Magical - Mollie and AJ's Strictly Story

Part 8 - Bubble burst

I didn't see this happening. I don't know how to process this. I knew he was so special to me. And now I'm without him and I feel completely adrift. He's poorly. I can't even believe it. The team sent him home in the end – he was trying to teach me while lying on the floor of the studio. I tried so hard to follow his words and instructions but I just couldn't get it. I felt so useless and seeing him lying there so...unlike him...was distressing.

And I'm waiting for someone else. Apparently it'll be Patrick – I do know him, he's one of the choreographers for the group numbers – but I don't know him. Not the way I know him. I feel like crying. He's only been gone an hour and I already feel so lost. That's why I've escaped to the toilets for a few minutes. I know you'll understand. I look at you, Mirror-Mollie, and you have gone pale. I hope you're not getting sick too. Lovesick, maybe. I shake my head. I don't want Patrick to think I'm upset – I mean, thank God for Patrick! Maybe he can teach me enough steps that we will be able to pick it up when AJ is better. If he's better. Oh god, what if he doesn't get better? What will happen? I'll still have to dance right? I only know a few moves, not even a quarter of the routine. Who would I dance with? What if I end up in the dance off? Oh god, what if I never dance with him again?

My hand flies to my mouth as I choke down a sob. That thought is too upsetting to entertain. I force myself to take a few deep breaths. It's early in the week. He'll rest and recover. He'll be back. Heaven knows he's young and fit (oh yes!) he will bounce back to full health. I look at you, Mirror-Mollie and we nod together. This will be temporary. But it does make me realise how much I will lose when the bubble bursts forever. What will I do then? One bad week and it could be the dance off and gone. It would be possible that I would not see him until the final then.

For goodness sake, Mollie, stop worrying about what ifs and enjoy the now. Although it feels like there is less to enjoy without him being here.

Do I message him to see if he's ok? Would that be too keen? Do I let him rest? If it were a different friend I would message, wouldn't I?

Oh, Patrick is here. I wave goodbye to the mirror and head off to try my best.