Content Warning: Some light swearing.
Dear Diary, I apologize for continuing now what I was writing in another entry but you have to sleep sometime. Right after Fletcher and I made up, I had to get to the studio to see if my name made the list for the dance company. Hopefully, it would be there and Julie’s would be, too.
Other hopefuls gathered around, peering at the sheet tacked to the wall, so I stood behind them, waiting my turn. All around me were people shrieking with delight, jumping up and down because they were in. There were plenty of sobbers, too, quickly gathering their gear and hurrying out.
After a moment, I sensed Julie standing next to me. Giving her a side-eyed glance, I took her hand and said, “This is it.”
She merely nodded and it seemed to me, she was holding her breath. I squeezed her little fingers, rubbing them with my thumb.
“Don’t worry, Jules.”
I wasn’t worried which sounds strange, I know, because I was nervous at the audition. Feeling your nerves is good before a performance, I’ve been told. And I do seem to do better when those butterflies enter my stomach. Something happens to me, though, when the curtain rises and the spotlight follows my movement. I’m confident and sure. I know my body is going to do what I want it to. I’ve worked my entire life to be flexible, strong and fast. This is what I do. And I know I’m good at it. I would kill to get into this company but if I don’t make it, there are others I can audition for.
“I can’t look,” Julie said with a wince when it was our turn.
As she turned away, I ran my finger down the list pausing when I saw her name:
“Julie Graves, corps de ballet”
Instead of telling her the good news right away, I skimmed the rest of the sheet until, finally, I saw my name, too:
“Holden Sprague, corps de ballet”
We were junior dancers in the company, but we were in and getting that initial foot in the door was the hardest part. To move up and become a principal, I would have to work hard and prove my stuff. Meanwhile, I had the job of my dreams and a paycheck.
I pulled Julie away from the list so the people behind us could get a look and gave her a big hug.
“We both made it!” I announced triumphantly into her ear.
She squealed and grasped me tightly before letting go.
“I have to call Brent and let him know,” she said with a wide smile. “Are you going to call anyone?”
The first person who came to mind was Fletch but he could only be reached for emergencies. He has some kind of corporate job at PDS (Pollard Data Systems). I have no idea what he does exactly, something with computers and technical writing, or was he a technical lead? Regardless, I don’t know what any of that even means. He’s explained it to me countless times but it’s never stuck. Don’t judge.
“I’ll tell everybody later,” I decided.
She smiled a little but it didn’t reach her eyes. “I’ve got new pointes I have to work on.”
What she meant was that her pointe shoes needed to have ribbons and elastic sewed on. Julie also had this whole routine when she got new pointes that included coating the insides of them with shellac, then bending them and hitting them until they were less stiff and loud. She may even cut a lot of the outer sole off to get better contact with the floor. It was quite a lengthy ordeal. She usually rotated three pairs of pointes at a time so they would last longer.
The more I talked to her today, the less I liked how mousy she seemed. Normally, she was vibrant, confident, and… alive. The past couple weeks, she seemed exhausted and her expression never lit up her eyes like it used to.
“Are you okay?”
She managed another tight smile and a little nervous laugh. “Of course. I have a baby, you know. She keeps me up all night.”
Granted I didn’t know a lot about babies, so what could I do but believe her? Still, something in the back of my mind wondered if this was more to do with her husband Brent than her daughter Paisley.
“Holden Sprague,” said a male voice, interrupting my thoughts.
Turning toward the voice, I came face to face with the artistic director, the guy in charge of it all. Wait… he knew my name? There were over a hundred dancers in the company.
“Hello, Mr. Minton,” I said as we shook hands. “Thank you so much for this opportunity.”
“It’s my pleasure. I saw you dance when you were in school and I was hoping you would join our company.”
Suddenly, it was hard to swallow around the growing lump in my throat. “Really?”
“Yes, really,” he said with a genuine smile. “I think you have a bright future ahead of you.”
“Thank you,” I said with a smile back at him.
Julie cleared her throat and Aiden Minton glanced at her.
“I’m Julie Graves,” she said.
“Pleased to meet you, Julie.”
Almost as if she hadn’t said anything, he turned back to me. “I understand you ride a scooter?”
How did he know that? I wanted to ask him who he’d been talking to. Instead, I answered his question. That seemed the wiser thing to do, anyway. “Yeah, sometimes. It actually belongs to my boyfriend.”
He waved his hand in the air. “No more of that. No biking, rollerblading, horseback riding, skateboarding… you get the picture. I don’t want you taking any chances of getting an injury that might prevent you from dancing. Understand?”
