Star Dancer: The Dancer Series, #1

By Lisa Perkins

Marcus Leone moves from his hometown of Chicago to New York City to pursue a career in dance. He auditions for the beautiful Marissa McArthur to be her new dance partner. He's chosen to be her partner and immediately falls in love with her. He becomes a star and his life completely changes. All of his career dreams come true. But his biggest dream is to be with her.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lisa Perkins
• Release date: Jul 1, 2022
• ISBN: 9798201912154

Lisa Perkins

Lisa was born in Parkersburg, West Virginia. She loved to read teenage romance novels growing up. She was blessed with a vivid imagination and the ability to tell stories in great detail. When she got older, her hobby became photography. She loved taking pictures and capturing moments in time forever. Storytelling, in one form or another, has always been her wheelhouse. As a teenager, she created a world with characters that she loved dearly. She abandoned that world as an adult and moved on to other things. One day, she revisited that world and those characters. She decided to take the story and make it into a book. Having never written a book before, she wasn't sure how it would go. The second she sat down to write, the story just poured out of her. That one book turned into two, and a series was born. She always had a love of dance and took dance lessons as a child. Her love of dance is what inspired her books and how The Dancer Series was created.

Book preview

Star Dancer

The Dancer Series, Volume 1

Lisa Perkins

Published by Lisa Perkins, 2022.

This is a work of fiction. Similarities to real people, places, or events are entirely coincidental.

STAR DANCER

First edition. July 1, 2022.

Copyright © 2022 Lisa Perkins.

ISBN: 979-8201912154

Written by Lisa Perkins.

Table of Contents

Title Page

Copyright Page

Star Dancer (The Dancer Series, #1)

Also By Lisa Perkins

Chapter 1

––––––––

I'm exhausted but I manage to load one more box into the moving truck. My mom has decided to move back to Chicago. We moved to New York three years ago from Chicago so that I could pursue a career in dance. My mother thought that packing up and moving away would be the best thing for me...for both of us.

Seven years later, I'm still deeply affected by the loss of my father. My mother wanted us to start a new life in New York and allow me to attend The New York Dance Academy. Last year, I managed to graduate from high school and The Dance Academy while holding down a part time job to help my mom out with the finances.

I applied for a job at The New York Dance Theater and amazingly got the job. The director said that I'm one of the best dancers that's ever been in the company. I've been working there for just over a year and have finally been able to afford my own place. My mother didn't like living in New York. Chicago is her home but she wanted to stay here with me until I graduated and got on my feet. Now that I'm financially stable and settled in, she's decided to go back home.

Is that everything, sweetie? she asks from the empty house.

I think so, Mom. That was the last box. I go inside the house and see her quietly looking around the room. I go over and stand next to her and she turns to gaze at me with a smile.

Do you have any idea how proud I am of you, honey? You're on your way to getting what you've always wanted. Soon, you'll be famous and have the whole world at your feet, she says.

Don't get carried away, Mom. I have a steady job doing what I love.

Marcus, you have always been so modest. You never give yourself credit. There are big things ahead for you. You're going to be a big star. I just know it, she says proudly.

I can't help smiling at her declaration. Her faith in me is amazing. If only I had faith in myself.

Are you going to be okay all by yourself here? I feel guilty leaving you all alone, she says, concerned.

I'll be fine, Mom. I work long days at the dance theater and that takes up most of my time. I also have my friend, Don. He lives in the apartment next door and we hang out all the time. I'll be okay, I reassure her.

If you need me, I'm just a phone call and a plane ride away, you know, she says.

I know, Mom. She grabs me and gives me a hug, holding me tightly. When she releases me, I see tears running down her cheeks.

I love you, Marcus. And I'm so proud of you, Son, she says tearfully.

I love you, too, Mom. And thanks for everything, I say, putting my arm around her shoulders.

She takes another look around the empty house, then we walk out together. She closes and locks the door behind us.

Well, I guess it's about time to hit the road, she says, walking around the moving truck to the driver's side. Her car is attached to the back of the moving truck. She gives me another hug, squeezing me tightly. I know I'll miss her but Chicago is where she's the happiest. She releases me and I open the door of the truck for her.

I love you, Son. I'm here for you always. I'll keep you posted on my progress from the road, she says with tears in her eyes.

