Skates & Cleats

10

The morning of Nationals, Taylor stood in front of the mirror, her hands trembling slightly as she adjusted her costume—a light pink dress with delicate lace that flowed gently as she moved. The color made her look soft and ethereal, like the music she was about to skate to. Today was the day that would define the past year of her life. The hard work, the grueling practices, the sacrifices—it all led to this moment.

She took a deep breath, thinking about her new coach, Bethany. After parting ways with Carla, Bethany had stepped in to help elevate Taylor's routine to the next level. Taylor had felt a bit nervous at first, as Bethany's approach was stricter, but in time, she saw the improvement in her jumps and spins. Bethany wasn't just preparing her to win this competition—she was preparing her for something greater.

The song she had chosen for her routine, "Kiss Me" by Sixpence None The Richer, meant something special to her. It was soft, romantic, and timeless—like a whisper of the moments she shared with Travis. It was the perfect piece for Nationals, allowing her to blend grace and technicality in a way that could capture the hearts of the judges.

As Taylor finished adjusting her dress, her phone buzzed on the hotel dresser. She walked over and saw a message from Travis.

Travis: "You're going to crush it today, Tay. I believe in you. Can't wait to hear how it goes! Wish I could be there."

Taylor smiled, her heart lifting at the thought of him. Travis had always been her biggest supporter, even from hundreds of miles away in Ohio. He was busy with football now, getting ready for the next big season, and she understood why he couldn't come.

But still, she wished he could be there.

Her mom's voice cut through her thoughts. "Taylor, we've got to head to the rink soon. Are you ready?"

She grabbed her phone and her skates, giving one last look at the hotel room before walking out. She was ready—or as ready as she could be.

The Boston arena was larger than Taylor had expected. The seats seemed to stretch up into the sky, and the energy buzzing around her was electric. Her heart raced as she laced up her skates in the backroom, tuning out the bustling noise of the other skaters and their families.

Bethany stood beside her, calm as ever. "Remember, focus on your timing with the music. Your jumps need to be sharp, but don't forget to breathe. You've got this."

Taylor nodded, taking in her coach's words. She knew the routine backward and forward. Now it was just a matter of letting go and trusting herself.

As she finished tightening her skates, her mom appeared at the door, a wide smile on her face. But there was something else in her expression—something excited.

"Taylor, someone's here to see you."

Taylor furrowed her brow in confusion. "Who?"

Her mom stepped aside, and in walked Abigail, her best friend since freshman year, with a huge grin on her face. Her fiery red hair bounced as she jogged over, throwing her arms around Taylor in a tight hug.

"Abigail!" Taylor gasped, squeezing her friend back. "What are you doing here?!"

"I couldn't miss your Nationals performance," Abigail said, pulling back and beaming at her. "I flew in last night. Your mom helped me plan it."

Taylor's heart swelled. Abigail was the kind of friend who always showed up when she needed it the most. Her nerves immediately eased as she stood with her best friend by her side.

"I can't believe you're here," Taylor whispered, feeling tears prick the corners of her eyes. "This is the best surprise."

"Well, it's not the only surprise," Abigail said, her smile turning mischievous.