Dance on Water

Jill on the Rampage: Rehearsal

The air in the studio buzzes with tension as the girls file in for another week of rehearsals. The aftermath of the competition still lingers in everyone's minds, and the usual chatter is replaced by whispers and side glances, particularly aimed at me. I try to shake off the feeling of being the center of attention, but the weight of it lingers.

As I warm up, Jill's voice rises above the rest, passionately arguing with Abby about last week's placements. "I still can't believe Kendall didn't get a solo! How can you justify giving one to someone who just joined the team?" Her indignation echoes off the walls.

Abby stands firm, arms crossed. "You know how I run this studio, Jill. Marielle earned her place with that score, and Kendall got a solo her first week as well." Her tone is unyielding, but I catch a flicker of annoyance in her eyes.

Jill huffs, crossing her arms. "And it's a shame you've brought in a girl who might not even keep up with the rest of the team!"

I mean, what's next? We're gonna let the dog join? - JILL

My heart races at the implication. I've only just started to find my footing here, and already I'm a target.

Taking a deep breath, I try to drown out the noise. I need to focus, but the anxiety bubbling inside me is becoming unbearable. Khloé's eyes narrow as she watches the other girls warming up, her disapproval evident. "Don't get too comfortable with those amateurs," she mutters under her breath. "You're better than them, Marielle. You need to prove it."

Finally, Abby clears her throat, and the room instantly quiets. She surveys us, then announces, "Ladies, first, I want to talk about last week. We were just outdanced—we can't have a bunch of slugs on stage." Her critique stings, reminding me of my mother's constant insistence on my stamina. I need to work harder to prove myself. "This weekend," Abby continues, "we'll be attending Dance Explosion in Secaucus, New Jersey. You're going to face some heavy hitters out there, I'm telling you now."

Abby starts the pyramid, highlighting each girl's placement and critiquing them as she works her way to the top. When she finally reveals my name, second from the top, she says, "Though you performed and had the highest scoring solo for our studio, I need more from you. Until I see you in a group dance, you won't be at the top of the pyramid."

I hate that I'm being held back, knowing my mother will be on me until I prove I'm the best. When she shows Mackenzie at the top, I can't help but feel excited; Mackenzie has been the nicest to me, and I think she deserves it. As I hug Kenzie's shoulder, I catch my mom's scowl in the mirror, making me shrink away.

I've never been at the top of the pyramid, so I'm surprised - MACKENZIE

Mackenzie

Marielle

Chloe

Maddie

Paige

Brooke

Nia

Kendall

When Abby announces we're not doing a group routine this week, disappointment washes over me. I know that means I'll have to wait another week for a chance to reach the top. The pressure intensifies knowing that every single dancer is doing a solo; I'll have to compete against many talented girls if I want to win. I'm not worried about my mother designing my costume—she usually handles that. The competitive edge sharpens, and I feel the weight of expectation grow heavier.

---

In the studio, Abby explains the solo concept to me: "I'll be very busy this week with choreography, so I'm giving you something I don't have to worry about cleaning." My solo will be a pointe piece themed around time, filled with sharp movements. I feel confident in my ballet skills, but I can't shake the nerves. I take a deep breath, centering myself, reminding myself of the importance of winning.