I love you, Mom. Please drive safely, I reply. I give her one last hug then she climbs into the truck. She wipes her eyes, starts the ignition, then slowly drives away. I wave to her until the truck is out of sight.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I'm awakened by the alarm clock beeping loudly on the nightstand. It's time to get up and start my day. As I lie here trying to get awake, my thoughts are on my dad. I keep thinking about the events of the day we lost him. It still seems like yesterday.

––––––––

I was twelve years old and off from school on summer vacation. It was a hot, late June day. I had just come home from a friend's house and was in my bedroom listening to music. I heard the phone ring and my mother picked up after a couple of rings.

As I'm sitting on my bed looking down at my cassette player, I hear my mom in the doorway of my room. I look up and see her standing in the doorway with a look of horror on her face.

Mom, what's wrong? I ask, putting down my cassette player and getting up from the bed. I could tell by her expression that something was very wrong.

Marcus, there's been an explosion at your dad's factory and it's on fire. We need to go see what's going on with your dad. No one knows anything about him right now. Come on. Let's go, she says, her voice full of panic and fear.

Dad... is all I'm able to say. I feel as if I’ve been kicked in the stomach. As I make my way to the car, I feel like everything is happening in slow motion.

The car ride to the factory is a quiet one. When we arrive at the scene, it is quite the spectacle. The streets surrounding the factory are blocked off and there are police cars, fire trucks, and ambulances everywhere. The factory is fully engulfed in flames and the air is filled with thick, heavy smoke.

Stay in the car, Marcus. I need to go find out if anyone has any information about the people who were inside, she says as she gets out of the car.

I want to know what's going on, too. I get out of the car, trying to follow her. Immediately, I lose her in the crowd of people so I stand by the car, watching it all. There are so many people around...news reporters, emergency responders, families of the employees, and onlookers who want to get a glimpse of the action. The smoke in the air is overwhelming, making it hard to breathe. As the smoke gets thicker, I start to choke. I quickly get back in the car and wait for my mom to return.

In the distance, I can finally see my mom trying to make her way back to the car through the crowd of people. I watch her as she gets closer and closer to the car. She finally reaches the driver's side door and opens it. She looks completely horrified as tears stream down her cheeks. She gets in, closes the door, then lays her head down on the steering wheel and sobs.

Mom, what is it? I ask, fearing the answer.

She stares at me for what seems like an eternity then takes a deep breath before speaking. Marcus, there were no survivors. No one made it out alive. Honey, your dad is gone.

I stare at her but I can't seem to register what she's just told me. All I can manage to say is, Dad!

The drive home is a long one. My mom and I both remain silent, staring straight ahead at the road. When we pull into the driveway, I immediately get out of the car and let myself into the house with my key. Mom sits in the car alone trying to pull herself together.

I go into my room and lie down on my bed, staring up at the ceiling. I feel numb...empty...sad. I feel like my whole world has come crashing down but I'm unable to react. I feel emotionless. I can still see the flames and smoke pouring out from the building. I wonder what my dad's last moments must have been like. Did he feel pain? Was he afraid? Was it over before he even knew it? I'll never know the answers.

––––––––

I pull myself out of bed, trying to put the unpleasant thoughts out of my head. I have to get ready for work. I take a quick shower, get dressed, grab a quick cup of coffee, and head out the door. As I'm leaving, I run into my neighbor and good friend Don Davis.

Hey, Marcus. Heading to work? he asks.

Yeah. I'm kind of in a hurry this morning.

Okay. Maybe we can grab some dinner this evening, if you want. I could go for some Mexican food, he says enthusiastically.

Sounds good. I'll give you a shout when I get home. See you later, I reply, rushing off.

See you then, he says, waving to me as I leave.

When I arrive at the dance theater, I get changed then start warming up. I feel a little out of sorts from the thoughts I had this morning. I just need to dance and put all the bad feelings into my work. For me, dancing is a way of expressing my feelings. It's a way of getting my emotions out.

I've never been able to cry or mourn for my dad. It's as if I've become completely numb inside. Even at my dad's funeral, I wasn't able to cry or express any form of emotion. I have seen grief counselors for my mom, but not one of them could get me to cry, mourn, or open up at all about his passing. I feel completely dead inside. I’ve drowned in deep depression and nothing can pull me out of it. Maybe that's why I love to dance so much. On some level, it helps me express my pain. For me, it's the only coping mechanism I have.

