Once the music cuts off, the gym fills with shouting and clapping, but the only ones I care about are my family.
Without waiting to hear my score, I run right to my family, not stopping until I’m in Quentin’s arms, sandwiching our daughter between us.
“I’m so fucking proud of you,” he says hoarsely into my ear.
My body shakes as I cry and kiss Mila’s forehead.
“Mama flip,” she squeals.
She’s learned the worldflip, probably from watching me over the last few months and it’s her favorite thing to say now.
“I love you two,” I croak before giving Quentin a chaste kiss.
“Proud of you, sis.” Ian beams.
“You’re sweeping once again.” Kaya grins.
“See, the talented trio is alive and well!” Clara shouts as she claps her hands together.
“That was insane!” Camille cheers.
“That was badass, Auntie T,” Olivia says, making us all laugh. She’s got Ryker’s potty mouth.
“Don’t swear,” Ryker corrects her, then says, “That was fucking cool.”
We all laugh, and I hug Quentin and Mila one last time before returning to my team as I watch the rest of the girls compete.
Hours later, it’s ceremony time, and we’re all waiting on the edge of our seats.
Whereas before they would tell us our score and we would know if we placed or not, now we find out at the ceremony. And if you don’t place, your coach will be given the scores.
The announcer booms over the microphone, “Welcome everyone to the standings for the floor routine. In third place, Celia Lima, of Brazil.”
The crowd claps as she makes her way to the podium and receives her medal.
“In second place, Emi Tanaka, of Japan.”
My knee bounces as we watch Emi take the podium and await for the announcement for first place.
“And in first place, Teagan Witt, of the United States of America.”
My head snaps up as it registers that he said my name.
I swept gold in every category, for the second time. After giving birth and dealing with so much bullshit internally and externally.
My teammates and coaches congratulate me and I head to the stage, feeling out of body as it happens.
But before I take the step up to the podium, I turn around to where my family is. I quickly run over there and take Mila into my arms. I carry her on my hip as I make my way back to the podium and step up on top, with her right by my side.
I bow as the gold medal is placed around my neck, and Mila instantly holds it in her hands. She smiles as she stays in a trance, unaware of the cameras surrounding us. I kiss her nose, then whisper, “I couldn’t have been here without you, my love. Thank you.”
She doesn’t respond, only giggles and waves to Emi and Celia.
I wave to the crowd and cameras, peace settling over me knowing this is the last time I’ll see this view.
I came and did what I needed to do for me, and now it’s time to focus on my family.
And I can’t wait for that chapter.
