So You Think You Can Dance Cullen? Chapter 11: Improvising, a twilight fanfic

This chapter was inspired by "Next to you" By Jordin Sparks. I love her work and I already know I'm going to use one of her songs later in the story but I'll try not to use any artist more than once or twice. I want to keep a wide variety of music in this story.
If you have any song suggestions for any type of dance or any particular pair let me know and I'll see if it will work in the story. I have an outline for the rest of it down but I still need filler dances and songs for the side characters to dance to.

Chapter 11- Improvising

POV-Bella

My work was slow. I could see the dance in my head but I was never able to make it all the way to the end before I would have to stop and rest. If I spun too hard I would get dizzy and I had already gone to get another set of painkillers from the doctor.

"Here, drink some more water. You'll feel better."

Angela handed me her water bottle and sat down on the floor next to me. I had been watching her solo as it developed and I was looking forward to seeing the finished product. Angela's background in Broadway was a lot of fun and far different than anything I had ever done.

"Thanks, Angela." I took her bottle and sipped at the cold water.

"How are you feeling?" She asked as I passed the bottle back to her.

I shrugged. "I could be better."

"It's almost lunch time. If you take it easy you should be feeling better afterwards."

I nodded and let my head fall back carefully to rest against the wall behind me. "I hope so. At this rate I won't be able to make it through my entire solo."

"The judges know about your accident. They won't mark you down for it."

I shook my head. "Yes, they will. There are only twenty spots left. They have to cut our number in half. They'll be looking for any excuse to get rid of someone. I think this might be the end of my run."

"Don't say that Bella. The judges love you. Chris even said he thought you would make it to the finals yesterday. That's huge Bella and it'll count today. I know you'll be fine."

"Thanks Angela."

She smiled at me before heading back to her corner of the room and plugging her music back in. I watched her for a while before my eyes drifted over to where Erik was working. He caught me watching him in the mirror and winked at me. I giggled and gave him a thumbs up. He shook his butt at me before getting back to his dance and I rolled my eyes.

Ben was working quietly. He'd been off in his own little world the whole time. His music was plugged into his ears and he was counting quietly to himself. I let my eyes travel past Ben and found Leah. She was sitting with her back to the mirror. This was the first time I had seen her take a break all morning.

The only person left was Edward. He was in the corner across from me. His music playing in his ears as he danced to a beat I couldn't hear. His dance was slower than the others, similar to the tempo of my solo. Latin/Ballroom wasn't the easiest style to use for a solo and I enjoyed watching Edward work. He really was a great dancer.

Edward spun and stopped so he was facing the mirror wall. He was breathing hard and his hair was wet with sweat. He caught my eye in the reflection and smiled at me. I nodded once in recognition and pushed myself to my feet.

My head was still kind of fuzzy but the pounding had receded. My vision was clear and I seemed to be recovering from the accident. I gathered my things and joined with the others as they made their way to the door.

As Edward joined me, he held out his arms. "Shall I carry you Mi'lady?"

"I am perfectly capable of walking, kind Sir, but thank you."

He didn't argue but he kept his hands on my hips as we descended the stairs. We found the others waiting for us in the dining hall and this time they had pulled a second large table over so we could spread out some more and eat without bumping into each other. Emmett jumped Edward and I as we sat down and demanded to know why he hadn't been informed immediately of his brother's accident.

"I wasn't badly hurt Emmett. Just a few scrapes and bruises. It's nothing."

Emmett didn't seem pacified and he sulked into his food. "They still should have told me. What if you had been hurt?"

"Aww was someone worried about his little brother?" Tanya teased and she poked Emmett in the side. Emmett scowled at her and she smiled sheepishly at him.

"Of course I was. Alice races into the studio and tells me that Edward and Bella almost got run over and that was why they missed breakfast. No crew men, no answers. If Alice hadn't come and found me I wouldn't have had any idea."

Edward smiled at his brother. "It's nice to know you care."

Emmett mumbled something under his breath that sounded like 'irksome little brat' but then he returned to his food and table conversation shifted to more posative topics. Angela and Ben were discussing their solos. They both had backgrounds in Broadway and they were arguing various styles and shows they had worked with.

As soon as I started eating I found I was ravenous. I cleared my plate and downed two and a half cups of juice. The sugar felt amazing and I was feeling stronger once I had finished.

"Someone was hungry." Edward said as he offered to fill my glass again.

I passed on the juice and leaned back in my chair. "Near death experiences make one hungry."

"You were in shock. I should have made you eat some sugar earlier."

