Page 133 of The Forever After Bet

“Sounds good.”

“After we eat, let’s go shopping,” Beth says.

“Are you sure? You don’t want to rest?”

“I’m good. If I get tired, I’ll let you know.”

We eat a quick lunch, then head to a local outdoor shopping mall. It’s a little chilly at sixty-five degrees, but the sun is shining. I It’s nice not to have snow on the ground. Beth and I wander around the shops. We find a toy store and buy some gifts for Hank and Scottie. Beth finds a maternity store and buys a couple of shirts.

We head back to the hotel around two, and I change into a pink leotard and a cream-colored sheer skirt with little sequins along the bottom. I’m going for elegantly understated today. Tomorrow is when everyone pulls out the big ostentatious costumes. We’re about to leave for the theater when there’s a knock at the door. Beth opens it, and a concierge is holding a giant bouquet. My first thought is they’re from Ford, but the card has mine and Beth’s name on it.

To my two favorite girls in the entire world. Love Jim/Dad.

P.S. Knock ‘em dead, Hanny.

We both tear up over the flowers.

My dad started saying that same thing to me when I played softball. The saying stuck when I switched from sports to gymnastics and dance. Beth snaps a selfie of the two of us with the flowers and texts Dad to say thank you.

I spend about forty-five minutes stretching and waiting for my turn to perform. Then, I am on the stage. Micah is there to meet me when I come off the stage.

“Hey,” he hugs me. “I got here in the nick of time. You were terrific. That leg move was incredible, nicely done.”

“Thank you,” I say, feeling relieved. “I didn’t get nervous until I was standing on the stage, and people were staring at me.”

“Have they given you a score?” Micah asks.

“Yes.” I hold up my scorecard. “I haven’t looked at it.”

“Hannah!” Beth exclaims, coming backstage.

“Hey.”

Beth wraps her arms around me, kissing my forehead.

“You were amazing. Your movements were so beautiful and surreal looking.” Beth is beaming. I smile in return even though I’m nervous about my scorecard.

“Mom, have you met Micah?” I ask Beth.

“We met at the Christmas program. It’s nice to see you again, Mrs. Clark.” Micah shakes her hand.

“You, too. Thank you for all you’ve done for Hannah. She speaks so highly of you.” Beth pats his hand.

“It’s my pleasure.” Micah looks over my score sheet, nodding. “Hannah, you only missed two points. This is amazing.”

“Are you serious?” I ask.

“Yes, you’ll dance in the last group. You have an excellent chance of placing,” Micah says.

I turn to Beth, jumping up and down. “I can’t believe it.”

“I can. You’ve worked so hard for this. Your dancing is beautiful. Come on. Let’s celebrate today’s win though we don’t want to stay out too late. You have a big day tomorrow.” Beth gives me another hug and takes my hand.

“I’ll see you tomorrow, Hannah. Sophie is over helping our competitive team, but she’ll be thrilled. We’ll both be here for you tomorrow.”

“Sounds good. Thank you.”

52. Bobby Pins and Sequins

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