I was shocked when Mom informed me she was bringing everyone. I had assumed she only meant the women. These kids are in for a real treat today.
As Ember takes the stage, I can see a lone tear escape her eye as she sees the full house. “Oh wow,” her voice cracks a bit. “I can’t thank everyone enough for coming. We wanted to give a special thank you to Claudia Parks and the women of Fayetteville’s sewing circle for your generous time and donation. These kids deserve every ounce of happiness I’ve seen in their eyes tonight. I hope you enjoy their show!”
The lights dim as she backs away into the curtain, and soon, a soft melody of “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” plays as children begin to filter onto the stage. Starting with the really young ones dressed as stars. Their faces transform as they glide across the floor with fluid grace.
The music picks up a beat as it transitions to “You Are My Sunshine,” and some older kids enter the stage dressed as sunflowers. I watch, wholly entranced, as these kids don’t waver as they move around one another. Their motions are graceful and practiced.
“Ember is amazing.” I lean into Arsen’s side.
“She really is.”
When the next crescendo hits, “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo” from Cinderella plays, and girls and boys of all ages come out dressed as princes and princesses. They look incredible, and I’m so proud of the job my mother and her friends were able to do in such a short period of time.
The small recital only lasts another thirty minutes before all the children are taking their final bow. The curtains close, and the cheers and applause make the entire center deafening. The music was simple, yet elegant. The dancing was promising and enthralling. These children are so lucky to have found an amazing teacher in Ember.
As we all stand and prepare to make our way to find Arsen’s sister, Thea leaves in a rush. Kol scowls, and I find myself curious about the young girl and what’s had such a traumatic impact on her. I wish I could have told her that no matter what it is, she can fight past it.
“What did you think?” Ember rushes from the dressing room as Mom’s sewing circle goes in to help the kids with their costumes and give them their goodies.
“You did great, kid.” Kol leans forward to kiss her cheek.
“Couldn’t be prouder of you, Em.” Arsen kisses her other cheek.
“That music was perfect for every twirl and plié!” I croon.
“Where’s Thea?” Ember asks, looking around us.
“Fucking left.” Kol seems annoyed by that.
“Oh.” Ember shakes off her disappointment as a few of the children’s parents come over to thank her for working with the kids so well. I was shocked that not more came out.
“Miss Ember.” One boy of about five tugs on her skirt.
“Yes, Jacob?” She squats down to his level.
“Mama left this for you.” He hands her a note, and as Ember opens it, I crouch down to him. “Hi there, Jacob. I’m Marina.”
“Oh my God.” Tears fill Embers eyes.
“What?” Arsen and Kol both ask.
“You have pretty eyes,” Jacobs says, stealing my attention once again.
“Why, thank you. I thought you danced wonderfully tonight.” I smile to ease some of the anxiety I see on his face.
“You think so?” He slips one hand into mine.
“You were my favorite little star out there!” I can see Arsen and Kol reading the letter Ember was handed, and as Arsen’s gaze meets mine, they’re furious.
“Hey, Jacob.” He crouches down with us. “I’m Arsen. Did your mama say anything else when she gave this to you?” I’m confused until he shows it to me quickly, and my heart breaks for this beautiful little boy.
She left him.
Abandoned him.
“No.” He shakes his head and his bottom lip wobbles as he picks up on the emotions surrounding him.
I see my parents coming closer with huge smiles on their faces, and when they see how serious our small group is, the happiness fades.