“Uh, sure,” I said, wondering how much this was going to curb my lifestyle. I wasn’t a daredevil by any means but this was cutting out a lot of fun. “The subway’s good enough for me.”
He smiled and nodded. “That’s the right attitude. Oh, do take advantage of our free gym membership, especially during the off-season. Do you do yoga? They have some excellent classes.”
“Pilates,” I mumbled.
“They have that, too.”
From the corner of my eye, I could see Julie’s downcast face. I wanted to sling my arm around her shoulders and act like the artistic director’s attention meant nothing, but I didn’t have the chance.
“Are you Holden?” a girl asked. When I nodded, she said, “I’m Ella Dean, one of the principals. I was thinking we should get to know each other.”
This had me baffled. Why would one of the company’s top dancers want to know who I was?
As if reading my mind, she looked me up and down unabashedly, then said, “I love seeing new male talent come in. And believe me, I saw your audition and you are talented.”
I got the unpleasant feeling there was more to her words than she was saying outright. Was she coming on to me? I couldn’t tell. I could only see Julie shift her weight to her other foot and roll her eyes.
“Uh, I work hard,” I said.
“I’ll bet you do.”
Aiden Minton snorted and took Ella Dean’s arm. As he dragged her away, I heard him say, “Why do you always have to act so shamefully? You’re going to scare him.”
Puzzled, I rubbed my chin. I wasn’t scared, just uncomfortable.
“Can you believe that?” Julie huffed beside me. “All they care about is you.”
“Jules, I – ”
” – All right, everyone! I am Myung Li and I’m your dance mistress. See these bags under my eyes? You’re going to have them, too, before long. If you’re not in the appropriate attire for rehearsal, get that way, and meet back here in ten! We have a lot to do.”
As if my day wasn’t long enough, when I got home, there were dirty glasses all over the bar from the night before. I’m a certified “neatnick” and so a mess is really the only thing that gets me uptight, even a little. I mean, first it’s dirty glasses, then, before you know it, you’ve got ants looking for more. I can’t handle it.
Chris got home not long after I washed the dishes that were lying around. He saw me as he made a beeline for the fridge.
“Oh, hey.” He dug through the fruit bin, then closed the door, apparently unsatisfied with what he saw. “Someone ate my grapes, man. I label every damn thing that’s mine and some dumb asshat goes and eats all my stuff.”
“Bad day?” I asked as I opened the fridge, moved a few things and found his grapes, setting them on the counter.
“Oh,” he said. “Thanks.”
“Well, seeing as how Rosetta and I are the only other people living here, you mean one of us dumb asshats?”
“I’m glad you smiled when you said that,” he grinned. “Besides, I was talking about Fletcher.”
I took a deep breath before I spoke which is something my dad taught me, thankfully for Chris.
“You know, Fletch changed years ago. He doesn’t have anything more to prove to you or Rosie.”
Christopher’s back visibly stiffened and his chin tilted forward. “We just can’t figure out why you like the guy so much after everything he put you through. We care about you, Holden, but you don’t seem to care about yourself where this is concerned.”
Things generally roll off of me because I make a choice not to get bothered by every little thing. I can see the big picture most of the time, so the here and now doesn’t concern me. But this had gone on long enough.
“You two really need to lay off of him. Do you know he has nightmares all the time because of how he grew up? And he’s got you and my sister treating him like shit on top of it. I don’t really care what you think about either of us, to be honest. I don’t answer to you or anyone, neither does he, but on the surface, you can at least be nice to the guy. Because guess what? I love him, he’s good to me and he’s not going anywhere.”
I think that’s the most I’d ever said in one breath before and Chris stood there like a deer caught in headlights. He probably didn’t think I had this reaming in me.
After a moment, he said, “You love him?”
I shrugged but looked him in the eye. “Yeah, I do. So if you care about me like you say, you can at least respect me by showing him some decency. It doesn’t take that much to be kind.”
Christopher’s eyes teared up even though he wasn’t crying. “I’m sorry, man.”
Relief washed over me like a wave and I nodded slightly. “Thanks.”
Chris brought his grapes to the sink and began rinsing them off.
“Can I ask you a question?”
He turned toward me. “Sure.”
“Why have you held out for so long, acting like Fletch is still that bully he was when he was a kid?”
It was his turn to shrug. “It’s how Rosetta felt.” Then he sighed and threw up his hands. “I’ve been in love with Rosetta since I can remember. She’s smart and beautiful, and quirky.”
