The three of us head into the chorus room. I don't look at Renee, but I'm positive she's grinning at me. I cough to disguise the nervous laughter that's bubbling up. Mr. McHenry is in the room waiting for us. I feel more nervous than ever. "Thank you all for your patience," Mr. McHenry starts when we're all seated. "I've spoken with Mrs. Hamilton and she was happy to hear your plan, Charlie. The concert is back on!" OMG. There's mass pandemonium. Or at least as mass as you can get with sixteen kids. They cheer and clap. There are some thumps on my back, but I don't turn around. Instead, I stare dumbfounded at Mr. McHenry.I saved the holiday concert. I saved the holiday concert."But she made a few changes," Mr. McHenry says, his voice rising over the din. "The concert will proceed without any solos. You can practice the selected songs on your own, and Mrs. Hamilton will come in to officially rehearse with you all the week before the concert."The color drains from my face. No solos? Then it's just another group concert. And yes, I love singing as a group, but . . . but my dream . . .My dream to finally stand out from the crowd. To have the audience -- my parents -- really see me, in the spotlight. Excerpted from Carols and Crushes: a Wish Novel by Natalie Blitt All rights reserved by the original copyright owners. Excerpts are provided for display purposes only and may not be reproduced, reprinted or distributed without the written permission of the publisher.