––––––––

We've been paired up with permanent partners at the dance theater and I'm feeling very nervous about it. I'm used to dancing with different partners, but the dance theater wants us to have permanent partners to work with. My new partner is Irene Ballard. She seems very excited to be partners with me, but I'm still unsure about it.

I'm so excited to work with you, Marcus. You're a great dancer and very good looking, I have to say, she says flirtatiously.

Thanks, Irene. I'm a little nervous about this, though. I’m not used to dancing with the same partner all the time, I say with a smile.

That won't be a problem at all. I'll do everything I can to make you feel comfortable with me, she says with a big smile.

I'm feeling even more uncomfortable now. I don't think I'm cut out for a partner as flirty as she is. I guess I just have to respect Paul Black’s decisions.  I look at Irene, who is smiling at me from ear to ear, and I can't help but think it's going to be a long day.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I'm so full. I think I went overboard on the chips and salsa, Don says at the table in the Mexican restaurant.

You always do when we eat here, I reply, laughing. He laughs then we pay the bill and leave. In the car, he starts telling me about a girl he's dating. He met her at the grocery store and they've been going out for a couple of weeks.

That's great. I'm happy for you, I tell him. 

Thanks, man. So, anything new with you? he asks.

As a matter of fact, there is. The dance theater has paired me up with a permanent dance partner, I say in an uneasy tone.

Oh, yeah? How's it working out? Is she hot? he asks curiously.

Okay, so far. We were just paired up today, so we're learning to work together, I inform him.

That's cool. You'll figure it out. Is she hot? he asks persistently.

I guess she's attractive, I reply.

You guess she's attractive? Oh, man. If she were really hot, you wouldn't have to guess. That's a shame, dude. There could be some serious benefits to having a hot dance partner, he says, shaking his head. I look at him for a moment then shake my head and laugh as we arrive at our apartment building. 

We walk into the building and head towards our apartments. Don lives in the apartment next to me. We reach our apartments and say good night. I unlock my door and go inside. It's good to be home. I decide to watch some TV and relax until time for bed. I know tomorrow will be another long day at work, but I don't want to think about that tonight.

Chapter 2

––––––––

The applause from the audience is exhilarating. Irene and I take a bow after our performance and head backstage. We've been dancing as partners for a while now and I've gotten used to it.

Another great performance, guys. Good job, Paul Black, the dance theater director, says to us.

We make a great team, Leone, Irene says to me, smiling.

I guess we do, I say in response and her smile gets bigger.

Hey, Marcus...why don't we go grab some dinner. I'm starving and I think we should make an effort to get to know each other better. I mean, we've been dance partners for a while now and I feel like I don't know anything about you. I'd like to change that. What do you say? she asks, looking into my eyes.

I guess it couldn't hurt. Let me go get changed then I'll meet you back here in a bit, I say to her invitation.

Great! I'll go get changed, too. I'll meet you back here in ten minutes, Leone. I nod and she watches me as I walk away.

As I'm changing out of my stage clothes, I wonder if it's a good idea to have dinner with Irene. We have a good working partnership and I'm not sure if we should be socializing outside of work. It could make things uncomfortable. I did tell her I would go, so I decide to go through with it just this once. But I don't plan on making it a habit. I step out of my dressing room and Irene is waiting for me.

There you are. Finally! Honestly, you take longer than I do to get changed, Leone. Let's go! I'm starving, she says, full of energy.

After you. I motion for her to go ahead. She leads the way out the door.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So, tell me about yourself, Leone. And don't leave anything out. I want to know all about you, Irene says as she takes a sip of her soda.

There's really not much to tell. I'm not a very interesting person, I reply, taking a bite of my pizza.

Oh, come on! I don't believe that for a second. Now spill, she says persistently.

I would rather hear about you. I'm sure you're a much more interesting person. So, you spill, I reply, avoiding the subject of myself.

Tell you what, I'll tell you all about me if you promise to do the same. How about that? she says, smirking.

Fair enough, I say. You first.

Okay. Let's see...I'm twenty one years old. I was born and raised here in New York City. I've wanted to be a dancer since I was fourteen years old. I studied at the New York Dance Academy. My father is a dentist and my mother works for Macy's. I have two brothers. I love scary movies, rock music, and watching TV. My favorite food is...drum roll...we're eating it now...Pizza! She laughs and looks into my eyes. You have beautiful blue eyes, by the way.

