Page 163 of Rome: The Ballerina

“Just wait, Rome. You’re going to inspire entire generations.”

“Thank you. Thank you.”

As the curtains closed, the cheering slowly died out.

“You are fucking amazing,” Romeo squealed. “Prima Ballerina. Girrrrrrrrl, I knew it was coming. You’re just too damn good.”

“Thank you, Romeo.”

“Congratulations, Rome.”

“Congratulations.”

“Congratulations!”

From left and right, I was congratulated as I descended the stairs, heading to my dressing room. I didn’t miss the bitterness on Aliza’s pretty face as she stormed off ahead. August was waiting at the last step with a bottle of water. It was fresh, cold, and the seal hadn’t been broken. I chugged it, I finished the entire bottle and tossed the empty plastic in the trashcan.

“Balle, they’re waiting for you in the dressing room.”

“Thank you.”

I had depleted most of my energy, but the crown on my head and the sash on my body had given me a second wind. August and I made our way down the hallway. I entered my dressing room to find everyone I loved inside. Except for one person. One very important person.

“Congrats, babbbbbbbbbbyyyyy!” Roulette sang. “Them bitches knew they weren’t fucking with a picture of you. Tell ‘em quit playing and try again.”

Chuckling, I pushed forward, interested in one little tiny, cute face. I pulled Jru into my arms and held her close.

“Hug my neck,” I begged. She did as she was asked.

“Tighter.”

I needed her love. I needed all of her love.

“Tighter, Tee.”

She squeezed tighter.

“Just like that.”

A knock at the door grabbed our attention. Koen opened it slightly. Upon recognizing a familiar face, he slid over, allowing the guest inside. Nadia appeared. She was as precious as could be in the white button down and dark pants.

Her top squeezed her curves, pushing her breast together. She was draped in gold jewelry, accenting her beauty. And, she smelled like the money she was.

“Nadia–”

Saint’s face rushed through my thoughts at once. He was on the court, playing his heart out, and I was saddened I couldn’t be courtside.

“I hope you don’t mind. Saint refused to not have someone from his tribe here in support.”

I melted against Jru’s dark brown skin.

“He sends his love. And says that he never breaks a promise… especially not a promise to you.”

Nadia handed me a solid black key. My brows furrowed as my heart skipped three beats. By the fourth, it realized I needed it to live and to drive the car I’d just been gifted.

Bugatti.I looked from the key to Nadia and then to the key again.

“He said he’ll never forget the look on your face the first time you rode beside him. He wants it on your face all the time. Every day. Because, he wouldn’t have it any other way.”

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