"Welcome ladies and gentlemen full of graceful talent! I'm very pleased to see each and every one of you here. "Monsieur announced, stretching his hands out.
Serena let her ballet shoes gently pat against the floor. She actually was very excited to participate in the invitational. She had completely forgotten about it until Drew brought it up the other night at dinner. She did invite Ash one more time, but she wasn't surprised he rejected it again, especially since he couldn't dance himself. The last thing he wanted to do was sit around and watch.
She could understand it to a degree. He was extreme about it, but she could recall many times watching Drew and May dance together, wondering what it felt to truly feel like having that connection despite being a solo dancer. Now she felt it in a sense.
"We've set up to practice with Kalos Academy, so feel free to pair off or work solo." Monsieur Pierre smiled, twirling his stick full of keys. "Once the practice is over, we'll perform for each other and have a friendly competition. This shall help break you out of your comfort zone."
Serena already decided she would be joining the solo dancers. As much as she didn't necessarily mind partnering, she didn't feel right doing so with someone who wasn't Ash, especially when they were so hard at work on their plans for the ballroom competition.
She pushed herself up and smiled at Drew and May. "Go for broke for me, will you?"
"Of course," May smile was a promise and she winked. "We wouldn't have it any other way."
"Like we would lose." Drew fixed his hair back and folded his arms over his chest. "You better do the same with the solo dancers. We need to show the academy that the university is the better side of Kalos."
Serena narrowed her eyes. "Are you sure it wasn't you who was more competitive with Hoenn University last year?"
Drew scoffed, "Positive."
"Ah, Serena!"
A voice cut through the crowd and she turned her head to see Calem Xavier making his way over to where they stood. He was a third year, a year older than her. He was well known in the ballroom circuit for his heavy footwork, yet incredibly skilled and sharp movement. It was said the ground vibrated when he danced. He was one of the academy's most well known dancers.
"Calem?" Serena greeted, waving a hand as he approached.
He smiled, his dark blue eyes looking at her with genuine interest. He looked sweet enough, but everyone was well aware of the intensity at which he danced and how dark his features could turn on dime.
"I hear you don't have a partner for today's exercise."
"That is true." Serena shrugged, not seeing particular bothered about it. "I plan on sticking to my solo choreography."
Calem offered his hand to her. "Why don't you partner with me then?"
Immediately, Serena frowned. Shauna was his usual partner, but having graduated the year before him, he also would've been without a partner when it came to school sanctioned events. In the professional world, Serena was certain the two still danced together.
Still, Calem Xavier wanted to partner with her?
"With you?" Serena questioned, gaping at him awkwardly. She glanced towards May who smiled wide and nodded.
"Isn't that what the invitational is all about?" Calem asked, tilting his head to the side, keeping his hand extended towards her.
"Yes it is," Serena responded.
If it had only been a month or two earlier, Serena definitely wouldn't have grabbed his hand. Solo dances have been what she went for, for the longest. But now that she had Ash and even though he was an amateur, she felt a connection with him. She could imagine how upset he would be if she went off and danced with someone else.
For the invitational, it was different. Somehow, she would feel bad for rejecting Calem's offer. It was something everyone did.
"Come on," he urged. "Just one dance?"
She hesitated, but reached forward, taking his hand. "I would love to dance with you, Calem."
"Awesome," he cheered and gestured to Drew and May. "Shall we go practice some new choreography to beat these two."
She did know he was also very competitive and honestly, Serena knew she wouldn't mind having a friendly competition with her friends.
"I'd like to see you try," May hummed softly, wrapping her arm around Drew's waist before dragging him away. "Lets get going, Drew."
Serena watched them as she had her hand in Calem's, soon getting him to follow her towards one of the smaller practice rooms.
The invitational practice was meant to challenge the skills of the students, giving them about two hours to both choreograph and work on a dance of their choice. Then, they would come together to compete and one school would be considered the overall winner, based on the points given out between the various dancers. Last year, Kalos University beat Hoenn University, and Serena could tell Kalos Academy was determined to beat them this year.
"I'm surprised you asked me," Serena admitted, stepping into the smaller practice space with the dark haired boy. She laughed softly. "I thought it would turn into a competition like it did last year. Hoenn University was very competitive with us."
"I wouldn't want to give up the chance to compete with one of the best choreographers Kalos University has seen in a long while." Calem smiled and the compliment, paired with his expression, threw her off guard.
"Thank... you," Serena stammered, slowly. "I have been working hard on choreography lately."
"Perfect," Calem said, starting to stretch out. He leaned forward, his arm muscles flexing as he did, and his black pants tight around his legs. He flipped himself back up and pulled his arm across his chest. A dark look crossed over his eyes as he smirked. "I'm looking forward to this. I know you're technically on Kalos University's side, but we're going to kick Drew's ass."