Thank you, I reply, suddenly feeling very uncomfortable. Did you have a job before you came to the dance theater?

I worked part time at Macy's with my mom briefly, but it wasn't for me. I wasn't cut out for retail work, I guess. I was dating a guy named Jack for a few months, but he never had time for me. I got tired of it, so I dumped him. I've been single ever since. My birthday is March seventeenth. I'm a Saint Patty's Day baby, she says, laughing. Okay, Leone. It's your turn.

I really wish I didn't have to do this. I hate talking about myself. She stares at me, waiting for me to start. I clear my throat and ask, What do you want to know?

Well, everything, she laughs. But I'll settle for whatever you feel prompted to tell me. I just want to get to know you better, Marcus. That's all.

I clear my throat then begin. Well, I'm twenty years old. My birthday is November second. I've wanted to be a dancer for as long as I can remember. I was kind of a loner in school. I had a very small circle of friends. I guess I'm still kind of a loner. I was born and raised in Chicago, then moved to New York City when I was sixteen to study and pursue my dance career.

Chicago? I had no idea you were from Chicago. I just assumed you were from here in New York. What about your family? Any jobs besides the dance theater? Siblings? she asks and suddenly I feel as if I'm being interviewed.

Feeling very uncomfortable, I answer her questions politely. My mom is a loan officer for a bank in Chicago. I suddenly feel sad, thinking about my dad. I try to avoid talking about him. I'm an only child...no siblings. I worked in a coffee shop when we first arrived in New York until about a year and a half ago, when I started working for the dance theater, I say, hoping that this will be enough information to satisfy her.

What about your dad? she asks and my heart sinks into my stomach.

I look at her, knowing that she's not going to let it go. I take a deep breath, then speak. My dad died when I was twelve years old, I say quietly.

Oh, Marcus. I'm so sorry. What happened? she asks.

I had a feeling she was going to ask that question. He worked in a factory. There was an explosion and fire at the factory while he was working. No one made it out alive... my voice trails off.

I'm very sorry, she says softly. I nod. She sits quietly for a moment, unsure of what to say. Finally, she asks, What about girlfriends? Do you have one, or was there anyone special?

No, I don't have a girlfriend. I dated a girl in high school for a little while, but she decided she liked a football player better, I say as I finish off my pizza.

Irene watches me eat my pizza then takes the last bite of hers. I would think that someone as gorgeous as you are would have lots of girlfriends...or at least one serious girlfriend. I can't imagine someone choosing another guy over you...football player or not, she says, smiling. Suddenly, I feel very uncomfortable.

Did you get enough to eat? You were starving when we got here, I ask, trying desperately to change the subject.

Yes, I did. It was delicious. As I said, pizza is my favorite, she replies.

Good. I'm glad, I reply, feeling very shy and out of place. Are you ready to go?

I am, she says, smiling at me.

We walk to my car. I drove and she left her car back at the dance theater. We get in the car and I catch her staring at me. I smile then keep my eyes straight ahead on the road. On the way back, we discuss work and the new routine they just choreographed for us.

Finally, I pull up beside her car in the parking lot of the dance theater. We sit silently for a moment then she looks over at me, smiling.

This was fun, Leone. We'll have to do it again sometime. I enjoyed hearing all about you, she says, happily.

It was nice. I enjoyed hearing about you, too. And the pizza was good, I say, trying to change the subject.

Oh, yes. I liked the pizza. But I liked your company more, she says with a huge smile on her face.

I tell her good night and think she's going to get out of the car. But instead, she leans over and kisses me. Before I realize it, I'm kissing her back.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

Warming up before rehearsal gives me time to think. I don't know how to face Irene after last night. I should never have let that kiss happen. Why did I kiss her back? She's my dance partner. We have to work together. Suddenly, I hear her voice behind me.

Good morning, Leone. You're looking fine today, she says cheerfully.

Hi, Irene. How's it going? I ask, ignoring her compliment.

It's going great. I'm all ready to nail this new routine of ours. Hey, want to grab a bite to eat tonight after work? she asks, looking at me flirtatiously.

I can't tonight. I'm having dinner with my friend, Don. Sorry, I reply.

