Wednesday, Christian's POV
I have just finished a three hour meeting with the team in Taiwan. A few of my employees were in the conference room with us and we had a few of the team members in Taiwan on skype. As I walk back to my office with Ros and Andrea on my tail I realize that I am exhausted. That meeting ran much longer than it should have. I rub my face with both hands in frustration. "Andrea, from now on no meeting will last longer than 60 minutes. I don't care if all points aren't covered or resolved. We cut it off at the hour."
"Yes Sir."
I continue to rub my face as I walk into my office and sit behind my desk. I have quite a few emails to address before I can leave for the day. Andrea brings me coffee without my request. She and Ros know me so well. I don't think I could have carried on as long and as successfully as I have without these women. I manage a weak smile as she places the mug on the coaster. "Thank you Andrea."
"You're welcome Sir. Can I get you anything else?"
"We'll need the meeting notes uploaded by the end of the day. After that, just help Ros with anything she needs."
I manage to get through a few emails before Ana calls. She tells me that Leticia is sick and cannot take Elizabeth to dance today. That's just great. Last week Sophia was ill, and then Christopher and Gail. Now Leticia has caught what they had. I tell Ana that I will be home soon. I know I sounded irritated while talking to her, but I can't help it. There is so much shit going on right now with people getting sick, Mia in a coma, Ethan bedridden in our home, Ava pregnant and fucking Elliot shutting out his family. I finish an email and let Andrea know that I'm leaving.
Once I'm home I greet Ana in the main room with a kiss. "You look exhausted" she tells me. I have my hands on her hips and her hands are on my face. "Maybe I should take Liz to dance and you should stay here."
"No, no I'll take her. I'll be able to get some work done while I'm there."
"Sure, you know with all of the other Moms staring at you."
"They can stare all they want. I only have eyes for you, Mrs Grey." I kiss her again and pull away when I feel Natalie tug at my pants.
"Daddy"
"Hi Sweet Pea." I lean down and kiss her hair.
"Can you play with me?"
"I'm sorry Baby but I have to take your cousin to dance. We'll play later, okay?"
"Okay" she says cheerfully. I watch as she goes back to play with her dolls.
When Elizabeth is home I greet her upstairs and tell her to get ready for dance.
"Uncle Christian, I need my pink dance top."
I look around but I can't find the top she is referring to. "I can't find it. Here, Mrs Taylor left these clothes out for you to wear."
"But it's Wednesday. I need to wear the pink one on Wednesdays."
"It might still be in the laundry. Put these on for now and I'll ask Mrs Taylor to make sure we have the correct color for tomorrow."
"You don't understand, I can't go to dance if I'm not wearing pink today. All the girls agreed."
I'm getting irritated again. This is a silly thing to argue about. But I've looked around and the pink top is not here. Gail has been sick so I'm sure she and Penny are behind on the laundry. I close my eyes, let out a long sigh and look around again. "Liz, it's not here. Now, you need to put on these clothes so we can leave and get there on time."
"No, I'm not wearing that" she snaps.
"Fine, then you're not going." I've had it. I turn around and storm out of the room, leaving her on her own.
I find Ana in Ethan's bedroom putting some clothes away. "What are you doing?" I ask her.
"Oh, I'm just putting these away. Gail and Penny have been working like mad trying to catch up on the laundry today. Just figured I could help while the babies are napping. Where is Liz? You need to get going."
"We're not."
"No, don't tell me she's getting sick too."
"No. It's not that."
"Then what? What happened, Christian?"
I look at Ethan and then at Ana. She's quickly changed from concerned to accusatory. "You know me too well."
"What happened?" she asks again.
I sit on the chair and rub my face down again. "She doesn't want to wear the dance clothes that Gail laid out for her. She wants to wear her pink top, but I can't find it in her room."
"She's usually not that picky" Ethan says.
"It might still be in the laundry. Christian, she needs to go to dance. If she misses class they won't let her do her solo this weekend."
I run my hand through my hair and look up at Ethan. "Please, man, talk her into going. She'll regret it if she doesn't."
"I think her father needs to talk her into it" I say to Ethan.
"Christian….." Ana pleads, but I cut her off.
"No, Ana. I am tired of this. These kids miss their parents so fucking much. We can't give them their mother right now, but their father is right here under the same roof."
"He isn't ready" she pleads again.
I stand as I try to plead my case. "We were not ready either, but we did what we had to do. We took the kids in and we've been taking care of them. But…. Ethan they need you. They need to see you and they need to know that you're alright. They need to see their father…."
"Christian, stop it" Ana admonishes me, but Ethan cuts her off.
"Please, don't fight. Please." He takes a few breaths before he continues. "Look, I know I'm being selfish. I…. you two have been so incredible, taking in my kids and bringing me here to recover. The least I can do is spend some time with my kids, right?" He starts to get emotional but he's able to suppress his tears. Ana walks over and rubs his arm to help him calm. "I'm afraid to let them see me like this. I'm afraid of how I'll react when I see them. I miss Mia so much…" He stops and shakes his head and has to suppress his tears again. "I see Mia in all three of my kids."