"What happened to all those pre-med classes you took?" Emmett asked as he turned to join our conversation. "Didn't you learn about things like that?"

Edward glared at his brother. "Shut up Emmett."

He held up his hands in surrender. "Ok, ok, down kitty. I was only kidding."

Edward rolled his eyes at his brother and I gave him an understanding smile. Emmett didn't mean any harm by his comments. Edward offered to clear my plate for me and at five to one we all got up to head back to the studio.

"Edward, Bella."

The crew man named Jeff stopped us in the lobby.

"The doctor would like to see you both again before you get back to work."

He led us back down a side hallway and into the doctor's makeshift hospital room. Dr. Andrews was waiting for us.

"Edward, Bella how are you both feeling?"

Edward nodded and helped me up onto the paper covered cot thing again. "I'm fine."

Doctor Andrews didn't seem surprised at Edward's condition and he checked my eyes with his flashlight again. "And how are you feeling Bella, any more dizziness?"

"A little bit earlier, but I'm feeling much better now that I've had something to eat."

He nodded and gave me another dose of aspirin. "You both look just fine. I'm sure you will make quick recoveries. I just hope this won't affect your routines tonight."

I nodded along. I had been fine in rehearsal as long as I didn't whip my head around or spin to fast. I would have to be careful, but I wasn't going to let this stop me. Dr. Andrews scribbled some notes down on a sheet with my name on it before turning back to glance at Edward.

"I had a chance to talk to your father earlier Edward. He would like it if you called him as soon as possible."

"Is anything wrong?" Edward seemed momentarily panicked.

"No, no." Dr. Andrews raised a hand in a sign of comfort. "I had to inform him about your accident and he wants to talk to you. Apparently he was unable to reach your cell phone."

Edward pulled a small silver phone out of his pocket and glanced down at it.

"It's dead."

"That would explain it then. He just wanted to check on you."

"Did you call my parents?" I asked suddenly concerned. I had left my phone up in my room after changing and my mother was known to over react. I could only imagine the conclusions she would jump to when she couldn't reach me.

"I left a message for her at home. I'm required to call immediate family when any of the dancers get injured."

I groaned and Edward wrapped an arm over my shoulders.

"Are you ok Bella?"

I nodded. "Yeah, but my mom's probably having a fit right now. My phones back at the hotel."

"I wouldn't worry about it Bella." The Doctor said adding something to my health sheet. "I did manage to reach your father when your mother didn't answer and he seemed to take the news ok. I let him know that you weren't seriously hurt and that you would be continuing in the contest."

My jaw fell and I was sure my eyes were bugging out of my skull. He had called Charlie?

"You called my dad?"

Dr. Andrews didn't understand my confusion. "He is listed on your emergency numbers list. I thought he might be able to reach your mom and let her know you're ok."

The show had asked for three emergency numbers when I signed up. My mom was the first, Summer's house was the second and I had put Charlie down only because I needed another number. I never thought they would actually call him.

"He can't talk to my mom. They haven't spoken in years. They got divorced when I was little."

"Bella, it'll be ok. Charlie will be glad to know that you're ok." Edward said patting my hand. I nodded along and sighed.

"You don't get it. Charlie didn't know I was coming on the show. I haven't seen him in almost four years."

Dr. Andrews didn't seem to know what to say and Edward chuckled at me.

"Well, that puts you in an awkward position doesn't it?"

I got to my feet and grabbed my sweater. "Tell me about it."

We returned to the studio and I tried to forget about my parents. I would call Renee later and ask if she had heard from Charlie. For now I was going to lose myself in my music and nail my solo for the judges.

I took a few minutes to warm up and then plugged my I-pod in so I could work. The others had returned to their individual work and I knew none of them would interrupt me. I glanced at the clock. We had four hours before it would be time to head to the auditorium.

Four hours fly by when you're performing below par and before I could blink it was time to gather downstairs. I grabbed my things and followed after Edward as we walked downstairs with the others. Alice and Rosalie were waiting for us and it wasn't long before the others all showed up.

Mary and Nigel were on stage and I gasped at our guest judge. Edward and I had missed the opening taping so we hadn't had a chance to see who would be watching our solos along with the normal judges. I hadn't thought about it before, but now that I could see him, I was starting to panic.

It was Tyce Diorio. He had always been one of my favorite choreographers on the show and I was going to get to perform for him. Tyce almost always did Broadway routines and most of my personal favorites had been his big group numbers. He was practically a legend on the show.

