isn't it? [taylor swift]

chapter 41

Taylor and Leia sat side by side in the front row, their sequinned dresses catching the light and sending tiny rainbows dancing across their skin. Georgie, seated next to Leia, fidgeted with the hem of her designer dress, still not quite used to the weight of so many eyes upon her.

Riven had let Leia know that the seating arrangements had them sitting in the front row - because of Taylor, of course - having been given the heads up by the event organisers that they would be sitting the friends next to each other. He got it, he knew that the fans loved seeing Leia and Taylor interactions and since Taylor was getting the award for best tour, it made sense to have one of the opening acts front and centre as she accepted that award.

Tree leaned in from Taylor's other side, her voice barely audible over the din of the crowd.

 "Remember, you're both on camera constantly. Every smile, every whisper, every glance will be scrutinised," she murmured, covering her mouth so that the cameras couldn't pick up the movement of her lips. "Georgie - that means you too."

Georgie nodded, knowing that she'd already stuck her foot in it a few times on the carpet prior to entering and taking their seats. She'd slipped up and mentioning listening to Taylor and Leia sing each other unreleased songs, which in turn would likely cause articles about new music coming for both of them. 

Tree hadn't been too upset since they were already teasing a departure from the reputation era, but Riven hadn't been overly pleased and told her she'd be getting more media training soon.

As the host took the stage once more, Leia's eyes couldn't help but scan the crowd, searching for a face she both hoped and dreaded to see. Dylan's unexpected addition to the guest list had cast a shadow over what should have been a night of celebration. She felt Taylor's hand briefly squeeze hers, a silent gesture of support that spoke volumes.

She hadn't seen him on the carpet or inside, so she'd almost hoped Riven had been wrong until she had caught Georgie looking up his instagram from the corner of her eye. Seemed her little sister was just as uncomfortable about the idea as the rest of them.

The air in the theater crackled with anticipation as the host announced the next award category - best tour. Leia could feel the tension radiating from Taylor, even though Tree had informed her already that it was coming. She leaned in close, her lips barely moving as she whispered, "You've got this."

Taylor's smile softened for a moment, genuine gratitude replacing the polished facade.

The theater erupted in cheers, the sound washing over them like a tidal wave. Taylor's face lit up with genuine joy and surprise, even though they had all known she was the frontrunner. As Taylor pulled her into a hug after turning and hugging Tree, Leia caught a glimpse of a familiar face over her shoulder who was standing in her peripheral vision. Her breath caught in her throat, seeing him clapping along with the crowd but eyes fixed firmly on their group.

Everyone else was blissfully unaware as Taylor headed up to the stage, the smile on her face causing Leia to momentarily forget where they were and look at her with such love in her eyes that she knew the camera pointed in their direction was going to be lapping it up.

Taylor bounded up the steps to the stage, her pink-tipped ponytail swinging behind her. The spotlights caught the sequins on her dress, making her shimmer like a human disco ball. As she reached the microphone, her eyes swept across the audience, lingering for a moment on Leia's beaming face.

As Taylor started her speech, Leia felt a prickle of unease. She could sense Dylan's gaze boring into her, even from across the room. She resisted the urge to turn and look, instead focusing on Taylor's words, the way her hands moved expressively as she spoke, the slight quiver in her voice when she mentioned her family.