Love the Way You Dance

By Allison M Boot

Since being adopted by the King and Queen of Starrycrest two years ago, Kara has lived a magical life, complete with doting parents and staff as well as a starring role in the Starrycrest Starlets' production of The Nutcracker. The princess is on top of the world until big changes threaten her place in the Denison family as well as in the kingdo

• Language: English
• Publisher: Boot Books
• Release date: May 11, 2020
• ISBN: 9781732126732

Book preview

Love the Way You Dance

Allison M. Boot

Copyright @2020, Allison M. Boot

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Printed in the United States of America

Dedication

♥ This story is dedicated to Dylan Boot, who has shown me that familial connection goes beyond biology. Thank you for loving and accepting me and for being part of my forever family, sweetie! ♥

Acknowledgements

F

irstly, I would like to acknowledge my mother, Kimberly Hughes. She encouraged me to try wheelchair ballet as a teenager, which subsequently led to my lifelong love of dance. Perhaps more importantly, she persuaded me to dance as a soldier in a performance of The Nutcracker. This was an unbelievable, exhilarating experience that I will remember for the rest of my days; it also provided one of the themes for this story. Most notably, though, my mother has always told me that I can do anything I set my mind to.

Secondly, I’d like to acknowledge my loving husband, Dylan Boot. Thank you again for supporting me throughout the writing and publishing process. And as always, thank you so much for going through this crazy journey called life with me… ILYSMSM!

Thirdly, I’d like to acknowledge Merry Lynn Morris, who invented the Rolling Dance Wheelchair that inspired the Dancer Dazzler, which you will see featured in the story that is to come. Thank you so much for inventing something to help audiences focus on the talents and ABILITIES of dancers with disABILITIES instead of their differences.

Additionally, I would like to acknowledge my friend, Erin Kelly. Thank you for supporting me through writing and publishing this book. If it weren’t for you, I may not have finished this long-awaited sequel. Thank you for encouraging me to trust my characters and myself. You will always be my fellow Raider and sister!

Last, but certainly not least, I would like to acknowledge my editors without whom Love the Way You Dance would not be what it is today. The secret to great writing is good editing. I can’t thank my editors enough for lending their skills and expertise to this book and for helping me to be a great writer.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Epilogue

Chapter 1

O

nce upon a time, in a faraway land called Starrycrest, there lived a princess named Kara. Like other princesses before her, she was beloved and regarded as special in her realm. As far as the princess was concerned, she was special not because of her royal status per se, but because of how it was bestowed upon her.

Unlike other princesses, her royal status was not a birthright, but rather a perk of the king and queen adopting her two years earlier. Despite having to keep up with homework, chores, and various royal duties, life had been pretty perfect since that day.

By far, dance was the aspect the princess loved most about her new life. She and her adoptive mother, Misty, were both in wheelchairs because of disabilities that left them unable to walk. But Derrick Dennison, the kingdom’s dignified and fair ruler as well as its most loving husband and devoted father, quickly taught the two most important women in the world to him that their disabilities didn’t have to prevent them from loving dance.

The tiny family had bonded over dance so much that the king had implemented an adaptive ballet class, the Starrycrest Dancing Starlets, shortly after Kara’s adoption. Sitting in the class one afternoon with 13 other kids she fidgeted apprehensively in her chair, as he assigned parts for an upcoming performance of The Nutcracker. Uh oh, I look even more nervous than I feel, she realized as she noted her wide-eyed frazzled reflection in the focal point mirror covered wall. This is so weird. I’m used to feeling so comfortable and confident here in the studio.

Looking at the jewel covered phonograph at the front of the room, she closed her eyes and tried to imagine the soft, melodic stylings of the Fairy Lullaby from A Midsummer Night’s Dream filling the room. After a long moment, she took a deep breath, opened her eyes, and flashed a smile at Derrick.

Her smile fell instantly as, Sally Levinson will dance as Clara, left his mouth. I can’t believe he chose Sally. What was he thinking? she thought to herself. She understood that he didn’t want to give her preferential treatment for being his daughter and the royal princess, but she hoped that her talent and the fact that her name rhymed with that of the star of the show would earn her the part. Biting the inside of her cheek with gumption, she managed to not make a peep despite her overwhelming desire to protest.