He could say that again about the quirkiness, I mean. “Dude, you’re in love with Rosie?”
“Yeah, and no one’s ever noticed, especially her! I thought maybe if I agreed with her on stuff, she’d appreciate that. What should I do?”
My eyes must have been the size of saucers as I processed what he was telling me. He was right about one thing, I was pretty sure Rosetta hadn’t noticed a thing.
“Well?” he asked.
“Dude, you’ve gotta stop agreeing with her! She’ll never be attracted to a guy who goes along with whatever she says. You have to be your own man.”
“Like, be tough and lift more weights and stuff?”
“No!” I exclaimed. “I mean, have your own mind. If you don’t agree with her, tell her. Have you never noticed how she thrives on debate? A good heated discussion will turn her on, trust me.”
It felt weird giving him advice on wooing my sister but there was a plus side in that maybe if she was occupied by Chris, she would remove her nose from my business. It seemed like a good trade-off to me and I can’t help but grin as I write this down…
…it was early evening and I was supposed to meet my dad downtown for dinner. Once in a while, he would call and ask if we could spend some time together. I didn’t get a whole lot of time with him growing up so I generally worked my schedule however I had to when he was free.
As was typical, he was already waiting for me even though I was on time. I’d ridden the subway and had three minutes to spare. Dad was compulsively early.
As soon as he saw me, his face lit up and he gave me one of those bear hugs. I guess other people might be annoyed that their dad still hugs them like that but I’ll never get tired of it. I’m one of those touchy-feely people and embracing my father feels safe and gives me an assurance.
“How are you?” he asked. “You seem thin.”
After I assured him I was a normal weight, we exchanged niceties and ate at this little diner. I’m basically hungry all the time and can eat anywhere. This diner has an okay salmon fillet with veggies. Later, I would be snacking at home on a power bar, yogurt or green juice. It was necessary to replenish often with all of the pilates, dancing, and strength training I did.
After dinner, Dad said he had time to spare, so we walked to the park to sit by the fountain.
“I am very happy you are part of the dance company,” he said.
This made me smile a little. We weren’t always close but had cultivated a friendship in the past few years so I cherished the fact that he seemed proud of me. I’d always wanted that so badly.
There was something I’d wanted to ask him for a long time, though. It was hard to find the right words. How did you start this conversation, anyway?
I guess you just started it by asking plainly. “Are you bothered that I didn’t turn out like you?”
His jaw dropped slightly and he seemed taken aback. After gathering himself, he said, “I do not understand why you are asking this.”
“I’ve just wondered, I guess. Sometimes I feel like I couldn’t be more different and maybe we would’ve been closer when I was young if I wasn’t like… me.”
Dad paused for a long while, staring at the fountain. When he spoke, there was a conviction in his voice that I hadn’t heard in a long time. “Son, you are exactly who you were meant to be. And I accept that.” When I didn’t say anything, he went on. I could tell it was hard for him. “When you were born, I thought, there he is! The boy that will take my place one day as the head of The Inheritance. Instead, you enjoyed things I never had the chance to try when I was a child. Your mother and I… we did not always agree on your upbringing. But I am thankful for her and what she has taught me.”
“What was that?”
He smiled slightly and patted my knee. “She taught me that I am not always right.”
I was able to hide my snicker by coughing and then clearing my throat.
“It is true,” he said. “Holden, in the end, I did not need another ‘me’ to take over the empire. Why would I want you to be just like me? I have a lot of faults, you know. Most of the time, I cannot express myself, especially if it involves emotional things. You may not have noticed, but I am a little bit uptight.”
This is where I couldn’t hide anything. I burst out laughing, bending forward and holding my stomach.
Dad watched me the entire time, his face somber, but his eyes twinkling.
“Yes,” he said, “the apple fell far from the tree but in this case, it is a good thing.”
Late that night, after I did some stretching, icing, and showering, I slipped into bed next to Fletch. He was lying on his side, his breathing steadily rising from his chest. I leaned over, trying to see his face but could only see his profile. His porcelain skin was exquisitely intoxicating as I slid my arm around him and brushed my lips against his shoulder.
“No nightmares tonight,” I whispered into his ear.
He stirred only slightly, his mouth falling open a little. If I was feeling cruel, I would kiss those soft lips but I knew he had to work early in the morning. So, I contented myself by stretching out next to him, still holding him with my arm, and listening to the comforting repetition of his breathing.
This was how I wanted to spend the rest of my life.
