Chapter 20

Gaby

I came to New York a few weeks after I accepted the job offer. I moved in with Alice. I didn't want to live by myself. We soon discovered that the apartment was too small for both of us, so we moved into another bigger apartment, which was in Upper Manhattan, not too far away from my old dorm and Edward's apartment.

I was asked to work the summer class the Rock Follies ran during summer vacation. The young girls hoped that one day they would secure a spot in the Rock Follies. Either this season or another. Many of them had auditioned for this year's season, but only five had made it. It appears that once you have performed for one season, you are eligible to return the following year. Some girls have been dancing with the troop for ten years. It surprised me that one of them hadn't been offered the job as a choreographer.

Claire, the director, told me I had a full say as to the show program. I had ninety minutes to fill. I wanted to choreograph a few more edgy, modern dances, and still, include the iconic kicks that the Rock Follies were famous for.

I was on edge every time I left the apartment, just in case I was recognized. Alice told me that Edward had gone directly back to Italy with his grandparents after her wedding. But if Leah, Garrett, or Marcus saw me, they would tell Carlisle. It was Carlisle seeing me that frightened me the most. If he saw me, I knew he would probably kill me. I knew it was him who had put me in that warehouse. Who else would be 'the boss' those men kept referring to?

Rehearsals were about to start, and I knew I would be out in the open more than I had been.

~TTS~

"We'll start with "Welcome to New York." Okay, hand on your left hip, ready to power walk forward. Music, please. Forward one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, and eight, turn two, three, four, five, six, seven, and turn to the side three, four, five, six, seven, eight and backward, two, three... No Lacy, you have a set of four turns before you power walk," I shouted, getting annoyed with this girl.

"I did," she yelled back.

"If you had then you wouldn't have bumped into anyone. It's a tight sequence. If you can't do it, you will have to sit this one out. Another girl can do this dance," I shouted.

"How can a cripple teach dance if she can't do it herself," Lacy one of the dancers muttered.

"What did you say?" I asked in shock.

"You're deaf as well," Lacy spat out.

"I suggest you take your things and get changed. Don't come back to rehearsals again. You are fired. If you have a problem with that, take it up with Claire," I said to Lacy.

"You can't dismiss me. You're lucky to have me, another dance troop wanted me," Lacy yelled back.

"That's good, at least you won't be out of work for long," I replied. "Everyone take a break."

"You only want to choreograph the Rock Follies because you're not tall enough to dance with them. You're jealous of us all. You will be sorry you crossed my family. Do you know who my family is?" Lacy continued to say.

I ignored Lacy's tantrum; she had been a nightmare since she arrived almost a week ago. Lacy has been late every day and disrupted my rehearsals. She had no discipline, and that's one of the first things that is taught to a dancer.

I walked into my small office, retrieving a disk Sophia, my tutor, had given me. I never knew who had made it. I thought that it would never be shown to anyone. I shouldn't have to justify myself, I told Paul this would happen. I've heard them all whispering. I'll show them I know what it's like to dance, and I've also performed different choreography.

"Okay everyone, I've heard a few of you make comments about my not knowing anything about dancing. I'll share with you my experience in dance."

I put the disk in the machine and watched.

It began with me at about seven years old in my first dance recital, then I could see myself growing up as the dancing became more graceful and advanced. Then it showed my audition for Julliard. I could see Edward sitting at the piano, which made me have a pain in my chest. Thinking how much I missed him, and still loved him, and I couldn't understand how he could throw me away without a second thought.

What came next made my chest tighten even more, and I could feel myself beginning to panic, until someone squeezed my hand, seeing Mia sitting next to me. This event had changed my life. A picture came on the screen of the mangled car Lizzy, and I had been in. My long recovery in Seattle came next and then to Oklahoma and my choreography for my exam piece.

"That's my story. I have Mia to help me; she is the assistant choreographer. She has been working with me for a while. I show her how I want the dance, and she helps me demonstrate the steps. Now if anyone else has a problem with my ability as a choreographer, please leave so we can get back to learning the routines," I sighed, taking a breath I continued.

"You auditioned, and the fifty of you fifty were chosen from over five hundred dancers. You have taken a spot away from another girl if you are not serious about this. I'm getting a little sick of the lack of discipline from a few of you. I expect people to be here at least fifteen minutes before rehearsal starts, ready to begin rehearsing at ten each morning. To give me one hundred and ten percent and ready to work hard. We will break for lunch and be back at one, if you can't work hard for me, please don't come back after lunch."

I walked out of the studio, to complete silence.

I heard Mia say, "She shouldn't have ever had to show that to anyone. Gaby would have been a world-class ballet dancer if not for the accident. Can any of you imagine never being able to dance again? I will be keeping an eye on you. It's still not too late to replace anyone, and we have dancers we can call who would give anything to take your place. I don't want to hear any of you comment on her ability again."

