Tabby’s stomach began to turn. She knew that everyone was looking directly at her and wondering just as she was—what is she doing up there? Tabby figured that Callie was nervous and wanted for her to be there with her—that was ok—she was her friend. The principal walked over to where the two girls stood on the left side of the stage. Tabby felt the spotlight warming her skin, and the nervousness she’d felt eased as the faces in the crowd faded to black. “Congratulations, Callie,” Tabby whispered as the principal placed a glistening crown on top of her silky blonde hair. Callie smiled and quickly stepped forward. “I’d like to say something if you don’t mind,” Callie said into the microphone at the front of the stage. It sounded as if a radio blasting with loud music had just been turned off as the crowd fell completely silent. Tabby smiled; it didn’t surprise her that Callie wanted to thank the students for voting for her.
Callie walked over to where she stood. “Here you go, Tabby. You deserve this more than I do.” Callie gently untangled the crown from her waves and placed it on top of Tabby’s kinky, dark, pulled-back head of hair. “But, Callie, I don’t know what to say.” “Don’t say anything.” Callie smiled, “You are truly beautiful and it’s about time you realize that. I want you to, and God wants you to.” Tabby could hardly see through the tears, hardly cry through the laughter. Yes. Beautiful. Callie said so.
FICTION
“I’d like to give this crown to the queen who truly deserves it. The girl that has overcome more obstacles in her shor t life that most of us ever will.” Callie shouted into the microphone, “Everyone please give it up for Tabby Brown!” and Tabby stood in shock. She felt as if she were someone for once in her life. It had finally happened. A stream of tears reluctantly fell from her eyes.
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