"Yes, ma'am."
The teacher set down her papers and really looked at Sarah for the first time in months. Sarah saw doubt flash across Mrs. Henderson's face, followed by what looked like pity.
"Well, Sarah, I appreciate your enthusiasm, but the spring recital is our showcase event. Parents come from all over town. The school board attends. We need our performers to represent the music program at its very best."
"I understand," Sarah said. "But I'd like to try."
Mrs. Henderson sighed. "The audition pieces are quite challenging. I'm not sure you're ready for that level of difficulty."
"What if I just try? If I'm not good enough, then I won't make it. But couldn't I at least audition?"
The teacher looked at Sarah for a long moment. Maybe she saw something in the girl's eyes that she hadn't noticed before, or maybe she just didn't want to seem mean by saying no outright.
"All right," Mrs. Henderson said finally. "I suppose everyone deserves a chance. Come back after school today and I'll give you your audition piece."
Sarah's heart jumped with excitement. "Thank you, Mrs. Henderson. Thank you so much."
She spent the rest of the day in a daze. During math class, she drew musical notes in her notebook margins. During history class, she imagined herself on stage playing for a real audience. During science class, she wondered what song Mrs. Henderson would choose for her.
After school, Sarah practically ran to the music room. Mrs. Henderson was waiting with a folder of sheet music.