"We do too" Ana says sweetly.
"Christian, I know your pain is just as great I mean, she's your baby sister."
I shake my head. "That she is. And she's your wife." I walk over and take Ana's hand in mine. I bring it to my lips and plant a kiss on her palm. "I've been there. Wondering how I was going to get through the day. I looked at my kids and saw Ana, and it ripped me. But it also helped me. I knew I had to keep going for them. I had to take care of them and make it okay for them."
"I need to do that" Ethan says. We both nod. "I do, I need to do that. I need to make it okay for them. Even if I'm in this bed, I need to do this."
"Good, that's good" Ana says reassuringly. "This is a good step."
"How about I bring Elizabeth to see you, and then I can take her to dance?"
Ana turns to me and stops me from leaving. "Are you sure? I can go get her."
"No, let me. I know I've upset her."
"You?" she says sarcastically.
"Careful, Mrs Grey" I whisper in her ear and then plant a kiss there before walking out. I approach Elizabeth's room and watch her walk out. She's dressed for dance in the clothes that Gail had laid out for her.
"Uncle Christian, I'm sorry for the way I acted. Can I please go to dance?"
I'm taken aback by my niece's apology. None of my kids ever did this so willingly without me or Ana talking to them first. I nod and lead her back into her room so that we can sit down. "Yes, we can go to dance."
"Can Aunt Ana do my hair?"
"Yes, she can. But we should talk about something first."
"Oh. Am I in trouble?"
"No, Honey you're not in trouble. Come here, sit next to me." She does as she's told and sits next to me. I don't know what to say to her. Maybe I should have thought this through. She looks at me and waits for me to speak. "I want to talk about your Dad."
"Is he okay?" she asks nervously.
"You know he was in an accident, and he was injured pretty badly. We talked about how he has to stay in bed and not move until he recovers from some of his injuries." She nods and waits for me to continue. "I don't want you to worry. He's going to be okay. It's just going to take some time before he is himself again and before he can get out of bed." She nods again and I think she understands. "How would you feel about seeing him?"
"When?"
"Now"
"Now? Instead of going to dance?"
"No, I don't want you to miss dance. Your father is here, in our house. We had decided to move him here instead of into a rehabilitation center." I wait for her to comprehend what I've just said. When she does I see shock, surprise and happiness in her little face. But also heartbreak.
"He's here?"
"Yes, he is. And if you want I can take you to see him."
She nods. We stand and she walks out of the room with me. When we arrive in Ethan's room Ana is still talking to him. Everyone stops and Ana and I look between Ethan and Elizabeth as they stare at each other. Elizabeth approaches him with caution. Ana meets her half way and takes her hand.
"It's okay Pumpkin, come here" Ethan says gently.
She gently climbs onto the bed and he pulls her toward him. "Daddy" she says as she cries into his chest. I stand behind Ana and wrap my arms around her. I know she is getting teared up as she watches their reunion. "Are you okay?" she asks him when she calms down.
"I will be. I have to stay in this bed until I recover. How about you? How is my little girl?"
"I miss Mom. And I miss you." She sits up and wipes away tears. Ethan uses his thumb and also wipes away her tears.
"I miss Mom too." I hear Ethan's voice crack as he says that. This is painful to watch. I'm reminded of how I had to be strong when I talked to Natalie and Phoebe about their mother when Ana was in a coma.
"Is she here too?" Elizabeth asks.
"No, Baby. She's in the hospital. She needs a little more help right now than I do. But I know the doctors are taking really good care of her. And your Aunt and Uncle are taking really good care of you."
"Who is taking care of you?"
"Well, nurses and doctors visit. When I'm stronger I'll have a physical therapist help me. And your Aunt and Uncle have been really great." She nods and manages to smile at us, even though she still has tears in her eyes. "I'm really glad you came to see me, but I know that you have to get to dance."
"Can I come see you again?"
"Of course you can." He runs his hand through her hair. "I'd really like that." She leans up and kisses him.
"Come on, Honey. I'll do your hair." Ana takes her hand and Elizabeth hops off of the bed.
"I love you, Daddy."
"I love you too, Pumpkin."
After Ana and Elizabeth leave I am by Ethan's side. "Breathe, Man. Breathe. Are you okay?" I can tell that Elizabeth's visit was overwhelming for him.
"Yeah, I'm okay." He lets out a big sigh and works to compose himself. "I guess I didn't realize how much I've missed her. I miss holding my kids. Her hair got longer." We both laugh at that last bit. "You're right. I need to be here for them. Even from this bed."
"Elizabeth understands that. She'll be happy just to see you."
"Chris and Sophie though, they are little and they are used to me playing with them. I won't be able to do that for a while."
I pour some water into a cup and hand it to him. "It will be different for a while. We'll help them understand." I sit down on the chair next to his bed. "You know, you can still read with them, and sing with them, I don't know if you do that or not."
He manages to chuckle. "Preferably when other people aren't around. Yes, Mia and I both do that."
"We won't leave you alone with them unless you want us to. Ana and I will help you."
