Nina felt nervous this morning. She couldn't believe that she decided to tryout for a talent show. She loved to sing but she disliked singing in front of other people.
Taking a deep breath, she pushed open the door of the theater and went inside.
The room was filled with laughing children. Nina saw Luz, James and others from her class. The bright, sunny room left her no place to hide. A few teachers sat on chairs. They waited for the children to become quiet.
"Hi, Nina!" Luz called out. "I didn't think you would tryout. You are so timid(胆怯的) in front of people. "
"That's not true, " Nina said. "I'm not shy at all. "
"Yeah, right, " Luz chuckled(轻声地笑) and ran off to find a seat.
One by one the students got up on the stage(舞台) and did their acts.
"Nina Martinez!" a voice called out. It was Mrs. Brent, the music teacher. Nina rose from her chair. She felt small as she walked to the huge, empty stage. Her face was hot and her shaking hands were as cold as ice.
"I-I-" Nina began, and then stopped. "I can't, " she said softly.
"Close your eyes, " said Mrs. Brent gently. "Forget about everyone else. Just sing. "
Nina felt silly, but she gave it a try. She closed her eyes and raised her voice and sang out. Her hands stopped shaking.
The song was so nice that everybody enjoyed it.
Nina heard Mrs. Brent clap (鼓掌) loudly at the end of her song. "That's the first time I have really heard your voice, " she said. "You are in the show!"
Nina let out a big sigh(叹息) and smiled happily.
