"When you look into that crowd, don't think about whose watching. Don't even think about me watching. Give your focus to the dance. Don't be selfish with your attention" He advises.

I nod, retting my Pointe shoe.

"No more over thinking" I repeat.

He nods.

"Thinking is for the weakest of dancers. When you dance your mind must be..." He lulls for me to complete.

"Clear, agile, and confident..." I answer confidently.

I have grown stronger as a dancer, Mister Edmond has taken notice of that as well.

No longer shall I over think.

Thinking is for the weakest of dancers.

I am no weak dancer...

Today is the first day of our first show since two full months of rehearsal and raft drafts of our numbers.

I've waited and entirety of months and weeks and day and hours and minutes and second; just for this very day. I am anxious, nearly jumping out of my skin as we run through countless numbers again and again.

Most are pained about our tireless Filipino director, but I'm not. Most are fearful in his presence, but I'm not. I'm not tired of his gruesome words shouted throughout the theater as he proclaims order, because I am used to it. I was coaches the same.

I can't say the same for my production mates, but I rather have someone directing me who is just as passionate as I am about his craft.

"Jessè...Come here!" Mister Sanchez calls from the left wing of the stage.

Gabriel lowers me from our breast lifts, gently setting me onto the ground before I jog over to Mister Sanchez.

"Yes Mister Sanchez?"

He turns away from the extra he was fussing with, flashing his tiny bleached teeth.

"Jessè, My dear. I have exiting news for you!" He clasp his hands above his heavy accent.

The man can never pronounce my name correctly. Instead of Jesse (Jes-ee) he pronounces my name Jessè (Jes-say). I never put in effort to correct him. I honestly don't care, him acknowledging me by name is just well worth it.

"Really sir?! I mean, yes Mister Sanchez?" I blush, my stomach blistering with butterflies.

"I have a solo for you. Should you choose to accept, which you will" He poses, nodding.

I nod confidently, buffing my chest proudly.

"Great! Great! You will need to learn the number for There Is No Rose in one three hours. I would hope you can handle that?"

I nod once again, fighting the urge to leap for joy.

"Yes sir. Considered it handled" I assure him.

He once again claps loudly, flashing those tiny, bleached teeth once again.

"Marvelous! I would like to think Mister Jackson will be here as well?" He asks, as if idolizes by just the mention of Michael.

"I'm not sure. I'm sure he will try, sir" My tone softens in hidden disappointment.

Oblivious to my disappointment, he squeals like a small hold before pointing a dagger finger at his next target.

My mood has most definitely deteriorated. I can't help but think the only reason I was so freely given a solo that many have been begging for, is because "Mister Jackson" will be lured into coming to see his girlfriend perform.

Which strategically means that Mister Sanchez will gain more numbers in ticket sales and attendance.

So much for my inspiration and hero.

Turning towards my new partner, Gabriel, I prepare for my new found solo; There Is No Rose.

Between my two months of practices, many of the new dancers and I were carelessly thrown to many of the senior dancers I'm search of a great partner.

Because of my practice with Michael, for "The soul for two" as Michael calls it, I have become stronger in partnership numbers. Therefore, when Mister Sanchez decides to finally give me an official partner, Anxiousness was the least of my worries.

Gabriel Douglas, a "senior" dancer for Mister Sanchez. He has been working with Mister Sanchez since the mere age of twenty; he's now twenty six. Gabriel isn't what most will call handsome, but he has a sweet personality that picks up the slack of his appearance.

When we were first introduced to each other last week, he greeted me with a harmless peck of my hand and a gentle smile. Not many men in our cast of dancers are like Gabriel, therefore I instantly connected with him.

Which makes me even the more elated that he is my partner and not any of those other male sleazes.

"You actually walked away smiling after a talk with Mister Sanchez? Wow. Tell me your secret please" Gabriel jokes, stretching his calves.

I playfully roll my eyes at his inside joke.

He could've been more wrong though. I walked away from my talk with Mister Sanchez actually hating that I even mentioned Michael's probability of attending the show tonight.

I don't ever want to receive a handout from anyone. I worked to hard to get where I am today and I refuse to allow anyone to make feel as if I have piggy-backed off anyone, especially Michael.

"He offered me a solo. Well, told me I'm going to preform the There Is No Rose solo" I exasperate, joining in on his mini stretch session.