We both look over at the door and see Ana and Elizabeth smiling at us. Ana has put our niece's hair up in a neat bun with a braid wound around it.
"Ready to go?" I ask her?
"Um hm"
"Snack bag and dance bag are both in the kitchen" Ana tells us.
"Let's go."
"Bye Daddy" she calls behind us as we walk out.
"Bye Sweetheart."
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/
Wednesday Night, Christian's POV
We arrive at the dance studio thirty minutes late. Elizabeth was in a great mood at the house after seeing her father, but that mood has changed to dread since the moment we climbed into the car. Barlow drops us off and we walk inside in silence. I wait for her to leave her sweats in the dressing room and walk with her to the studio. She still hasn't said a word. "Elizabeth" I call for her before she walks into her studio. "Have fun, okay? I'll see you when it's time to leave."
She nods and then walks into her studio. I take the steps and take a seat where some of the mothers are sitting and watching the class, but I keep my distance. I say my hellos and then focus on the class. I see Miss Jenna talking to Elizabeth, but I don't hear what she is saying. I hear some of the mothers snickering. I shoot them a glare and they stop. What the hell are they laughing at? I look back down at the class and see Elizabeth walk off to the side and start stretching. I guess the other girls have already done that since Miss Jenna has them doing something else. It is now that I notice that the other girls are wearing pink. Christ! That is what Elizabeth was talking about. I guess all of the girls coordinate the colors that they wear to class.
"Where's the nanny?" one of the mothers asks.
"I am accompanying my niece today" is all I say. It really isn't any of their business.
"It's a real pitty" she continues. "We never see that mother of hers. What's her name, Nina?"
"It's Mia" another mother answers her. "I think she's still in that coma."
"Oh, that's right. My bad. I wonder if Miss Jenna will assign another solo, now that the LA transplant won't be able to do one."
"Excuse me?" I say as I glare at her.
"You can't expect to keep a solo when you show up to class late. There are rules."
"Yeah, I'm aware of the rules. This is none of your damn business" I snap at the mother. For Christ's sake, who does she think she is?
"I'm just saying…."
"You're saying too much" I cut her off. "Keep your opinions to yourself."
I had planned on doing some work while I was here, but my concentration is just shot. I had no idea what my sister and niece were putting up with at this studio. What did they call my niece, the LA transplant? Sure, the girls gave Phoebe a hard time at first when she joined the competition team, but it wasn't like this. The mothers were very welcoming of me and Ana, and the girls quickly warmed up to having Phoebe on their team.
I look down at the girls again and see that one of them has joined my niece with stretching. They are helping each other. One of the mothers comes over and sits next to me, a little too close for my liking.
"That's my Alexis" she tells me. "She's taken a liking to Lizzie." I just nod. "I'm Diane." She holds out her hand and waits for me to shake it. I look at her for a moment and hesitate but then I shake it.
"Christian" I say, and then I turn my attention back to my niece.
"I know. My husband works for you."
"Does he? What's his name?"
"Patrick Manning."
"Yes, I am familiar with Patrick."
"We used to live in Detroit. He was managing the ship yard out there. But then you downsized…"
"I'm fond of your husband. He's done a lot of great work for my company. That's why I offered him a position here."
"We were in Mia's shoes last year. These mothers can be cruel. They were just as cruel to me until Mia and Lizzie came along."
"So these mothers won't give my sister a break until someone new comes along?"
She shrugs her shoulders. "I don't know. Mia doesn't take their crap though. She gives it right back to them."
I shake my head and smile as I think of my sister. "That's Mia."
"I'm so sorry for what your family is going through. These mothers don't give a damn but, I do. Mia and I stuck together at rehearsals and competitions. I miss my friend."
I hear Miss Alana at the front desk. I know this woman is being genuine, but I really need to talk to the director. Plus, Diane's close proximity is making me uncomfortable. I push myself away from her again. "Excuse me, I need a word with Miss Alana."
I walk down the steps and greet Miss Alana.
"Mr Grey. Phoebe isn't due here for another hour. What can I do for you?"
"Good Afternoon, Miss Alana. I'm here with my niece today, Elizabeth. I want to apologize for being late." She looks up at me while she continues to sort some papers on her desk. "The mothers were making noise about her losing her solo over this."
She gives me a sympathetic nod. "I'm afraid so. You know, being given a solo carries a big responsibility. And not just learning and perfecting the dance, but also being a good example by being on time and showing leadership and professionalism in class."
"I respect your studio and your rules, I do, but I'm asking you to make an exception. Okay? It's my fault we were late today. You know what our family has been going through."
"I do understand Mr Grey. But I can't excuse it, I'm sorry…"
"Please" I cut her off. "Please don't take this away from her. This kid has been struggling with her parents' absence. We were late because I wanted her to have a visit with her father. This solo has been giving her something to hold on to. I won't let it happen again. I will personally bring her here every day for the rest of the week to ensure she's on time."
She looks at me for a while and then nods. "Okay. I trust you will get her here on time from now on. If she is late again I won't be able to give her another opportunity like this for a long time."
"I understand. Thank you, Miss Alana."
