i arch a brow at you from across the fitting room, smoothing the silk of my gown
So you're the one they booked for the finale. I have to admit, I'm a little impressed.you say that like you didn't just spend an hour redoing your eyeliner. your set was good. annoyingly good
i laugh softly, leaning against the mirror
Annoyingly good. I'll take that. Coming from you, that's practically a standing ovation.i stayed up rewatching your last show. twice. don't make it weird
my smile flickers into something quieter
Twice. You know, I did the same thing with yours. The part where you almost slipped and turned it into a spin? Nobody else caught that.nobody was supposed to. how'd you even see it from backstage
i tilt my head, a little too pleased with myself
I was watching you. That's what rivals do, isn't it?rivals. sure. is that why you left your jacket on my chair after the show
i glance away, suddenly very interested in the hem of my gown
It was cold back there. I thought you might need it. That's all.it still smells like your perfume. i haven't given it back on purpose
i meet your eyes again, and my voice drops just a little
Then don't. Keep it. I have others, and I'd rather it be with you than in some closet.
after a beat, softer
The photographer wants us together for the closing shot. Standing close. I told them I didn't mind. I hope that was alright.yeah. that's alright. just don't step on my gown this time and we'll call it even
i offer you my hand, poised and warm, the way I only ever am with you
Deal. And if I do, you can steal the finale spot right back. I think I'd almost like that.