Aurelio (Dance Moms Fic)

Chapter 4: Shot Down

A week had passed since the announcement of solos, and it was a particularly exciting time at the studio. Every dancer was working hard, eager to showcase their skills at the upcoming competition. Aurelio, typically a reserved and introspective boy, had been particularly focused on his solo. The energy in the studio was electric, and as he wrapped up his final rehearsal the day before the big event, he felt a surge of both excitement and nerves. But today wasn't just about dance; it was about something personal. Aurelio had finally decided it was time to reveal his long-held crush on Brooke.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the Dancer's Den, Aurelio made his way over, heart pounding with each step. He spotted Brooke sitting alone, a few feet away from where the dancers usually gathered after practice. She was lost in a book, her legs tucked underneath her as she sat cross-legged on the floor. Taking a deep breath, Aurelio approached her.

"Hey, Brooke," he said, trying to sound casual despite the nervous flutter in his chest.

Brooke looked up, her eyes brightening at the sight of him. "Hey, Relio," she greeted warmly, using the nickname she'd affectionately given him.

Aurelio offered a tentative smile. "Mind if I sit next to you?"

Brooke patted the floor beside her. "No, I don't mind at all."

Aurelio settled down next to her, trying to ignore the way his heart was racing. Brooke, ever perceptive, seemed to sense something was off.

"You seem a bit... preoccupied," she observed, closing her book and turning to face him.

Aurelio nodded, feeling the weight of what he was about to say. "Actually, there is something on my mind."

"What's up?" Brooke asked, curiosity piqued.

Taking a deep breath, Aurelio decided to be straightforward. "Brooke, I'm just going to get right to it. I've had a crush on you for a long time. Ever since your mom first brought you to my mom's studio, I felt like I got to know you really well. I... I think you're amazing, and I wanted you to know how I feel."

Brooke's eyes widened in surprise. She stared at Aurelio, processing his words. The silence stretched between them, filled with the soft hum of the studio's ambient noise.

After a moment, Brooke finally spoke, her voice gentle but firm. "Aurelio, I'm really flattered that you feel this way. But... I'm actually seeing someone."

The words hit Aurelio like a cold wave. He felt his heart sink as his face flushed with a mix of embarrassment and disappointment. Just then, a boy around Aurelio's age walked in. He had curly brown hair and a confident stride. His name was Kyle Pierce, and he danced at Abby's studio. Brooke's expression shifted as she turned to him.

"This is Kyle," Brooke said, a hint of a smile on her lips. "He's the one I've been seeing for a while."

Kyle extended a hand, a sympathetic smile on his face. "Hey, Aurelio. I know this isn't easy to hear. I'm sorry."

Aurelio forced a weak smile, feeling the sting of rejection. "It's okay. I guess it just wasn't meant to be."

Brooke reached out, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "I hope you find someone who feels the same way about you. Can we still be friends?"

"Yeah," Aurelio said, though his voice was tinged with sadness. "I'd like that."

Brooke and Kyle exchanged a final smile before heading out. As they left, Abby walked in, her eyes immediately catching the forlorn expression on her son's face.

"Are you okay, sweetie?" Abby asked, her voice filled with concern as she approached him.

Aurelio sighed deeply, feeling the weight of his disappointment. "Mom, remember how I told you I had a crush on Brooke?"

"Yes," Abby replied softly.

"Well, I finally told her. She was really nice about it, but she said she's seeing someone named Kyle, and it just wouldn't work out because of the history between you and Kelly. It's... it's hard."

Abby sat down beside him, wrapping her arm around him in a comforting embrace. "Oh, honey. I'm so sorry. I know it hurts right now, but if Brooke didn't feel the same way, then she wasn't the right person for you. You're only 12; you don't need to rush into anything. Trust me, there will be someone out there who will appreciate you just as much as you appreciate them. Sometimes it takes time, but you never know—she might come into your life sooner than you think."

Aurelio leaned into his mother's embrace, grateful for her support. "Thanks for cheering me up, Mom."

"Anytime, sweetheart," Abby said, her voice warm and reassuring.

The following weekend, the Abby Lee Dance Company traveled to Skokie for the Onstage NY competition. Despite the emotional setback, Aurelio channeled his feelings into his performance. His dedication paid off as he won 1st place in the Preteen Soloist Division. Maddie also had a stellar performance, earning 1st place in both the Mini Tap and Advanced Mini Soloist divisions. Chloe secured 2nd place in the Advanced Mini Soloist division awards, while Brooke came in 4th in the Advanced Teen Soloist Division. Brookie dazzled the judges with her routine, winning 1st place in the Advanced Prep Soloist Division. Unfortunately, Nia, Paige, and Mackenzie didn't place, but their efforts were commendable.

As Aurelio celebrated his achievement, the sting of rejection was still there, but it was softened by the victories of his friends and the support of his family. Little did he know that soon, someone would come into his life who would return his feelings, and that future, bright and promising, was just around the corner.