I look over and see Elizabeth and Alexis walking toward us.
"Miss Alana" she says with confidence, but she looks nervous.
"Hi Sweetheart" she says and smiles down at my niece.
"Hi. Um, I'm really sorry I was late today…."
"Your Uncle was telling me that you were able to visit with your Daddy."
Elizabeth smiles. "I was."
"I'm glad. I trust it was a good visit?" She nods. "Good. Now I'd like to run your solo a few times in Studio D. Are you ready?"
"What?" She looks confused. I guess Miss Jenna told her that she wasn't going to be able to do her solo.
"Your solo. You didn't forget it, did you?"
"No, Ma'am. I've been practicing. But…. I was late today."
"Your Uncle assures me he won't let it happen again. I'm giving you another chance. Will you let me down?"
"No, I'll be on time, I promise. Thank you."
"You're welcome. Lets go."
Miss Alana leads her to Studio D. Elizabeth turns around and smiles and waves at me. I give her a wave and then walk up the steps again so that I can watch.
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/
Saturday Morning, Christian's POV
I wake up to the sound of the ocean waves and the birds chirping, and Ana throwing up in our bathroom. I blink a few times and then get up to check on her. I kneel behind her and gather her hair in my hands and away from her face as she continues. I rub her back until she is ready to flush and wash her face.
"Ana" I walk over and stand next to her as she looks in the mirror.
"Christian, I don't know how I'm going to do this. I told Gail I would help pack…."
I place my hands on her shoulders and have her face me. "Ana you're sick, Baby. You've been up all night. You're not going."
"I have to."
"No, you don't. I will take Liz and Phoebe to the competition. Everyone else will stay home."
"You don't have to worry about Phoebe. She's going on the bus, remember?"
"I said yes to that?"
"Yes, you did. Markham will be following the bus" she says drowsily and grabs her head. "Ow"
I turn her around and walk her toward our bed. "You need to be in bed, Mrs Grey." I get her to lie down and I tuck her in. "I don't want you to worry about anything."
"Christian" she tries to sit up but I stop her. I sit on the bed and keep my hands on her.
"No, hush. You need to rest. I talked to my parents last night. They are coming over and staying for the weekend. They will look after you and the kids."
"That's a lot for them to handle."
"Kate will be here too. Ava and Nathan are taking Cameron for the day. You rest and I will handle everything."
"You're taking Liz to the competition" she says and shakes her head.
"You don't think I can handle it?"
"I know you can. I just wish you didn't have to contend with those crazy dance Moms. Honestly, I thought Mia was exaggerating when she told me how horrible they are."
"She never said anything to me about them. But I don't care about them. I care about our daughter and our niece. And you. I wish I could stay and take care of you."
She smiles and takes my hand. "Me too. But Liz needs you there. Take good care of her, okay? She'll probably be very nervous."
"I will. You stay in bed, Mrs Grey. I'll know if you don't." I kiss her forehead and run my hand through her hair. She's warm. All of the kids had this virus, except Phoebe and Elizabeth. Natalie caught it the other day. Gail and Taylor were going to stay with her this weekend while we took the babies and all of the kids to Walla Walla, but now that Ana is sick it's just going to be me. Gail and Taylor told me they are going to stay by the house anyway to help my parents with the kids.
I walk into Natalie's room and see that she is just waking up. I sit on her bed and gently run my fingers through her hair.
"Daddy" she says sleepily.
"Hi Sweet Pea. You feeling okay?"
"Can I have juicy?" She rubs her eyes and tries to sit up. I help her and pull her into my lap.
"Of course you can. We need to wash your face and then we'll get your cousins and go downstairs. Okay?"
She nods and cuddles to me. I wrap my arms around her and just hold her for a little while. I've missed my baby girl. I haven't been spending a lot of time with her since I've been working during the day and taking Elizabeth to the dance studio. I kiss her head and stand with her in my arms. She usually doesn't let me carry her. She likes to be independent and walk, so I savor the moments that she allows this.
After washing her face I carry her into Elizabeth and Sophia's bedroom. I expect to find them in bed, but they are both up and Elizabeth is helping her sister get dressed for the day. Christopher is also in here.
"Good Morning guys" I say to them and smile. Christopher and Sophia both return the smile.
"Hi Uncle Christian. How's Aunt Ana?" Elizabeth asks me as she brushes her sister's hair.
"She's still sick, Sweetheart."
"Oh"
She pouts and continues to help Sophia with her hair.
"It's going to be okay. I'm going to take you to the competition."
"Really?" she seems shocked. Did she really think we were going to let her down?
"Yes, of course. I know we were all going to go, but now it will just be the two of us."
She looks at me for a moment while she thinks about it. "You'll do my hair?"
Of course I didn't think of that. It's not like I can ask one of the Moms to help with that. "Phoebe will do it. She'll be there too." She nods and smiles. "Thank you for getting your brother and sister ready. That's a lot of help."
"Who's going to take care of them while Aunt Ana is sick?"