The crew men cued the judges to begin taping and everyone fell silent. Men in black were running around grabbing the first of the dancers and getting people into place. Mary talked to the camera and explained how the last round of callbacks would go.

"-After all of the solos are performed, it will be up to Nigel, Tyce, and myself to decide who will get the chance to show their stuff on live TV and compete for your votes America."

Nigel called the first name and a tall man with long blond hair walked on stage. I had seen him before but never had the chance to work with him. His name was James and he had a style all his own. His roots seemed to be in Rock, but I could see some Hip-Hop in his dance as well.

One by one, dancers performed their last chance to get into the finals. Alice wore a top hat and danced with a cane in her fun, jazzy solo. Angela danced to a wild song from Hair. Emmett rocked the stage as only Emmett could and then it was my turn. Jake was on right before me so I didn't get to see his dance, but I sung along to the lyrics backstage. We had spent many a rainy Forks summer day lounging in various parts of each other's houses singing to the radio and the song he had chosen had been pretty big a few years ago.

"This ain't a scene. It's a goddamned arms race.
This ain't a scene. It's a goddamned arms race.
This ain't a scene. It's a goddamned arms race.
I'm not a shoulder to cry on
But I digress."

I wasn't paying attention and I hadn't realized the song was over until Nigel spoke and dismissed Jake. The judges hadn't been talking to all of the dancers. They made short comments on some, expressed disappointment on a few, and for some like Jake they didn't say anything.

"Our next soloist is Bella Swan."

I took a deep breath and stepped out on stage. I was wearing a simple practice dress over my leggings. It was light brown and left my scraped arm's bare. I saw Mary's eyes fall to my bandaged arm and wished I had worn something with long sleeves. I didn't want to move on because of judge's pity. I wanted to earn my way to the top fairly.

"Whenever you're ready Miss Swan you can start."

I walked to center stage and sat down. I had decided to start my solo sitting down after my first attempt to spin this morning had landed me on my butt and left the room swirling sickeningly around me. I glanced over my shoulder and caught the eye of the sound guy. He hit a button on the sound system and my song rang throughout the room.

The song started slowly, some opening humming and soft drumming. I lifted my hands above my head and slowly woke my body to the dance. As the lyrics started I fell to my side and acted along with the opening words.

Two 'o clock and I wish that I was sleeping
You're in my head like a song on the radio
All I know is that I got to get next to you
Yeah I got to get next to you

Sitting here turning minutes into hours
To find the nerve just to call you on the telephone
Cuz you don't know that I got to get next to you

I rubbed my eyes like I was having trouble sleeping and cupped my hands over my ears like I had a song stuck in my head. I rolled over, sat on the stage and nervously glanced at the clock on the wall. I twisted around and pushed myself to my feet.

When I faced forward I let my eyes roam the room. He was sitting right where I had left him. His eyes met mine and whenever I faced forwards I locked my gaze on him. He had been the inspiration behind my song choice.

Maybe we're friends
Maybe we're more
Maybe it's just my imagination
But I see you stared just a little too long
And it makes me start to wonder
So baby call me crazy
But I think you feel it too
Maybe I, Maybe I
Just got to get next to you

I swung my hips to the lyrics and let them lead as I moved forward. This song had all the moves of a Samba or a Rumba but at a tempo more suited to Contemporary. During practice I had felt kind of dizzy and hadn't wanted to rush moving too fast. I was feeling better now.

I broke from my planned routine and found myself staring at Edward again. My face flushed and I could feel the exact spot on my forehead where he had kissed me earlier. Maybe I was wrong and had let my imagination get the best of me, but it had seemed like he cared for me, more than the others did. I was starting to realize that I cared for him more than I should.

I didn't know what to make of his behavior. He walked me to me room, he went looking for me when I was missing. That had to mean something right? Maybe it was just his nature to be polite. His mom had raised him right and it wasn't like I was anything special. Why would he find me interesting when he could have someone like Tanya?

I asked around and I heard that you were talking
Told my girl that you thought I was out of your league
What a fool, I got to get next to you, whoa
Yeah it's five in the morning and I can't go to sleep
'Cause I wish, yeah I wish that you knew what you mean to me
Baby let's get together and end this mystery, oh

After my talk with Summer a few thing had fallen into place, even if I hadn't been ready to admit them to myself. I did have the "hots for Edward" as Summer had so eloquently put it. How could I not fall for him? He was so perfect. I knew so little about him but everything I had managed to learn in the past few days had been positive.

I was going to have to talk to Sam myself. If he had really talked to Emmett maybe he would tell me exactly what Edward had said about me. I could see other signs of my silly crush on Edward now that I was trying to find them.

