Perfect by Design

10: Aaliyah James

Aaliyah

Five months later
"You're going to be so amazing at your audition, Leah. I'm sad I can't go." Auntie K pulls me into a hug. This dance was her vision, and I'm so happy she trusts me to bring it to life.

"Dad is going to film it, and mom is going to face time you so you can see it live. It'll be like you're there."

Unfortunately for my aunt, she's dealing with a high-risk pregnancy, so flying is out of the question. I'm not sure what on earth possessed her to have yet another baby, but here we are.

"Leah girl, come on. We need to get home a pack." My mom enters the studio Auntie K and I were rehearsing in. She walks right over to her best friend, pulling her into a tight hug.

Something is going on there; I know it. I also know better than to ask.

My phone vibrates, and I don't even have to look to know who it is. My boyfriend sends me a picture of him at the Cardinal's practice facility with my brother and dad.

Dad officially retired at the end of this past season. Superbowl champ and MVP is one hell of an exit. Now he's bored, and my poor mom can't ever escape him. I guess today, T and Gray are his victims.

I wish T could come to my audition. My nerves are practically swallowing me whole at this point. I get it, though. He has some big combine something this weekend, and he's a top wide receiver recruit.

My dad has been working with him a lot. We have a plan, and that plan is UCLA. He's a California boy, after all, and they have a good dance program. Plus, my grandparents and Aunt Capri are out there.

Mom and I walk to the car, and against my better judgment, I ask about Auntie K.

"Mom, maybe I'm misreading it, but Auntie K's eyes are sad. Isn't a baby something to be happy about?"

"Oh, honey. Pregnancy sometimes requires a nuanced approach. Kia had a tough pregnancy with the twins, and she struggled a lot postpartum."

"So why would she have another baby?"

"Because marriage is complex. She loves being a mom, and your uncle wanted another baby. I just don't think she wanted to carry this one. I think there was a bit of miscommunication there."

"Will she be okay?"

"Of course, Leah girl. She has the best support system in the world. And, now that uncle J fully understands what's going on, he'll move heaven and earth to make this better for her. I know you and Trevor are getting more serious. Just remember, relationships are hard work, and there are lots of compromises."

Nothing is hard with T and me. We want the same things in life, and we're each other's favorite person. It's seamless.

"I'm nervous, mom. I need to kill this audition. Landing this summer intensive will all but guarantee I'll get into UCLA's dance school."

"UCLA?" She asks as we get out of the car and head into the house.

"Yeah! Trev and I think it'll be the perfect fit for us. I know you guys will worry, but your parents will be there, and Aunt Capri."

Mom says nothing, but I see disapproval painted on her face. The wheels are turning in her head. I know because they're turning in mine.