And last, but certainly not least, the lovely Kara Dennison will be our Sugar Plum Fairy, Derrick announced, pride coloring his voice.

A squeal left the young girl’s lips as her confidence in her adoptive father was instantly restored.

Derrick let out a roar of laughter. "I hope you are all as happy with your part as Kara is with hers. That’s all for today kiddos. Go home and study up because, come December 3rd, we are going to celebrate Starrycrest’s birthday by putting on the best performance of The Nutcracker this kingdom has ever seen."

Derrick and Kara were left alone in the dance studio after a chorus of cheers followed his announcement.

I am so glad you’re happy with your part sweetheart. You seemed nervous for a minute there.

The young girl giggled, her adorable dimples popping out against her skin. I tried to hide it, but I was hoping to be the star of the show, she admitted, her voice suddenly soft and quiet.

Derrick smiled, the love he felt for Kara shining in his eyes. Sweetheart, I’m going to tell you a little secret but first you must promise to keep it just between us, okay?

Kara nodded eagerly, her dimples still exposed. I will. I promise.

"Clara may spend the most time on stage in The Nutcracker and be the character who most people consider the star of the show, but truth be told the Sugar Plum Fairy character dances one of the most beautiful, intricate, and challenging ballet routines of all time. I gave you the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy because, in my humble opinion, the most difficult dance in the piece deserves to be performed by my best, and most dedicated, dancer. There is no doubt in my mind that’s you. Pausing briefly, he flashed a smile. Besides, as the most beautiful person in this kingdom, you are the only one who can do the part justice."

The little girl smiled mischievously; her eyebrows furrowed. What about Misty? Don’t you think she’s the most beautiful person in the kingdom?

Kneeling to look her straight in the eye, his expression thoughtful, Derrick contemplated for a moment then answered, I could no sooner choose between the two of you than I could destroy this kingdom…you two are definitely tied, but I’ll tell you another little secret. Smiling wider, Derrick dropped his voice to a whisper, You aren’t the best dancer in the Starrycrest Dancing Starlets just because your appearance is gorgeous. You’re the best because, when you dance, you let people see your beautiful heart.

Throwing her arms around Derrick’s neck, Kara squeezed tightly. You are the best.

Derrick shook his head, still smiling. No sweetheart, you are. I only hope that someday you can learn to love the way you dance.

Hmm?

Ignoring the tiny dancer’s question, Derrick returned her hug and flashed a smile. What do you say we go and start on dinner before Dex and Cliff riot and break into the fridge?

With that, Kara let out a chorus of giggles and the two of them walked happily back to the castle proper.

***

Guess what? Guess what? Guess what? Kara charged enthusiastically at her adoptive mother as she burst through the door of the castle dining room that evening.

Misty beamed at her daughter’s excitement, her emerald eyes sparkling with love for the little girl. What, sweetie?

With a smile that lit up her whole face, Kara sat up straighter in her wheelchair and announced, "I’m going to dance as the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Starrycrest Dancing Starlets’ production of The Nutcracker!"

Misty instantly hugged the little girl, squeezing gently as an enthusiastic squeal escaped her lips. I’m so happy for you, sweetheart! She locked eyes with her husband, and they shared a grin as she sent Kara off to set the table for dinner.

You’re going to be great, you really are, Misty told her as she put plates and forks at three places. You’re such a radiant dancer, and you can bet I’m getting a seat in the front row.

Once everything was ready, the tiny family sat down to a delicious dinner of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and buttermilk biscuits.

I’m so glad Derrick asked me to be the Sugar Plum Fairy, Kara mused conversationally between bites of food.

Hearing these words, Misty couldn’t help the sigh she exhaled looking at the young girl before her. Kara, honey, it’s been two years since your adoption. You’re not going anywhere, and neither are we, so I think it’s okay if you call us Mom and Dad.

Kara focused her gaze on her shoes. I love you guys so much, she whispered instead of responding to her adoptive mother’s thought. I really do want to call them Mom and Dad, but I can’t bring myself to do it, she sighed. An awkward silence settled like a cloud over the trio.

