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“You should’ve seen how pumped our team was.” Dixon leaned forward in his seat. “Tommy and Milo showed off some passing sequences that are going to crush you guys. And we’ve got these guys at center.” He fist-bumped Cole and Miles.
“Dream on,” I said, knowing how outstanding my team had been. “We worked on some moves that’ll have your defense spinning. Plus I’ve got Caleb, and he knows exactly how you and Cole play. And don’t forget who taught Tommy that backhand shot he loves.”
“I’m not worried.” Dixon puffed out his chest a bit. “Milo and I have great chemistry on D. Nothing is getting by us.”
“Speaking of clicking…” Kyle turned around from where he sat next to Cole. “Is this date number two for you and a certain librarian and festival organizer?”
Warmth crept into my cheeks. “Maybe.”
“And how is it going?” Cole prompted. “I get why you don’t talk about it at camp around the kids, but we’re all grown-ups here.”
“It’s good and that’s all I’m saying.” I grinned at their collective groan of disappointment. Besides, while we were all grown-ups here, there were plenty of people around who could overhear our conversation which would be even more fodder for Maplewood Matters.
“Come on,” Miles said. “We’ve been rooting for you two since we got here.”
“You’ve been here less than forty-eight hours.”
“Exactly. And in that time, I’ve seen enough to know I need more details.”
Before I could respond, Caleb spoke up in his captain’s voice. “Leave him alone, guys. He doesn’t need us badgering him. Though I gotta say, Ethan, it’s nice seeing how happy you seem.”
“Hello, everyone.” Andre’s voice washed over me, making my heart swell with happiness. He stood at the end of our row, looking handsome in dark jeans and a deep purple button-down with the sleeves rolled up.
A chorus of greetings went up as everyone shifted to let him through to his seat. As he sat down, his smile was warm and private. “Hi.”
“Hi.” I took his hand. “How was the book festival?”
“Fantastic. The discussions were engaging, and we had a great turnout.” His thumb traced small circles on the back of my hand. “How was camp?”
“Busy with prep for tomorrow’s game. You missed Dix’s attempt at trash talk earlier.”
Dix shot me a slightly evil look and then grinned, which made Andre chuckle.
“I’m looking forward to seeing you play.”
The house lights dimmed slightly, and Oscar stepped onto the stage. He looked sharp in black pants and a fitted black T-shirt with rainbow piping at the collar and sleeves.
“Good evening, everyone!” Oscar’s voice carried through the theater. “I’m Oscar Salazar and I’m thrilled to be your host for this evening as well as a performer in the closing piece. Welcome to what promises to be an incredible night of dance. We’ve got eight fantastic performances, featuring both local talent and some special guests.”
Andre’s hand warmed mine as the house lights dimmed further and Oscar introduced the first act. Andre leaned close, his shoulder pressing against mine as we settled in to watch the performance. As much as I’d looked forward to this program, I wished Andre and I were at my place. Alone.
The first few performances showcased an array of talent and diversity. Each piece told a unique story, from an energetic hip-hop routine to a contemporary duet that had the audience holding their breath with all its tricks.
During a pause between performances, Liam called out to me from down the row and help up his program showing the pictures of the performers. “Did you see that Daniel June is performing?”
“Oh, look at that.”
“I don’t recognize that name,” Andre said.
“He’s from Burlington and was at camp”—I thought for a moment—“three years ago. He was so passionate about both hockey and ballet.” I smiled at the memory. “We encouraged him to pursue both because there was no reason not to.”
Oscar returned to introduce him. “Next up, we have Daniel June and James Martinez performing Love Finds Its Way, a waltz they choreographed together.”
Daniel and James took the stage in matching navy blue suits. As the music began—a piano arrangement of a pop song I recognized but couldn’t name—they moved together with fluid grace. Their connection was evident in every step, every turn, every lift.
“They’re incredible,” Andre whispered, his fingers intertwining with mine.
Words failed me. I remembered a teenage Daniel, uncertain about balancing his passions. Now he danced with such confidence and joy. When the piece ended, I was on my feet cheering with the rest of the audience.
