So, here we are … starting a new story. I'm dreaming that it's summer time and the favorite thing about summer time, besides the longer days and warmer weather is the return of my favorite show, So You Think You Can Dance? I love it … the beauty, artistry and athleticism is amazing. Plus, the music they play? Damn … makes me happy.
Now, I'm doing something that I normally don't do, having multiple POVs in one chapter. I have done it other stories, but during situations where it was like the climax or the epilogue, because it's not something that I like to do. I will be sticking with Edward and Bella. However, when I was planning out this chapter, and the subsequent chapters, the story would mainly revolve around Bella. As much as I like to focus on her character, I do want to make sure I include Edward in the mix. Soooooo, I could have done two shorter chapters or combine them into one longer chapter. I'd figure you'd like longer chapters with a combination of EPOV/BPOV.
You're welcome. *Snorts*
On that note … onto the story.
Chapter Seven: Hip, Hip, Chin, Chin – The Rhythm Section
BPOV
"Bella, did you tell the post office to forward your mail to the 'Top Twenty Mansion'?" Rose asked as she struggled to close her suitcase. "And the power? Telephone? Oooh, what about the newspaper."
"Yes, Rose … and we don't get the paper, you goof," I said from my room, zipping my bags and dropping them off into the foyer of our shared apartment. I walked to her bedroom, laughing at what I saw. She was trying to zip up her luggage while sitting on top of it. "Did you do the same?"
"I'm not that blonde, Bells," she snickered. "I need your help." I walked into her bedroom. She was sitting on her bag, bouncing on it and trying to zipper it closed. She was not doing too well. "Put your skinny ass on here. Maybe your ninety pounds will help my bag close."
"I weigh more than ninety pounds, you bitch," I snorted, sitting next to her. My weight did help close the bag. She kissed my temple, slobbering all over my face. "Gross, Rose."
"Sorry," she said, removing her teeth whitening tray and walking across the hall to her bathroom. She was rinsing it out as she talked. "I want to make sure my pearly whites are white and not yellow. How do they look?" She came back in, giving me a freaky, wide smile.
"Fine," I answered. "Are you almost ready to go? The limo is going to be here in twenty minutes."
"That was the last bag," Rose replied, wrinkling her nose. "Do you think I should pack another bag? I don't know if I have enough clothes."
"Rose, you brought your entire freaking closet. I think you have enough clothes," I deadpanned. "And I think they have laundry facility in the 'Top Twenty Mansion'." Rose gave me the finger, checking her bedroom once more. I made sure I had everything in my carryon before I settled onto the couch. My cell phone vibrated on the arm of the couch. It was a text from Edward. I picked up the phone, dialing his number. I wanted to hear his velvety voice.
It was so fucking sexy.
"Pretty girl!" he sang. "Are you in Los Angeles yet?"
"Not yet. The limo is on the way to pick Rose and me up from our apartment," I answered. "Are you in LA?"
"I moved into my apartment this weekend. I thought the mansion that we stayed in was gorgeous. This apartment is well-furnished and with high-end touches. The production is paying for it, plus my salary for choreographing and being an All-Star. It also has a pool and I've got use of a sweet ride," he chuckled.
"What kind of car?" I asked.
"A silver Volvo S60. I always thought that Volvos were an old fuddy-duddy car, but this car is sleek and sexy," he murmured. "You'll have to check it out. I'd love to give you a ride."
"That sounds awesome. Perhaps take a ride down the Pacific Coast Highway?" I smiled.
"It's a date, pretty girl," Edward cooed, the grin evident in his voice. It made my heart flutter to hear the smooth, dulcet tones of his baritone voice and knowing that he only spoke to me this way. At least, I'd hoped.
Shaking my head, I asked, "So, what can I expect once I get to the house?"
"You'll be assigned a room," Edward explained.
"Will I get to room with Rose?" I asked.
"Probably not. They want to encourage outside relationships, friendships between the cast. I was set up with Peter during callbacks and by the grace of God, we were roommates in the house until he was eliminated," Edward said. "Though, once he moved out, I slept much better without Peter's snoring."
"Snoring?" I giggled.
"I love Peter. He's one of my dearest friends, but he had the foulest habits. He snores at night, reeks after performances and his feet smell awful," Edward guffawed. "But, Embry, Lauren's boyfriend, his roommate, Quil, never showered and smoked in the room. Quil was eliminated the second week and Embry was more than happy once he was gone. Embry asked to move in with Tucker, a fastidious contemporary dancer, just to get out of that funky room."
"That's gross! It was a similar story that encouraged Rose to move out of the dorms. But, unwashed girl is infinitely worse than unwashed male," I shuddered.
"I beg to differ, Bella," Edward argued.
"Bells! The limo is calling up to the apartment," Rose yelled.
"I've got to go, Edward. My limo is here. I'll call you when I arrive. I can't wait to see you again," I breathed.
"Me, neither, pretty girl," Edward murmured. "Safe flight."
I said goodbye and met Rose in the foyer. A large man was standing in there, dressed in a black suit. He bowed. "Ms. Swan, it's a pleasure," he said in a deep, resonant voice. "My name is Liam and I'll be driving you the airport. Are these all of the bags?"
"Can I bring more?" Rose snickered, gesturing to her three large cases.