I had never had problems sleeping in new places before coming here. I hardly suffered from jet lag and there was nothing uncomfortable about the bed in my hotel room. The only thing off about my sleep here was the vivid dreams I had been having. Every night, a pair of green eyes watched me and every morning I woke up earlier than I usually would.

Maybe we're friends
Maybe we're more
Maybe it's just my imagination
But I see you stare just a little too long
And it makes me start to wonder
So baby call me crazy
But I think you feel it too
Maybe I, Maybe I
Just got to get next to you.

I didn't know what I was doing anymore on stage. I had completely abandoned the preset dance I had worked on upstairs. The dance just came to me as I listened to the lyrics and I let my body do whatever it wanted. I had always enjoyed the freedom solos offered dancers. I could do whatever I liked and no one would know it wasn't the original plan.

I centered my focus on Edward again and he held my gaze as I danced, my movements pulled in his direction as I spun, again directing my dance to where he was sitting. I was probably blowing this whole thing out of proportion but I had to know if he liked me. Once I heard him say that we were just friends, I would be able to sleep again. A part of me would be crushed that my feelings weren't returned, but I would be able to sleep.

Whatcha got to say? Whatcha got to do?
How ya get the one you want
to want to get next to you?

Whatcha got to say? Whatcha got to do?
How ya get the one you want
to want to get next to you?
Yeah, yeah, to want to get next to you

I pulled my gaze away from Edward and glanced over at the judges table. I had forgotten about them and I started panicking. I pulled myself together and moved farther back on the stage. As I moved to the slow tempo I let my feelings come out in my dancing.

Dance had always been a form of escape for me. No matter what I was feeling I could portray it in Dance. Right now I was pretty confused. I was developing feelings for a guy way out of my league. I was probably still a little muddled from almost being run over this morning and I had just completely improvised my solo in front of the judges.

As the music fell away my gaze dropped to Edward once more. He clapped his hands together softly in front of him and smiled at me. At least he had liked it. Maybe I hadn't completely blown my chance. I turned to face the judges and waited to see if they would ask me anything.

If I were the judges, I would have a few questions lined up. The first one that came to mind was something along the lines of "was I on crack?" I couldn't even remember most of my solo and I had just danced it. I had completely let the dance fall away and had focused my thoughts on other things, another person.

Nigel jotted something down on his sheet and glanced up at me.

"How are you feeling Bella?"

Not a question I would have started with but it was better than negative marks I guess. The other judges waited for my answer and I knew he had done what he said he would and told them about my accident.

"I'm feeling much better, thank you."

"If Nigel hadn't told us you had been in an accident I wouldn't have guessed it." Mary said, as she too scribbled something down on the paper in front of her.

"Thank you."

Tyce didn't say anything but he smiled when I looked at him. I wanted to turn tail and run. I had probably just made myself look like a moron in front of Tyce Diorio. Nigel dismissed me and called the next name.

I turned my back on the judges and slipped back stage. It was dark behind the curtains and I fumbled with the door before I managed to get out. I leaned against the wall and took a few deep breaths. I was going to have to get one more dose of aspirin from the doctor. My dance had brought back a small headache.

Once I was in control of my body again I quietly made my way to where the others were sitting. Edward's eyes locked with mine as I took the seat next to him and I briefly noted that Tanya and Jasper were gone.

"That was beautiful, Bella."

I flushed and smiled at him. "Thanks, I just hope it was enough."

"I don't think you need to worry about it."

"Why not?"

He shook his head. "I don't know. I just have a feeling you're going to do very well in this contest."

I bit down on my lip to keep from asking why again and turned back to the stage. I managed to avoid catching his eye again as Tanya and Jasper both danced. Rosalie killed her solo with a hot southern style dance and then went back for seconds. There wasn't a doubt in my mind she was going to make it to the top. It was just a matter of how far America would take her.

Ben's dance was hilarious and the crew guys were desperately trying to get everyone to be quiet for the taping. Leah surprised me by choosing a native style song to dance to, but she danced it in a way that effortlessly mixed her culture with Hip-hop.

All of the dancers I had come to know danced their hearts out of stage for the chance to go on. Erik, Jane, Mike, Monica and so many more I still didn't know. I certainly could pick out my favorites among the individuals, but my opinions and the judges were two completely different matters.

Edward's dance was magnificent just like it had been upstairs. I didn't know the song. It was slow and had a Spanish guitar in it, classy with a Mexican flare. It was great but I thought it would have been better with a partner. I was willing to volunteer.

