Chapter XXIV
April 3, 2023
William walked down the middle school auditorium toward the stage. Kids shouted
lines, rehearsing a version of The NeverEnding Story the middle school was putting
on. William wouldn’t have volunteered. His son had accidentally checked a box
saying a parent would help with the set. William regretted not reviewing the form
more closely.
Samuel and Willow’s son were cast in the lead roles. Willow had volunteered
intentionally. William didn’t know where she found the time. She worked full-time,
had three kids, and they were all involved in nearly every sport in town. He felt
lazy in comparison. Helping with a play he hadn’t even signed up for left him
feeling overwhelmed.
William had planned to drop off his son and go to the store during the rehearsal.
On the drive over, Sam mentioned that they expected him to help. Even though he
worked from home, William still dressed in business casual. He told his son he
needed to go home to change.
The choir started singing the theme song from the movie. They weren't doing a good
job and couldn't hit most of the notes. William cringed.
He walked up to the stage and didn’t know how to get backstage. There wasn't a door
on either side of the stage. He climbed up onto the stage. It took two tries. The