"Probably not, Ms. Hale," Liam retorted dryly. "I'll bring these down to the car and come back for the remaining bags." He expertly arranged the bags, slinging our carryon bags over his shoulder. With a smile, he left us. I went around the apartment, making sure everything was turned off. When I was happy with the state of the apartment, I picked up my purse and laptop bag. Rose was tapping on her phone, texting Jacob, who was flying out to Los Angeles on our flight. Jacob's boyfriend, Seth, was driving him to SeaTac.
"You ready, bitch?" Rose asked, putting her sunglasses in her hair.
"Yeah. I'm anxious to get settled into the house and start rehearsals," I said.
"Do you think they'll let us be roommates?" Rose asked.
"Unlikely," I answered, remembered Edward's reasoning.
"I hope I'm not stuck with Queen Bitch. I think I'd break my ankles just to get out of the competition and to run away from her," Rosalie snickered.
"Oh, crap. Yes!" I moaned. "I'd hate to hear her complain, moan and bitch twenty-four, seven! Because you know, that's all she'd do." Rose nodded in agreement, her nose wrinkled.
The limo pulled up to the terminal. Liam helped us unload our bags and we checked our luggage at curbside. Rose was charged up the ass because of her extra bags. She made a face, pursing her lips, but paid the fees. We went into the first class lounge, running into Jacob. He was excited about being on the show, but sad that he would be separated from his boyfriend. Seth, Jacob's boyfriend, promised to come to as many tapings as he could, supporting Jacob's dancing. I tried to hide my sadness, knowing that Jacob would have family and loved ones supporting him. Even Rose's family would be there for her even though they were financially strapped, but the wanted to be there for their daughter. I wouldn't have anyone in the audience. My mom would never come to a taping.
Not that I'd want her there anyway.
"What's with the scowl, Isabella Marie?" Rose asked, flipping through her magazine.
"Nothing. I'm fine," I shrugged. "I'm going to pick up some magazines and some coffee." I didn't wait for her to respond. I got up and walked to a nearby Seattle's Best. I ordered a cup of medium roast. Walking away from the shop, I stood in front of a window and watched the planes take off and land. I didn't hear Jacob approach me.
"I know what you're thinking, Bella," Jacob said quietly.
"What's that?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady. I took a sip of my coffee, unsuccessfully keeping the overwhelming sadness and emptiness at bay.
"That you're alone. You're not," Jacob murmured.
"I'm excited about being a part of the show, but it's so fucking bittersweet," I hissed, a tear slipping down my cheek. "You have Seth and your family. Rose has hers. Who do I have? Nobody!"
"You have us, Bells," Jacob said, enfolding me in a hug. "You have Edward Cullen. That man adores you."
"You and Rose and Edward are amazing, but I don't have my dad," I whispered, gripping Jacob's shirt. "All I want is him." Jacob didn't say anything. He just held me, swaying us gently in the crowded terminal. Our flight was called and we went to board. Jacob held my hand, silently supporting me as I tried to pull myself together. Rose was frowning, sad that I was upset. By the time we landed in Los Angeles, I'd calmed down. The screwdriver I'd had on the flight helped.
After we picked up our luggage, we got into the waiting Hummer limo, driving to a massive estate in the Hollywood Hills. The mansion was huge, easily dwarfing the house I grew up in. At least ten of my childhood homes could fit inside of it. Alistair and one of the directors, Nigel, were waiting inside of the house. I could hear talking, so I assumed that other people had arrived, getting settled in their rooms.
"Welcome, everyone," Alistair said with his posh, English accent. "I hope you had a safe flight."
"I could get used to first class," Rose snickered.
"It's nice to be able to stretch out," Jacob nodded. "Flying coach is not pleasant for someone as tall as me."
"And you, Bella?" Alistair asked.
"It was great. Thank you for arranging this for all of us. I can't wait to get started," I smiled. I was anxious to start dancing. And to sleep. I was starting to get a hangover from my screwdriver. I didn't drink all that much.
"Well, rehearsals for the group number will begin tomorrow morning. Today, you need to get settled into your rooms. We have a few more people arriving, but almost everyone is here," Alistair said. He handed us envelopes. "Inside are your room assignments along with the itinerary for the first week, first show. Tomorrow morning will be the group rehearsal with Tyce and then tomorrow afternoon, you'll meet your partners. The day following, you'll spend the morning at a photo shoot for the website and being fitted for costumes. In the afternoon, you'll have another group rehearsal and time to practice with your partners."
"This is going to be a random, probably stupid question, but what about food?" Jacob asked, arching a brow.
"Oh, there's food in the fridge now, but you will be responsible for buying and preparing your own meals. Saturdays are usually shopping days for the cast," Alistair chuckled. "And it's not a stupid question. Now, there are tax forms in there that you need to fill out so we can pay you. You are working for us. Welcome to the show."
We took our envelopes. It had our names and room assignments on them. As Edward said, I was not with Rose. She was in the teal bedroom while I was assigned to the bohemian bedroom. Lugging our bags up to our rooms, I was happy that Rose was across the hall from me. She was rooming with Angela. My roommate hadn't arrived yet.
