chapter #7: the dance battle (pt. 2)

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The darkened theatre was filling up with students from both schools as show time drew closer. Any form of competition between Jefferson High and Salt Lake Academy was bound to draw in spectators, despite it being a relatively small event.

The murmurs and whispers around him picked up the moment a spotlight appeared on stage, and a man who Cyrus could only assume was a Jefferson High teacher walked out with a microphone, stepping in front of the curtains.

Cyrus honestly wanted to concentrate on his voice as he announced the teams and the songs they'd be dancing to, but once again he found himself distracted.

He had an investment in both teams now; particularly since growing closer to TJ. His mind kept reminding him of Marty; what he must be going through at that moment, how hard it'll likely be for him to concentrate on dancing after what had occurred, and for a brief moment he found himself hoping that TJ's team would win.

He was snapped out his thoughts by loud clapping from the people around him, and he hastily looked up to see what the fuss was about.

Oh.

The man wasn't there anymore, and the large red curtains were slowly parting to reveal the stage. It was painted black, much like the front half, and the spotlight had moved slightly to linger around the centre, where Buffy and her team were currently stood.

Automatically, he found himself cheering along with some of the Salt Lake students around him. He was in the very front row of seats, which gave him a full view of the stage.

The beat started up then, and Cyrus couldn't help but smile. He had heard this song a ridiculous amount of times over the past few weeks, with Buffy's constant practise.

He knew from the instant they started moving that their routine would be good - he wasn't surprised at all, this was Buffy after all, but he still felt a sense of relief as he watched the team perform. Their movements were quick; relaxed, but precise. They were almost perfectly in sync, with Buffy in front and 2 teammates on either side of her. She had makeup on, with pink lip gloss and glittery pink eyeshadow.

So put your arms around me tonight
Let the music lift you up
Like you've never been so high

Although Buffy's eyes were mostly focused on the very back of the theatre, she shot Cyrus a subtle smile as the chorus rang out. He grinned and flashed a quick thumbs-up.

Ain't no crying in the club
Let the beat carry away, your tears as they fall , baby
Ain't no crying in the club
With a little faith, your tears turn to ecstasy.

The routine reflected all of the emotions the song conveyed, and Cyrus could honestly say he was floored despite having seen it countless times before. The darkness around him only added to the atmosphere, making the lyrics seem all the more meaningful. It was fast-paced, but Buffy and teammates managed to stay in sync for the whole song.

When it was finished, cheers erupted from the Salt Lake Academy students, filling the theatre as Buffy and her teammates held their final positions, breathing heavily.

Cyrus felt a rush of admiration for his friend as their eyes met, a bright smile forming on his lips as he nodded vehemently. She knew they had done well if the glowing look on her face was anything to go by.

The announcer stepped out as the curtains drew together again, concealing half of the stage.

"...Coming up, we have the Jefferson High dance team, performing their original choreography to 'Sicko Mode' by Travis Scott."

Cyrus heard some of the people around him laugh, and he couldn't help but smile along. He hadn't even thought to ask TJ what song they'd be dancing to.

swingsets and dance routines ; tyrus Where stories live. Discover now