Page 172 of The Life of Anna-Tenth Anniversary Edition: Act 1

Travis shrugged. “That’s not really surprising, considering, you know, your heritage and all.”

Anna frowned. “What do you mean?”

“Well, the... ones like your dad. They’re natural artists, dancers, or singers usually. Didn’t you know?”

“Travis, I didn’t even know what my dad was.”

“Oh, yeah. That’s so weird.” He shook his head. “I should have realized what he was when I looked at his picture. He looks like them. Tall, blond, thin, and ethereal looking. Well, I suppose not all of them are blond. Just most of them. Like elves.” Travis chuckled. “If you know what you’re looking for, they’re not hard to spot. Fortunately, most people don’t know they exist.”

Tall and blond? “Is Alex . . .”

Travis laughed. “Nah. He’s totally human. He’s too temperamental to be... one.” He lowered his voice as a group of dancers walked by them. One girl reached out and tousled his hair. Travis winked at her and she giggled.

“Girlfriend?” Anna asked.

“What?” A mock horrified expression filled his face. “Girlfriend? Ugh, no. Why would I want to limit myself to one girl?”

Anna laughed.

“Anyway. So, yeah. Don’t be surprised that it comes back so naturally. It’s in your blood. Literally. You’ll be in the company by the end of summer.”

Anna’s eyes widened at the thought of her dearest wish coming true. “Don’t tease me.”

“I’m not. Believe me.” He grinned at her. “Maybe we’ll get to dance together.”

Anna rolled her eyes. “I don’t think I’ll be doing a pas de deux anytime soon. I’d be content in the corps.”

“Not gonna happen, Anna. As I understand it, your dad went straight from the ballet school to a principal. And Aaron said you’re still amazing.”

Anna blushed. “Does Isaak know about me?”

“I’m pretty sure he doesn’t. But he knows you’re your father’s daughter.” Travis looked at his watch, then stood. “I gotta get back to rehearsal.” He helped Anna to her feet and hugged her. “Keep working hard and don’t be surprised at your progress. I can’t wait to see you dance.”

He said goodbye and left Anna in the entryway, head full of new and wonderful thoughts.

Chapter 73

Anna walked from the elevator to her apartment, still amazed at what Travis had told her. She almost didn’t notice the tall, muscular man standing in the doorway of the apartment next to hers. He was holding a very large box and struggling with his keys.

She hesitated a moment before speaking. “Do you... need some help?”

He turned his espresso-brown eyes on her and flashed a bright smile. “I’d love some help.”

Anna guessed him to be in his mid-to-late-twenties, with short dark-brown hair and broad shoulders. He wasn’t overly bulky, but she could see his biceps bulging under the weight of the box he held.

“Can you grab the keys and unlock the door?”

She realized she’d been staring and felt her cheeks warm. She took the keys from his hand and unlocked his door, pushing it open so he could enter.

“Thanks,” he said with a grin. His teeth were very white next to his tan skin. He walked into the apartment and Anna waited outside with his keys. She had no intention of walking into a strange man’s apartment unless she had to.

He returned a minute later, and Anna handed him his keys. “I’m Greg.” He spoke in a gentle tone that put Anna at ease.

“I’m Anna.”

He grinned. “Well, aren’t I lucky to have such a pretty neighbor?” His voice had a slight drawl to it.

Anna took a step away. He looked alarmed. “I didn’t mean anything by that. Just... trying to make conversation. I just moved in today.” He motioned behind him.

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