The room was different than the entire house. The house was sleek, contemporary and colorful. Nigel, the director, explained that the mansion belonged to Alistair. He had purchased it after his singing competition took off, making him a gazillionaire. He never stayed there, using it for the competitors for So You Think You Can Dance and the singing competition. It was redesigned for each show. Alistair lived in a smaller home in Brentwood or in a manor in London.
My bedroom had an exposed brick wall with two full-sized, four poster beds. The bedding was simple and white with a colorful red scarf behind the bed. The huge window was covered with various colored sheers and the room was filled with eclectic and unique trinkets. Next to each bed were desks that were quite distressed, with oiled bronzed lighting fixtures hanging over them. It was perfect, really. I smiled and went to unpack my belongings in one of the dressers, hanging up my dressier clothes in the closet. Once I finished unpacking, I went to the shared bathroom. It was a Jack-and-Jill bathroom. It was purple with dark, eggplant walls. There were four small cabinets along the wall nearest the shower and bathtub. Jane walked in, along with Jessica, from the other bedroom.
"Bella!" Jane smiled, hugging me. "When did you get here?"
"I just arrived," I replied, hugging her in return. "We're sharing a bathroom?"
"Yep. We're just waiting for our last roommate," Jessica nodded, giving me a hug. "We don't know who it is."
"I hope it's not Alice," Jane sneered. "I ran into her in Chicago before flying out here and she was bad mouthing all of us. Especially, you, Bella. She says that you're a judge's favorite. The words she used to describe you were not all that pleasant."
"Well, she can build a bridge and get over it," I snorted. "Can't the judges see that she's an epic bitch?"
"I assume so," Jessica shrugged, hopping up on the counter. "But, we're here to dance and not make friends. Outwardly, she's sweet and that's probably what the audience will see."
"It is what it is," Jane sighed, leaning against the door jamb.
"Did you guys stake claim to one of these?" I asked.
"Mine's the one closest to the shower and Jessica's is the one right next to it," Jane answered. I nodded, starting to put my toiletries into the third one, next to Jessica's. "Who do you think you're going to be partnered up with?"
"I'd better not be partnered with my brother," Jane snickered. "I love him, but I want to dance with other dancers. You know?"
"I wouldn't mind dancing with your brother. He's hot," Jessica purred.
"Ewww!" Jane squealed, bouncing on her toes. "That's just fucking gross. He's my brother. He's not hot. He's … yuck! He used to give me wedgies and … and … and UGH! I just threw up in my mouth a little bit."
I giggled. "Your brother is a flirt."
"He is that," Jane shrugged. "But, gross, Jessica. That's just gross." Jessica waved her hand dismissively.
"Are you guys have an orgy in here?" Rose asked, coming in and sitting down on the toilet.
"Something like that," I shrugged. "Are you settled?"
"I packed too much shit," she said.
"I could have told you that, ya dork," I teased. "How's Angela?"
"She's good. Talking to her family," Rose nodded. "I like your bathroom better than mine. This is pretty swanky. Maybe I'll take a shit in here! Do you mind?"
"Okay, that's disgusting," Jane laughed, dancing out of the bathroom. As she left, my roommate for the duration walked in.
"Hello, ladies," sang Alice.
Fuck. Me.
xx SYTYCD xx
EPOV
"Dude, this is one sweet apartment," said Emmett as he walked around my rental digs. "It almost makes me wish that I could live in another city so I could get a rental like this."
"Your apartment is in the same complex, douche," I snickered, drinking some water.
"But it's a studio. This is a freaking penthouse," Emmett laughed. "And you got some sweet furniture and everything!" He downed his own water, tossing the bottle into the garbage. He walked to the fridge, grabbing another one and whistling lowly. Shaking his head, he wandered to the living room. "Have you started working on your choreography for your dances?"
"I've got ideas. The partner dance is for the 'Great Dances in the Movies.' I was assigned the mambo from Dirty Dancing. That's mostly done since it's going to be with one of the top ten dancers. I'm the All-Star dancing with the dancer. The group dance, I have the basics, but that hasn't been assigned. I can't really do much since I don't know how many dancers I'm choreographing for. You know?" I shrugged. "Alistair is going to tell me later today. The dancers are having their first rehearsal with Tyce as we speak. It's a Broadway number from the musical, The Wiz."
"Do you have an idea about what you're going to do for the group number?" Emmett asked.
"Probably some party salsa with a little cha-cha added," I shrugged. "It's going to hot and spicy."
"What do you think about the top twenty? Are you pleased with the judge's decision for the cast?"
"There are a few that I would have let go, but I'm pleased, for the most part," I said, sitting down on the couch and putting my feet up on the cocktail table. I smiled, knowing that Bella was here. We'd texted briefly last night. She was bunking with Alice and Alice had a bitch fit, claiming that Bella took her side of the room. She stood her ground and told Alice to stick it, dealing with whatever side she had. I felt bad for my girl. Why she was in the room with the she-beast was beyond me?
I just prayed that Alice didn't find a way to exploit and manipulate Bella. She saw weakness and was all about bringing people down. She wanted nothing more than to win, the costs to the people involved be damned.
"Are you daydreaming about your dream girl?" Emmett teased, waggling his brows.
"Shut up," I chuckled, but my face blushing a brilliant red. Busted.
