Neglected

Ballerina time

The video at the top is the variation Matilda performs.

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I was waiting backstage for my number to be called out. I had butterflies in my stomach as I took a deep breath and did a few releves to keep myself warm.

Lorelai, grandma, Luke and Jess had come to watch and I was nervous for all of them to see my dancing. None of them had ever seen me dance.

"Next we are welcoming to the stage number 318, Matilda Gilmore performing Diana and Actaeon, girls soloist variation." I heard a woman through the speakers say. I took a deep breath before putting on my performance smile, running on stage and starting my variation.

The variation was tough but I thought I did quite well as I took my bow hearing the roaring applause. I heard a screech "ow ow owwww" that must've been Lorelai.

I ran of the stage and into the dressing room and started waiting for awards.

All the 40 girls from my category were standing on stage in 5th position. I was so nervous when they started announcing 6th place.

When they got to 2nd place I was sure I hadn't even place and sighed, at least I tried my best.

"And first place goes to...... number 318, Matilda Gilmore!" I was so shocked.

I ran up to the judges and collected my trophy and envelope with my prize.

"Matilda's prize will be a scholarship to a summer intensive at ABT school of ballet for this summer!" The judge yelled shook all the other judges hands.

I went to the front of the stage as I curtsied as deeply as possible in front of the audience.

I heard a whistle from one of the balconies spotting Jess standing with Luke. I sent him a kiss and ran back to where all the other contestants were standing.

"We thank you all for coming!" Yelled one of the judges into the microphone as we all curtsied and ran off stage.

I quickly got into my warm ups which consisted of grey sweatpants and a light pink cardigan. I packed my bag and ran into the lobby of the Hartford opera house.

I spotted Jess who ran towards me and lifted me up.

"Hey." I smiled kissing him softly as he held me in the air.

"You were beautiful out there." He smiled setting me back down and handing me a bouquet of flowers.

"Awww, Jess." I smiled hugging him.

"You were great." I heard Luke say from behind me before I hugged him too.

"You guys are such softies." I laughed as I saw Lorelai and grandma walking up to us.

"You were magnificent Matilda." Grandma smiled.

"Thanks grandma." I said as kissed her cheek.

Before I could say anything to Lorelai she pulled me into the tightest hug possible.

"Wow." She said.

I smiled at her before letting go of her hug.

"Um grandma you must remember Jess my boyfriend and Luke his uncle." I said introduce the boys who stood side by side.

"Yes, good to see you again." She smiled before she said goodbye since she had to go meet her friends for dinner.

"Come one let's go." Jess said putting his arm around my shoulder.

"I'm driving with Luke see you at home!" Lorelai yelled from behind.

I got into the front seat of Jess' new car. He bought it second hand and it was a beautiful shiny cherry red.