Rollercoaster [Motough Fanfic]

chapter 1

Derek couldn't get it out of his mind the way Bethany said, “I’m ready for it,” when he made the remark about their rumba being  intense next week.He racked his brain all night considering possible explanations, but the only thing he could come up with was that he was letting his feelings cloud his judgment. 

It’s funny how life works out like this. Going into the competition he didn’t think catching feelings for Bethany was even possible. She was eighteen, for crying out loud. No, her mind and attitude could not be labeled by a number. She was so wise, smart, and funny that he often forgot their was even an eleven year age difference between them. Bethany was such a light to his darkest days, and he hoped that he wouldn’t do something so stupid that would result in losing her. 

. . . 

On Tuesday, they began their rehearsal for the rumba to Bethany’s most memorable year. Derek listened to her as she explained the making of her YouTube channel, and the reason she started it all: the bullying. 

He would hate to turn her story into his own experiences with bullying, so he listens to her talk, not really saying anything. 

“I was dangerously close to ending it all right there…I was so young, but I was ready to give it all away.” Bethany’s voice trailed off as she took a moment to wipe tears away and clear her throat. “I just wish I had crystal ball back then, you know, to tell me the future. To tell me that everything was going to work out okay. That I would be okay.” 

Silence clung to the air as Derek took everything in. “You don’t have to answer this if you don’t want to, but,” Derek spoke up hesitantly, “but what stopped you from…?” 

Bethany gulped, and looked down at her criss-crossed legs before speaking again, “my parents…they came home at the right moment because as soon as I heard that front door close and their voices letting me know they were home…I just couldn’t.” Tears continued to fall from her face as she spoke up again, “I’m real glad they came home when they did…because I really don’t know what I would have done.” 

Derek scooted himself closer to Bethany to pull her into the sincerest hug. “Beth, babe. I hope you know that you don’t have to open all the way up like that for the cameras if it makes you uncomfortable. Just share what you are capable of.” Bethany nodded as she buried her face deeper into his chest. “But I’m also really glad you felt like you could share this with me. Thank you for trusting me.” Derek added. 

Bethany picked herself up from her place on Derek,“I do…trust you, that is.” Bethany smiled.

“And good news: I’m feeling quite inspired for this next dance.” Derek said in attempts to relieve some of the tension that built up in the room. He could feel Bethany’s smile growing as he rubs the small of her back. “Do you want to take some time to breathe before we start?” 

She stood as she shook her head. “No, I think it’s better if I keep moving.” 

She reached her hand down to help him up. 

“Okay.” Derek said smiling. 

And they danced.