Aurelio (Dance Moms Fic)

Chapter 9: Hollywood Dreams and Realities

Hollywood, California, just a stone's throw from the bustling streets of Los Angeles, was buzzing with activity. At the AMP Dance Studio, a place famous for hosting rehearsals for icons like Britney Spears and Lady Gaga, Abby, Aurelio, Gianna, Tiffany, and Kaitlin were preparing for an important week ahead.

"Did you know Lady Gaga and Britney Spears rehearsed here?" Aurelio casually informed Tiffany and Kaitlin, a hint of excitement in his voice.

"They did? Cool," Tiffany responded, her eyes widening with interest.

"They sure did," Abby added with a smile, clearly proud of the studio's impressive roster. Moments later, the door swung open, and the moms and the girls arrived.

"Ladies, we are in Los Angeles to compete at the iHollywood National Finals," Abby announced with her usual authority. "Los Angeles is known as the City of Dreams. This Nationals is crucial as it's our final chance to make a strong impression before we head to Lake Tahoe for our own Nationals. We haven't been winning as much lately, so it's essential we set a high standard here. Expect to see some familiar faces—kids from TV shows and movies. They audition weekly here and are at the top of their game. Aurelio knows all about that from his YouTube days and his work on TV and in movies. Melissa isn't here because she's with her boyfriend, which is why Maddie and Mackenzie will be with me this week. They might get opportunities to do things that others don't."

"Now that we've got that out of the way, it's time for pyramid," Aurelio said, a hint of his usual enthusiasm in his tone.

"All right, let's get started," Abby signaled, handing Aurelio a stack of headshots. Aurelio revealed the first two, showing Brooke and Paige.

"Brooke, Paige, you won't be doing solos this time but will be part of the group dance," Abby said, her tone unwavering. "It's better than not dancing at all. I've had enough of your mother's complaints. She claimed she could find better choreographers here in L.A., and maybe she can. But remember this: if you go independent, you're out. Finished."

Brooke and Paige exchanged glances while Kelly rolled her eyes, clearly displeased.

"Next up are Nia, Mackenzie, and Brookie. Last week, I promised Brookie and Mackenzie a duet here in Los Angeles," Abby continued, revealing their headshots. "Chloe, you'll be performing a solo. And at the top... Maddie."

Maddie's headshot was revealed prominently.

"Maddie, you're undefeated. That means everyone's gunning for you because you're the one to beat. Do you understand how big an opportunity this is? The judges at iHollywood are key figures in the industry. They choreograph for movies and TV shows. You could end up a star like Aurelio if you impress them. So step onto that stage like the professional you are. Got it?"

"We got it," Maddie responded confidently.

"All right, let's begin," Abby concluded.

The rehearsal for the group dance, titled "My Pumps," began as the moms gathered to chat.

"Thoughts on Abby managing Maddie and Mackenzie while Melissa's away?" Kelly asked, her tone a mix of skepticism and concern.

"Obviously, Abby's taking them out to be 'seen' here in L.A.," Christi replied. "Aurelio's already established himself, but I would never leave Chloe in Abby's hands like that. Melissa's got to keep her boyfriend happy, so Maddie and Mackenzie will get their opportunities."

"Good point," Hollie agreed, then turned to Kelly. "What do you think about Brooke and Paige being at the bottom of the pyramid?"

"Not surprised," Kelly said, crossing her arms. "Given the argument I had with Abby, I told her if my kids weren't getting solos and she wasn't going to teach them, I'd find someone else. I'm paying all this money, and now they're just in a group dance. It's frustrating."