Author’s Note: You can see a Noble Doubt Blooper here of Holden “washing” the dishes! 😀 And if you like that blooper, would you also mind liking the FB page, too? Thank you so much! <3
Thank you for reading and for your support,
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I’m so glad Julie and Holden got into the dance company. I’m still worried about her though. Something is definitely very off, and I hope whatever it is can be fixed. If this continues to go on, it will have an effect on her dancing. Also, I thought that was rude of the art director, or whoever he was, to be so rude to Julie and act like she wasn’t even there.
I’m glad Holden got to have that talk with his dad. It was in lightning, and I had to laugh at his dad’s response about being uptight. That was funny. LOL!
So, Chris is in love with Rosetta! I didn’t see that coming, and it’ll be interesting if he follows Holden’s advice about how to handle her. That said, Chris needs to accept who Holden is with if he cares about him. Hopefully now that Chris knows the score, he will be more cooperative and treat Fletcher with a bit more decency.
By the way, do you use height sliders and stuff on the Sims? Julie seems to be quite a bit shorter than Holden, even shorter than the average Sim. Either that, or Holden is taller than the average Sim.
You’re right about Julie; something is really off there. Hopefully, Holden can find out what is going on.
I loved Xalen so much, and I’m glad they got to clear the air. 🙂
Yes! Chris is head over heels for Rosetta. She is so oblivious, though! lol
Yes, to height sliders. Then, I go to pose them and realize I’ve changed their heights. LOL Holden is tall and Julie is short. 😀
I was sure Chris was in love with Rosetta. It was so obvious ahaha !
Wasn’t it, though? Did you put in a new name to use? 😀
Holden and Fletcher are so good together! The end of the chapter put a huge smile on my face…
You have the right moves, talent and then you have star quality. Julie is the first, and Holden is apparently the last! With her problems she’s not shining enough to get the attention she might crave as a dancer…
Thank you, freja. 🙂 I’m so glad the ending put a smile on your face. I really like Holden and Fletcher together, too. Holden really does love him in game, too.
I think you’re right about Julie and why she’s not shining through at the moment.
Holden not understanding exactly what Fletcher does reminds me of Marty. xD Should I be worried that Fletcher doesn’t take calls other than emergencies? That’s really weird.
Hmm, I’m getting very bad vibes from the company. It really seems like they hired both of them because they thought Holden wouldn’t come without Julie. Ella may be looking for a new partner.
I’m glad Holden finally spoke up for Fletcher. Chris’ resentment makes sense now, he just got caught up in it. Rosetta is a very up front and busy person, she doesn’t have time to notice his little hints, lol. I wonder how she would react if he confessed.
Wow Holden and Xalen look so much alike sitting there on the bench. It’s funny they are so similar in looks but have completely different personalities. Holden takes more after Marty there.
Thank you so much. I can see why Holden was reminding you of Marty just ten. LOL As for Fletcher only taking emergency calls, I know a lot of people who aren’t allowed calls at work, but then, you might be right and it’s suspicious. 😀 We shall see! 🙂
The company does seem to be putting off some bad vibes there. It could be that Ella’s looking for a new partner, as you said. Wish I could tell you now. LOL
Yes, I thought it was high time Holden stuck up for Fletcher. You’re right about Rosetta not really having the time to notice his hints.
I thought Xalen and Holden looked a lot alike, too. He takes after his dad in looks and mom in personality. 😀
I knew Holden and Julie would get in, I just knew it! 🎉 But I have a feeling that the company only wanted Holden and took Julie just because they were a pair – maybe they feared that Holden would refuse the position if they weren’t together?
I really worry about Julie and her husband… whatever is going on between them can’t be good. But I’ll refrain from trying to guess because you always seem to surprise up, lol! But I’m dying to find out!
The scene with Holden and Xalen was adorable! I loved everything Xalen said to his son! <3
And I'm really curious to see how Chris will make his feelings clear towards Rosetta, although Holden made a very good point! But I bet she'll be a tough cookie to crack (that is the correct expression, right? Lol)! <3
Thank you so much. <3 You were right! They got in! 🙂
Your feeling about them only wanting Holden might be right. It will be interesting (I hope) to see how it all plays out. lol
Oh dear, I don't know if it will surprise you or not regarding Julie and her husband. 😀 😀 But you will find out what's going on soon because Brent will be making an appearance.
I'm so glad you liked the scene with Holden and Xalen. <3 I love them together so much.