He met my gaze as he danced and I held it as he finished his dance. Nigel asked if he was feeling better and then the judges dismissed Edward. He calmly walked off stage and sat back down next to me.

"That was great Edward."

He smiled. "I'm glad you liked it."

"I like all of your dancing."

He smirked. "You like what you see."

I flushed and bit my lip. Maybe Emmett was starting to rub off on me but I heard a double meaning in his words. He grinned at me and I decided to play along.

"For the most part. I know one way it could have been better."

His smirk fell and he seemed confused. Ha! I win. He opened his mouth to ask but I cut him off and pointed to the stage.

"Shh, Nigel is going to talk."

Nigel congratulated everyone on a job well done and dismissed us to dinner. I stood up before Edward could restart our conversation and grabbed Alice's arm as we headed out of the auditorium. Alice glanced up at me and smiled.

"You really shouldn't tease the poor boy, Bella."

I huffed at her. "I wasn't teasing him." Liar! Yes, I was teasing him. I was so cruel. Well, he deserved a little taste of his own medicine. I could hardly think straight around him, so it was my turn to leave him confused.

"You've got it bad, Bella." Alice said as we walked into the hotel.

I was done fighting it. I had a crush on Edward Cullen and it was clear Alice already knew about it. "I know."

"So why don't you go walk with him and flirt a little."

"I'm no good at flirting Alice. I'll make a fool out of myself more than I already have."

"Edward doesn't seem to think you're a fool Bella. Trust me on this the boy's got it bad for you."

"Why would he like me, Alice?"

"Why wouldn't he? You need some confidence Bella."

We entered the buffet and I lost Alice in the line for food. We all gathered together again at the table and Alice shoved me into the seat next to Edward. Talk was awkward at dinner. Everyone's thoughts were centered on who would make the top twenty but no one wanted to bring it up. It was very likely that we would not all be sitting here tomorrow morning.

Edward didn't ask about my comment on his solo but I could tell it was driving him crazy. He shot me confused looks all throughout dinner and picked at his food. Conversation was at an all time low for the entire room when Alice scooted her chair back and jumped to her feet.

"I can't take it anymore. I'm going back early."

There were mumbled agreements and we cleared our dishes. Over the next hour everyone trickled back into the auditorium to hear the judge's final verdict. Another familiar face was on stage with our judges and I recognized the host of the show, Cat Deeley.

The lights dimmed and the cameras started rolling. Cat had a mic wired up the side of her dress so she could stand in front of everyone and not have to hold a microphone.

"Welcome contestants. How is everyone feeling after your five rounds of dancing hell?"

People shouted and clapped and called out comments that would make it sound as if we hadn't loved getting our butts kicked everyday for the last week. We were sore and tired, but over all I hadn't had this much fun in a long time.

"My name is Cat Deeley and I am returning again this year to host another season of "So You Think You Can Dance."

More cheers broke out and some of the boys behind us wolf whistled.

She laughed and waved off their praise before returning her attention to the camera.

"In just a few short minutes our judges will call you up in small groups and by the time the slaughter is over only the best twenty will be left standing. Are you all ready for this?!?"

We cheered again and Cat took a seat next to the other judges. One of the Camera men closed in on their faces and Nigel started talking into the camera. He introduced the other judges again and talked about how hard everyone had worked this week.

"The first dancers we would like to see are: Alice Brandon, Alec Dowling, Ben Cheney, Jessica Stanly, and Andrew Plat."

Alice seemed to freeze in her chair for a split second before she rocketed on stage. Angela squeezed Ben's hand and we wished them both luck.

Mary talked about all five solos and brought up things about all five dancers she loved, along with a few things she didn't.

"Alice. You, little chicky-poo are quickly becoming one of my favorites this season. I love the energy you bring to everything you do and I am very pleased to say that you are the first of this years top twenty."

Alice jumped up and down and had a mini spazz attack on stage. Alice seemed to remember she was still on camera and she returned to her place in line still bouncing on the balls of her feet.

Nigel asked Alec and Andrew to step forward and thanked them both for their time but unfortunately neither of them would be moving forward in the competition. I held Angela's hand as Ben and Jessica were both asked to step forward.

"Ben, every season we have a Broadway dancer in the top twenty. The judges love them and they have all been great dancers. Never before has a dancer who specializes in Broadway won this show. I have a feeling you might break that streak. Welcome to the finals!"

Jessica also made it to the top twenty and after only five dancers we already knew who three of the top dancers would be. In set groups of five the judges continued to call dancers up on stage. One by one the top-twenty was revealed.