"Grandma and Grandpa are coming over. You'll be able to see them before we leave." Once the kids are ready I lead them downstairs so that they can have breakfast. I still have Natalie in my arms until I set her down at the table. Gail has pancakes, bacon and eggs prepared. "Thank you Gail." We both help the kids until they have everything they need, and then I leave to check on the babies.
I enter our bedroom to find Ana sleeping. Good girl. I move around the bedroom quietly as I check on the babies and get myself ready for the day. I shower and shave and I'm able to get dressed before Maddie wakes up. She doesn't cry when she wakes up unless she is wet. I lift her into my arms and hold her to me. "Good morning, Baby Girl" I whisper and kiss her head. I leave the bedroom and take her downstairs to feed her, but as soon as I am in the foyer she is taken from me by my mother. She insists on taking over and says she will feed her.
"Where's the little man?" my father asks.
"He's still sleeping. I'll bring him down here so that he doesn't disturb Ana."
"Wait. Here, I brought some medicine for Ana. It will help her sleep." My mother hands me the meds and smiles at me. I kiss her cheek.
"Thanks Mother."
I quietly enter my room again but this time Ana is awake. "You okay, Baby? Do you need anything?"
"Are the kids okay?"
"I promise they are fine. My parents are here. Mom couldn't get Maddie out of my arms fast enough." She giggles and grabs her head again. "Mom brought over some medicine for you. She said it will help you sleep."
"I should take a shower first."
"No, no shower, Ana. You don't have the energy."
"Fine, I'll take a bath then."
"Anastasia" I warn. I don't want her to get out of bed in her state while I'm not here. I start to rethink leaving her for the weekend.
"Please, Christian. I feel so gross. I've been throwing up all night. I will sleep after I get cleaned up."
"Okay. But I will help you. Here, take the medicine now so it kicks in after your bath."
I start the bath water and pour in some bath salts. While I'm waiting for the bath to fill I take Monte downstairs and my father takes him from me. He is still sleeping but my Dad wants to hold him anyway. I make sure that my parents and Gail are okay with the kids before I climb the stairs again. When I get to our bedroom I see Ana sitting up in bed waiting for me. I smile at her, pleased that she didn't get out of bed.
I undress her and help her sit comfortably in the bath. She closes her eyes and moans. "Mrs Grey, if you weren't so ill right now…." She moans again, eyes still closed. "Ana" I warn again. She knows how to push my buttons.
"I can't help it. My husband knows how to prepare a good bath."
I spend some time helping her get washed. I also wash her hair. "That feels so good" she says sleepily as I massage her scalp. The medicine is starting to kick in. I quickly rinse the shampoo out of her hair and help her out of the tub. After drying her skin I wrap the towel around her and lift her into my arms. She rests her head on my shoulder and I think she's about to drift off. I probably won't have time to dry her hair. I grab another towel and place it over her pillow. "Christian" she says groggily.
"Shhh, I've got you Baby" I say as I lay her down. "I'll just grab a nightgown from our closet."
When I come back to her she is out cold. I gently put the nightgown on her and remove the towel from her body. She doesn't wake up. She'll probably be out for a few hours. I tuck her in and plant a few kisses in her hair. "Sleep Baby"
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/
Sunday Morning, Christian's POV
I tossed and turned all night. I hate sleeping without Ana. At 5am I give up and get myself up for the day. I check on Elizabeth in the next room. She is still sleeping. Good. I was worried that I would have a nightmare and wake her. I haven't had one in a really long time. Two years ago on a business trip was probably the last one. I texted Ana and she was awake too. Natalie had a fever and she was worried about her. I don't want to text her now because she should be sleeping. We had talked last night and she said her body was sore from throwing up. I wish I could be there with her. I don't like being away from her or our kids when they are not well.
I shower and go through some emails while I wait for my niece to wake up. We need to be at the school by eight. At six thirty I order breakfast and go to wake her, but she's already up.
"Good Morning" I say to her as I stand in the doorway. She is making the bed. "You don't have to do that Sweetheart." She continues to make the bed anyway. I think she's nervous about her solo. "Breakfast should be here in a few minutes. Why don't you get dressed? The memo says to wear your tan tights, black dance shorts and the gray company T-shirt." She nods and takes her clothes into the bathroom.
While I wait for room service to bring our breakfast I go through more emails. I let Ros know that I won't be coming to the office on Monday. Since I'm away all weekend I'd like to have a day at home with Ana and the babies. I hit send and then there's a knock at the door. Finally, I am so hungry. The hotel employee wheels in the cart with our breakfast and coffee. The smell if coffee is very welcoming. I tip him and he leaves. "Liz, breakfast is here" I call for her. I walk closer to the bathroom and I can hear her crying softly. "Liz, what's wrong Sweetheart?" She doesn't answer. She continues to sniffle. "Open the door."
"I can't" she says in a shaky voice.
"Please, Sweetheart, open the door." I try the door handle again even though I know it is locked. "Or I can have Barlow come in and force it open."
That did the trick. She opens the door and sits down on the chair in the bathroom. She has tears running down her face. She reminds me so much of Mia, and I could never stand to see Mia upset. I squat down in front of her and wipe some of her tears away. "What's going on?" I ask gently.