"What? Peter told me about her and I saw pictures from the audition episodes. Isabella Swan is fucking hot!" Emmett said.
"She's not merely hot. She's gorgeous. An angel sent to me on earth," I breathed. My angel. "I hope that if she makes it to the top ten, that I'm her All-Star."
"I bet you do," Emmett said, arching a brow. "Are you going to pursue something with her?"
"I want to. I really do," I sighed. "She's everything I'd ever hoped for in a woman, Em. Smart, sexy, beautiful, compassionate …"
"But?"
"But, she's hesitant to start something. She's still grieving her father and you and I both know the stressors of being a part of the show," I snorted. "We barely have time to breathe, let alone have a relationship."
"Eddie, she has the hots for you. I can guarantee that," Emmett smirked.
"You're full of shit," I sniped, tossing a pillow at him.
"No, I'm not. I took a dump when I came over," he snickered. "I may have clogged the toilet."
I narrowed my eyes, disgusted at Emmett. He was worse that Peter with his foul, repulsive habits. "Don't make me throttle you with my heels," I growled.
"I'm shaking in my Nikes," Emmett laughed, wiggling his fingers. "Seriously, though. Bella is attracted to you. Why would she keep talking to you? Because of your witty repartee? She likes you and your weird ass hair and infatuation with heels. Oh! And don't forget, you did sleep with her."
"We took a fucking nap, Emmett," I moaned, throwing my arm over my face. "A nap! She rolled over and snuggled against my side. I watched her sleep for a few moments and I ended up drifting off, too." Only after I ran my fingers through her silky brown curls, breathing her in. She smelled like warm vanilla sugar and a hint of raspberry. It was a decadent fragrance, making my mouth water and my dick harden. My pervy mind wished our clothes would disappear and that I could feel her alabaster skin pressed against me.
Down, boy.
"You wanted to bone her," Emmett deadpanned, thrusting his hips erratically.
Ugh, really, Emmett? "You're an idiot," I groaned. My cell phone rang from its charger in the kitchen. I walked over, picking it up. "Hello?"
"Edward!" came the accented voice of Alistair. "I was wondering if you were available to come to the studio to talk? We can discuss your group number and you can meet the rest of the cast. They're wrapping up their first rehearsal with Tyce before breaking for lunch and then meeting their partners."
"Sure thing. I'd like to know how many people I'm choreographing for," I chuckled.
"Excellent," Alistair said. "Meet me at the office below the studios, okay?"
"I'll be there as soon as I can, Alistair," I smiled.
We hung up and I kicked out Emmett. He said that he had to leave anyway, driving to the studios so he could meet up with his dancers for his first piece of the competition. He was choreographing a hip hop routine for Jane Volturi and Michael Newton. We drove separately since his meeting would probably take longer than mine, in theory. Arriving at the office building, Emmett went to the studio and I walked to Alistair's office. "Edward! Come in! Come in," he sang. "Close the door."
"How did rehearsal go?" I asked.
"Good. This season is going to be great, but I can already pick out the weak links," he snickered. "And the winner, too."
"Care to let me in on the secret?"
He just smiled coyly. "I think I can say, with utmost certainty, who you'll be paired up when you join the cast as an All-Star. I think you'll be pleased," Alistair said, nodding. "But, again, that's for me to know and for you to find out."
"Cheeky old man," I snorted. "Now, what's the deal with the piece I'm choreographing? When is it happening?"
"You'll choreograph the top fourteen," Nigel said, looking at his calendar. "Plus, you know that you're going to choreograph one of the Hollywood Movie dances, too."
"That's almost done," I smiled. "Now, knowing how many dancers I have to work with, I can begin working on the dance for the top fourteen." I got up, smoothing down my shirt. Alistair handed me an envelope, a twinkle in his blue eyes. "What's this?"
"You didn't get it from me," he chortled. "Open it in the car." I furrowed my brows, walking down to my car. I sat inside the envelope, ignoring my vibrating cell phone. I was anxious to find out the information inside. Opening up the envelope, I smiled eagerly when I saw the contents.
This was the best news.
Ever.
xx SYTYCD xx
BPOV
I had finished my lunch and was waiting to go into the studio. I was assigned to studio number six, which was fitting since the number six was my lucky number. I was wearing a skirt and a tight purple tank top with my Latin shoes on my feet. During lunch, we were told what style of dancing we'd be doing, but not who our partners were. Taking a deep breath, I opened the door and saw Tyler Crowley standing on the other side. He beamed, rushing over to me and giving me a tight hug. "I'm so glad I'm with you," he gushed.
"Me, too," I smiled, rubbing his back. "Do you know what we're doing?"
"Some sort of ballroom dance, obviously," he replied. "I don't know if it's Latin or traditional."
Tyler was one of the Latin ballroom dancers. He had auditioned in Los Angeles, getting sent straight through to the callbacks. His partner, Maureen, was not and had to dance in the choreography round. She was strong as a Latin dancer, but struggled with the dance steps that Edward and Irina had come up with for the callback. She didn't make it to the Los Angeles callbacks. She was heartbroken and decided to quit dance, leaving Tyler without a partner once he completed the competition.
