Bittersweet | Dance Moms

WHEN STARS COLLIDE (s1 ep5)

(SUPER SUPER LONG CHAPTER. OVER 10K WORDS.)

Virella had managed to convince her mother to return to the studio, despite the heated argument from last week still hanging in the air between them. It hadn't been easy. Elizabeth's frustration was palpable, her mind filled with the sharp words and hurt feelings from their last confrontation with the other moms. But Virella's love for dance, the art that brought her so much joy, and the deep friendships she had with Chloe, Maddie, and the other girls were too important to let go. Elizabeth knew how much the studio meant to her daughter and, in the end, couldn't deny her this part of her life.

The thought of being away from the studio, missing out on rehearsals, performances, and the laughter she shared with her friends, was unbearable to Virella. Dance wasn't just something she did—it was part of who she was. Being with the team made her feel like she was part of something special, something bigger than herself. She wasn't ready to give that up, no matter the drama and tension between the moms.

As they walked into the studio, the familiar scent of sweat, hairspray, and rosin filled the air, bringing a sense of comfort to Virella. She glanced nervously at her mother, hoping that this time things would be different—that maybe the tension wouldn't follow them inside like a shadow. She longed for a fresh start, just a chance to dance and laugh without the weight of last week hanging over them.

The studio was bustling with activity. Dancers flitted around, adjusting their costumes, chatting with their moms, and warming up for the next rehearsal. The energy was palpable. As soon as they stepped inside, Gianna, the assistant choreographer, spotted them from across the room. Her face brightened with a welcoming smile, and she made her way over to greet them.

"I'm so glad you decided to come back," Gianna said warmly, her voice full of sincerity as she approached. She glanced between Virella and Elizabeth, her gaze settling on Virella. "We missed you, V."

Virella's face immediately lit up, a grin spreading across her face as she dashed behind the counter to give Gianna a quick hug. "I missed you too, G," she said, the relief in her voice clear. Being back in the studio, surrounded by the people who cared about her and supported her, made all the tension and unease fade into the background.

Elizabeth stood near the door, her arms crossed and her posture stiff. She forced a smile, but her eyes betrayed her hesitation. The events of last week still lingered in her mind, and she wasn't ready to fully jump back into the fold just yet. But for Virella's sake, she was here, trying to push past the frustration.

"Hey, Gia," Elizabeth greeted, her voice polite but guarded. She gave a small nod, clearly trying to maintain a semblance of civility. Gianna, ever the peacekeeper, smiled kindly, sensing the tension but choosing not to press the issue.

"It's good to have you back too, Elizabeth," Gianna said softly, her tone light and encouraging. "I know last week was rough, but we're all here for Virella. That's what matters, right?"

Elizabeth nodded, though her smile didn't reach her eyes. "Of course," she replied quietly, her hands gripping her purse tightly. She stayed by the entrance, still unsure if returning to the studio was the right decision.

Virella, eager to escape the awkwardness and get back to what she loved, hugged Gianna one last time before heading towards the dance rooms. She hurried through the first door that led to the hallway, then the second that opened into the den where the girls often gathered before rehearsals. Her heart quickened as she spotted Chloe and Paige near the mirrors, chatting and laughing together.

"Virella!" Chloe squealed the moment she saw her, rushing over to hug her tightly. Paige followed close behind, wrapping her arms around Virella as well.