They weren’t concerned with outperforming anyone or scoring higher; they were just having fun. And their excitement was contagious.

“Have fun!” the little girl in braids shouted to us. She probably assumed we’d be heading out to dance as a group.

“Trina!” I responded, giving her a high five. “Did you hear her orders? Let’s have fun!” I said, playfully pumping my fist.

“Have fun!” Lily chimed in like she was chanting.

“Have fun! Have fun!” We all grinned and continued chanting with the little girls.

Eliza stared blankly at us at first, but then seemed to blink the judgment away. She chuckled to herself and smiled.

“Ladies and gentlemen, introducing the champions of the forty-fourth annual nationals dance competition, the Squad, from DanceStarz Academy!”

We trotted our way to center stage, waving to the cheering crowd. By now it felt like Trey Thompson was an old friend.

“This group came to town and took it by storm. I have to say, as we wrap up these three days, I am a fan.”

Riley jumped up and down, and we covered our mouths, laughing. That was so cool of him to say.

“You have inspired dancers such as myself to aim higher, and I thank you for being such a good example,” said Trey.

“Wowzers!” Riley high-pitched shrieked to us, but Trey’s mic picked it up loud and clear. The crowd laughed but cheered Riley’s relatable outburst.

Trey laughed and threw a big-brotherly arm around Riley to help her recover from her embarrassment.

“We wish the Squad all the best, and we look forward to seeing their solo performances. Let’s hear it again for them!”

We waved and then exited the stage the same way we’d entered.

The stagehand was back, instructing Megan and me to stay with Eliza backstage. As the final three solo acts left, we’d have back-to-back performances, beginning with Eliza and followed by Megan and then me. Afterward, we were to run back onstage together for a quick, joint bow.

It was odd to admit it, but being alone with Megan was less awkward than being alone with Eliza right now. I was glad when it was her turn onstage. Plus, I was happy that I got to see her perform. I always love checking out her unique flow of movement. She was a naturally talented dancer who seemed like she could excel at any type of dance. She’d chosen a lyrical routine to a jazzy holiday tune, and she was out there rocking it.

“She’s not bad,” Megan said, her eyebrows raised.

I couldn’t tell if that made Megan like Eliza more or less. Megan didn’t give away any clues either way, because when Megan came out, she continued giving her the same cold shoulder.

“You were flawless out there!” I greeted Eliza, forgetting we were sort of mid–silent treatment.