"I ripped my tights" she says and holds them up to show me. "Mommy always helps me put them on and I don't know how to do it."
"Okay, well calm down. We can fix this. Miss Alana requires everyone to have two extra pair. Did you bring them with you?" She nods and wipes away more tears. "Are they in your bag?" She nods again and sniffles. I walk into her bedroom and find the extra tights right away. They are still in the packages. I take one and rip it open. I pull out my phone and call Phoebe to see if she can help her cousin.
"Hi Dad" she says excitedly.
"Hi Peanut. What are you doing?"
"The girls and I are just sitting down to breakfast, and then we're going straight to the school. How is Liz? Is she nervous?"
"She's….." I don't want to tell her she's having a hard time and we need her. She's with her friends. I want her to enjoy herself. "She's fine. She's getting ready."
"Okay, well tell her I said Hi and I'll do her hair and make-up when we get to the school."
"I will. Have fun, Peanut."
I end the call and go back to my niece. She is still sitting in the chair in her nightgown. I squat in front of her with the tights. "I can help you."
"No, you'll look." She can't wear underwear under tights because the lines will show through the costume. I let out a sigh.
"I won't look. I put tights on Natalie all the time. I can do it with my eyes closed." She looks up at me. "You want me to do it with my eyes closed?" She nods. "Alight, I'll close my eyes. Will that make you feel better?" She doesn't look convinced. I look down at the ripped tights and come up with an idea. I show them to her and then tie them around my head to use as a blindfold. I can't see her reaction. "How about now?"
"Okay."
I feel around for the new tights and notice there is a tag in the back. That's helpful. I scrunch them up on one side and tell her to put her foot in. I do the same with the other side and then have her stand so that I can pull them up for her. I'm being careful not to rip them. This is harder than I thought. I can hear her giggle. I'm glad I can amuse her by being blindfolded. Normally I wouldn't do this for anyone but Ana. There's something very vulnerable about not being able to see. "Is that good?" I ask her.
"Um hm"
"Put your shorts on so that I can take this off." I wait for her to give me the okay to remove the tights from my head. I start to think about how ridiculous the idea is and can't help but giggle myself. When she lets me know it's okay I remove them from my head. "Finish getting dressed and then come out for breakfast."
I sip my coffee and dig into my omelette. Elizabeth only wanted milk and cereal so I set that up for her. She walks out and joins me at the small table. We eat in silence for a while, and then I notice her start to tear up again. She's not usually this emotional, but this is a big day for her. And she has to get through it without her mother. I've had to deal with Phoebe many times while she was like this. She was always emotional and had her moments, especially as a teenager. I've learned great patience through having to help her. I just hope I can help my niece the same way. She's been staying at my house but she's not used to me taking care of her. I get up from my chair and squat down next to her again.
"Sweetheart, what's wrong?" This just makes her more upset. "You can tell me. I want to help you."
She shakes her head. "I don't want to do the solo."
"If you don't want to do it, you don't have to. I won't be mad."
"Miss Jenna and Miss Alana will be mad."
"No, no they won't. They'll understand. Can you tell me why you don't want to do it?"
"I'm scared I'll get on stage and forget my solo."
I reach up and massage her neck with my fingers. She continues to sniffle. "I don't think you'll forget. You've been working so hard. Nobody will be mad if you don't do it, but I think you will be." I get her to stand and I wrap my arms around her. She sniffles into my shoulder. "Calm down, it's okay. We should finish our breakfast, we'll go down to the school, Phoebe will do your hair and help you with your make-up and costume, you'll run your solo a few times, and if you decide that you still want to back out, it will be okay." I continue to hold her until she stops crying. She nods and then sits down at the table again and eats her breakfast.
When we arrive at the school we meet up with the junior competition team and Miss Jenna has them run their group number. I call my mother to check in. She tells me that the kids are eating breakfast and she took some toast up to Ana. I'm happy to hear that Natalie is feeling much better. I hope that Ana feels better soon too. I hate it when she's sick. But at the same time, having my parents there this weekend is giving her some much needed time to rest.
I end the call and focus on the rehearsal. Elizabeth seems much better than she was this morning. She looks very focused. Miss Jenna compliments her a few times. The mothers aren't too happy about that. I do my best to ignore them. Diane is here too and offers to help Elizabeth get ready. I thank her and tell her that Phoebe will be here soon. The senior groups danced last night so they get to relax today and be here to support the juniors. They are bummed that they only placed second, especially because the group that placed first didn't have a complex dance routine.
"Dad" Phoebe says and hugs me. When the girls finish the number Elizabeth runs over and hugs Phoebe. They immediately get started on her hair and make-up. Since the girls change behind a curtain I am allowed to stay in the room. I sit beside my niece and watch Phoebe at work. Miss Alana gave her instructions to put her hair up in a high pony tail, curl it and then pin the curls. It takes her some time but when she's finished it looks beautiful. She puts extra pins in just to be sure her hair doesn't move. Next she does her make-up. I don't like that the little girls have to wear so much of it, but I understand they have to make up for how bright the lights are on stage.