Oh, okay. That's cool. I really enjoyed last night. It was fun getting to know you outside of work. Maybe some other time we can do it again. I hear a different tone in her voice that I've never heard before. I'm starting to think that she has gotten the wrong idea about us. The kiss sure didn't help matters, either.

Maybe. We'll see, I say hesitantly. Let's get to work on our routine.

––––––––

The new routine that the company choreographed for us is very complex. There are lots of lifts and complicated combinations to it. I feel like I'm learning so much and becoming a better dancer. I think of my dad and wish that he were here to see me dance. I know that if he could see the applause I get onstage, he would be proud.

Okay, everyone...gather around, Paul says, standing in the middle of the dance floor. Tomorrow night, we’re going to have Calvin Barry in the audience. He's anxious to see the talent we have here. I want everyone to bring their best to the table. Marcus and Irene, it's very important that you nail your new routine tomorrow night. Calvin Barry is an icon in the business, so we really want to impress him. Good job today, everyone. See you all tomorrow.

Calvin Barry is going to be in the audience tomorrow night. He's one of my heroes. I have looked up to him for a very long time. It's hard to fathom that he will be watching me perform tomorrow night. I find myself wanting to call my mom and tell her. I quickly change my clothes and head out before Irene has a chance to find me.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I'm very nervous about it, Mom. Calvin Barry is my idol. He's a dance icon and he's going to be watching me perform, I say nervously.

That's very exciting, honey, Mom says. You shouldn't be nervous, though. I know you will impress him. You can't let your nerves get the better of you.

I'll try very hard not to be too nervous, Mom. Someone you look up to watching you perform is very intimidating, I admit.

You can do anything you set your mind to, sweetheart. I'm very proud of you, she says. So, what else is going on in your life?

Not much. Just work, mostly, I answer.

You said you have a new dance partner. What's she like? she asks. I was hoping I wouldn't have to discuss her.

She's a good dancer. She's a bit nosy and a little pushy, but nice. We work well together, I reply, trying not to go into too much detail.

Nosy and pushy, she says, laughing. How so?

Well... I pause, unsure of how to explain it. When we had dinner last night, she insisted on knowing all about me. She kept asking me questions that made me uncomfortable. And now, she keeps trying to set up dinner plans with me, I say, leaving the kiss out of the story.

You had dinner with her? she asks, surprised.

Yes, last night. She said we should get to know each other better since we're dance partners, so we went out for pizza, I say, feeling annoyed by the subject.

I hear her laughing on the other end of the phone. It sounds like she has a crush on you, honey.

Well, she needs to forget it if that's the case. We're work partners and that's as far as it's going to go, I reply firmly.

I think it would be nice for you to have someone to go out with. Someone that shares your love of dance. You do have that in common. What's her name? she asks. I suddenly get the feeling she's trying to push me into a relationship.

Her name is Irene Ballard. And I'm not looking for someone to go out with right now, Mom. I'm focusing on my career and getting established in the business. I don't have time for anything else, I reply.

Okay, sweetie. You know what's best for yourself. I didn't mean to upset you.

You didn't upset me, Mom. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to snap. I'm just a little on edge about the show tomorrow night and Calvin Barry, I say apologetically.

It's okay, Marcus. You're going to be great tomorrow night and really impress him. Let me know how it goes, she says, sounding tired.

Okay, Mom. Will do. I'll talk to you soon.

I love you, Son. Good night, she says.

Love you, Mom. Good night, I reply then we both hang up.

I go over to the freezer and take out a frozen dinner. I quickly put it into the microwave to cook. I remember telling Irene that I’m having dinner with Don tonight to get out of having dinner with her. Why did I let her kiss me? Why did I kiss her back? The whole thing between us has gotten weird. I need to keep my distance from her and stay focused on work. The microwave finally beeps and I take out my dinner then sit down at the table to eat.

––––––––

Chapter 3

––––––––

The whole dance theater is abuzz today about Calvin Barry coming to the show tonight. Everyone's working extra hard on their routines, preparing to perform in front of a dance icon. Paul Black has been very present today, watching each of us closely as we rehearse.

Everyone...I just wanted to say that you're all looking good with your routines. Make sure that you keep it up tonight. I want Calvin to see what a talented group of dancers you all are. Carry on, Paul says as he continues to walk the floor.

