Mbali was mesmerized by the beauty of the school when they arrived.

“This school is huge.”Mbali said.

“Attention everyone.This is the school principal,Mrs Williams.Can all of you please go to the school hall,the event will start in 15 minutes.” The intercom said.

“Wow, I can’t believe you’ll be schooling here soon.I envy you.” Mpumi said.

“Hey, don’t count the chickens before they hatch.” Mbali said.

In the hall,they got seats and sat down.Soon a middle-aged woman came to stage.

“Good day students, parents, guardians and of course our last lovely guests.I am the school principal,Mrs Williiams.Its a great honour to have you here with us.We are here to witness young talent.Some of us here are not really good academically but that isn’t the end of the world.We at Rosebank Arts School believe in young talent and the success of arts in the younger generation.This scholarship is an opportunity for the under-privileged to come showcase their talent and maybe become an inspirer tomorrow.” Mrs Williams said.

The guests were introduced.

“Now this is how it’s going to work.All dance participants please follow Mr Nkosi here now.”Mrs Williams said.

People stood up and followed.

“Drama participants follow Ms Molapo.”

People followed.

“And lastly,music participants follow Mr Lincoln.”

“Good luck,Mbali.” Mpumi said to Mbali.

Mbali smiled a little and followed the group of people.

They were shown to a music room.The room had all kinds of music instruments and was huge.

“Ok students.I am Mr Lincoln as you have been told but I’d prefer if you would call me Alvin.Ok,you’ve got 15 minutes preparation time, competition starts at 12:30.You could use the other rooms to prepare if you want privacy but don’t get lost and be here by 12:30.Oh before I forget,roll call.” A middle-aged white man said.

The roll call was made and Mbali heaved a sigh of relief when her name was called.After they called her name she went to view the music instruments.

“Perfect, you’re all here and there’s no extras.Now get ready.” Alvin said and left.

Mbali didn’t feel like practising.As she was busy looking around,she saw a familiar figure not far from her.The person had his back on her and was looking out the window.Everyone had left the room and it was just the two of them.

‘Is that Andile?’ Mbali thought.

As if he heard her,he turned around and faced her.Their eyes locked and he walked to her with a smirk on his face.

“Mbali, right?” He asked her.

“You know my name?” Mbali asked surprised.

“Mpumi used to tell me about her quiet introverted friend Mbali.Is that a bad thing?” Andile said.

“As long as she told you good things.” Mbali said.

“Of course,she told me splendid things about you.So,you can sing?” Andile asked her.

Mbali rolled her eyes at him.

“Why else would I be here?” Mbali said folding her arms.

“Your attitude stinks.” Andile said making a funny face.

“So as your arrogancy.” Mbali said.

“Ouch.Sing for me.” Andile commanded walking closer to her.

Mbali looked down blushing hard.

“I asked you to sing,not blush.” Andile said smirking.

Mbali looked away with embarrassment She didn’t want him knowing the effect he has on her.

“I can’t sing for you.” Mbali said.

“Aargh, I forgot your shyness.I’ll sing then.” Andile said and started singing Eastside.

His voice sounded so amazing that Mbali couldn’t help but join him.

They stared at each other after singing.

“Your voice is just,wow.” Andile complimented her voice.

“Thanks.Yours too.” Mbali said blushing.