When hair and make-up are finished, Miss Alana hands Elizabeth her costume and she goes to change. Phoebe sits next to me while we wait.
"How's Mom? Did you talk to her?"
"Not yet, I talked to your Grandmother. She got her to eat some toast for breakfast."
"You did a wonderful thing, Dad. Coming here for Liz while Mom is sick? I know you really want to be with her."
I look over at my daughter. She knows me so well. "I don't like being away from you kids or your mother while you're sick. But we couldn't disappoint Liz. She has enough disappointment right now."
"Maybe a little less now, now that Uncle Ethan is staying with us."
Fuck! I didn't tell her that. I haven't had a chance to since I really haven't seen her since Wednesday, the day we had Elizabeth visit with her father. I close my eyes and rub my forehead. "I'm sorry. I couldn't tell you about that."
"It's okay. Mom explained to me that Uncle Ethan wanted to recover before letting anyone know he was there."
We watch as Elizabeth emerges from behind the curtain in her costume. It is a navy blue leotard dress with silver sparkles. Miss Alana walks over to her and helps her adjust it to fit properly. She looks beautiful. When Miss Alana is finished adjusting the costume she walks over to us. "Are you ready?" I ask her. She nods and smiles at me. "You're going to do great Sweetheart. I want you to have fun up there."
Miss Alan has her run through her solo, and then it is time to go backstage. Phoebe and I stand, as do the other mothers, and we all walk to the auditorium to take are seats. Alexis and a few other girls are with Elizabeth back stage. I'm glad because Phoebe told me it helps to have some support back there. Miss Alana and Miss Jenna always watch from the audience. Most competitions don't allow the parents, teachers or directors backstage.
We watch a few solos before it is my niece's turn. We applaud when they call her name and her number. She is dancing to a song called "Keep Holding On". Phoebe whispers to me that she's doing a lyrical solo. I've seen her rehearse it so I already knew. I glance at Phoebe and she's excited. Not only is it Elizabeth's first solo with Miss Alana's studio, but it is her first lyrical. All of the solos she performed in previous competitions in California were cute acro and jazz routines.
She takes the stage and the music begins. I watch her and I can't take my eyes off of her. I start to feel nervous for her. I want her to do well. I feel Phoebe take my hand and squeeze. I guess she is nervous for her too. After the first two minutes I feel myself smile. She looks beautiful up there. And she appears to be doing a wonderful job. Miss Alana had said that she's improved on her turns so she put a lot of them in the routine. She has nailed each and every one of them without falling out of them or stopping awkwardly. She is now doing fouette turns and she's smiling. I know that one because those are Phoebe's favorite. The audience likes it and they are cheering for her. When she is finished we stand and clap for her. Miss Jenna and Miss Alana are also standing, as is Diane. The dancers that are sitting in the audience with us are standing and clapping too.
After Elizabeth leaves the stage I take Phoebe's hand and we walk back to the room to meet up with her. "You go on, I need to use the restroom" Phoebe tells me. I keep walking and then I see my niece. She is running toward me with a big smile on her face. I bend to catch her and lift her into a hug.
"That was so good, Sweetheart. "So, so good. Great job" I tell her. I feel her hug me tighter. "How do you feel?"
"I feel like I nailed it" she says excitedly. Miss Alana joins us so I set her down. She bends and gives her a hug.
"You were absolutely beautiful up there. I had tears in my eyes" she tells her. She leaves go of her and stands. "Fabulous job."
"Thank you" my niece says.
"We need to get ready for the group number" Miss Alana points out. We start to walk toward the room.
"Where's Phoebe?" she asks and looks behind us. Phoebe catches up with us and gives Elizabeth a hug.
Once we are back in the room, Elizabeth quickly changes and Phoebe fixes her hair so that it is the same as the other girls'. They run the number once and then we rush back to the auditorium so that we can watch. There is only one group number before their's so we make it just in time.
When the girls take the stage the MC announces their number. They are dancing to some swing music. Their dance has a lot of tricks in it. Elizabeth is in the back but we can still see her. She moves to the front a few times and is lifted and swung around by one of the other dancers. When she is in the front again she does what I think is called a side aerial at the same time as two other dancers. Some girls exit the stage and then run back on. Elizabeth comes to the front again and does what I think is a spider move with her hands. She's the only one that does it because Miss Jenna said she's the only one that can do it with straight legs. She ends in a straddle in the front while the other girls pose around her. The audience claps loudly. We all stand and clap for them. They looked great up there.
We spend some time in the room since we need to wait for fourteen other group numbers before they start the awards. The girls stay in their costumes and some of them fix their make-up. I give Elizabeth half of her peanut butter sandwich that Gail had packed for her yesterday. She finishes it so I give her the other half. Some of the other girls are eating snacks. I don't like to snack so I'm going to wait and eat when we're on my jet.
An hour and a half later we are back in the auditorium and the kids are on the stage with all of the junior teams that competed. They are playing some music and some of the kids are dancing. Some of the people in the audience are dancing too. Phoebe stands up and holds out her hand. "Come on, Dad." She wants me to get up and dance.
I chuckle. "No."
