nice things to my face but complain about me when I’m not there.”
I reached for her hand.
“Audrey, I am proud of you. Whether you become a professional dancer or decide to do something completely different, that will never change.”
Her eyes filled again.
“But I want to dance.”
I smiled through my tears.
“Then let’s find out how to get you back into class.”
***
When we arrived home, I told Scott everything.
At first, he looked confused.
Then Audrey showed him the messages Derek had sent her.
One read:
*Your mom says no auditions. Don’t make things harder by asking her.*
Another said:
*Your teacher thinks you should step back. I’m trying to spare you.*
Scott read them twice.
His expression changed.
For the first time, he understood why I’d been worried.
He looked at Audrey.
“Sweetheart, I never agreed that you should quit ballet.”
She stared at
