" Now, we will start off with the Junior Solo Division," said the speaker.
I wasn't really listening. Not that I cared at the moment. My head was swarming with thoughts like What if I don't win? And What would Miss Abby say if Justice beats me?
No.
I have to win. No matter what.
If I win. I can finally prove to Miss Abby that I can work hard and be just as talented as Maddie.
And it's not fair that Abby compares the two of us. We're two different people. Different dancers. When Maddie dances, it should be about Maddie. When I dance, it should be about me.
If I win, Abby will. Eat. Her. Words. Literally.
Suddenly, I was startled by the noise of clapping and, Cathy, our rival, hooting and screaming and yelling. She was acting as if she had just won the lottery. I looked up and saw Justice skip towards the lady who was holding his Third place trophy. As I directed my eyes back to Cathy, she was sitting in her seat, smiling and clapping. But her eyes looked sad, disappointed, and worried.
" And now..."
My heart was pounding so hard. I was afraid it would explode right out of my chest. I looked towards Maddie, and saw her head down, with her fingers crossed. Her lips were moving, making out the words, " I'm going to win," over and over again.
" our Second runner up..."
I placed my eyes on Abby's face. She was glancing between Maddie and I. Then, her eyes landed on me. Her expression was glowing those seven words. Although she wasn't saying or mouthing it, I knew what she was thinking.
Second is Always the First to lose
" is..."
Second is Always the First to Lose
" Maddie! With ' Telling Myself '. "
I glanced towards Maddie, and saw her face go blank, and her fingers untangled themselves. She got up and walked over to the woman who was holding her trophy. Maddie was smiling off into the crowd. But her eyes weren't.
Melissa was smiling that fake smile that usually comes around once in awhile. My mom had her hands over her face.
She knew.
And so did I.
And so did Abby.