Furrowing his dark bushy eyebrows, he tilts his head in confusion.

"I thought Tharissa was auditioning for that solo? She's been practicing for weeks" He concerns.

"Thanks for reminding me how much I don't deserve this..."

His green eyes fall onto the recently waxed stage floor.

"I didn't mean to. I didn't know you weren't exited about it. You deserve it just as much as Tharissa. Don't think you don't" He encourages, glancing up at me again.

"It's just... I know he only gave it to me because of my connection to someone. That's not right. I would have rather earned it because I worked hard for it"

He nods.

"I understand that, but sweetie you have to take it and show him you truly earned it. But, I have heard Michael Jackson is supposedly coming. I've eased dropped on a couple of Mister Sanchez's conversations. I really hope he does" Gabriel blushes.

I couldn't help but blush as well at his oblivion to my connection with Michael. It's a truly amusing thought.

"You must like Michael Jackson?" I ask, hiding my giggles.

Gabriel dramatically places his hand over his heart.

"Like isn't even the word. The man just grows sexier and sexier everyday! I love him!" He exclaims, quickly shushing himself when the other dancers begin to turn their heads.

This time I throw my head back cackling at Gabriel's scene. I didn't even know Gabriel may have a sweet spot for the same sex. I've actually seen him flirting with a few of the female extras, I guess I learn something new everyday.

"Why are you laughing? I mean anyone can see the man drools sex appeal. Jesus. Look what you have started!" He playfully scolds as I cringe in laughter.

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry... It's just that very funny because I..." I pause, catching myself before I spill.

I'm still very careful about my cast mates knowing about my private life. I understand that most of New York and California and a few other select areas know of Michael's and I relationship, but if someone doesn't, I feel relieved.

It means they will be genuine. Not feign a friendship with me just get to Michael, my own mere inspiration has already done that, I don't need my partner to do the same.

"Yeah... He is pretty sexy" I mumble, standing to my feet.

Gabriel mirrors me.

"Well, I'm sure you are going to need some help with this routine, and lucky you, I know the routine to There Is No Rose by memory. You're welcomed" He boasts, cockily smiling.

I squint my eyes at him and push him onward.

"Let's go Mister Cocky..."

Laughing, he on obediently follows me into the extra studio space behind the stages second set of curtains.

>

Spotlight. The spotlight symbolizes focus. The spotlight symbolizes focus on an subject. Tonight's spotlights subject, Jesse Rose Edmond.

The day seemed to fly by quickly as night fall threatened. Through out the day I have practiced with the other dancers along with Gabriel. Through out our runs of the show, I received dirty glares from Tharissa.

I had been worried since this morning, about her reaction. I can understand the pain of working so hard for something only to have it slip from beneath your feet.

Though I can construe to her how unintentional my gaining of her hopeful solo, I am well aware that it wouldn't make a difference. In her mind, I stole it. Point, blank; period.

"Don't worry about her Jess. She'll get over it. She has stolen plenty of solo's in her day" Gabriel whispers, as we make another left pivot.

I swallow the developing lump in my throat, desperately trying to find another object or person to look at. But, alas my eyes always seem to fall on her cold stare.

"Alright! I want costumes on and the stage emptied. Go! Go! Go!" Mister Sanchez screeches, seemingly appearing out of nowhere.

I have come to the conclusion that maybe, just maybe Mister Sanchez was a spoiled only child. Which henceforth has attributed to his attitude into his adulthood.

He continues to screech and howl to staff and cast members as I slip away towards the back of the stage.

Creeping towards the fire exit doors, I scan my surroundings for any fellow dancers. Deeming the coast clear, I slowly open the door.

As soon as I step out into the crisp, windy fall air, my eyes set on his through the dark shades that covered them. Soft and brown and well over inviting. He hid beneath his usual disguise of a trench coat and fedora, still recognizable by that charming grin of his.

"Hey babygirl..." He greets, instantly pulling me into his chest.

Oh dear lord I'm melting.

"God I missed you. It's only been a couple of hours..." I sigh into his chest.

I know Michael is taking a back, because it's usually him becoming home sick from being apart for even a mere hour. But, given my circumstance I have truly missed his encouraging words.

"What's wrong Jess?" He knowingly asks, breaking our embrace.