She pursed her lips, and snorted, unable to control her laughter. She apologized, waving her hand up and down. "You looked so intense and it's not that I don't think we can win or anything. I just didn't expect you to be so serious about it."
Calem raised his eyebrow, but grinned. "Why not? It's practically a mini-competition. It's been awhile since I've been able to compete with Drew."
Serena shook her head slightly. Everyone always wanted to face off with Drew since he came from a family of dancers. That, and he himself was incredibly talented. Everyone in the dance world was well aware of the grace and professionalism of Drew and May. Their partnership was known and they were already doing well on the semi-professional circuit.
"We're have to come up with something flashy to beat him and May. They're a well-oiled machine for sure."
"True," Calem said and stepped towards her. "But I took their choreographer."
It wasn't a lie. She was a much better choreographer than both Drew and May. They weren't bad at it, but usually Serena did most of their planning, which admittedly, she did thoroughly enjoy. They were so easy to work with. It was so enjoyable to mold their bodies and follow the music with a perfect flow.
She giggled. "You did."
"I'll leave it to you."
Serena nodded. "What would you say is your best type of dance?"
"How about a Foxtrot?" Calem said, a hand at his side. "It's smoother. I think it'll suit us both nicely."
"Fine with me," she accepted, clasping her hands together. "It's been awhile since I've worked with a foxtrot. We've been really focusing on waltzes and tangos for the upcoming ballroom competition."
"Ah, yes," he spoke with his amusement. "I hear you've entered with an amateur?"
Goodness, did word travel fast. She felt her cheeks flush. "Yes, he's really great. He's shockingly talented for someone who just started. We probably won't win, but it's a good starting point."
"I see." Calem narrowed his eyes for a moment, staring at her, and Serena couldn't figure out why he looked so intense. Was he confused by her choice? "I'm glad you've found a partner. Though I have to wonder where he is today?"
"For now at least," Serena said, hoping that losing the competition wouldn't completely break Ash's dancing spirit. "He's actually nursing an injury right now. He twisted his ankle a bit during his basketball game."
"Basketball?" Calem blinked, surprised at that. "He does both, I assume?"
"That's correct. He's... Athletic." Serena said, realizing the two sports were very different, and chose her words carefully. She wanted to change the subject; she wasn't keen on discussing Ash with Calem, especially when he could end up being their competition. "Anyways, we should get started."
"That I agree."
The gentle smile returned to his face and Serena mirrored it. Calem was a handsome boy, that she couldn't deny, and so far he had been kind. But it was things about Ash that simply mesmerized her.
Calem stepped towards her and slid his arm around her back, pulling her body closer. His arm was raised, his back leaning ever so slightly away from her as he took her hand in his own. She swallowed; it was so odd, not having to worry about fixing his posture. He was just as well-practiced as she was.
"I have an idea. If we lead with you bringing me towards the front of the room into a gentle spin and dip—"
Her speech was cut off by Calem who listened to her, leading in the direction she mentioned. He spun her away from him and dipped her down, his dark eyes staring into hers as her hand slipped around his neck to hold herself in place.
"Wow," Serena said softly. "That was fast."
Calem chuckled. "I think you're far too used to dancing with this amateur. You don't have to go through things slowly with me. I'll pick it up."
He really wasn't kidding. He moved with her so fast, swinging her body around his. He was incredible at leading and even with his heavy footwork, Serena felt grounded. When compared to Ash who stomped against the ground because he didn't know how to use his feet, Calem took each step with a purpose and the floor vibrated against his feet. He owned it and swung her around with such grace.
It had been so long she since danced with someone who really appreciated the art and knew exactly how to handle himself on the dance floor. Admittedly, Calem might have been a better lead than Drew even. When Serena told him to do things, he did it with zero hesitation and made adjustments quickly.
When the exercise began, Serena did internally worry about actually getting things done in a timely manner, but now two hours almost seemed to be too much time.
She breathed heavily as they slid into the final pose. She moved her arm as if it gently cut through water, posing against him.
"I know we need to finalize things but, I really think that was great."
"I knew it would be." Calem smiled, though something about his face unsettled her, like he was thinking about something deeper.
"Again?"
She hated to admit Calem had been right about her dancing with an amateur. It was true. She wasn't used to such fluid easy movements. Still, it didn't change how she felt about Ash. She loved dancing with him and their chemistry was far better. Yes, Calem was nice and handsome, but something about him made her feel a little wary. As though he was a ticking time bomb about to explode.
"I believe we have a chance against Drew and May," Serena noted and glanced at the clock, surprised how quickly time flew by. "Of course I have no idea what they came up with, but I guess we're about to find out."