"Erik Yorkie"

"Leah Clearwater"

"Mike Newton"

"Victoria Reed"

Those who made it to the top were gathered in a separate group of seats. Those who were asked to leave returned to their seats with the rest of us to wait out the rest of the ceremony. Nigel glanced down at his chart after dismissing a few more dancers and called the next string of names.

"Now we would like to see: Mandee, Rosalie, Erika, Jasper, and Taylor."

Jasper and Rosalie left with the others and took their place on stage. Tyce Diorio took the mic and called Mandee, Erika and Taylor forward. I recognized all of them from previous dances but I hadn't gotten the chance to speak to any of them directly. Tyce gave praise for their skill and wished them all luck in the future but they would not be continuing in this competition.

After the three of them had walked off stage Rosalie and Jasper were left alone onstage. Tyce turned his attention to Mary who was all smiles again.

"We have had a few pairs of relatives on this show before. Never anyone as closely related as the two of you. You may face challenges the others do not, especially, if you end up getting paired together. I am confident that you will both be fine and it is my pleasure to welcome both of the Hale twins to the top twenty."

Neither Jasper nor Rosalie freaked out like the others had after hearing that they would be moving on. Jasper simple pulled his sister into a hug and they thanked the judges before joining the other finalists.

More dancers I didn't know were called on stage and slowly the number of spots open in the finals were filling up.

"Heidi Blake"

"Laurent Gathegi"

"Demetri Anderson"

"Emmett Cullen"

I cheered with Edward as Emmett threw his fist in the air and leapt off the stage. Rosalie threw her arms around his neck and I wasn't the only one surprised when she kissed him. Emmett wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her down to sit next to him.

Edward chuckled at my side and I raised an eyebrow at him. He glanced down at me and lowered his lips to my ear so no one else would hear him.

"I just won fifty dollars."

"How?"

"Emmett has had many a girlfriend in his life. Every girl has been different, red heads, short girls, biker girls, bimbos, smart girls. Every one of them walked into his life looking like a dream and he ended up dropping each one for different reasons. The only thing they all had in common was their names. They were all named after flowers. Every single one of them."

Nigel called five more dancers on stage and I moved closer to Edward so we could keep talking without the crew men telling us to be quiet.

"How does that get you fifty dollars?"

He pointed up to Emmett and Rosalie who had gone back to making out.

"I bet Emmett that he wouldn't be able to resist making a move on Rosalie and I was right. He's dated a Lily, a Petunia, and a Daisy. He even once dated a girl named Marigold. My personal favorite was Magnolia. He dumped her after she went off on Tanya for hanging around with Emmett too much. She was crazy. Now he's dating a Rose, and we will get to watch as yet another pretty flower shows her thorns and breaks his heart."

I glanced up at where Emmett and Rosalie were sitting. They weren't making out anymore, but it was clear they were lost in each other. He had her hand wrapped in his and she was leaning against his side. They looked happy but I really wasn't the best at judging relationships.

"You don't know that she'll hurt him. Maybe Emmett's finally found the right flower."

Edward shook his head doubtfully. "I'm pretty sure Emmett's allergic to flowers. He thought each one of those girls was wonderful before they cheated on him. I hope you're right but I have no reason to trust that this will end any differently than the others."

We turned our attention back to the stage. Three dancers I didn't know were walking off and I felt bad for not paying attention. The two girls left on stage were Tanya and Angela. I hadn't even heard Nigel called their names.

They both made it to the top and it was announced that there were only five seats left in the finals. Mary took the name list and called the next five dancers on stage. Among them she called Edward and Jane up onstage.

I wished him luck and watched as he joined the others. I held my breath as Mary worked her way down the row, dismissing the first two dancers in his group. I cheered as Jane made it to the finals but my attention was locked on Edward as Nigel started talking to him.

Nigel commented on his Disco routine and admitted that it hadn't been the best. He complimented Edward on his Tango dance and had asked Edward if he was comfortable dancing with people other than Tanya.

Edward's eyes fell to where I was sitting as he nodded. "Yes, I am capable and willing to dance with other dancers."

Nigel nodded. "Good, because I want you in the finals and the chances are very good that you won't be partnered with your friend. It seems that the Hale twins will not be the only pair of relatives in this year's season."

Edward's lips turned up on the sides and I could see the pride flowing from him as he joined Emmett and the others in the chairs behind the judges. I counted the heads around him and felt my stomach drop. There were already nine girls sitting with Edward and the others were boys. My chances were looking slimmer and slimmer.