Clearing his throat after a few minutes, Derrick turned to Misty, valiantly trying to diffuse the tension with his, So, how was your day?

Well, Kara’s not the only one who received big news today, Misty admitted hesitantly.

Enlighten us! the king urged, taking a bite of chicken.

After I finished with today’s audiences, I went to the doctor, she elaborated, apprehension darkening her features.

Misty, why didn’t you tell me you were feeling poorly? Derrick could not mask his alarm. He took her hand and squeezed it.

Yeah, why didn’t you tell anyone? Are you okay? Kara asked, echoing Derrick’s concerns.

Returning Derrick’s solid grip, Misty looked at Kara and took a deep breath. Well I’ve been feeling poorly in the early hours of the morning for a while now, but I didn’t want anyone to know until I was sure.

Sweetie, what did the doctor tell you? Distress poured from Derrick’s question. Please tell us, he pleaded before taking another bite of his fried chicken.

I’m pregnant, the queen blurted, smiling nervously as the words tumbled into the space between them.

Eyes watering, Derrick’s face turned purple in seconds as he tried to cough up a piece of chicken that had lodged into the back of his throat upon hearing about his wife’s delicate condition.

Oh God. He’s choking… he’s choking… help… help! Misty shouted, anxiety overtaking her muscles and creating a spasm that ran up and down her legs. The jerky movement of her limbs made her seatbelt pop off, at which point she was practically standing upright in her wheelchair.

I’m on it, Kara declared, signaling for Dex, the family service dog, to follow her before she raced out of the room in search of help.

Upon returning the young girl watched, her eyes glued in amazement to Derrick, as he leaned himself against the dining room table and, after three abdominal thrusts, effectively displaced the fried fowl.

Marie, a personal assistant and beloved member of the castle staff, looked at the little girl. Oh, my heavens, why didn’t you tell me what was going on? the caregiver asked as she rushed over to the leader of the realm. Are you all right, your Majesty? What on earth happened?

Water, the king croaked out, his voice quiet and weak. I need water.

Take this, Kara said, quickly satisfying his request by offering him her glass.

After taking a large gulp of water, the king took a deep breath and smiled. I’m okay. Just startled by Misty’s announcement.

Flashing him a nervous half smile, Marie nodded. Oh, I see. I’m glad you’re okay. Let me know if you need anything else your Majesty. And please take smaller bites. The family’s laughter in answer to this message followed her out of the room.

As everyone’s laughter quieted, Derrick reached over, buckled his wife’s seatbelt, and reclaimed his seat at the dinner table. Having the clang of forks against plates be the lone sound in the room for the next few minutes, brought back the memory of another quiet dinner for Kara held some time ago. Misty and Derrick had tried to stage a meeting between their feuding parents over food shortly after she’d come to live in the castle. The past fading, and her plate empty, Kara fixed her gaze on Misty. So. You have a bun in the oven?

The queen smiled uncertainly. Yes, she answered, her voice small and quiet. Where did you hear that expression?

Kara giggled, exposing her dimples. A few years ago, I got mad when I heard that Alicia, the oldest girl in the group home, was suddenly allowed to get an apartment and live on her own. When I asked Betsy why, she said it was because Alicia had a bun in the oven. Then, a few days later, a lady named Doula came by to tell everyone where babies come from. I put things together.

Giggling, Misty looked at her daughter. Kara, sweetheart, I think you mean a doula. That’s what people who deliver babies are sometimes called. I was actually thinking of using a doula instead of a doctor, she said casually.

Suddenly wide-eyed, a shocked Derrick joined the conversation again, What? Okay, we’ll talk about that decision later, he directed at his wife. Then, he addressed his daughter; he was anxious and completely incapable of hiding his inexperience talking about the subject he was broaching, What did the doula tell you about the baby thing, sweetheart?

Kara’s cheeks, usually a rosy pink, instantly became a deep red. Uh, shouldn’t you know that already? she questioned, her laughter more nervous than happy.