The other door opened on the far side of the room and Anya and Edward walked in. My eyes widened slightly when I saw him. "Good afternoon," Anya purred, her Russian accent making her sound exotic, matching her almond shaped eyes, tanned skin and mahogany curls. "I'm so happy to meet you. I'm Anya and this is my assistant and dear, dear friend, Edward. My partner, Pasha, is back in St. Petersburg with his mother. She had a heart attack and he had to leave. Edward stepped in, last minute, to help teach you the samba I've prepared for you. I hope you like it." Anya blushed, her face flaming. "I'm kind of nervous since I'm the first female Latin choreographer. Anyway, this dance is about flirting and foreplay."
Now, it was my turn to blush. Foreplay?
Shaking her head, she walked over to the sound system, attaching her iPod. A producer walked over to the sound system. Anya thanked her, walking to the center of the room. Edward stood opposite of her, smirking. With a subtle nod of the head, the music filled the room and she began dancing, moving her feet intricately, looking at Edward enticingly. I knew it was all an act, but I was jealous of her slinky movements. Her hands were gliding along Edward's body as they circled each other.
The dance was epitome of visual foreplay, teasing and sexual tension. I was nervous since I didn't have a sexual bone in my body. I didn't know how to roll my body like Anya. Plus, she was touching and flirting with my Edward.
Was he mine? Where did that come from?
"Are you freaking out?" Tyler asked, breaking my reverie.
"A little," I whispered. "I can't move like that."
Nice lie, Swan. You're obsessing over some Latin seductress pawing at your man and you're lying about not being able to move like a snake or trip over my own feet as I moved them in those intricate, difficult patterns in heels.
"You'll be fine," Tyler said, nudging me with his shoulder.
The music stopped and Anya stepped away from Edward. She smiled at him, thanking him sweetly and batting her eyes at him. I growled lowly, but I had no right to be so jealous. He wasn't mine. We were friends and only friends. Shaking my head, I turned my attention to her, as she stood in front of us. "So, let's get to work. Okay?"
Anya was a patient and proficient teacher. It also helped that Tyler was a Latin dancer. With a combination of Anya's teaching, Tyler's dancing and Edward's help, we spent an hour learning the choreography and another hour practicing with them. We took a break after that. I was sitting on the floor, massaging my feet. I was more comfortable dancing barefoot or in jazz shoes. Heels were the bane of my existence.
They suck, really.
"Here," Edward said, handing me some water. "You need to stay hydrated." He sat down next to me, running his hand through his slightly sweaty hair. "How are you doing, angel?"
Angel? I do like that better than pretty girl. Though, he's the angel. "Cursing my shoes," I snorted, gulping down the water. "But, I'm enjoying this so far. Tyce is a hoot."
"He is," Edward chuckled. "During our season, one of our dancers had to bow out of the group dance he choreographed and he stepped in. I got the honor of dancing with the esteemed Tyce Diorio. Not many people can say that." He took my foot and began massaging my arch.
Fuck me sideways. That feels so good.
"I thought you weren't helping out until later. I mean, I know that Pasha had to leave unexpectedly …" I trailed off.
"I was about to drive back to my apartment after a meeting with Alistair when I got a text from Anya," Edward said. "I had come to speak to Alistair about the group routine I'm choreographing. Anya told me about Pasha's mother and I came back. She taught me the dance while you guys were eating lunch."
"Wait, you just learned that?" I squeaked, pulling my foot back and sitting cross legged. "It took me two hours to feel somewhat comfortable with the movements and you … damn!"
"It's in my style, angel," he laughed. "The way you feel is how I felt when I had to do contemporary or hip hop. The movements felt foreign, contrived. Now, how are you handling the cameras?" He tugged on my other leg, massaging my other foot.
"I don't even think that they're there," I shrugged. "I mean, I know that they are, but I want to focus on dancing."
"You're quite playful with them. I like seeing you laugh," Edward said, his ears pinking up as he smiled crookedly. "It makes your nose wrinkle and your eyes just shine. You're so beautiful, Bella."
"I'm a vision of gorgeousness right now," I deadpanned, lifting my sweaty hair from my neck and waving my hand in front of my face.
"Don't put yourself down, Bella," Edward said, his smile falling deeply "You are so beautiful, both inside and out. Don't you see it?"
"Not anymore," I shrugged. "My dad was my biggest supporter, always telling me that I was talented, smart, beautiful …" I drew my legs to my chest. "My mom loves to point out my flaws. It's her voice I'm hearing in my head, calling me a waste of skin and a drain on her retirement."
"Well, she's wrong, angel," Edward whispered, tucking an errant hair behind my ear. "So wrong."
"Hey, Bella!" Tyler called. "Want to run this bad boy again? I don't want to be in the bottom two in the first week."
"I'll be right there," I called back to him. I put on my shoes and then sat with my legs crossed. I took Edward's hand, weaving our fingers together. "I'll work on not putting myself down. Self-deprecation is a defense mechanism, really. The walls go up and I don't trust easily." Squeezing his fingers, I leaned over and kissed his scruffy cheek, lingering longer than what was socially acceptable. "And you're the beautiful one," I whispered against his warm skin. I got up gracefully, walking back into the studio. I didn't help but notice Edward's hand reaching up to his cheek that I had just kissed.