The cool air nips at my knees, making me shiver a bit. I'm very unsure on whether or not I should tell Michael about my surprise solo and my thoughts on it. I know he'll just talk me into doing it either way.

"Jess... Come on, spill" He instructs, gently lifting my chin with his index finger.

"Mister Sanchez gave me a solo... I don't deserve it" I crack, shamefully avoiding his eyes.

He sighs heavily.

"I've told you about this. You have to start believing in yourself. I don't care what happens, you affect what happens next. Babygirl, I want you to go out there and give those people a run for their money. Clear the negativity. Just stop it" He scolds, his stare piercing and serious.

"But I-"

"No excuses babygirl. Look, I have to go now, but I'll be watching. Just let the music be guide. I love you Jesse Rose" He smiles, taking my lips captive.

Melting into his kiss, I close my eyes just before he breaks it.

"I love you too Michael Joseph" I whisper as he reluctantly detaches himself.

With a one last small and a wink, he jogs away towards Bills awaiting, tinted SUV.

I sigh heavily and turn to slip back into the theater unnotice.

"You...You're dating Michael Jackson?!" I heard a familiar voice exclaim from the left of the dressing rooms.

My eyes quickly shoot in his direction.

"Gabriel? Were you following me?" I interrogate.

He squeals for a few seconds before scurrying over to me.

"I wouldn't call it stalking... I was going to check on you... That's not the point. You're dating Michael fucking Jackson! Unbelievable!" He continues to squeal.

I quickly cup my hand over his mouth.

"Shut up Gabriel! Geez..."

He mumbles something inaudible beneath my hands. Sighing I remove my hand.

"Promise to keep it down..." I command.

He silently nods.

"We've been dating a little over a year now. We've kind of let most of New York a couple of months ago. I didn't expect you to not know..." I explain.

He takes another silent moment to gather himself before grinning at me foolishly.

"I can't believe I didn't know... I see what you were saying earlier. Trust me, I'm no freeloader, but I'll keep this between us if you let me meet him"

I roll my eyes and turn to walk away.

Gabriel laughs behind me before running up to me nod gently grabbing my arm.

"Jesse... I was joking! Geez. Lighten up. Your secret is safe with me" He smiles truthfully.

I give him my most threatening stare.

"It better. The only way anyone else will know is if you, Michael, Mister Sanchez, or I tell them"

"But if you guys made it public, why are you trying to hide it? I mean everyone is bound to find out tonight or really soon" He reasons.

I furrow my eyebrows in thought. He has a valid point. There's no use in hiding this fact. Everyone is bound to find out.

"Don't worry. I'll still take it to my grave" He swears, squeezing my shoulders.

"Come on, let's get ready for show time" He enthuses, escorting me into my dressing room.

"Thanks Gabriel... You're the best" I smile before closing the door.

Thirty minutes.

Fifteen minutes.

Ten minutes.

Five minutes, show time.

My only friend, the stage. My only muse, the music. My mind, it only follows the rhythms. The spotlight, disseminates each move so that the audience my enjoy as much as it does. I cannot be selfish. No. I have to allow the audience to see all of the passion I gift onto the stage.

I want the "ooh's" and the "aah's". I want to leave them wanting more, wondering who she is. I am her. I am the girl who graces Mister Sanchez's stage. I am the girl who has grown into a beautiful woman. I am Jesse Rose Edmond.

The cheers and howls of the crowd is the only thing that ends my trance. The music has long died, yet I hold my pose. The lights have dimmed, yet I still stand proudly. I am the swan, I am the rose, I am the dance.

"Hard work pays off Jesse. You have to want it more than the others. No comparison, just passion. Your passion will take you father than your talents. Always remember that Jesse"

"Yes sir"

I want more passion than all of those Swan Lake dancers combined.

I will have that passion. I need that passion.

"Jessè! That was amazing! Just magnificò!" Mister Sanchez, praises from behind me.

Still catching my breath, I flash him a tired smile.

"Great job Jesse! You looked like you have practiced that for months! Incredible little one" Gabriel compliments, gently patting my sweaty back.

I once again flash a tiredly smile and proceed to the dressing rooms.

Upon entry, My eyes once again meet her ice cold, blues. One hand on her hip, and her beautiful foundation and eyeshadow ruined by her witch like demeanor.

"Great job..." She huffs, gathering her personal items.

