"Her or me?" A tear rolled down Michelle's puffy cheek, "You have to make a decision."
For Michelle, life has always been about control-control in the studio, in her friendships, and even in the secrets she hides. But with an unexpected pregnancy...
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"Is everyone ready?!" Summer asks the rest of us.
We all reply, nodding our heads.
"Then let's show everyone what we got!" She motivates us.
"Woo!" Kenzie shouts enthusiastically.
I smile brightly, excited to begin dancing. I look over at Grace, and she rolls her eyes at me. She doesn't want me to be here but I still try to be nice to her. I want her to do good, despite her wanting me to fail.
"Let's go!" Summer jumps, cheering.
I find my position on the floor, taking a few moments to prepare myself. I give myself a little pep talk as I try to convince myself that I have what it takes. It doesn't take long before I hear the sound of our music start to play.
We begin to dance, and I have a huge smile on my face. I look out at the crowd, watching as everyone cheers us on. I feel a rush of excitement as I look beside me, seeing the rest of the A-troupers. It feels like a dream to be here with them.
I execute the dance perfectly, and for a moment, I forget about Michelle and what she's asking me to do. I dance to the best of my ability, a radiant smile not leaving my face.
I can feel everyone's eyes on me. They're probably wondering why I'm even on the team, but I hope my talent gives them the answer. I know that I'm as good as the older girls; I just need to be given a chance.
I run across the front of the field, landing my ariel. I hear a loud cheer as I do that, and it only motivates me more.
And then it's time for the turning section. I find my spot in the centre, hitting my turns perfectly without even a bobble, the crowd loving it. I feel on top of the world right now! No one can take this away from me!
But suddenly, my eyes meet Michelle's in the crowd. Her arms are crossed over her chest, a mischievous look on her face, and a devious grin. I watch as she gives me a slow nod, which reminds me to stay focused.
All of a sudden, my breathing becomes heavy, and it's like everything becomes a blur. I hear her voice inside my head over and over again. "You have to do this, Presley." "Don't fuck this up." "Richelle has to go." Her words echo through my brain, and it's like I'm not able to think anymore.
I turn my head and I see Richelle, and I decide to put Michelle's plan into action. Hesitantly, I crash my body into hers. She jolts forward but is able to stay on her feet.
"What are you doing?" She says.
I mutter, "Sorry."
I lift my head and see a disappointed look on Michelle's face. I instantly realise that I have to put more effort into it if I want this to work.
