortably into the chair nearby. "So, how are things... really? How is Atlas?" His voice was lower now, the question layered with meaning. He knew about Theo's situation with Lina and wanted to check in discreetly.
Theo's smile softened. "It's... complicated, as always," he said quietly. "But she's always in my thoughts. She's part of the inspiration behind this album."
Before they could continue, a staff member knocked on the door, signaling it was time for Theo's performance. "You're up in a few minutes, Theo," the staff informed.
Theo nodded, taking a deep breath. "Alright, time to get out there."
Cian gave him a reassuring pat on the back. "You'll do great, as always."
I just hope you're smiles are genuine and true, my friend. I'll always be here. Cian whispered to himself.
Theo gave a final nod, then walked out of the dressing room and made his way through the bustling corridors of the studio. He could hear the audience's distant hum of excitement and the hosts' echoing voices announcing the upcoming performances. The walls were lined with posters and screens displaying promotional images of the show's lineup.
As he approached the stage entrance, the energy in the air grew. The lights danced around, and the introduction music started, seamlessly blending with the hosts' voices booming over the speakers, filling the venue with anticipation and excitement.
"Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the sensational artist who needs no introduction, Theo Amado!"
The fans cheered as Theo walked onto the stage. He did a quick mic check, adjusting his earpiece while interacting with the audience.
"Thank you all for coming! Are you ready to have a good time?" he shouted, his voice echoing through the venue.
The crowd erupted in cheers, their excitement discernible. Theo smiled, feeling their energy fueling his own.
As the venue lights dimmed and the opening chords of his song filled the air, Theo took a deep breath and glanced at the crowd. The tension was confirmed, with fans eagerly awaiting his performance. Amidst the sea of faces, his eyes caught sight of someone familiar.
Near the edge of the stage stood a figure wearing a headset, busy coordinating with other staff members. Their movements were precise, and they exuded an air of quiet confidence. Just as he met their eyes, a spark of recognition flickered between them.
He was confused, wondering if he was just imagining things. He couldn't believe his eyes. A mix of joy and sadness surged through him when their eyes met. Along with this, bitter memories of the past he was trying to forget resurfaced.
At the same time, he wished that the familiar figure wouldn't disappear. He wanted to go and confirm, but he was already on stage, and the music was about to start in just a few minutes.
It was someone Theo knew well, the same eyes who saw through Atlas's facade and knew the person behind the stage persona. For a brief moment, their eyes met, and a rush of emotions surged through him. In that fleeting moment, time seemed to stand still. Steeling himself, Theo pushed his feelings aside.
Then, as the spotlight found him again, bathing him in its warm glow, memories of his first performance at ten years old in Bohol flooded back. The spotlight had felt just as warm back then, illuminating his budding talent and dreams.
With every note of his current performance, he poured his heart and soul into the song, the connection with that familiar figure lingering in his mind.
The song echoed through the venue. Theo couldn't help but wonder about the familiar figure he had glimpsed. Was it coincidence, or was fate weaving their paths together again?
Is it really her?
Is she okay now?
As the song's final notes faded into the air, Theo enjoyed the cheers and applause of his adoring fans. Yet, his gaze was drawn to the familiar figure slipping away from his sight, disappearing into the bustling crowd. Despite the euphoria of his flawless performance and the appreciation of his supporters, Theo's thoughts were consumed by the fleeting encounter.
He bid farewell to the audience and expressed his gratitude to the hardworking staff, all the while his mind racing with questions. With determination etched on his face, he swiftly maneuvered through the backstage maze, intent on catching up to the elusive figure who had captured his attention during his moment in the spotlight.
He quickly ran backstage to where he last saw the figure enter. Out of breath, he looked around every possible place they could have gone, but he couldn't find them. He checked each person wearing the same headset that he had seen them wearing.
But fate was playing tricks on him, and he couldn't spot them again. Many questions swirled in Theo's mind, but one lingered above the rest.
Will I see you again?
Lina?
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