Aurelio (Dance Moms Fic)

Chapter 6: The Showcase

Thirteen days had passed since Aurelio's 13th birthday, and the Abby Lee Dance Company studio was buzzing with activity. The girls were gathered in Studio A, seated in a semi-circle as Abby and Aurelio stood beside the chalkboard. Tiffany and Kaitlin, who had called earlier to inform Abby of their delayed arrival, had yet to join them.

Abby tapped the chalkboard to get everyone's attention. "Alright, girls, let's talk about the last competition. Four weeks ago, we had some setbacks, and I must say, I'm deeply disappointed. Each one of you had the potential to do better with your solos. We need to address what went wrong and improve."

The room was silent, the weight of Abby's words settling on the girls. Finally, Abby continued, her tone shifting to a more upbeat note. "But enough about the past. What's happening this week?"

"The ALDC Showcase?" Paige guessed, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

"Ding, ding, ding!" Abby exclaimed, a hint of her trademark enthusiasm in her voice. "The Abby Lee Dance Company Showcase is our annual event where we show off our dances from past competitions. It's a chance for families, friends, and even some of my colleagues to see what we've been working on. This year, we're performing a new group dance called 'Sugar Daddies,' and I've got a few surprises up my sleeve. Not to put any pressure on you, but there will be an agent in the audience seeking new talent. He's already met Aurelio a few times."

The girls and their moms erupted into excited claps and cheers, their faces lit up with enthusiasm.

"And here's another surprise," Abby added with a grin. "Moms, you're going to be dancing too! Kelly, you'll be the choreographer. I remember how you and my mom used to dance together when you were younger."

Aurelio and the girls struggled to contain their laughter as Abby's statement sank in. Melissa, Holly, Hollie, and Christi wore expressions of mild horror, their faces turning shades of red.

"You are all in for some trouble," Kelly said with a playful smirk.

"I already told Aurelio he doesn't have any dances to do, but he'll still be pitching in," Abby continued. "Now, let's get serious. Nationals are approaching, and each competition is an opportunity to get stronger and better. This showcase is a great chance to entertain rather than compete, but it's just as important because it's a stepping stone to Nationals. And what's the goal?"

"Win," Aurelio said confidently, his eyes reflecting determination.

"Exactly," Abby agreed, nodding approvingly. "Alright, moms, you can head upstairs. Girls, let's begin warming up."

Melissa, Christi, Holly, Kelly, and Hollie left Studio A and headed upstairs to the observation room.

Outside the studio, Tiffany and Kaitlin arrived and parked their car. They stepped out, taking in the familiar sight of the studio.

"This place brings back great memories," Kaitlin said, her eyes softening with nostalgia.

"Definitely," Tiffany agreed, smiling warmly.

As they entered the studio, Abby greeted them from behind the front desk. "Hey, you two. Glad you could make it."

"We're glad to be back," Kaitlin responded, looking around at the newly renovated studio. "I see you've spruced the place up a bit."

"Yes, we did a renovation about a year after you moved to Elgin," Abby said with a nod.

"It looks fantastic," Tiffany complimented.

"Thanks! And since it's showcase week, you're always welcome to contribute however you'd like."

"That's great to hear. I'm going to head upstairs to the observation deck to join the moms," Kaitlin said as she made her way to the stairs.