I sat in my small office with tears running down my face. I've made many mistakes in my life, and I think this might be another one.

"Hey, Gaby, don't cry. You are an amazing dancer. If they don't like the way you teach, they can leave," Mia said as she hugged me.

Mia has been a godsend. She has been dancing with the Rock Follies for the past ten years and has become the assistant choreographer on the understanding she could still dance on stage.

After lunch, I walked back into the dance studio. Everyone was there ready to work.

"Okay, everyone, let's start with the first dance, Judy, could you take the place of Lacy, please. We'll start with "Welcome to New York." Get in your groups of four, in a long line on the count of one, power walk to the count of eight. Can we have music, please? And one…"

~TTS~

I never thought I would ever be Alice's manikin again. But here I am back standing on a small platform, acting as a manikin for her as she pins together a dress. She is creating a line of Bohemian designs.

Alice has a friend who is a photographer that is putting a portfolio together of her work. She has been out of work for a while and wants to get back into the photography world. For the past week, Alice has been trying to persuade me to model for her. I did one thing better. I have two girls that said they would model for her. Alice conceded and gave their numbers to her friend. There was no way I would lay myself open for Carlisle Cullen to find me. Or even worse Garrett.

"But Gaby these clothes suit you. It goes with the whole choreographer vibe. You can't always wear linen shirts."

"I love you, Alice, but while I'm dancing, I can't wear clothes like these. I'm comfortable wearing my black leggings, and either a tight t-shirt or linen shirt if possible, that way, it doesn't irritate my leg or shoulders."

"I know I want you to enjoy life again. I hate the way you've been holding up in the apartment."

"I know you do. I'm hoping to choreograph this one season with the Rock Follies, and then I can use them as a reference to either teach or get another choreographing job away from New York."

"Gaby, you can't keep running for the rest of your life. Have you ever thought about dating again and leaving all the Cullen's in the past?"

"Alice, no, there won't be any dating. I'm still confused about my feelings for Edward, and for now I can't see that ever changing. How am I supposed to go into a relationship with someone if I can't give my heart to them? I don't do casual either, so don't think about that."

"I know, I'm sorry I don't mean to come over as pushy. It's just I don't want you to look back and be sorry you let so many years go by without living. Okay, I won't bring it up again. Now I have to ask, and this isn't me carrying on about your dating, but Maggie wanted to know if you were bringing anyone with you to my birthday dinner? I know it's still a month away, but she wanted to book the table."

"It's obvious that I won't be. Are you taking anyone? I hope you do not bring Jasper; I'll be honest with you. I don't like him. He gave me the creeps; he seems to have an agenda. Anyone who could talk so aggressively to their girlfriend because of something his sister did shouldn't be allowed to be given another chance. He did it once, and he could do it again. I can't believe you went on two more dates with him."

"I gave him the benefit of the doubt, but he is conceited. He thinks he's a babe magnet. Girls flood to him, but I think it's more to do with his money. I'll be taking my latest arm candy, Aaron; I met him at the club last week. If I'm not seeing him next month, I'm sure I'll find myself a date."

"Alice, that makes you sound like you're a loose woman," I laughed.

"I'm hurt you think I'm that kind of woman," Alice pretended to be shocked until she laughed.

"What do you want for your birthday? I've got to buy you something before the show season starts. As soon as that happens, I'll have no free time."

"There is one thing you can give me for my birthday, and it won't cost anything."

"What would that be?"

"Wear one of these bohemian dresses, then let me do your hair and make-up, please. For my birthday dinner, pretty, please."

"Okay, but no publicity photographs."

~TTS~

The days merged together, with rehearsals from ten in the morning until six at night. Then there were dress fittings. It seemed to be endless. We only had a day left before the show season started. I couldn't believe it was almost November. We would perform our last show on Christmas Eve.

I was excited to see Auntie Anna and John. They have both come to New York for Alice's birthday, and are staying for the Follies' opening night.

Alice and I were traveling home on Christmas Eve together, and I didn't know if I was returning with Alice. I've left my options open.

"Keep still Gaby, I can't style your hair if you keep moving. I'm so glad it has gotten longer, and the doctors were wrong. After someone burned you, they said it wouldn't grow again."

"So am I, I don't think I could have worn a wig for the rest of my life. Make sure it covers my shoulder please, Alice. If people can see the scars, I won't be able to relax."

"You won't see your shoulders once I've finished."

"How many braids are you putting in my hair?"

"Six separate braids. I'm weaving a wire with gems attached, through the braids. Then I'll link them all with small chains. It will look great; I promise."

"Who's the lucky guy that is taking you tonight?"