"I'm looking forward to taking them down." He held her hand and led her back towards the main dance hall. She was surprised when he didn't let go even when they stepped out of the room.
It felt odd with her hand in his. Even dancing with him felt off. By all accounts, it should've felt better since he was well trained, but something about the look in his eyes made Serena feel uneasy.
They took their place on the side of the room with the other couples, May waving when she came back. Serena could see the surprised look on her face when they came in holding hands and she was not looking forward to explaining to her best friend that no, she swore she didn't feel anything for Calem.
"Thank you," Calem said, breaking her of her thoughts and she turned to face him, his handsome features pulled into a smile. "I really appreciate you partnering with me."
She nodded slowly and if she was being honest with herself, standing next to Calem right now, she missed Ash. He would've been challenging Drew on how they could beat him and he would've probably caused something of a scene.
She oddly found herself endeared to Ash's tenacity.
The solo dancers went first, performing their short pieces. Some of the dancers from the academy were so incredibly talented and Serena couldn't take her eyes off of them. She truly loved watching dance. She loved trying to see how she could imagine their bodies moving with choreography she came up with.
"As we're the ones hosting, all Kalos University pairs will go first! Followed by our joint pair and then Kalos Academy pairs," Monsieur Pierre explained, nodding towards Serena. It was rare people from the other schools mixed in such a way, but the two teachers seemed thrilled at the prospect of it.
Serena watched Drew and May take the floor. Drew slipped his arm around May's back and their gazes met. Serena was noticed how much passion the room could feel between them. It didn't matter the dance or the style, they always held each other's gaze so intently and their eyes were full of romance.
Their music began and they started a Viennese Waltz, elegant and simple, perfect for the way their bodies moved. May's small skirt brushed around her tights, her body angling like a delicate swan. Their feet moved slowly as Drew twirled her out, only to pull her back towards his body and hold her close.
"They do look beautiful," Calem muttered next to her and Serena nodded.
"They're really in love. I think... it adds a lot to their dancing."
"You don't need to be in love to be a good partner dancer," Calem told her.
"No, no," Serena shook her head quickly. "Of course not, but I believe it's a nice little... touch."
Drew dipped May down, a gentle smile present on her lips. She radiated beautiful energy, her brown hair swaying across her neck. It was impossible not to watch her and Drew knew exactly how to highlight her movements. Serena could always tell her best friend was the happiest when she danced with him.
They moved to their final pose, May's arm reaching out to the side and Drew's leg stretched behind him, their foreheads pressed together as the rest of the class began to clap. It was a stunning performance, especially for something they put together in two hours. Serena couldn't help but cheer for her friends.
The two bowed and returned to the side, allowing the next couple to go.
"Amazing as always, May," Serena said, hugging her.
"You think? It wasn't anything special. Two hours isn't nearly enough time to do anything groundbreaking." She said, waving her hand up and down.
"No, but you both looked stunning."
"Thank you," Drew said beside May.
May smiled brightly. "I'm looking forward to you and Calem's dance!"
Serena was actually feeling nervous. It had been awhile since she worked on a partner dance with someone of Calem's caliber, let alone perform for others and she wasn't quite sure how it would go.
After watching the other Kalos University performers, Monsieur Pierre called Serena and Calem to the middle of the floor. "We are thrilled to see the two of you partner up! It is very rare that we get cross school pairings."
Serena had her eyes on Calem and took a deep breath before stepping towards him. Her arm raised up and she wrapped her fingers around his, curving her spine. He smiled at her and she was certain dancing this close to him was something she would never be able to be used to.
"Exciting," Calem whispered.
Serena he couldn't help but giggle as their music began. She swung her leg out, twisting her hips as they began their fast-paced movement across the floor. Calem's hand held her back, guiding her across the floor. His steps were heavy and she planted her feet with him, her hips swaying back and forth playfully. He twirled her out and pulled her back, dipping her down.
His dark eyes stayed fixated on hers, full of focus. She couldn't tear her eyes away from him. Her lighter blue eyes followed his darker ones, an immediate amount of trust between them as she moved. She knew he wouldn't lead her wrong and there was no reason to feel like she needed to be in control. She let herself be led and Calem dipped her into their various poses.
When the song ended, she stared into his eyes, and her arms wrapped around his neck. She swallowed and the clapping behind her felt like a blur.
What had just happened? Was their dance really over?
"Simply magnificent!" Monsieur Pierre cheered and the entire class called out both of their names. Serena bowed and her hands were shaking, even the one that Calem held felt clammy as they walked to the side.
"You were excellent!" Calem smiled, bringing her hand to his lips. "Thank you for dancing with me."