We both were in deep and I was giddy at the prospect. My lips were tingling from the brief contact of his skin to mine, but my heart was pumping in excitement and genuine happiness for the first time in three years.
I did not want to let that go.
xx SYTYCD xx
"There's more skin showing than costume," I grumbled, hanging up my black, nearly sheer lace dress on the rack.
"You are too damn conservative, Bella," Rose snickered. "Though, I'm with you. My costume is quite revealing, too." She flipped her curled blonde hair, checking her teeth in the mirror. "Shit. I think I had lipstick on my teeth for the photo shoot. God damn it!"
"You're obsessed with your teeth, Rose," Angela snorted. "What's the deal?"
"I spent years in braces, with the fucking head gear," Rose deadpanned. "My parents paid a pretty penny for these pearly whites."
"Does she sleep with her whitener?" I asked, clipping my voluminous curls away from my face. We had just finished our fitting with the costume department after our morning taking photos for the website. I was wearing more makeup than I was used to and my hair was curled and tousled sexily. I felt confident and I danced around the set with a gleam in my eye. Plus, knowing that Edward was there watching me made me turn on the sex appeal, too. He looked at me like I was a steak, his green eyes almost black and a sheen of sweat on his brow.
It did wonders for my ego.
"Oh my word, she does. Her pillow is soaked with drool," Angela laughed.
"You both suck," Rose grumbled.
We laughed at her petulant attitude, but our snickers faded away quickly when Alice breezed in. "Isabella," she said snidely, "can't I convince you to switch beds with me? I'm not sleeping because I'm closest to the window."
"Nope. Sorry. I got there first," I shrugged, putting on a pair of loose-fitting pants over my dance shorts. "Buy a mask, Alice."
"The light still sneaks in," she snapped. "How am I supposed to do my best when you won't …?"
"Won't what? Bend to your will? Allow you to manipulate me?" I retorted. "I'm not switching sides and you can't make me. Yes, it's childish, but so is your behavior, Alice. We're here to dance, not to be molly-coddled."
Alice growled, her tiny fists clenching. "Whatever. Now, there was something I was supposed to tell you, but I seem to have forgotten," she replied, putting on a sickeningly sweet grin. With a huff, she whirled out of the room and slammed the door.
"What. A. Diva," Rose spat. "Does she sleep at night?"
"I don't know what she does, but she's always moving," I replied. "I'm afraid she's going to knife me, killing the competition."
"I don't think she'll go that far," Angela argued.
"I wouldn't put it past her," Rose shrugged. Looking at her phone, she stood up. "We have rehearsal in the studio for the group number before we have a blocking rehearsal on the stage."
"That's got to be what Alice was supposed to tell us," I growled, tossing my curls up into a ponytail. "We'll get in trouble if we're late." We darted out of the dressing room and up the stairs to the large rehearsal studio. It hadn't started, but everyone was stretching. Alice was smirking as she practically hanging off Jasper. I glared at her as I dropped to the ground, beginning my own stretches.
We spent an hour reviewing the choreography for "Brand New Day" from The Wiz. It was a high-spirited, amazing dance with a lot of moving parts. In the dance, I was 'Dorothy' with Alec as the 'Scarecrow', Felix as the 'Tinman' and Jacob as the 'Lion.' I knew that Alice was jealous that I was lead in the first group number, but it was all based on our scores from the Los Angeles callback week. I'd received the most consistent scores in all of the different styles, surpassing all of my competition.
Tyce told me that when he saw Alice huffing, smirking at her reaction. He didn't like her either. The only person that Alice was somewhat civil to was Jasper in the cast and the production staff. I prayed that she was eliminated that first week. Knowing my luck, she and I were probably going to be the top two girls. I'd be stuck with her for the entire season.
Don't go there. You could be eliminated this week.
That might be a blessing in disguise.
After our time reviewing the choreography, we went down to the stage and blocked out the camera angles for the group dance. We performed it five or six times with the camera crews before breaking for dinner. We had rehearsals after that with our partners. It was a long day, but from what I'd heard from members of the production crew and previous cast members, this was par for the course.
By the time we got back to the house, we decided who was going to shower first by pulling straws. I won and I eagerly went into the bathroom, letting my body relax under the constant stream of hot water. Once I was done, the water was barely off, Alice strode in and gave me a hard glare. "You're cutting into my time, Isabella."
"I just got out. Let me at least brush my teeth and put on some fucking clothes, you nasty little troll," I growled. I was holding my towel around my body, trying not to hit her. She ignored me, turning on the shower and practically shoving me out of the bathroom. I gave her the finger through the door and put on some pajamas. Once I was settled in my bed, I took some of pain medication that had been approved by the show and snuggled up to go to sleep.
Alice, it would seem, had other ideas. She slammed around the room and made a huge deal of blow drying her hair right next to my bed, since that was where the outlet was located. Nearly two hours after she'd taken her shower, Alice finally went to bed and I eventually drifted, but never really falling into a deep sleep. When the alarm went off at six, I was really dragging and I barely got through rehearsals with Tyler, Anya and Edward without stumbling over my feet. During one of the breaks, Edward pulled me aside and asked what was wrong. I told him about sleeping and my roommate from hell. He was ready to go to Alistair and get my roommate changed, but I told I'm dealing with it.
