Spotlight on the Mirror

Chapter One

Energy poured down her face while passion filled her heart. Her movements hit every beat while the music engulfed her spirit. Once she hit the final pose, all she could hear was the applause. She couldn't even see the faces of the audience due to the shinning spotlight gleaming all over her.

"Holliday... Holliday... Holliday Moseley!"

The gray shadows of people disappeared and quickly snapped her back into reality. She was back inside the studio of The Conservatory of CC and a roomful of students were clapping at her solo. Somehow, Ms. Dee's annoying voice always found a way to disturb her performances.

She stood up from her position on the floor and faced her Jazz instructor of the past four years. As Holliday tuned Ms. Dee out, she couldn't help but truly capture the moment. This was her last year at The Conservatory of CC also known as CC's which happened to be the best dance school in the entire state of Louisiana that specialized in Jazz Dance.

Trained in Degas Ballet as a child, Holliday had an appreciation for Ballet but fell in love with Jazz from the start. Even though Ballet is fundamental for being a great Jazz dancer, she still hated taking Ballet classes due to the strict structure. Jazz Dance was fun and more like a fast Ballet but to much better music.

When Holliday was eighteen years old, all her focus and determination paid off when she was accepted into the elite Jazz Program at CC's. She was also offered a partial scholarship but along with paid dancing engagements for social functions and teaching younger students, Holliday was able to attend the program full-time.

Realizing that Ms. Dee was staring at her, Holliday asked softly to conceal the agitation in her voice, "yes, Ms. Dee?"

"Thank you for the show, Ms. Mosely," Ms. Dee stated in a sarcastic tone then added, "but keep your shoulders down and watch your turnout when you're preparing to turn. Now, everyone watch Ms. Dole very closely and take notes."

As Holliday joined the rest of the students on the floor, she watched Natasha Dole get in the starting pose of her solo while waiting for the music to start. Natasha was a beautiful dancer. She had the perfect turnout and gorgeous lines. There never seemed to be any jealousy or envious ideation by any of the students because Natasha's movements were so captivating that it appeared as if time had stopped. Natasha became the music and everyone knew that no amount of training could ever compete with the raw talent that she displayed.

Weirdly, the only person that seemed to think that she wasn't the best was Natasha herself. She was very humbled and rarely spoke to anyone. Never coming across in a conceited way but more in a shy and reserved manner. Anytime she was complimented by anyone, she would give an embarrassed smile and quietly say thank you. Other students tried to engage her in their social events but she always politely refused.

Even Holliday tried when her best friend, Madison Ryans, turned twenty-one years old. Due to Madison being the youngest of their group, all the students in the class wanted to celebrate together but once again, Natasha respectfully declined.

As to be expected, Natasha performed her solo to perfection. Her gift of dance was beyond measure but sometimes, for a quick moment, her eyes would appear to be lost in another time. Natasha ended her dance and bowed gracefully then proceeded to sit by herself in the corner.

Finally breaking the trance that Natasha casted, everyone clapped while Ms. Dee gave many compliments. Even as Natasha sat on the floor, she remained in perfect posture.

"That will end our solos for the day. If you want to perform for the Mayor's Birthday Celebration, please sign the sheet by the door. Thank you and you're all dismissed," Ms. Dee said as she concluded class for the day.