The Churning Wake

Chapter Twenty-One - Then

Kayla spun around, her skirt flaring out around her, perfectly in time to the music.

The teacher stopped the music. "Miss Thomas, your movements are better, but you aren't dancin' with heart, my darling."

Kayla looked to the ground, almost looking through the floor, like she was trying to dig a hole out with just her eyeballs. "Yes, ma'am."

"Very good." Her instructor turned the music back on and that was it. She didn't stop to ask why Kayla was dancing without heart, nor to offer any suggestions; she just offered the critique and moved on.

My phone buzzed and I reached into my pocket to read what it said.

Jen: how're the girls?

Brianna: they're doing ok

Jen: *thumbs up emoji*

I turned back to the studio just in time to see Kayla burst from it, her dark braid bouncing behind her, as she sprinted for the bathrooms.

I bounced up from my seat, grabbed Ella's hand, and pulled her along with me. "Kayla! Wait! Honey, what's wrong?"

"Go away!" Kayla yelled. "I never want to talk to you again."

Ella stopped and whimpered. "Bri, maybe... I'll go talk to her, okay?"

I stared at the child, her eyes wide and worried. "Ella, I know you just want to help, but..."

Ella's little face turned stony. "Bri, I'll do it."

My mouth dropped open as she walked off, ponytail swishing behind her.

"El-" I started to protest, but then stopped. Ella knocked on the door, and Kayla let her into the bathroom, too, and I slumped to the floor, nausea rolling in my stomach, as I waited for them to come out.