When the music stops everyone claps and sits down. The kids on the stage also sit down and the MC begins with the awards. He starts with the top ten soloists. When he gets down to third place winner I notice Elizabeth's expression. She looks disappointed. She looks down while the MC announces third place, and then second place. "First place…. goes to….. number twenty two, Elizabeth Kavanagh, Keep Holding On."
My niece looks shocked. She also looks so happy. She stands and walks over to accept her award. They give her a plaque and also a big trophy. Phoebe and I both stand and clap for her. When my niece walks back to sit with her classmates they are excited for her.
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/
Sunday Night, Ana's POV
I sit on the sofa and watch the kids play on the floor. Grace and Carrick said they were very well behaved this weekend. I'm glad, but I also feel very guilty because I couldn't help them. I still feel weak but Grace agreed that some time out of bed would be good for me. I am in a clean nightgown and a robe, and I am sipping some tea. I look at the time and smile. Christian should be home soon with our niece. Phoebe decided to come home with them on the jet instead of the bus so that she could get to bed at a decent time. I'm glad because the bus isn't due back until eleven.
I hear them come into the house. They are laughing about something. I see Elizabeth first and a huge trophy in her hands.
"What is this?" Grace asks her excitedly.
"I won first place with my solo" she tells her grandmother. Grace squeezes her in a hug while Carrick takes the trophy from her. "Oh Honey, I am so proud of you."
"When will we get to see this solo?" Carrick asks her.
"Uncle Christian bought a DVD."
I look over at my husband and see his gorgeous smile. I can't help but smile back at him. He gives his mother a kiss on the cheek and hugs her. "Hello Mother."
"Thank you" she kisses his cheek. "Thank you for taking such good care of my grandbabies."
Carrick also gives him a hug and pats his back. They both hug Phoebe next. Before Christian can make his way over to me, Natalie runs over to him and starts to cry. He picks her up and holds her. "What's wrong, Sweet Pea?" he asks her and looks at me for some answers. I shrug my shoulders. She's been fine all night, happily playing with her cousins and singing to the babies. But right now she is crying on his shoulder. He leaves the room with her. Elizabeth comes over to me and gives me a hug.
"Congratulations, Honey. I'm sorry I couldn't be there."
"That's okay. I'm sorry you're sick, Aunt Ana."
"Believe me, so am I." We both giggle. "I can't wait to see the DVD. Your Uncle told me you looked so beautiful on that stage."
"She was incredible" Phoebe adds. "Shocked those other Moms."
We all sit and Phoebe and Elizabeth tell us about their weekend at the competition. Both group numbers took second place. I know Miss Alana prefers the first place spot, but I'm proud either way. These girls have fun competing and they do their best. Elizabeth sits next to me and shows me the plaque that they gave her. I tell her we can hang it up in her room, but she wants to hang it up in her father's room. I put my arm around her and rest my chin on her head. "I think that's a great idea."
Christian is back in the room and he asks to speak with me. I've been sitting on the sofa for a while so I slowly stand and walk over to him. He takes my hand and we walk into the kitchen.
"Is everything okay?" I ask him.
He stands in front of me and wraps his arms around me. He kisses my forehead, and I can tell he's checking for a fever. "Everything's fine. I just missed you."
"What happened to Natalie?"
He shrugs his shoulders. "I don't know. She wouldn't tell me. She couldn't stop crying. I just sat on the glider with her on my lap and rocked until she fell asleep. Did something happen today?"
This time I shrug my shoulders. "Not that I know of. Grace and Carrick said the kids were good all weekend. They didn't mention any incidents. Maybe she just missed you."
"Maybe." His phone rings and he checks the caller ID. "It's Taylor. Hey T." I can't hear what Taylor is saying to him. "When?" He turns away from me and takes a few steps. I really hate it when he does that. "We need the jet again. It will need to be fueled up. We'll leave here in fifteen." He hangs up and turns to face me again.
"What was that about?"
He shakes his head. "Ana, I don't want to leave again…"
"What's happened? Tell me."
He looks around as if to make sure no one is listening. "There's a lead on Rebecca. It's a good one, Ana. But it's not from the police, it's from the team Taylor put together to find her. Taylor and I need to check it out."
I am disappointed and shocked at the same time. Rebecca. I don't want to be away from Christian another night, but I know he needs to do this for our son. "Go"
He places his hands on the outside of my shoulders. "I'm sorry. I will be back as soon as I can." He pulls me in and holds me to him. He's only been gone a day but I've missed him so much. And now he's going away again. I start to tear up. I don't know why I'm being so emotional about this. I've been away from Christian before. He's gone on business trips without me and I even went on a few without him. It must be the virus. I work to compose myself and then pull away from him.
"You need to do this for Teddy."
He holds my hands in his. "Yes, I do. You can't tell anyone about this, okay? Not until we know more."
I nod and he caresses my face. He kisses me and then he is out the door.
If you are still reading, thank you so much! My laptop isn't working and my internet is limited. But I am still here and continuing this story. I know you guys have waited and waited for an update on Rebecca so I'm going to get to that in the next chapter.