"Thank you..." I simply reply, afraid that her compliment could've been retorical.

She stares at me a little longer before exiting silently.

Happy that I can finally breathe easy and relax, I allow myself to collapse into the salon stool and practice a few breathing exercises.

"Knock, knock" His voice rings as he enters the dressing room.

My heart, having the mind of its own, skips a beat and quickens in rate. Opening my eyes to that infamous grin of his, my fatigue subsides, giving me the energy to pounce into his arms.

Nearly dropping me, he stumbles back while desperately holding my back.

"God girl... I miss you too" His light chuckles grace my ear.

"How did you get in here without being spotted?" I ask, still clinging onto his neck as I drop my legs from his waist.

"Well... Let's just say I know my way around things" He jokes.

I release his neck and check the connected bathroom to make sure no one was listening or present. When the coast is clear I rush over to the door and lock it.

Michael watches me in amusement of my extremes.

"Babygirl... I am not doing anything in here" He jokes, as I return to him.

I pinch his arm.

"Don't be a creep. Anyways, I'm glad you're here. I really am" I smile.

He winces, running his arms.

"You're going to get enough of bruising me girl. But, I came to say I'm very proud of you and to give you this..." He lulls, reaching into his trench coat.

Though much it's way out of season and probably took forever to find, Michael hands me a genuine white rose.

"It took some pulled strings, but I thought you would love it" He shyly explains, watching my facial expression.

"Oh my God... I really love it Michel. I really do" I awe, once again wrapping my arms around his neck.

"I'm glad you do" He sighs, returning my squeeze.

A knock on the door quickly causes us to detach from each other. Michael and I exchange quick glances before I decided to answer.

"Jessè? Jessè are you in there?" Mister Sanchez knocks from the other side.

I roll my eyes.

"Should I go in the bathroom or something?" Michael whispers.

"Yeah.. I don't want him to cause a scene. Please and thank you"

He nods and jogs into the bathroom. When he's inside, I sigh heavily and unlock the door.

Mister Sanchez is standing with two small little girls, holding a pen and notepad in their hands nervously.

I smile at them sweetly as Mister Sanchez steps up.

"These two want an autograph... From Mister Jackson. I presume you know where he is?" He asks, scanning the dressing room.

Really?! Is he serious?!

Forcing a smile I shake my head, no.

"No. I haven't seen him. I'm sorry" I guiltily lie.

Mister Sanchez frowns, twisting his lips to the side distastefully.

"I swear I saw him come over here. Oh well, thank you Jessè. If you do see him tell him I would love to talk to him" He falsely smiles.

I knew there was a real reason behind him bringing these two little girls. He knows Michael loves children. I am I'm complete and utter disgust at this man. I can't believe I once looked up to him.

Silly Jesse.

I force another sweet smile and watch as he escorts the two girls on their way. When they are out of sight, I hear the bathroom door creak open.

"Are they gone?" Michael whispers, as I close the door.

"Yeah... He's gone" I roll my eyes.

Sensing my animosity, he walks up to and cups my jaw in his raggedly large, slender hands.

"Forget him. He doesn't matter. What matters is that you did one hell of a job out there. You gave people a run for their money, Bill and I witnessed that. Don't let him steal your shine" He encourages, once again captivating me with a simple kiss.

"Come on. Let's go to the hotel and order junk food! You definitely deserve it" He smiles like a small child.

Managing a giggle, I remove my headpiece and grab my gym bag.

"I caught that swear Michael" I tease, as he quickly directs us to the back of the second set of curtains.

"Hell is in the bible, therefore not categorizing it as a swear word" He pronounces like a proudly kinder.

I giggle as we slip outside to the same place we met before my performance.

"Well so is ass, yet you refuse to let me say it" I challenge.

"That's because you use it inappropriately my dear Jessè" He mocks Mister Sanchez.

Before I can retort, he quickly takes of for our tinted SUV that waited for us. Grumbling to myself, I sprint after him.

Maybe Mister Sanchez wasn't who thought he was. Maybe Mister Sanchez have me false promises, but one thing he did give me that rain true is that not everyone is going to cheer for you.

Not everyone is looking out for your best interest. It's a dog eat, dog eat dog world. You either eat, or be eaten. I will no longer be prey, for now on, I'm the predator...

To Be Continued...