Halfway through packing, I noticed my notebook was gone—the one where I’d sketched out the entire process of my choreography, from the first idea to the final steps. It was the only proof I had of my innocence.
I tore through the room, checking every corner, but it was nowhere. And then, a chilling thought hit me. ‘Had Ginger stolen it?’
But honestly, what did it matter now? Even if I found it, what would it change?
Late at night, I heard Ulysses and Ginger talking downstairs.
They were chatting about wedding plans, decorating their new villa, and their future together. Their voices floated through the floor like a dull knife, repeatedly twisting and tearing at my heart.
I stood by the window, staring at the roses blooming in the yard.
There was a time when I also pictured myself beside Ulysses. A different version of us, a different future. But now, even the simplest thing—trust—is gone. What was left to hold on to?
It’s better to leave now. While they’re still wrapped up in their happy little bubble. I’ll take whatever dignity I have left, pack up my broken dreams, and slip away quietly from this place that’s hurt me so much.
At least at Royal Ballet School, I can start fresh. No one there knows my past. No one will judge me. I can create something new and better and finally prove myself.
This time, I’ll keep everything—every shred of evidence—safe. No one will ever get the chance to take me down again.
After I hung up with my aunt, I found myself sitting in the rehearsal room, staring blankly.
This space held so many pieces of me.
The photos on the wall? They captured every milestone. The trophies in the corner? Proof of how far I’d come. And the costumes in the closet? Each one carried a memory.
I walked to the mirror and stared at my reflection.
My black training outfit is faded now. It used to be my favorite. I still remember the day I bought it—Ulysses was there with me, helping me pick it out.
“This looks perfect on you,” he said, adjusting my collar. “When you’re standing on a big stage someday, you’ve got to wear the most stunning costume.”
I was 13 back then, full of dreams about the future.
I really thought that as long as I worked hard enough, those dreams would come true.
But now? All those hopeful expectations have completely fallen apart.
I started packing my clothes, one piece at a time.