You have the right expression. 😀 It was originally a "tough nut to crack." But lots of people say "tough cookie to crack," too. 😀 And you are right about Rosetta. <3
Poor Julie <3
Yeah, hopefully, everything will work out for her. <3
Awe, I am so proud of Holden. I knew that he and Jules would get in!! 🙂 🙂
I hope that he gets what he wants. But I am still very concerned with Jules. There is something there besides having a new baby.
Chris finally came clean about his feeling for Rosetta. Don’t think that those feels went unnoticed. I noticed it, and I’m sure some of your other readers did as well.
Do you remember the TV show Friends? The way Holden talked about Fletcher’s job reminded me that on that TV show no one knew Chandler’s job.
Thank you so much. 🙂 You are most likely right about Jules. Fortunately, (or maybe not haha), you’ll be meeting Brent very soon which will probably give you a good idea as to what’s going on.
I remember, I think, that you noticed about Chris having a thing for Rosetta! 😀 Good call! I used to watch Friends but I’d forgotten about that. hahaha
I am looking forward to meeting Brent (so I can keep my eye on him).
LOL! 😀 Well, all right! 😀
Congratulations to Holden and Julie! 🎉 Though it is a little concerning how much more interest Holden has cultivated than Julie, and I hope that dancer isn’t going to try and move in on becoming his partner instead.. Holden doesn’t seem like the type to drop Julie to get ahead in his dancing career, so I doubt it would work even if she does try it!
The part where Holden talks about not understanding Fletcher’s job is so relatable for me. My husband talks to me about his job all the time, and when people ask me what he does I never know what to say! Most of what he says goes right over my head. All I know is that he rebuilds and inspects oil field parts. That’s it. That’s all I know lol. 🤷🏻♀️
I like those two together so far, and I hope that Fletcher’s jealousy doesn’t ruin things for them. And that Chris and Rosetta can let the past be the past and accept their relationship as well.
Thank you so much. I think you’re right that Holden would not want to leave Julie behind. We’ll see where this goes with Ella Dean. It does seem like she’s trying to move in on their pairing.
That’s so funny about you trying to understand your husband’s job. LOL That’s how it was with my father. People would say, “What does your father do?” And I couldn’t even begin to tell them; not because he hadn’t tried to explain it either! LOLOL
I hope Fletcher’s jealousy won’t ruin what he and Holden have, too. I agree it would be nice if Chris and Rosetta put the past in the past, too.
Yay for Holden and Julie getting in! I don’t think everything will be sunshine and rainbows though. The attitude of the artistic director and principal dancer is concerning- it seems Minton is quite the controlling man, and a toxic and competitive hierarchy already seems to be showing through Ella’s behaviour. I’m not sure but it all in all, there looks to be a very bumpy road ahead for these two.
I cringed inside when Holden talked about Julie’s pointe shoes. Man, are they pretty, but such literal pains. And sooooo expensive. I’ve heard professional ballerinas can get through more than one pair for some days. All that money used up so quickly 0___0 Going on from that, as Louise mentioned, I appreciate the research you have clearly put into the dance aspect!
Poor Julie, I wonder what is going on with her and Brent. I hope she isn’t in an abusive situation, and if so, that she can get out asap. Also, although some other people seem to be shipping Holden and Julie, I haven’t jumped on that ship yet. I am worried about her and hope she will be okay, but I don’t really like Julie. Her personality seems quite caustic (though that might be due to Brent) and I like Fletcher and Holden together more. I have a feeling that as much as Holden wants them to be like that forever, it won’t be that simple.
Speaking of Fletcher, I cheered when Holden stood up for him. Rosetta and Christopher’s behaviour was starting to get on my nerves, so I’m glad Holden put his friend straight. It’s interesting how Chris is in love with Rosetta and I love Holden’s observation of his sister enjoying a debate rather than someone just agreeing to everything she says.
Xalen! It’s great to see him again. He’s so unintentionally hilarious 😀 I’m happy that he and Holden have built up a strong relationship together.
Awesome chapter!
Thank you so much, Lila. 🙂 I think Minton would say he’s “protective” of his dancers, but of course, I agree with you that he is controlling. I mean, let’s just call it what it is. You are probably right about the bumpy road, especially if Julie is pushed aside while Holden excels. Hopefully, they will continue with a strong friendship.
I hope the same things you do about Julie. That’s very interesting that you find her caustic – and I’m not disagreeing with you at all. Brent will come into the picture very soon and so you will be able to get a good grip on what’s going on and who is doing what. I can’t wait to see what you think.
