“No, you don’t.” Corinne grins. “You dance with so much more joy and freedom—like a principal dancer. If you ever consider making a comeback, the offer still stands. I’d be happy to talk to the AD at LA City Ballet. Or if you want something closer to home, I have a few connections at the Westminster Ballet I could tap into.”
“I’m flattered, but no. Finding my way back into a company isn’t my dream anymore.” My gaze travels out to the front row of the audience, where Sam is sitting with Sarah, Liz, McMillian, and Alice. My dream nowadays is to continue to live my best life as a designer, surrounded by my loving friends and family. “Everything I need and want is right here.”
“I understand.” Corrine reaches for my hand and squeezes it. “I’m just happy to see you happy.”
“I’m so much more than that, I’m thriving.”
Gladys, the owner of the studio, claps her hands softly and signals for everyone to find their places for the finale.
“Merde,” I say to Corinne, and leave her to find the other members of the studio’s adult class, who, like me, are all dressed as snowflakes in white tutus.
As I listen to the excited chatter of children, teens, and adults around me, I realize that my life has come full circle. If Artem were around, I’m happily march up to him and say, “Look at me now. I’m Minerva Hana and I am the ‘It Girl.’”