Paul walks up to Irene and I and watches us closely for a few moments. Marcus, Irene... he says, motioning for us to come over to him. We look at each other then walk cautiously over to where he's standing.

Listen, you two are my stars. Time and time again, you outshine the others. You mesmerize the audience every time. I want Calvin to see that tonight. Marcus, you have the potential to walk in his footsteps. You're that good. I didn't want to single you two out in front of the others, but you're my stars in this dance company. I want you to go out there tonight and show him what you've got. Okay, you can get back to work now, he says.

Thank you, Paul, I say, still reeling from what he's just said to us. We walk away and I’m completely blown away. I can't believe he thinks I could follow in Calvin Barry’s footsteps. He thinks I'm that good. I just can't wrap my head around it. I need to put what he said aside and focus.

Wow! Can you believe what Paul said? We're his stars, she says arrogantly.

Don't go getting a swelled head, Irene. We need to stay focused, I scold.

Too late, she says, laughing. Hey, Leone...I have a couple of tickets to a show tomorrow night. Would you like to go with me? she asks with a flirtatious grin.

Tomorrow night? Ummm... I mumble, unsure of what to say.

It's a dance show...Lars Engstrom and Marissa McArthur. I thought we could go to the show then grab some dinner afterwards, Irene says, gazing at me.

Normally, I would find an excuse to decline her invitation. But tickets to see Lars Engstrom and Marissa McArthur? I can't pass that up. They are the biggest dance stars in the business. I've never been to one of their shows before, but I've heard so much about them. I can't miss the chance to go to one of their shows. If that means I have to suffer through another dinner with Irene, then so be it.

Yeah, I think I can go. Sounds good, I say reluctantly. I hope I don’t regret this.

Great! It's at seven o’clock tomorrow evening. I'll drive this time. You can give me your address and I'll come and pick you up. We'll grab dinner afterwards. She seems to have it all planned out.

I'm not sure I want her knowing where I live, but I agree to her terms. Finally, we get back into rehearsing for the show. My nerves are on edge for so many reasons, but I focus my energy and attention on our work.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My stomach is in knots. I stand backstage watching the other members of the dance company performing their routines. Soon, it will be our turn to take the stage. I know that sitting in the front row, right in front of the stage, is Calvin Barry. He’s my idol. I'm terrified that my nerves will get the best of me and cause me to mess up our routine. Irene seems to be calm and relaxed. I'm not sure how she does it, but it's probably good that one of us remains calm.

Marcus, you're very quiet. Are you okay? Irene asks.

I'm very nervous, I reply.

Because of Calvin Barry? Don't let him make you nervous. He's just a man, Leone, she says, shaking her head.

I don't feel like telling her that Calvin is my hero and it's very important to make a good impression on him. And that I want so badly to go far in this business. So, I remain quiet.

I decide to do some warm ups again to prepare for our performance and to keep myself focused. Irene decides to join me.

You look really good warming up, Leone. Don't worry about our performance. We will nail it. We're Paul's stars, remember? she says arrogantly.

I look at her and shake my head. That sounds very egotistical, Irene. She flashes me a big smile and walks off. I roll my eyes and continue to do my stretches.

Marcus...Irene, you're up next. Get ready to go, Paul says, motioning for us.

I walk over to the curtain area and stand next to Irene. You can do this. Stay calm. Don't let your nerves get the better of you. My heart is racing and my stomach is in knots.

The announcer comes over the speakers once again. Ladies and gentlemen, Marcus Leone and Irene Ballard.

We step out onto the stage as the audience applauds. The music starts, the stage lights come on, and I can see Calvin Barry sitting in the front row. I take a quick look at him, then focus on the routine.

When we finish our performance, the audience applauds loudly. I look at Calvin Barry and realize that he is on his feet. He is giving us a standing ovation! We take a bow, then walk off the stage.

Paul is waiting on us when we arrive backstage. That was incredible! You had Calvin on his feet and the audience mesmerized! Great job, guys! he says, excited.

Thanks, Paul, I reply, still reeling from Calvin’s standing ovation.

Yeah. Thanks, Paul, Irene says, beaming.

I'm a little winded, so I head over to get a bottle of water and catch my breath. Some of the other dancers come over to us and compliment us on our performance. Irene is taking in all the attention. She seems to have let what Paul said to us go to her head.