I like Fletcher and Holden together, too, because they’ve known each other for so long and they have a history. Isn’t that how it is? When a character says that’s what they want, crap happens. LOL We’ll see how it goes. 😛
I’m so glad you liked Holden sticking up for Fletcher. Rosetta and Chris really aren’t being fair here. I mean, how long does this have to go on? Holden felt weird giving Chris advice about Rosetta, but that’s basically what she would want; someone to debate with. lol
I’m so glad you enjoyed seeing Xalen! 😀 I love that nerdy man. I’m really happy Holden and his dad are close now. It’s good to have that family bond.
Oh! I wanted to say something about pointe shoes since you brought it up. OMG I’ve seen so many pics of ballerina’s poor feet and toes!! Like, how do you deal with that? Pointe shoes totally change your feet and it looks so painful. It sure makes me appreciate ballet more, though. Also, I read that a ballerina can go through one pair of pointe shoes in one performance! Yikes! I admire you, girl, let me tell you.
Thank you for your encouragement about the research and everything. I keep holding my breath, especially when someone like you who knows about it reads my chapters. 😀
I totally agree with you! I only did pointe for a year before finishing dance, and my toes would always bleed. And I also frequently got horrific leg cramps during sleeps and sometimes even during class, then I wouldn’t even be able to move properly for the rest of the day 🙁 That put me off pointe shoes for sure haha. So I’m in complete awe of the people who continue on to have a career in ballet!
Oh, you’re poor toes. And those leg cramps sound pretty hideous. I can see why that all would put you off pointe. lol I don’t think I could have done it, that’s for sure.
I get happier and happier with each new chapter. 😀 Although, I’m concerned about Holden’s new boss and coworker there. It seems like Julie is just being pushed aside! I think Holden is quite wonderful too, but come on! It takes two to…ballet!! 😉 *ahem* Anyway, look at Xalen and Holden side-by-side. He’s the spitting image of his dad with just the right amount of Marty thrown in. I love their relationship. I missed Xalen, too. I can’t wait for The Inheritance to start because I’m having Marty and Xalen withdrawals!
Thank you, Rosie 🙂 I’m so glad you get happier with each chapter. That really makes me so …. well, happy. 😀
As far as the co-workers go, the good part is that Holden noticed Julie was being pushed aside. If he hadn’t noticed, I think that would have really added to the frustration.
You know what I did? I took those pics of Xalen and Holden side by side and put them together. I will show you:
Isn’t that crazy?! So, it cracked me up that you mentioned that. 😀
I love their relationship, too, and I hope I’m able to have a lot more of that in the future, too.
Yes! I’m working on The Inheritance. And I’m so geeked to get it out there for you. Thanks so much for the encouragement.
Oh my gosh, mini Xalen! But he has his mom’s cheekbones. He’s too cute! 😀 Can’t wait for more!
Yes! Now that I’m looking at it, he does have Marty’s cheekbones, you are right. 😀 I couldn’t believe how much they were alike.
The resemblance is striking!
I thought so, too! 😀
Somehow I don’t think things are going to stay as they are with Fletcher even though he wants it to. Somehow he’s going to figure out what’s going on with Julie and I can’t decide if it’s her he will wind up with or the blonde dancer. Not betting on the blonde. My bets are on Julie. Something is a little off about Fletcher. And Julie knows him very well and they are already close.
Thank you, Audrey <3 You might just be right about how things are with Fletcher and how it might also change. There is so much in store yet for this generation (I hope I can fit it all into thirty chapters! lol), so don't pin your hopes on anyone just yet. :D Julie seems a natural choice for the reasons you mentioned. :D
Is it any surprise that my favourite thing was the cute conversation between Xalen and Holden? Because Xalen is there and he’s adorable. I love him so much 😀 <3
But oh, both him and Julie got in! That's exciting. And looks like Holden is going to be popular. I fear the same as Holden – that something's up with Julie's husband, but I've already mentioned that…
And Chris and Rosetta, eh? Honestly, I think it would take a lot for her to realise someone was into her. I can only imagine her being really oblivious to flirting 😛
Have you been researching ballet, btw? 🙂 You throw in a lot of knowledge that sounds really authentic.
This was great as is always the case. Thank you for sharing your beautiful writing with us 🙂 <3
Thank you so much, Louise! And thank you for liking my FB page, too! Woot! 😀
I’m so not surprised that the bit with Xalen was your favorite part. It was actually mine, too. And I couldn’t wait to write it. Xalen tries so hard. haha <3 <3
It does look like Holden will be popular. Hopefully, they will notice Julie, too, since she is also a great dancer.