Then, he hugged me and it was exactly what I needed to get through the rest of the day. My run-throughs with Tyler were spot on and I felt confident going into the dress rehearsal the following day. I was excited about beginning the competition, using Edward's hug to encourage me further. Knowing that he was there for me made it all worthwhile.
xx SYTYCD xx
EPOV
"I'm nervous, Edward," Emmett said as he sat down in the audience. It was the taping of the first show. We were going to be live in less than twenty minutes. The audience was on their feet, applauding the top twenty dancers. The audience had been ushered in an hour ago and they danced their group number. My eyes were riveted on Bella as she performed the Broadway number perfectly. She was the perfect Dorothy with sass, confidence and amazing dancing. Her sequined red character shoes glistened under the bright lights, enhancing her every step.
I couldn't show favoritism, but if I could, I'd be holding a sign cheering on my girl. She's not your girl, Edward. Okay, she may not be, but I want her to be, damn it. From her sweet kiss and reaction to the hug, I knew she wanted more, too. I'd be patient and be there for her. I'd be her support off stage. I'd be her everything, if she'd let me.
The director of the show came out to the stage, hyping up the audience as the judges took their seats at the judging panel. Carmen and Alistair were seated together, with a petite woman on the far end. She was introduced as Mia Miller, a famous ballerina from the American Ballet Company, the first African American prima ballerina in the company.
With a flourish, the director gave the cue and the lights began flickering. Chloe stood center stage, holding her microphone as a camera zoomed on her face. "Tonight, we meet America's Top Twenty Dancers. You're in for a fabulous evening of music, laughter, flirtations and amazing routines. Welcome to So You Think You Can Dance?" The screens flickered to life and the pre-recorded tape of the group number started, showing the performance of "Brand New Day."
Once the tape ended, the theme music began. A few moments later, Chloe's voice filtered through the speakers as she introduced all of the dancers. Bella was introduced with Jacob. He lifted her easily into a star lift, twisting her down and they skipped away, waiting for the rest of the dancers to be called out. Everyone was on the stage and they crossed each other before posing in front of the camera. Bella was in Jasper's arms, smiling confidently and giving it her all. I whistled and cheered for her, never calling her name. Chloe walked on stage, smiling as the dancers exited to get ready for their dances.
I barely paid attention as Chloe went through the process of the auditions and introducing the judges. I was anxious to see Bella perform. She was slated to go last with Tyler. It was too long until I'd see her again, but I knew that the last slot is the most coveted since it's the last performance the audience sees. Usually the first performance and last performance got the most votes. I was wriggling in my seat, trying to keep my own butterflies at bay.
"Dude, you got to pee?" Emmett hissed, elbowing me.
"No, I'm just …" I trailed off.
"I know, Edward. I know," he smiled, winking at me. "She'll be on soon."
Nodding, I settled down and watched the first show unfold.
xx SYTYCD xx
BPOV
I was sitting in the makeup chair, having my hair curled and makeup darkened. I was in my costume for my samba, covered by a robe while my makeup was being put on. Rose was on stage, dancing her jazz routine. I watched it on the screen. She was stiff and not very comfortable, but she did her best to perform it to the best of her ability. Demitri was her partner and he was amazing, making her look even better than she was. When they were done, the applause was deafening and the reviews were positive, but still room for improvement.
Alice was sitting in the next makeup station. She was fidgeting in her jeans. She was muttering under her breath, complaining about her lyrical hip hop routine. One of the producers came backstage. "Alice, you're up," he said.
"Thank you," she said, giving him a smile, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. She flipped her hair and looked at me. "I hope you enjoy being in the bottom two."
"Unlikely," I snorted. Alice sneered and walked to the stage. I put in my ear buds, trying to zone out and mentally prepare for my first performance. Tyler came over to me ten minutes before we were supposed to perform. He asked if we could pray together. I smiled and we took each other's hands while Tyler whispered a quiet prayer. He squeezed my fingers before we went to the other side of the stage for the teaser of our performance. I was so nervous. Being last in the lineup was the most coveted spot, but for me, it made me so anxious. I had almost two hours to stress out and panic about what could go wrong.
After the teaser, Tyler and I said another prayer and we went on stage as Chloe was showing our interviews and first rehearsal footage with Anya and Edward. That seemed to go on forever. I was getting nauseous and my hands were sweaty. I'm going to hurl on the fucking stage. I took a breath, closing my eyes and waited for the cue from Chloe. She introduced us and the lights went up. The music began and something clicked.
Shy, reserved and prudish Isabella Swan disappeared and this sex kitten, Latin goddess emerged. I flirted with the audience, my partner and the cameras. Everything clicked and I felt so confident about my performance. My inner-Anya came out and I kicked ass. The music ended and I slithered down Tyler's leg, looking up at him like he was the sexiest man on the planet. The crowd roared. I'd done it. My first performance as a dancer on So You Think You Can Dance was over and I nailed it.
Or so I'd hoped.
Tyler helped me up and hugged me, walking us over to the edge of the stage so we could get our critiques from the judges. Or as Chloe said, the 'jidges.' Her accent made the word sound slightly skewed. We stood next to Chloe, our arms around each other's waists. I was panting heavily, the adrenaline coursing through me. "Mia, let's start with you," Chloe said.