The show ends and we all go out for a final bow. Backstage, I finish my bottle of water then start heading toward my dressing room. Suddenly, I hear Paul calling out my name. I turn and see that he's motioning for me. I start walking towards him and see Calvin Barry standing next to him.

Calvin, this is Marcus Leone, Paul says as I walk up to them. Calvin wanted to meet you, Marcus.

Calvin holds out his hand to me and I shake it. It's nice to meet you, Marcus, he says to me.

It's nice to meet you, too. I'm a big fan of yours, I say, trying to stay calm.

I appreciate that, he says, smiling. Your performance tonight completely blew me away. The ease in your lifts...your technique...and your timing is impeccable. You're a very talented young man. I was very impressed.

Thank you so much, Sir, I say, full of excitement.

Please, call me Calvin. You have a bright future ahead of you in dance, Marcus. I'll be keeping an eye on you, he says, looking at me and then at Paul.

Thank you, Si...Calvin, I reply.

It was nice meeting you, Marcus, he says as he turns to walk away.

Nice meeting you, too, I say to him.

Paul smiles and gives me a slap on the back, then walks away with Calvin.

I can't remember the last time I felt so good. I actually impressed Calvin Barry. For the first time, I'm actually proud of myself. I suddenly feel a sense of relief. I'm ready to get changed and go home. Tomorrow is Saturday and I get the weekend off. I need it after this past week.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As I unlock my apartment door, I feel calmness wash over me. I go inside and close the door. Since I never eat before a show, I'm suddenly feeling hungry. I decide to make myself something to eat. I go to the kitchen and quickly make a sandwich then grab myself a lemonade. I sit down at the kitchen table and start to eat. As I take a bite of my sandwich, my phone rings. I reach over and pick it up without checking to see who it is.

Hello, I answer.

Hey, Leone. It's Irene.

I freeze for a moment. Hi, Irene, I reply, clearing my throat.

You left in a hurry after the show. I tried to find you but you were gone. I didn't get your address so I can pick you up tomorrow evening for the show. I got your number from the contact sheet in Paul's office. I didn't have any other way of contacting you, she rambles on.

I just wanted to get home. I'm exhausted, I admit, taking another bite of my sandwich.

You were really stressed about our performance. I heard that Calvin Barry was very impressed with you, she says.

I got to meet him. It was great. I'm just relieved that it's over.

Cool. Are we still on for tomorrow evening? The show, then dinner? she asks, sounding anxious.

Yeah. Of course, I say quietly.

Great! I'll pick you up if you give me your address, she says persistently.

I reluctantly give her my address and she writes it down. I hope I don't end up regretting giving it to her.

Okay. Got it! I'll pick you up around five thirty, if that's okay... her voice trails off.

That's fine, I reply, finishing my sandwich.

Are you eating something? she asks.

I'm finishing a sandwich, I reply.

She laughs. Oh, okay. You're not mad at me for getting your number from the contact sheet, are you? she asks nervously.

I hesitate briefly. No, it's fine. I guess I'll see you tomorrow night.

Looking forward to it, Leone. See you then, she says and we hang up.

Before going to bed, I decide to call my mom and tell her about what happened with Calvin Barry. I quickly dial her number and she answers on the second ring.

Hi, sweetheart! I was hoping to hear from you tonight, Mom says, sounding excited to get my call.

Hi, Mom. I hope I didn't wake you, I reply.

Not at all. I was just reading and wondering how things went for you tonight. Did you see Calvin Barry? she asks, eagerly waiting to hear the details.

Yes. I actually got to meet him, I reply.

That's wonderful, honey. What was he like? Did he enjoy your performance?

He loved our performance. He gave us a standing ovation. We were the only ones he did that for, I say happily.

Marcus, that's wonderful! I'm so proud of you, honey, she says with pride in her voice.

Oh, it gets better, I inform her.

Really? There's more? she asks anxiously.

Yes. After the show, Paul called me over to where he was standing. I go over and Calvin Barry is standing there with him. He wanted to meet me.

Marcus, that's great! Go on...

Paul introduces us and we shake hands. He told me that I blew him away and that I'm very talented. He said he was very impressed with me and that I have a bright future  ahead of me in dance. He said that he would be keeping an eye on me, I say, my voice full of excitement.