"His name is Tyler; he works in the IT department."

"So, he's an IT geek." I giggled.

"Please don't call him that. I kind of like him."

"I won't. I promise. As long as you promise not to put too much make-up on me."

"Are you bribing me, Miss Romano?"

"Me? Would I do a thing like that?" I faked at being shocked.

"Look at you trying to be innocent. Your make-up will be natural, with smoky eyes."

"Girls, are you ready? We have to be at the restaurant in thirty minutes." Auntie Anna shouted.

"Yes, mom, I'm almost finished with Gaby's hair, and I have to do her makeup, I'll be ten minutes tops," Alice shouted back.

"We only have five minutes; you will have to let Gaby do her own make-up if you're still doing her hair, and Alice your date is here. He's talking to your dad," Auntie Anna said as she looked around the door.

With a smirk on my face, I picked up my mascara, putting it on followed by some lip gloss.

With a huff, Alice walked into her room to get her shoes, as I slipped my shoes on and grabbed my cane.

"Hi, Tyler, have you been introduced to everyone?" Alice asked.

"Yes, your dad did that," Tyler answered.

"This is my cousin, Gaby. I told you about her," Alice introduced.

"Nice to meet you," I said with a smile. I heard Alice growling as she knew what I was thinking.

"I'm going with Tyler; are you guys calling a cab?" Alice asked.

"Yes, we will see you there, drive safe," John said, giving Tyler a pointed look, which made me laugh.

Tyler must drive fast as they were already halfway through a drink when we arrived. A big smile came on my face when I saw Liam. I hadn't seen him since he had visited me in hospital. But I knew what he had done for me.

"Lass, you look well. Come and tell me about this new job of yours'," Liam said, opening his arms.

Walking into his arms, I hugged him, as I felt him kiss my hair.

"Gaby, you look beautiful. Is this dress one of Alice's creations?" Maggie asked.

"Yes, do you like it? It's a new line I've designed. But Gaby here won't even model the designs for me," Alice pouted.

"You know that's not a good idea, Alice," Maggie replied.

"Your table's ready. Would you like to follow me?" the host asked.

Sitting down, I saw a middle-aged woman walking towards our table.

"Hello, my name is Sherry, and I'll be your server tonight. What can I get you all to drink?"

"Could you bring us a bottle of champagne?" Liam requested.

"Could I have a coke as I'm driving," Tyler asked.

"Only one for me. I've got early rehearsals. Don't forget we are opening tomorrow night," I added.

"Are you nervous?" Maggie asked.

"Yes, I have choreographed a few new numbers, and I'm worried that no one will like them. The sponsors are coming to opening night. Although Mr. Masen won't be there, he's out of town." I replied.

"It will be great; we are all looking forward to watching the Follies tomorrow night," John added.

"Alice, how good to see you. I still can't thank you enough for my dress," said a voice behind me.

"Hello, Rose, Emmett, it's nice to see you too. It was my honor to make it. I have had a few requests to design wedding dresses." Alice replied. "This is my mom and dad, Anna and John, my date Tyler, Liam, and Maggie friends of my mom, and you met my cousin Gaby before."

"Have you known each other long?" Emmett asked, looking at Liam. Liam was looking back at Emmett like they knew each other.

"Maggie and I went to nursing school together. When we graduated, I went home to work as a triage nurse, and Maggie got a job in obstetrics here," Anna offered.

"I just passed my medical board to be a surgeon, and that's why we are here tonight; the family is meeting with us so we can celebrate," Rose said.

"Are you celebrating something?" Emmett asked.

"Yes, it's my birthday tomorrow, but Gaby is the new choreographer for the Rock Follies, and they open tomorrow night, so we came out to celebrate."

"Happy birthday, Alice." Rose offered. "I didn't know you were a dancer Gaby. Was that before your accident?"

"Yes, it was. I'm a choreographer now," I replied.

"Is young Edward home? I haven't seen him around Juilliard."

"No, he's come home twice since mom died. He came home for our wedding; he wouldn't have missed it. It's his little ballerina. The night of the accident, he went to every hospital where the victims were taken. He wouldn't accept that she wasn't in the car. He hired a private detective to find her. But the detective went to her hometown and found that she had died. They buried her there. He came home to visit her grave. I don't think he will ever come back to the states," Emmett sighed.

"He went looking. He didn't believe…" I started to say but was cut off by Maggie.

"That must have been hard for him," Maggie interrupted.

Before anyone continued the conversation, we heard someone shout.

"Em, Rosie, we are here. Is this our table?" Lucy shouted.

"I didn't know she was coming; did you know Emmett? That's my night spoiled," Rose growled.

"No, honey, I didn't. Lucy must have invited herself as usual. You know what Esme's like. I assume that will mean Jasper will be turning up as well," Emmett answered.

