“Yes. It did.” She turned and stared at the river. Several minutes passed.
“Well? Will you marry me?”
She glanced at him and studied his handsome, loving face.
“Suzanne says many things to make me angry, doubt you, and put an end to our relationship. None of them work. But one thing keeps swirling in my mind.” She faced him. “One thing haunts me.”
“What is it?” The heart-warming concern in his voice, in his eyes, in the touch of his hands on her shoulder made her want to cry.
“There are dancers, not only Suzanne, who think I am being considered for the major role in this ballet not because of my ability but because of our relationship.”
Avery straightened. “That is not true. In the past weeks, you danced three ballets and each to thunderous applause.”
She put her hand on his chest. “But nothing this intricate. Sometimes a little voice in the back of my head tells me Suzanne is right. I fooled everyone into believing I deserve the major role. Look at me. I can’t do the combinations and I struggle with the leaps. If we married now, in my heart of hearts, I would never be sure if I danced because I earned the part or because I am your wife.”
Cosette moved away from him. There, she said it. She didn’t want to look at him. She was afraid she would see the truth in his eyes.
“Madame Camargo decided who would have the major role, not me or Claude. The choice was hers. Claude and I agree with her. We are sure you are right for this part. Suzanne knows it. It’s why she works so hard to discourage you. Don’t let her win. And don’t let her keep us apart.” He gently pulled her around. “I will talk to her.”
“Avery, I love you. I need to do this myself.” How could she had ever thought to walk away from him?
“I thought I was your knight, your protector. The one who fought your battles.” The hurt she saw on his face made her love him more.
“You are my gallant knight.” Her fingers trailed down his cheek. “However, there are some things I must do for myself. This is one of them.”
“As you wish, my princess.” He bowed without losing sight of her. “I warn you, in three days the performance will be over. I will ask you again, in front of the entire company.”
* * *
That evening
Avery stood by the library door as Cosette, the only dancer in the studio, practiced the end of the ballet. She stood frozen in the final position. After a heartbeat or two, she relaxed.
“Are you ready?” Avery entered the room.
“Ready?” She lifted her head and smiled at him.
“Dinner. You have to eat.” He understood her drive and tried hard not to show her his concern. He was certain she would dance without a flaw. She had no idea she had proven herself, but the doubt that prevented her from performing was a self-fulfilling prophecy.
“I’m sure I almost have it. I need to— “
“Yes, I know. You need to practice more. Twenty minutes. Claude is joining us for dinner this evening.”
“Please, Avery. Would you mind eating without me?” He clearly saw her heightened anxiety.
“Of course. I’ll be back after dinner. I don’t want to find you here. If I do, I will carry you home. Besides, you need to rest for tomorrow.”
“I know. I promise I won’t stay long. I’ve dreamt about this for a long time. Is it wrong to want the major role?”
"Not at all and anyone who tells you otherwise is lying.” Avery kissed her forehead and left for the studio office.
He knew she was capable. He supported her efforts and offered encouragement whenever he could. He had no idea what else to do to make her see she was the right person for the role.
He entered the office. “I’m afraid it is only the two of us tonight.”
“Where is Cosette?” Claude looked around the room.
“Practicing. She is better than a good dancer. Dare I say almost as good as Marie. But she believes she cannot recreate Marie’s speed and precision, nor execute a clean cabriole.” He let out a deep sigh as they left the studio. “She doesn’t think she ever will.”