Shadows of Youth

Chapter 4: Pushing Limits

A couple months later...

**Chapter Four: Pushing Limits**

The morning sun streamed into the gymnasium, casting a golden glow across the polished wood floor. The cheerleading squad was already practicing, their synchronized movements creating a blur of blue and white as they ran through their routine. Aubrey stood at the center, shouting commands and counting beats, her voice cutting through the rhythm of sneakers squeaking against the floor.

"Five, six, seven, eight! Higher, Jess! Come on, energy up!" Aubrey called out, her tone authoritative. As cheer captain, she was in her element, leading the squad with the confidence of someone who had worked tirelessly to perfect each routine.

Spencer and Em stood off to the side, watching as the girls executed a series of complex flips and jumps. Spencer's eyes were focused on the floor routine, analyzing each move. She had been helping Aubrey choreograph the stunts, making sure every lift and tumble was precise. Em, on the other hand, had her earbuds in, tapping her foot to the beat of the music she had chosen for the routine. Her knack for selecting the perfect tracks gave the team an edge, setting their performance apart.

Aubrey turned toward Spencer and Em, sweat glistening on her forehead. "How did that look?" she asked, catching her breath.

Spencer gave her a thumbs up. "You're killing it, Aubrey! Just keep your core tight on the flips. It'll make the landings smoother."

Em pulled out her earbuds and grinned. "And the music fits perfectly. This routine is going to blow everyone away at the competition."

Aubrey smiled, her expression a mix of relief and excitement. "Thanks, guys. I don't know what I'd do without you." She glanced at the clock on the gym wall. "Alright, let's run it one more time before we wrap up. From the top!"

As the squad resumed their positions, Spencer's phone buzzed in her pocket. She pulled it out to see a text from Tyler: *Miss you. Where are you?* Spencer's heart gave a familiar flutter. She quickly texted back that she was at the gym, helping Aubrey with practice.

"Tyler again?" Em asked, noticing the look on Spencer's face.

Spencer nodded, slipping her phone back into her pocket. "Yeah, he just likes to check in. He worries about me."

Em and Aubrey exchanged a glance. They both knew Tyler's protective streak was more than just caring—it was possessive. But they also knew how much Spencer loved him, how his attention made her feel safe and wanted. And Spencer didn't want to talk about it right now, especially not with the cheer competition so close.

"Let's just focus on practice," Spencer said, changing the subject. "Aubrey, you've got this. Show them why you're the captain."

Aubrey took a deep breath, nodding. She turned back to the squad, clapping her hands to get their attention. "Alright, ladies! One more time, with everything you've got!"

---

Later that evening, after a long day of classes and cheer practice, the girls returned to their dorm room. The space was a cozy mess of textbooks, clothes, and cheerleading gear. Aubrey collapsed onto her bed, sighing with exhaustion. "I'm so tired," she groaned. "But I feel like we're finally ready for the competition."

"You've been amazing," Spencer said, sitting on the edge of Aubrey's bed. "The whole squad looks up to you. They know you're pushing them to be their best."

Em flopped down next to Aubrey, her head resting on a pillow. "And the music is perfect. Everyone's going to be talking about your routine."

Aubrey smiled, her eyes shining with gratitude. "I couldn't have done it without you guys. You're the best."