"Alice, is that you? I haven't seen you since the wedding. You must design my gown for the gala. Then there's the New Year's Eve party my parents hold every year," Lucy rambled.

"I don't design single dresses, I'm sorry," Alice spat out.

"You will. My daddy will make sure of that. Oh, look, it's that stupid girl who can't dress herself. Are you wearing the same shoes today? Last time I saw you had odd shoes on at the club?" Lucy mocked.

"I beg your pardon, what did you call my niece? You're that girl who hurt her the last time we were here. You should be ashamed of yourself," Anna barked.

"How is your hand, Gaby?" Rose inquired. Trying to defuse the situation.

"Fine, thank you, Rose. Lucy, where did you get that locket you are wearing?" I asked.

"What's it to you?" Lucy snapped.

"I used to have one like that. It was my mom's." I replied.

"It's the same as mine," Anna said, lifting hers up for everyone to see.

She was about to continue asking Lucy about it when she interrupted.

"Look, mom and dad have just arrived with Jasper and his new girlfriend."

I panicked knowing that I was in the same room as Carlisle. He would recognize me; I had to get out of here.

"If you would excuse me, I need to use the restroom," I stated.

"I'll show you where they are," Maggie offered getting out of her chair, grabbing my hand. She had me down a corridor before I could catch my breath. "Excuse me miss, is there another way out of here? My daughter's ex has just come in, and she has a restraining order against him."

"You're not supposed to use the staff entrance, but I think it will be okay this one time," Sherry, our server answered.

I saw Maggie pull her cell out her pocket.

"Patrick, are you anywhere near the restaurant?" Maggie asked.

"Yeah, I'm outside why? Have the Cullen's recognized Gaby? I saw them come in," Patrick questioned.

"No, not yet. Carlisle didn't see her. I'm at the staff entrance with Gaby, can you come and get her before he sees her?" requested Maggie.

"I'll be there in two minutes, Mags," Patrick replied.

"You will be okay. I'll see you tomorrow," Maggie said as she kissed my cheek, putting me in the car.

I've decided that I'm leaving New York after the season finishes. There are nine million people in New York, and we went to the same restaurant as the Cullen's? I will bump into them one day, and next time, I might not be so lucky as to have anyone help me.

~TTS~

I stood in the wings, holding my breath as the orchestra began to play. The lights went down. The curtains pulled up to smoke on the stage, to see the girls stride out from the back of the stage. The audience started to cheer.

I watched as the girls rushed on and off the stage, managing to change in time for each number. I could see that the audience loved the show. It was the last number, and all the dancers were on stage. I just hope they don't ask me to go on to the stage; we hadn't discussed it, but it is usual for the choreographer to take a bow. I'm worried that there might be a Cullen in the audience. That took me out of my thoughts when I heard the applause stop.

"Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. This show would not be possible without the talent of our choreographer, Gabriella Romano. Come out and take a bow, Gabriella," Claire, the director instructed.

I walked to the middle of the stage, leaning more onto my cane than usual. I was smiling at the audience, trying to see my family. I bowed and the audience applauded me, then my girls. I quickly left the stage.

The excitement backstage was electric. The girls were rushing to get to the opening party across the street at Rockefeller Center.

When I arrived at the party, I looked around for my family. I received a few hugs from the girls and orchestra members.

I felt someone put their hand on my shoulder, pulling me into their chest.

"Isabella, you're stupid for coming back to New York; we thought you were more intelligent than that. I have people who can't wait to see you. Don't look round; walk towards the entrance." I heard a voice say.

"I'm sorry I think you have the wrong person; my name is Gabriella Romano. If you were at the show, you would know that. You do know this is a private party?" I said trying to turn around.

"You can't fool me Isabella, everyone knows who you are." He said, squeezing my arm.

"Lasciami andare, bastardo!" I shouted. But there was too much noise for anyone to hear me.

(Let go of me you bastard)

"Stop struggling with me or you're going to get hurt, just come quietly," he growled.

"Like hell I am! I'm not going anywhere with you," I said, trying to look at him. That's when I felt the gun being pushed into my side.

"You can't do this; people will look for me. Liam won't ever stop. Liam will tell Edward, I'm still alive," I whispered.

"Just fucking move, now. I won't think twice about shooting you regardless of how much money we will lose," he growled.

I dropped my cane as he was pushing me too much.

I was pushed to a side door when someone put their hand across my mouth. I bite him but felt a sharp prick in my neck. The room was spinning, and everything went black.

Welcome to New York, sung by Taylor Swift.

As always, thank you as always to my pre-readers Klcivinski and Carole for reading through the chapter.

Also, my brilliant beta EdwardsFirstKiss who as always made this chapter readable.

Any mistakes are mine.