Misty chuckled at the joke, her pleasure reaching all the way to her eyes. It’s okay, Kara, we just want to be prepared to fill in whatever gaps may come up in the future.

Kara beckoned the winged and fur-covered members of the family, who had already been sitting nearby, closer; she needed a morale boost before she imparted her information. Oh – well – she told us that, sometimes, if two people love each other enough, God allows their souls to join and create another one. According to the doula, this new soul is protected for nine months in the mother’s stomach before it comes into the world.

As the queen listened to, and fully absorbed, Kara’s words, her eyes brimmed with moisture. That’s the sweetest thing I’ve ever heard! Misty sobbed, tears coursing down her cheeks. Overcome with emotion, she pulled Kara toward her, across the table, and hugged her.

The young girl’s body went into the embrace, but her limbs stayed stiff. Her blonde hair swinging as she shook her head, confused, and looked to Derrick, What’s happening? The words collapsed into a faint croak as Misty tightened her hold.

Sweetie, I believe we’re witnessing the first of many hormone-induced mood swings, Derrick chuckled.

Misty nodded in agreement. I know it’s crazy to cry, but I can’t help it. She gently freed Kara from her grasp, wiping her eyes and smiling. I couldn’t be happier, but I’m so scared, she added wonderingly, fresh tears welling in her eyes.

Kara locked eyes with Derrick, breathing sagely, Mood swing.

With a small, thoughtful grin the king told his wife, We’ll get through this, really, we will. I promise. I know it’s unknown territory but try not to worry too much. It won’t be good for you or the baby.

Continuing to cry, Misty shook her head. It’s not about the pregnancy, she admitted slowly. I mean, I am scared about that, but… Her voice lost the little strength it had; her family had to strain to hear: I’m more frightened about Trovella’s family.

What’re you talking about? Derrick asked, calm but confused.

Drawing a deep, steadying breath, the beautiful monarch explained, The royal guard has records that identify every member of Trovella’s family, going back five generations. Yesterday, the captain reported that some of his soldiers spotted her cousin Victrollia’s footprints on the outskirts of the kingdom. I have a sinking suspicion that she’s here to avenge Trovella’s death.

Hearing that evil name made Kara’s heart race. Trovella, a malevolent troll, had tried to destroy the two beloved kingdoms that had joined to form Starrycrest in the not-too-distant past. Misty had ultimately defeated her, but the fight had not been an easy one. Of course, she’s worried about Trovella’s family coming after us. She wants to see that we, and the kingdom, are protected. It makes so much sense. The princess realized that Derrick was having similar thoughts when she saw him pull Misty into his arms comfortingly.

You could have told me what was troubling you, the king informed his wife, his voice full of the love he had for her. You don’t have to concern yourself with anyone from Trovella’s family. Standing before she could respond, he continued, That’s my job. Your only job is to make sure you and the baby stay healthy."

The queen denied his request swiftly, No. Her head moved from side to side in a gesture of denial. "I came after her. Now, if she comes after me, or this family, it’s only right that I be the one who protects us. That’s my job, she insisted forcefully. That’s why I visited Cinder’s Edge after I defeated Trovella to ask the trolls there the best way to track the most dangerous of their kind."

Misty, traveling that far is dangerous, especially with trolls involved. Why didn’t you tell me you felt the kingdom needed to be protected from Trovella’s family and let me handle it? Derrick queried, his eyes wide with disbelief.

Please don’t be angry, Derrick. Like I said, I felt a responsibility to protect the kingdom myself since I was the one who got us into the mess with Trovella. Besides, my friend, Isabel, promised the trolls there were nice and would help me, she explained.

I see, Derrick nodded. And the trolls helped you?

Nodding her head vehemently, Misty assured him. Yes, one in particular: the Cinder’s Edge Ambassador of Happiness, a treasure troll name Murlyn. He couldn’t put a protection spell on the entire kingdom for fear of messing with someone’s destiny, but he told me that troll footprints are just as unique as their gemstones. I wished for a way to identify Trovella’s relatives and he gave me an extensive collection of her family’s tracks which I passed onto the royal guard and asked them to memorize. Pausing, Misty let her explanation sink in then continued. Knowing there is a chance that Victrollia has a vendetta against me only heightens my desire to protect this family and this kingdom, she declared.

