Page 17 of When We Break

“It’s pleased I am that you’ve come for our first recital of the year. Your wee ones have done such a good job this spring of learning new routines, new steps, and how to feel the music.”

She tucks her hair behind her ear and glances backstage, nodding.

“For our first number, we have our three-year-olds performing, and I think it’s going to fill your hearts with joy to see the sweetness we have in store for you.”

She chuckles before moving to the side of the makeshift stage. Eight little girls walk out, eyes wide, terrified.

But they are sweet, I’ll give her that.

I can’t take my eyes off the woman who coaches the little ones from the side. Finally, it’s Birdie’s turn, so I shift my attention to my niece, grinning from ear to ear at her excited smile and pure self-confidence as she moves across that stage. Birdie loves being the center of attention, so this is right up her alley.

We sit for an hour, and except for the five minutes when Birdie dances, I haven’t taken my eyes off Skyla. I’ve caught her eyes seeking mine as she’s sneaked peeks at the crowd, and each time, she’s blushed before returning her attention to the kids.

Bee’s right. She likes me.

So yeah, I can be patient.

ChapterSix

SKYLA

Ilove recital night.

Granted, there will never be anything that compares to dancing with Mikhail after months and months of grueling work on a world-class New York City stage in front of a sold-out auditorium. That’s something I’ll miss forever and will live in my heart until I take my last breath.

But seeing all of these wee darlings in their pretty costumes excited to dance for their loved ones takes second place.

Some of them freeze up on stage and don’t do anything at all, and others—like Bee’s niece, Birdie—know every single step and keep the crowd spellbound.

Honestly, I never know how the evening will go, but it’s never boring.

Now that the show is over, parents are grouped in the studio, chatting with friends about their children’s dance, school, or what’s happening in town. I’ve spent time answering questions but want to check on Riley backstage.

“You didn’t even sit with the audience,” I say to Connor as I find my brother standing beside Riley.

“Riley needed company.” He shrugs. “And I could see everything from back here. Not to mention, every chair was taken, which is a good thing. It means business is good.”

Okay, he has a point. All the seats were filled, and that made me happy.

“Still. It wouldn’t have killed you to stand in the back.”

“I own this place, too, you know. I can stand wherever I bloody like.”

“Right.” I roll my eyes. “Would you like a plaque on the bleeding door announcing that you own the building?”

He tips his head to the side, considering it. “Actually, yes. I would like that.”

“Skyla, I just wanted to chat for a second before I head out?—”

That’s Bee’s voice, but before I turn to greet my friend, Connor’s eyes narrow behind his glasses, taking in the woman behind me.

And when I turn around, I see that Bee has gone sheet white.

Holy shite, her mystery man reallywasmy brother.I had a feeling, but Connor had left town before their night together.

Or so I thought.

I need information.

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