Double Score

“You know what? I am having fun.” I giggled. “I appreciate what you all have done for me. I do.” I pulled them into a hug.

“Whoa, what’s gotten into you, honey?” Heather asked.

“Nothing. I just wanted you to know how much I love being a Goddess. Being a part of the team.”

Presley eyed Heather. “Is she drunk? Did I just hear her say that?”

“I’m not drunk.” My eyebrows rose.

“Ahh, there it is. That admonishing tone we love so much. Okay, it’s her.” Presley winked.

“I don’t admonish,” I argued.

They folded their arms and stared at me.

“Maybe a little bit. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t do that. It’s a very bad ballet habit.”

“You blame the ballet?” Heather wasn’t convinced. I actually felt a little hurt. I didn’t realize they thought of me that way.

“Yes. No. I don’t know. Madame Collette was very opinionated. And she practically raised me, so maybe a little of the dance snobbery rubbed off on me. Okay?”

They both smiled. “We’re just giving you a hard time, Natalia. We know it’s different being a Goddess. But we still love you.”

I sighed. “Thank God. I was starting to think you weren’t going to let me travel this weekend.”

“And mess up the halftime show? You’re crazy. Maybe she is drunk.” Presley still wasn’t convinced.

We climbed onto the bus together. It was a quick ride to the airport and from there, we would fly to DC.

For the first time I felt as if I had this all figured out.

I sent Sam a quick text.

Headed to the airport for DC. I’ll miss you.

I waited until my phone buzzed.

Don’t stay gone long.

I started to giggle and covered my mouth.

“Who are you texting over there?” Presley leaned over the seat.

I turned my phone facedown. “Something funny I read.”

Heather grinned. “I think you have a boyfriend and you aren’t telling us.”

“No. No way.” I shook my head.

“Something has you all giddy and mysterious. It’s been going on for weeks. I can tell.”

“Nothing is going on.” My voice must have returned to ballerina status, because their eyes widened. “Sorry, I did it again, didn’t I?”

They nodded.

I had that nervous feeling in my stomach. The same one from the conversation when Heather admitted she knew about Sam and me. Although, this time, it wasn’t only about the money. I didn’t want to lose this. I was finally happy. Everything in my life was bliss. Sam. Dancing. I could wear my pointe shoes. It was perfect.

“Tell him you’ll be home Sunday night and we’ll take care of you,” Heather instructed.