As soon as her suspicions were confirmed aloud a second time, Kara jumped in. No, Derrick’s the one who’s right. Your only job is to stay safe and in good health during your pregnancy. We’ll take care of everything else, she assured confidently, smiling wide.

Misty’s eyes grew moist again as she considered the depth of emotion in her loved ones’ sentiments. You two are the sweetest.

The young girl rolled her eyes in exasperation before she allowed them to find Derrick. We’re in for a long nine months, aren’t we?

The queen beamed brightly. Seven months, she hurried to correct. I’m already eight weeks along. The baby’s due on Valentine’s Day.

How exciting! Kara proclaimed. I hope the baby’s a girl.

I don’t care what the baby is as long as he or she is healthy, Derrick put in. He permitted himself a short moment to fully appreciate the situation at hand before his demeanor turned serious. Glancing between his wife and his daughter, he earnestly divulged, This is not going to change the relationships any of us have with each other. Our family may be about to change, but nothing will ever change the love we feel for one another. Pausing for a moment, he let his words sink in, after which he enjoined Kara, Like Misty said earlier, we’re your parents and you’re not going anywhere.

Misty, continuing in the tradition of what appeared to be her strongest emotion for the foreseeable future, began to cry. I couldn’t have said it better myself, she sniffled. I think we need a group hug.

After the heartfelt family embrace, Kara finished her homework and went to bed, thrilled by the idea that, soon, she’d have a tiny sibling in her life.

Chapter 2

"

H

ey, Dex. Hey, Cliff, how was your day?" Kara asked, the furry and feathered members of family when she returned home from school the following day.

As the princess entered her beautiful, daisy adorned bedroom with the animals in tow and plopped her backpack onto her desk, she noticed a note. Meet us in the library as soon as you get home please. Big news. Love, Derrick. Studying the message for a moment, Kara chuckled. Big news, huh? What news could be bigger than Misty having a baby? she mused. Glancing from Dex to Cliff and back, she furrowed her eyebrows and smiled. Any idea what this is about boys?

When her canine and winged friends responded by enthusiastically retrieving and bringing her a tennis ball, Kara laughed again, accepting it from Dex’s mouth. Wish I could, but I gotta go check in with Misty and Derrick. We’ll play fetch later, okay? she questioned sweetly.

Dex and Cliff both hung their heads clearly disappointed.

Kara sighed. I know you guys have been waiting all day for me to play, but Derrick’s note said he’s got big news so I’m pretty sure it’s important. I’ll make it up to you guys later, okay? I promise, she insisted.

After the dog and bird offered a squawk and lick of approval respectively, she flashed them a smile and headed to the castle library.

What the heck? The princess coughed as she entered the castle library only to be practically engulfed by a cloud of dust. I didn’t think there was a speck of dirt in this castle. Guess I was wrong, she realized. The library, housed in one of the largest rooms of the castle, had floor-to-ceiling shelves full of the most beloved novels, biographies, and reference books in the kingdom. It wasn’t until that moment that Kara realized just how old some of the books must be.

I found it! Derrick shouted excitedly as he stood up from a table covered in books that he and Misty had spent the afternoon pouring over. I found the enchantment.

Leaning forward, Misty peeked into the thick brown book in front of Derrick and went wide-eyed. You did! You found it! We’re safe, she exclaimed, her voice coated in a mixture of excitement and relief.

Kara rolled her eyes as Derrick pulled Misty into a hug before kissing her on the lips. There they go again. Always so lovey-dovey.

Clearing her throat, she gained their attention. Sorry to interrupt. I got your note.

Misty pulled away from Derrick, her cheeks turning slightly pink. You’re not interrupting anything, sweetheart, she assured. We’re just excited.

Nodding, Kara giggled. I can see that. You guys want to tell me what this is all about?

After you went to bed last night, Misty and I spoke more about how we can protect our family from trolls as well as other possible threats. I remembered that my great grandfather used to mention an old magical enhancement that the family has used from time to time to call upon our ancestors, Derrick