DORIS
I shook with stage fright. It was more anxiety than I should have. My mouth felt as dry as the desert.
Being socially awkward by nature, the idea of singing in front of such a crowded club seemed unthinkable.
I forced myself to sing as the band started playing, but the sound that came out made me grimace with self-awareness. Even though I was anxious, I was aware that I was off-key.
The audience's response was immediate and ruthless.
“Boo! Boo!” A chorus of disapproving jeers and boos pierced through the air like sharpened arrows.
“Get off the stage, lady! You can’t sing!” It was a dagger to my already fragile confidence, threatening to shatter the little resolve I had left.
No, Doris, I told myself. You can do it.
My heartbeat pounded loud in my ears. Doubt flooded me.
