Pages of Admiration , In the Quiet of Six Years

A Step Closer

Title: A Smile to Remember

There was a quiet excitement in the air as the loudspeaker crackled, and our principal's voice filled the assembly. "We're thrilled to announce a (badra)dance competition open to students from grades 7 to 10!" Immediately, I felt a surge of excitement ripple through me. Dance had always been my passion, but today, the idea of competing wasn't the only thing making my heart race.

My crush he was in my class. We didn't talk, not even small hellos in the hallway. But that didn't stop me from noticing him, from feeling my pulse quicken every time I caught sight of him. We had shared moments of silence, moments that felt almost like conversations, but nothing more.

And yet, today, as we prepared for this dance competition, I couldn't help but dream a little. What if we got paired together? What if, through some miracle, we'd have a reason to share the stage, maybe even talk?

As names and partners were paired by our dnace captain, I held my breath, my fingers crossed tightly. But when they finally called his name, I felt my heart drop. He was paired with another girl from our class. I forced a smile, trying to shake off the disappointment, but deep down, I knew I'd been hoping for something more.

Rehearsals began the next week, and the auditorium became a lively, bustling place filled with music, laughter, and the sound of shuffling feet as groups practiced. I was happy to be there, but my eyes kept drifting over to him, watching him and his partner work together, her laugh ringing out as they nailed a tricky step. I felt a pang of envy, but I tried to focus on my own practice, reminding myself that I was here for the joy of dance.

Every once in a while, though, I'd catch him looking over at me. It was always just a brief glance, but it sent my heart soaring every time. I'd wonder if he saw me as just another classmate or if maybe, like me, he was curious but too shy to speak.

The day of the competition arrived, and the assembly was packed with students, teachers, and even a few parents. The bright lights shone down on us as we each took our places, ready to give our best. When our turn finally came, I took a deep breath, feeling the familiar thrill of performing wash over me. I danced my heart out, every step and spin a release of all the emotions I'd been holding onto.

After our routine, I waited in the wings, watching the other groups. My heart pounded as other team took the stage, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of pride and admiration as other team moved with effortless grace. I could hardly look away, my gaze glued to them until the last note of music faded, and the crowd erupted in applause.

When it was all over, everyone gathered around as the judges announced the winners. It was unpredictable that our class got 2nd place . I can't believe. I had enjoyed every moment of performing, and I was proud of myself for putting my heart into it.

Just as I was about to leave, I caught sight of him across the assembly. He was laughing with his friends, and for a second, I felt invisible, just another face in the crowd. But then he looked up and he saw me.

There was a pause, a brief moment where everything seemed to slow down. And then, he smiled at me. It was a small smile, but it was warm, genuine. In that smile, I felt everything I had been hoping for. It was a silent acknowledgment, a connection that didn't need words.

I walked out of the auditorium that day feeling lighter, happier. We hadn't spoken a single word, but somehow, that smile felt like enough. It was a moment I would treasure, a reminder that sometimes, even a single shared smile can mean everything.