Brent will enter the story really soon, so you might get a better idea of how he and Julie are then.
Chris is going to have a really difficult time getting Rosetta to notice his feelings. She is so focused on what she's involved in and she's kind of a one track mind sort of person. lol
Oh, yes, I've been researching ballet like crazy for a while now. I read tons of articles and all sorts of sources. It seems like ballet companies are different depending on what country you live in, so I've pretty much taken interesting things I find and including them where I can. I'm glad it sounds authentic. I was kind of (and still am) holding my breath about it all. haha
Of course, Kym <3 Now you can stalk the real me on Facebook, oh my!
Ha, ha, Oh I love Xalen so much! You're right he tries so hard and he's just so awkward and nerdy through it all. Such a sweetheart.
I'm really excited to see how all the different plot threads unfold. So much exciting stuff going on!
And it definitely shows that you've done your research. It's so impressive and it's clear you're really passionate about your story. So wonderful 🙂
LOL I would love to send you a FR, if that’s okay. 😀
I’m glad you got that vibe from Xalen because that just perfectly describes who I imagine him to be. <3
Thank you so much. That's how I feel about your story and all the back stories and details you put into yours.
Of course, I’d love that 😀 <3
He's very clearly defined, that little darling 🙂
Aw, thank you so much 🙂
Cool! 😀 He’s been a joy to write. <3
I took her hand and said, “This is it.”
I’ve decided that Holden’s behavior isn’t…I’m not exactly what word I’m reaching for lol. I know they are “just friends,” and I know he’s the touchy feely type and touching is his thing, but he knows she’s married AND having marriage troubles. I think he oversteps at times. And uhhh…let’s not forget how attracted they are to each other…mmm hmm. lol But then again, he probably doesn’t realize exactly how much he touches her. I’m sure in the heat of some argument (namely the one where she accidentally blurts out she loves him LOL), she’ll call this out. 😀
I like that name, Paisley.
“I’m Ella Dean, one of the principals. I was thinking we should get to know each other.”
You know…while they were looking for their names, I had a brief thought: what if they get into the company and get split up? I’m quite sure, Kymber, you have taken the necessary precautions to ensure we have enough popcorn for this gen, yes?
“Because guess what? I love him, he’s good to me and he’s not going anywhere.”
*snort* That’s what you think. Whoops…did I say that out loud? 😛
“I’ve been in love with Rosetta since I can remember. She’s smart and beautiful, and quirky.”
Whaaaaaaaaaaat? Plot twist! LOL
Thank you, Jess! 🙂 Oh, yes! I agree with you that even though he may not be aware of it, Holden does cross a line he shouldn’t. He said something in the last chapter about Brent not liking him even though he’d never been inappropriate with Julie. Holden definitely doesn’t realize how much he touches her. He’s so comfortable with her as a dance partner, perhaps that is why. I LOVE the scene you just set up for me! haha 😀 😀
I like the name Paisley, too. When I saw it, I knew I had to use it. lol
You’re so good at predictions. haha I’m loving this. It’s very possible Julie and Holden might get split up. What would this do to them? :O Hmmm….. 😀 😀 Popcorn, you say? Why yes, now that you mention it, I have plenty of popcorn for the gen but I don’t deliver. I’m afraid it’s pickup only. LOLOLOLOLOL
You know, I actually snorted when I wrote that line about “he’s not going anywhere.” Not, mind you, because Fletcher is going somewhere, but because those are famous last words. 😛
LOL Rosetta will never notice a man until she has what she’s after… sorry, Chris 😛
I’d like to be called “associate director” when you roll the credits. Thanks. LOL
What kind of a game are you running here? Hmph. I’ll just bring my own popcorn!
Oh, and uhhh…if my comments ever get into spoiler territory, please don’t hesitate to delete them. I know I’m a bit of a loose cannon over here LOL.
LOLOL Why don’t I just make you the director and forget that assistant stuff? You have some awesome ideas and you already know how I feel about your writing. 😀
LOL Awwww….. well, I s’pose I could mail it, but personally, I don’t like it stale. 😛
LOLOL Don’t worry about your comments. I love them and am teasing. I have a lot planned for this generation. 😀
Oh no…did I just get myself another job? Nice going, Jess! 😛
I’m serious about my comments though. Who knows what I’ll say LOL.