There were only five of us left so it didn't surprise me when Nigel called my name along with Jake's and three other people I didn't recognize. We joined one other boy and two girls on stage, a one in three chance at getting my dream. I was not pleased with those odds.

The boy on my left was almost as tall as Jake. He had long sandy colored hair pulled behind his head in a ponytail. Nigel called his name and James stepped forward to face the judges. I couldn't remember having seen him before but he must have been good because the judges asked him to join the other winners.

Jake was next and he filled the last open seat for a boy in the finals. I pulled him into a hug and congratulated him before he and James walked to the side of the stage. Mary asked the rest of us to step forward and I joined my competition center stage.

Mary was the first to talk and she praised the girl on my left who's name was Amy. Nigel was next and he talked about Monika who was standing to my right. Tyce interrupted them and pointed out a few mishaps that Amy had suffered throughout the week.

Mary agreed and although she loved Amy, it was time for her to go. Tears fell down her face and she ran off the stage.

"Bella." I turned back to face Mary. "I was very impressed with your solo today. You had a few small mishaps. Mostly, I think those were related to your accident. You've proven yourself to be a very tough competitor and I feel for anyone who stands in your way."

She turned back to Monika. "Monika, you as well have impressed the judges throughout the callbacks. Your random CD routine was one of the strongest, although we felt that all the members of your group were not effectively showcased. You're both great dancers and I have a feeling you will both go far with your dancing but, one of you has shown the potential to be a star. America is looking for someone who is not only a good dancer but a great performer, someone who's not afraid of the camera and who dances with passion."

Her eyes fell on Monika and I could feel tears prick at the corner of my eyes. I wouldn't cry in front of the camera but I would as soon as I was backstage.

"Monika, I'm sorry but we're going to ask you to leave."

What?

Nigel nodded his agreement and spoke into his mic. "Monika, you are indeed a talented dancer. No one will ever doubt that, but you lack a level of emotion that we look for in all of our finalists." His gaze fell on me and Monika took a step away from me.

"Bella, you have shown not only great skill in your area of dance but an ability to adapt. It is clear to us that you dance from the heart." He motioned to the other judges. "You belong here. We would love it if you joined the top twenty."

I was speechless. I had told myself I wouldn't cry on TV but I was helpless to stop the tears that fell down my face. I did it. I was going to the finals. I nodded my head and thanked them for the chance. Mary waved her hand off and spoke into her mic.

"Don't thank us dear. You made it to the top yourself."

Monika huffed and pushed past me as she stormed off stage. The judges asked if all of the top twenty dancers would come back on stage. Jake was still standing by the stairs and he was the first to reach me. I jumped into his arms and locked mine around his neck. Planting a kiss on his check.

"Congratulations, Bells."

"You too Jake, Billy's gonna flip when he finds out."

He flashed me his signature smile, one that would put the sun to shame on the brightest of days and nodded. "Yeah, dad will probably fall right out of his wheelchair."

"Let's hope Charlie will be there to pick him back up."

He laughed and set me back on my feet as the others raced on stage and gathered around us. Alice launched herself at me and we both would have fallen to the ground if Emmett hadn't wrapped his arms around us both and pulled us into a group hug.

I got a chance to congratulate Jasper and Angela and I gave Leah a hug. Mary and the other judges joined us center stage and Cat Deeley was talking to the camera. Everyone crowded around her and smiled at the camera as she spoke.

"...and there you have it America, your top twenty. It's been a grueling round of callbacks filled with tears, laughs, joys and one car accident."

Emmett leaned forward and I blushed as he pointed out the car accident. "Gee, I wonder who that was."

I elbowed him in the side to shut him up. Edward wrapped an arm around my waist and pulled me away from his brother before I could say something smart. We looked back at the camera as Cat finished talking.

"Look for us next Wednesday at 8/7 central right here on Fox to see your top twenty perform their first group number. Who will get partnered with who? Will sibling rivalries mess with any of the dancers heads now that we have two pairs of siblings? Who will win the prize money and the car? Who will become America's favorite dancer? Only time, our judges, and your votes will tell America. I'm Cat Deeley and this is "So You Think You Can Dance."

We cheered as the camera moved around the group and people broke into dance, grabbing each other to try and show off. A crew man called 'cut' and it was time to celebrate. People were hugging and cheering and a few of the dancers were crying, myself included. I wrapped my arms around Edward.

"Congratulations."

