Gemotions

The ballet master’s pronouncement silenced the room. “We believe you’d excel in the corps de ballet, Chloe.” Chloe, who had always dreamt of being the soloist, the one in the spotlight. Her dream was suddenly being re-written. The idea of blending into the background, of following, rather than leading, sent a shiver down her spine.

Her hands clenched. The music, which usually filled her with joy, now felt like a taunt. The elegant movements of the other dancers seemed distant, unattainable. She felt a cold dread, a feeling of being trapped in a cage. Her throat constricted.