Oh, Marcus! I'm so proud of you. My baby boy is going to be a big star. I knew you would impress him, she says, full of excitement.

Thanks, Mom. But let's not get carried away. I still have a long way to go, I reply.

You don't give yourself enough credit, Marcus Seth. I know it takes a lot of work, but you have the talent. Calvin Barry saw your talent. This makes me so happy, honey.

I have to admit, I was very excited and a little proud of myself when he said those things to me, I reply.

Well, you should be. It's about time you start believing in yourself, sweetheart. I hope you went out to dinner and celebrated afterwards, she says cheerfully.

Actually, I just came home and made a sandwich. I was feeling tired and coming down from all the stress. I just wanted to be alone with my thoughts and relax, I say.

Is everything okay, honey? I can hear concern in her voice.

Yeah. Everything’s fine, Mom. It's just been a stressful few days, that's all, I assure her.

I just worry about you, Son. I love you, you know.

I know, but there's no need to worry. I'm fine and I love you, too, Mom.

As soon as I can take a vacation from work, I'm going to fly out and see you. I promise, she says.

I would like that, I reply. I'm looking forward to it.

Me too, honey. You get some rest and we'll talk again soon. I love you, Marcus, she says, yawning.

Love you too, Mom, I say and we hang up.

Now that I've talked to my mom, I think I want to go to bed. I feel so drained. I make my way to the bedroom and climb into bed. I feel good about the things Calvin said to me, but why don't I feel happy? I never seem to feel happy about anything. All I ever feel inside is emptiness.

Lying in bed, my thoughts turn to my dad. I think about what he said to me when I told him I wanted to be a dancer. I'm behind you all the way, Son. If that's what you want to do, never let anyone stop you. I miss his words of encouragement. I miss him.

Emptiness washes over me. I haven't been the same since my dad's death. The only time I feel good is when I'm dancing. Dancing is my distraction from life, my expression of emotion. I suddenly feel so tired. I turn off the light and slowly drift off to sleep.

Chapter 4

––––––––

It's been a busy Saturday. I did some laundry, picked up some things at the market, and had lunch with Don. I enjoy having days off to unwind from the week and get tasks done.

This evening, I'm going to the dance show with Irene. I'm desperately trying to keep my distance from her. I don't want her getting the wrong idea about us. I only agreed to go to the show with her because I really want to see the performance. Lars and Marissa are the biggest dance stars in the business and I've never been to a show. I suppose I can deal with another dinner with her in order to see the show.

––––––––

It's nearly time for Irene to arrive to pick me up. I put on a short sleeved polo shirt and jeans. I'm looking forward to the show, but dreading the dinner afterwards. I'm not up to more of her questions about my life. Just as I finish getting myself ready, I hear a knock on the door. I walk over and open the door. Irene is standing there smiling from ear to ear.

Hey, handsome, she says cheerfully.

Irene...right on time, I reply.

Well, of course. I'm very prompt, she says, winking at me.

Are you ready to go? I ask.

Yeah. Sure, she says, glancing at her watch.

I grab my keys and wallet from the end table, then close and lock the door as I go out. We walk to her car, get in, and she drives off.

Nice car, I say, trying to make conversation.

Thank you, Leone. I'm glad you like my Camaro, Irene says with pride.

I notice her glancing at me on several occasions during the ride. She makes me very uncomfortable. She takes another glance at me then speaks. You're a very quiet person. And very shy.

I guess I am a little shy, I reply.

That's okay. I think it's very cute, she says, smiling. Are you excited about the show?

I'm very excited, I say enthusiastically. I've never been to their show before.

Really? she says and I nod. I've been to several of their shows and they are amazing. Lars is so sexy. I'm a huge fan of his.

I can't wait to see them perform, I say, smiling.

So, Leone...where do you want to eat afterwards?

Hmmm...I'll have to think about it, I reply, trying not to think about it.

She glances at me again, smiling from ear to ear. You really look gorgeous, Marcus. You look great in jeans.

Suddenly, I feel very uncomfortable and embarrassed. Thanks, I say with a weak smile. We finally arrive and Irene quickly pulls into the parking lot. She finds a parking space, parks the car, and we make our way inside.

––––––––

They are the opening dancers, Irene says about the performers onstage.

That's what I figured, I say sarcastically. She rolls her