Ethan and Abby walked into the studio, anticipation hanging heavy in the air. The room was buzzing with energy as dancers lined up for the pyramid, each eager to learn what challenges awaited them this week. Ethan took his place next to Brooke, close enough for her to feel his warm energy. She couldn't help but smile at his presence, though two others in the room frowned at their proximity.
Abby clapped her hands, drawing everyone's attention to her. "Alright, everyone. I'm making some tough decisions this week. Ethan and Chloe will be paired up again for a duet called 'Unstable.' I see great potential in their partnership - they work well together and have a strong dynamic."
Groans emanated from Brooke and Maddie, who already detested the duo's constant pairing. As the room's energy shifted to a mix of excitement and envy, Maddie couldn't hold back any longer.
"Abby," she spoke up boldly, "I think Brooke and I deserve a chance to shine too. Can we have a duet together?"
All eyes turned to Maddie as Abby studied her determination. After several seconds of silence that felt like an eternity, Abby nodded with approval. "Alright, Maddie. You've shown me your passion and commitment. You and Brooke can have a duet this week too."
A wave of relief washed over Maddie as Ethan hugged Brooke tightly, sharing in her happiness. Despite the tension that had formed between the two duos, they all knew that they'd have to work together as a team to make this week's performances unforgettable.
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As they began practicing, Chloe felt an instant connection with Ethan. Their chemistry both on and off the dance floor was undeniable. They shared laughter and smiles while rehearsing their intricate steps, their movements flowing seamlessly as one.
Though Brooke and Maddie were incredibly talented, they couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy witnessing the developing bond between Chloe and Ethan. Maddie had always been the group's go-to choice for male partners, so seeing Chloe getting so close to Ethan was a novelty that stung.
Chloe could sense her own feelings for Ethan beginning to stir within her. His confident moves, beaming smile, and playful demeanor were truly infectious. But with Maddie usually being everyone's favorite pick for a partner and as a close friend, Chloe held herself back from acting on the butterflies swarming inside of her.
Ethan, meanwhile, was having the time of his life running this duet with Chloe. He found her to be an exceptional dancer and an even better partner. Their shared moments were filled with lively energy as they laughed in sync, hands entwined while skipping through practice steps.
Abby sat on the sidelines, keeping an eye on her students' progress and providing guidance where necessary. She couldn't help but join them in laughter seeing how much fun Chloe and Ethan were having together in the studio. It wasn't just about perfecting their dance routine; Abby knew she had created a unique bond between these two that would transcend far beyond their passion for dance.
Ethan couldn't bear to watch Brooke and Maddie's rehearsal any longer. As they continued practicing on stage, he slipped out the back door needing some fresh air. The cool breeze felt good on his face, but it barely relieved the heaviness in his chest.
Leaning against the brick wall, Ethan pulled out his phone and dialed Kalani's number. It rang a couple times before she picked up.
"Hello?" Kalani's voice on the other end filled Ethan with preemptive sadness.
"Hey, Kalani… we need to talk," he said hesitantly. Silence hung for a moment before Isaac continued, "I can't do this anymore—I can't be in a relationship where I constantly feel like you don't care about me."
As soon as he said that, he heard her voice crack, "Ethan... no, please..."
Kalani broke down in tears and choked out her response, "I'm so sorry—please don't leave me. I'm going to change. I promise I'll be better."
Hearing her crying made Ethan's heart shatter into pieces. He tried to hold back his own tears but they quickly overcame him.
"I-I'm sorry..." Ethan stammered between sobs. Unable to continue the conversation while drowning in tears, he hung up the phone and sank down to the floor.
Desperate gasps for air as he cried echoed through the alley behind the studio. It wasn't long before Brooke, concerned that Ethan had been gone for too long, found him leaning against the wall.
"Ethan!" she exclaimed, rushing over to him when she saw him crumpled on the ground with tear-streaked cheeks.
Without a word, Brooke dropped down beside him and pulled him into her arms. She could feel his body shaking with heavy sobs as she held him close. As they sat there, she tried her best to console him.
(I feel so bad for Ethan and Chloe. I know I wrote it but come on I can't let some people be happy for a little bit)
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