Vespera
Thecallbacklistisposted at exactly 9 AM, just like Corvus predicted.
I'm there at 8:55, coffee in hand, trying to look casual while my stomach does gymnastics. Around me, other students cluster in nervous groups, all of us pretending we're not desperately hoping to see our names.
When Professor De Scarzis finally emerges and pins the list to the board, there's a collective surge forward.
I hang back, letting the crowd thin. I already know I made callbacks—felt it in my bones during the audition, that electric certainty that comes from nailing a performance. But seeing it confirmed in print is different.
The crowd disperses, some celebrating, others trudging away disappointed. I step forward.
HEDDA GABLER - CALLBACKS
Hedda Tesman:
Vespera Levine
Eilert Løvborg:
Ben Rosen
My name is first on the list. First. Not called back, but listed as the frontrunner.
"Congratulations."
I turn to find someone beside me, grinning. "You too. Though we both know you're getting Hedda."
"You don't know that."
"Please. You made De Scarzis actually stop writing notes during your audition. That's unheard of." She nudges my shoulder. "The rest of us are here to make you look good by comparison."
"Don't sell yourself short."
"I'm not. I'm being realistic." She checks her phone. "Callbacks are tomorrow at four. Think you can handle an entire day of anxiety?"
"I've handled worse."
The words come out more bitter than I intended. Maya gives me a curious look but doesn't push.
"Want to grab breakfast?" she asks instead. "I need carbs to process my feelings."
"Can't. I promised my dad I'd call him this morning." I haven't talked to him since we got back to campus. Haven't had the courage to explain... everything. "Rain check?"
"Sure. Good luck with the parental chat." She waves and disappears into the theater building.
I stand there for another stretch, staring at my name on the list, feeling the weight of what it means. This role could define my career. Could prove I belong here despite everything.
Could also put me in direct proximity with Ben for the next six weeks, which will be its own special torture.
But underneath the audition anxiety, something else pulls. A wrongness I've been feeling since yesterday. Through the bonds—Dorian's distress, sharp and present despite his obvious attempts to shield it.