"You too." He wrapped his arms around my waist and spun us in a circle. The judge were talking and mingling with the dancers. Edward set me back on my feet and locked his eyes with mine. He wiped the tears off my checks.

"There's just one thing I can't figure out."

I grinned up at him knowing what he was going to ask. I knew he hadn't forgotten our previous conversation. I was just hoping he wouldn't bring it up again. A part of me really wanted to know where Edward and I stood. Another side wanted to remain in denial so we could stay friends.

He continued when I didn't ask. "What about my solo could have made it better?"

I hesitated for a second and bit my lip, now or never I guess right? Bite the bullet Bella. "You could have danced with me."

His eyes danced and his hands tightened around my waist. "I loved dancing with you Bella. I look forward to getting to do it again."

"I still owe you a Samba."

He nodded. "Yes you do, don't think I'll ever forget that."

"I won't forget. You'll just have to wait to collect."

"I don't think I'm that patient."

Nigel called for everyone to pay attention and I unwillingly turned away from Edward to listen. "Tonight will be the last night you spend at your hotel. Tomorrow morning you will move into the studio apartments found on the fifth and sixth floor of this building. Tomorrow, we will tape you picking your partners but you will have the rest of the day off. The call backs will air tomorrow night. You all have TV's in your rooms and you can watch it if you wish. Congratulations top twenty and I wish you all pleasant dreams."

Nigel, Mary and Tyce left with Cat and we all wandered back over to the apartment. Those who hadn't made it to the top were packing their bags and I caught eyes with Jane as she wished one of the dancer's goodbye. I recognized the short boy she was with but I couldn't remember his name.

Our group decided to reject the elevator and we climbed the stairs to our respected floors. Edward kissed the back of my hand as Angela and I reached the third floor. I had the strange urge to lock my arms around his neck and kiss him senseless but Angela took my hand and the moment was gone.

We locked ourselves in our Hotel room and spent time gathering all of our things together so we would be ready to move the next morning. I had thought the excitement of the day would keep me awake but I found myself dozing off before I had even changed into my pajamas.

I told Angela to take a shower. I would take one in the morning. She vanished into the bathroom and I stripped out of my day clothes. I pulled on my tank-top and a pair of shorts to sleep in, it was too hot to wear my sweats. I was just pulling the blankets on my bed back when there was a knock at the door.

I didn't look through the peep hole and was pleasantly surprised when I found Edward standing in the hall.

"Edward, what are you doing here?"

He hesitated and his eyes took in my short-short pajama shorts. My cheeks flushed and I suddenly felt very self conscious.

"I came to say good night."

He seemed very nervous and his hair looked like he had been pulling at it again.

"That's very sweet Edward. Goodnight."

He took a step forward and cupped my cheek in his hand. I hardly had time to take a breath before his lips were on mine. Kissing Edward was like nothing I had ever experienced. My body hesitated for a second before I responded to his kiss.

My arms locked around his neck and my fingers found their way into his hair. Our lips battled for what felt like hours. It was hot, sweet and almost desperate. I loved it. All too soon, he pulled away and we were both left gasping for air.

"Goodnight, Bella."

He kissed me once again, shorter and softer but just as wonderful. He pulled back and walked away disappearing up the stairs. I leaned against the door and waited until my heart slowed back down before closing the door.

I laid down in my bed, my lips still tingling from our kiss. I licked my bottom lip and could still taste him there. I smiled to myself and turned off the light. Today had been a very good day if I did say so myself. I welcomed the sleep that took me, looking forward to another dream about dark green eyes.

~Darkrose

There we have it the top twenty. I must say I made it kind of obvious who would make it but I don't really care. Here's a full list of the top twenty just so you can see all the names together.

1. Edward Cullen, 2. Emmett Cullen, 3. Rosalie Hale, 4. Jasper Hale, 5. Alice Brandon, 6. Jessica Stanley, 7. Mike Newton, 8. Jacob Black, 9. Angela Webber, 10. Heidi Blake, 11. Jane Ross, 12. Leah Clearwater, 13. Laurent Gathegi, 14. Demetre Anderson, 15. Erik Yorkie, 16. Victoria Reed, 17. Tayna Brown, 18. James Gigandet, 19. Ben Cheney, and number 20. Isabella Swan (Bella)

I know some of the last names are kind of lame but, roll with it please. Their last names aren't really that important. I was going to save the first kiss for the next chapter on their day off, but I thought this was kind of cute. I know I wouldn't mind a hot guy showing up at my door for a short make out session. Wow, that makes me sound like a slut.......but still. Who would really pass that up? No one I know.