Haha!! 😀 Yes and I’ll pay you……………
……in gum! LOLOLOL 😛
I love the way your comments get me thinking, so keep up the good work. 😀
YES! Everyone loves to be paid in gum! Well…except the people I attempt to pay in gum lol.
LOL!
I worry about their acceptance into this company. I get that a lot of places have high standards, but unless they are paying them millions, they should have to say in what activities the dancers participate in their free time.
Also, they better not mess things up for Julie.
Thank you, Violincat. 🙂 They definitely aren’t making millions, that’s for sure. I tend to agree with you here, for sure. I also hope nothing gets messed up for Julie either.
WithMyung Li said they’ll have bags under their eyes like herself, it just shows the over confidence and the power of control those in authority have. High standards indeed!
Thank you so much for your comment. 🙂 You are so right about the power of control those in authority have. Hopefully, none of the dancers will burn out.
Gosh I love Holden so much. He’s so strong while being so empathic and intuitive !
Thank you, CT! 🙂 I’m so glad you love him. He’s everything you said. <3
Yay, they got in! I have a feeling it is going to be a LOT of hard work, and possibly with all the attention Holden is getting, that could come between them due to jealousy. Not that Holden would ever leave her behind. He has a big heart full of love, that one.
I wonder if Julie’s husband is being abusive, verbally maybe (I reckon he’d have to be careful if it was physical with how much skin she shows). When people become mousy it generally means something big is bothering them, and occasionally they feel like no one wants to listen to them, because of various put downs. It would fit with the other things Holden has noticed.
I’m so happy he stood up for Fletcher, though. Hopefully Chris will now be kinder towards him.
Thank you so much 🙂 Yes! They’re in! He’s starting on a better foot than Marty did. LOL You’re right that this is going to mean a lot of hard work. Will the attention Holden’s getting come between him and Julie? I wish I could say, but it’s a real possibility. I think you’re right that he wouldn’t do anything to hurt her.
That’s a good question about Julie’s husband. We’ll actually be meeting him soon, then you can be a better judge. I like what you said about why someone might become mousy and I totally agree with you.
I’m really happy Holden stood up for Fletcher, too. I think after all this time, Fletcher deserves that much.
I actually worry that his devotion to Jules will bring him down. Male dancers being so sought after in the ballet field, especially those as accomplished as he is. I hope that doesn’t happen.
Fletcher must be going thru some very difficult issues he is trying to work out in his mind. Nightmares are a clear sign something is wrong and I hope whatever it is doesn’t bite Holden in the ….
I loved the whole, “She taught me I wasn’t always right part”!! I burst out laughing at that! Funny how in the beginning he was so worried because she was so much younger than him. Who taught who what mister???? Anyway seeing a parent accept their child fully for who they truly are, is a beautiful moment to see.
Chris in love with Rosetta? That is totally to be accepted. He is always with her. If Rosetta was less of a driven, self assured person, she may have grown up in love with him too. But she has ambitions far above love at this point.
Thank you, Bee. That’s a good point about Julie possibly bringing him down. I hope that doesn’t happen, too. I really like their relationship in game. They chat constantly lol
You’re right about the nightmares and Fletcher. Let’s hope it’s sorted out soon.
I’m glad you loved the Xalen part. You’re so right about how she ended up teaching him a few things. haha I love, too, that Xalen accepts Holden for who he is.
Chris is so crazy over Rosetta! I agree it’s to be expected since they grew up in such close proximity. You’re also right that Rosetta has her focus elsewhere. Poor Chris. LOL
I’m so happy that Holden and Julie got in!
Wow, Chris is in love with Rosetta? I didn’t expect that! I’m glad that Holden explained to his best friend how he feels about Fletcher. His friend should at least try to accept the fact that he loves the guy who’s the one who used to bully him.
And the last scene is very peaceful and sweet. Talk about quiet before a storm, I suppose…
“You may not have noticed, but I am a little bit uptight.” – No one noticed, Xalen! You are the opposite of a buzzkill, always the first to party! Lol.
Thank you. Jowita. I’m sorry I’m so late to respond and haven’t read your chapter yet (I can’t wait!). I had a doctor appointment and stuff. 🙂
Yes, Chris only went along with Rosetta because he thought that would impress her. Good thing Holden set him straight on that and also about he treats Fletcher.
There’s always a quiet before the storm. LOL It can’t all go smoothly. hehehe
Hahahaha! I love what you said about Xalen. So funny 😀 😀
You don’t have to apologize. I hope your appointment went well!
Thank you so much! It went well, thank goodness. 😀