"Let's just say that I've been a fan of yours, Bella, since I saw you audition in Portland," Mia smiled. "Your movements are effortless and so fluid, but you are a chameleon. Based on what I saw, I would never guess that you were a contemporary dancer. You moved and acted like a Latin ballroom dancer. I couldn't tear my eyes away from you. A lot of that has to do with your partner. Tyler, you really know how to showcase your partner and you two have such amazing chemistry. My only suggestion for you is that your lines, Tyler, could be a little more precise. When you did the kick over Bella, your leg was bent and it was not as clean as it should have been. Other than that, you two have an amazing future on the show. Excellent job!"
"Thank you, Mia. Carmen?" Chloe prompted.
"Bella, you've been on the Hot Tamale Train since callbacks, but girl, you're in first class now," Carmen squealed, making her crazy train noises. I blushed, smiling at her. "Your movements were insane and I'd kill for your legs. It was the perfect combination of sexy, flirty and fun. Tyler, I agree with what Mia said. You are a fantastic dancer, but your lines could be more. I loved the chemistry with your partner, but work on your flexibility. Both of you, though, your footwork was amazing. I can't wait to see what you guys get next. I'm very proud of you."
Tyler squeezed me, but I could feel the tension in his hug. I rubbed his back as Alistair began his critique. "By far, this is my favorite performance of the evening," Alistair said, his face beaming. "Anya has given both of you an amazing piece of music and wonderful choreography, highlighting your best assets. Tyler, you are an amazing partner. I could tell that Bella trusted you and that you both put in some hard work. Your footwork was impeccable, light but with right amount of heaviness in it to give the dance some depth.
"Bella, I agree with Mia and Carmen. You moved like a Latin dancer. However, your contemporary roots made the dance have a grace, a fluidity that normally one doesn't see with the samba. I loved it and I think that you may have a future in the Latin ballroom circuit," he quipped. "Fabulous job."
"Now, if you want to see Tyler and Bella continue on in the competition, you can call in at 1-866-TEMPO-10 or you can text TEMPO-10 to #86611 or vote for them using your So You Think You Can Dance app. Standard messaging rates do apply and voting doesn't begin until the end of the show. Results will be revealed tomorrow in our results show. Here's a recap of tonight's performances." The lights dimmed and we moved to center stage. The rest of the dancers joined us as the recap happened, showing our voting numbers. Chloe ended out the show, informing the audience the lines were now open and that they would remain open until nine the following morning.
The music began and we all danced on stage, acting like all loved each other. For the most part, we did. However, Alice's shenanigans were weighing on everyone. She stuck to Jasper, grinding against him as the music played until the director, Nigel, said that we were clear and that our first show was a wrap. We celebrated, hugging each other before heading off stage to hang up our costumes and changing into our street clothes. As I pulled my hair up into a loose ponytail, I heard the velvety smooth voice of Edward. "Angel," he cooed.
I turned and ran into his arms, hugging him tightly. He picked me up, holding me close to his body. Knowing that he was there helped soothe my mind and my anxiety. "Thank you," I whispered.
"For what?" he asked, his arms still around my body. My cheek was resting against his black button down.
"Just being here. Having someone in the audience …" I murmured.
"I'll always be there for you, angel," he said, leaning his chin on my head. "I couldn't be more proud of you. Though, I'm jealous that Tyler got to do that dance with you."
"I was jealous that you did it with Anya," I snickered, pulling back to look up at him. His eyes darkened and he smiled crookedly. Slowly, he leaned down …
"Bells! We're heading back to the house and having a pool party," Rose said, bursting into the dressing room. "Oh, shit! I'm sorry!"
"It's okay," Edward said, picking up my hand and pressing a lingering kiss to my wrist. "I'll see you tomorrow, angel?"
I nodded dumbly, watching as he left. Rose walked over to me, her eyes wide. "Fuck, did I just interrupt a kiss?"
"Kind of," I whispered.
"Did you want him to kiss you?" Rose asked, her eyes twinkling. I bit my lip, looking at her. "You did. About freaking time! I have visions of you having adorable babies, Bells."
"Let's not put the cart before the horse, Rosalie," I snickered. "We haven't kissed yet, thank you very much." I picked up my bag and looked at my best friend. "Now, I think a pool party sounds great, but a dip in the hot tub sounds better."
"Now you're talking!" Rose crowed, hugging me.
A/N: So, we had our first show plus some serious sparks flying between Edward and Bella. Damn Rose for kiss-blocking them. LOL. Anyhow, pictures and videos from this chapter will be on my blog. Link for that is in my profile. Additionally, you can also find me on Facebook: Tufano79's Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation and twitter: tufano79.
Up next will be the first elimination. I'm doing the elimination like the earlier seasons. They'd perform one day and have the results show the following day. It works the best for my story. Again, it will be a combination of Edward and Bella like this chapter. Thank you for reading and if you liked it, please leave me some lovin'!
Songs listed in this chapter:
"Brand New Day" from the musical, The Wiz
"Mad" by Neyo
"Another One Bites the Dust" by Queen
"Hip, Hip, Chin, Chin" by Club Des Belugas
"Voices of Savannah" by DJ Chius