Serena felt her cheeks heat up and she tried to catch her ground. "You're... welcome. It was fun!"
Her legs wobbled as she made her way over the side of the room, the rush of the performance causing her heart to beat, and the adrenaline ran through her veins.
"That was amazing, Serena!" May declared as she hugged her friend so tight.
"Indeed," Drew said. "It was nice to see you dancing to your fullest potential."
"Though, you do always look much happier dancing with Ash." May added quickly, most likely noticing the way Serena's face dropped.
"Thank you." She said, smiling, but her heart sank.
She bit her lip at the comment. Of course when she danced with Ash, she held herself back to a degree. She needed to. She wanted him to understand what they were doing, so he could get better. Dancing with Calem — in a way — was freeing. She allowed herself to be led, to be out of control, and let him guide her. Their poses were sharp and fun. Not that she didn't have fun with Ash, but her poses with him were far more sensual.
She thought about the connection Drew and May shared while dancing and how she sometimes felt she actually had that with Ash. Perhaps not the same extreme, but she felt something when she danced with him, even if Calem was technically better.
Logically, she should want to dance with someone like Calem, and yet she couldn't stop imagining dancing with Ash. She felt her head throb with a headache and she took a deep breath leaning against the wall.
"Are you okay, Serena?" May asked softly, gently touching her shoulder.
"Yes. Don't worry." Serena assured her. "I just got a little excited I think."
The other pairs made their way through their songs and both the teachers stood at the front of the room.
"Our expert team of judges," Monsieur Pierre began, gesturing to the small group of teachers sitting next to her, "Have come up with your scores and I am happy to announce for the second year in a row, Kalos University is the winner. Five hundred and sixty points to five hundred and twenty! It was extremely close, especially since mademoiselle, Serena Yvonne, danced together with Calem Xavier!"
All the Kalos University students cheered while the Kalos Academy students clapped reluctantly.
"Thank you for joining us for our lovely invitational this year! The bus will be departing in about an hour. Please make sure you refresh yourselves after such a heated battle!" One of the teachers laughed, forever cheerful even after her school lost.
The classes began to disperse and people headed towards various practice spaces to cool down, a few students laughing and mingling about.
"That was fun!" May smiled, slowly lowering herself to the floor to stretch out her legs.
"Truly." Drew nodded. "Happy to take another victory."
"You're so competitive, Drew!" May teased. "You act like you're not, but I know you are."
Serena laughed in agreement. "You wanted to win the most out of all of us."
Her eyes then caught Calem's, as he approached their group.
"Congratulations on your win," he said, bowing to Serena.
"Thank you for dancing with me," she said, bowing back as quickly as possible. "I appreciate it."
"Too bad we couldn't beat your friends." He shrugged, but grinned. "If we kept practicing, I bet we could be quite the team."
Serena eyed him. "Uh, yes, you're probably right. A shame we don't attend the same school."
"It is..." Calem muttered. "Can I ask you about your dance for the upcoming competition?"
"Why?" She asked, skeptical, and narrowed her eyes. "We were partners now, but if you're in the competition, maybe you're trying to get some information."
She was teasing him, gently nudging his arm. and he smiled. "Not at all. I won't be competing in that one. We're working towards the summer tournaments after I've graduated. Don't worry, I wouldn't be that competitive. I'm not Drew."
Drew turned to look at the two of them, his stare full of frustration.
"Right," Serena said, trying not to laugh at her friend. "Ash and I are doing the tango. It's what he's best at."
"I see." Calem nodded, rubbing his chin. "Could you show me your choreography? I'm curious how you've modified to fit him if he is indeed a rookie."
"Oh, not much actually." She was actually quite proud of the choreography for their tango. She felt the blush rise onto her cheeks, remembering how he looked staring into her eyes. "Ash is great at the tango. It suits him."
"I should have no problem learning it, then," Calem said, moving to the middle of the floor.
Serena simply swallowed. It was a sensual dance and in that position with Calem was questionable. Not that it really mattered much, she shouldn't think much about it. She glanced to look at Drew and May who both nodded to her, wanting her to step forward.
"You could handle it," she said, and slowly moved to stand in front of him. She wrapped her hand around his, staring into his dark eyes again. "It's a tango, so we start out with a lunge into a small dip."
Calem smiled. "Of course!"
Serena began to explain the full set and Calem led her across the floor, pulling her into the various poses she described. His dips were more precise and his lifts were stronger. As they slid into the final pose, she kept her leg hooked around his waist. His hand slid up her thigh and she stared into his eyes, breathing deeply.
"I would say..." Serena said softly, "I think you have it."
And as Calem opened his mouth to speak, the door slammed open.