Total pages in book: 82
Estimated words: 75983 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 380(@200wpm)___ 304(@250wpm)___ 253(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 75983 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 380(@200wpm)___ 304(@250wpm)___ 253(@300wpm)
“You’re too kind.” American Ballet Theatre in New York was the holy grail of the ballet world, the place every young dancer dreamed of making principal. The Seattle Ballet Company was also well-respected, but a tier below ABT. Ballet Philadelphia, meanwhile, had struggled for years with funding and management issues before Julian’s arrival. It was widely considered several steps below ABT, Seattle, Boston, and other well-funded companies.
“Nonsense. I speak truth, always have.” Melody had a feisty, no-nonsense demeanor I always appreciated in older women. Her long white hair was swept into a bun, and she had the graceful mannerisms of someone who’d likely studied dance at some point. “I didn’t reach the top of the cosmetics industry by playing nice.”
“Fox Foundation.” I didn’t have to fake my enthusiasm as I made the connection between her and a high-end cosmetic brand. “I’ve used your foundation for stage makeup for years. Only thing I trust not to break me out.”
“Thank you. I worked hard to build that reputation. And now I want to use that experience to help revive my late mother’s favorite company.” She gave a fond smile. “Ballet Philadelphia won’t reach ABT levels by playing nice either. I’m willing to increase my endowment if Julian can recruit more principals of your caliber.”
“I’m flattered,” I demurred. Like Melody, I’d worked hard to build my reputation. I might not be the absolute pinnacle of the ballet world, but I did command a certain level of respect.
“It’s a serious offer.” Julian leaned forward in his chair. Ah. All was clear now. This was why Tavio had insisted on my attendance. This was a recruitment, not a social call. “We could use your talents. And to be frank, the draw your name has. You’ve become synonymous with the sort of excellence we aspire to.”
“I’m rather committed to Seattle.” This wasn’t my first poaching attempt, but I tried to stay diplomatic, especially with the donor sitting right beside me. “I’m not sure if I see being part of a rebuilding project at this stage of my career.”
“Fair.” Julian nodded as if he’d expected my reply, but his shrewd gaze didn’t waver as he handed me a business card. “Nevertheless, I’d love the chance to tell you more about our vision. My personal cell number is on the back.”
“I’ll take that into consideration.” I pocketed the card.
Apparently satisfied with their mission, Melody and Julian left to circulate more, undoubtedly seeking other prey. Gossip over high turnover would spread after this party, and their aggressive approach would be the talk for weeks.
“You should think about their offer, Alexander,” Tavio said after they left us. “You could come home for your final act.”
“Final act?” I sniffed, mildly offended. I’d gifted him a technically perfect Cavalier, yet he wanted to put me out to pasture? I refused to consider such a notion. “Rumors of my demise are greatly exaggerated.”
“No career lasts forever, sadly.” Tavio’s tone wasn’t unkind, but it was pragmatic. “The competition gets more intense by the year.”
“I’m well aware.” As much as I loved my company in Seattle, the sharks had been circling since my initial injury, younger dancers looking to move up. However, my entire focus while rehabbing my knee had been a return to silence all critics. “Moving to Ballet Philadelphia would be a major step down. I’m not sure I have reason to consider such an offer right now.”
“Ah.” Tavio’s eyes went wide at my candidness before his gaze moved to a point behind me. “Hello, Rudy. I see you found the food table.”
Crap. I had no doubt Rudy had heard my words. Rudy’s skin was paler than usual, his mouth pursed and shoulders stiff. I’d had no intention of sharing Julian’s offer, but now an awkward conversation loomed as Rudy took the chair Melody had vacated.
“I’ll leave you two to eat.” Likely, Tavio had picked up on Rudy’s tension and wanted a quick exit. He rose, clapping me on the shoulder as he passed. “And, Alexander, don’t be hasty. You could be the conquering hero.”
“Sparkling water with lime.” After Tavio left, Rudy passed me a cup with a small plate balanced on top, which contained several fancy nibbles. “And an assortment of appetizers, most of which I have no clue what they are precisely.”
“They look edible enough.” I couldn’t be less hungry, but I took a bite of the nearest puff pastry shell to show gratitude for his efforts. The tightness around his mouth and eyes remained. I swallowed, the pastry leaving a soggy lump in my throat. “And let’s go ahead and hear why you’re mad.”
“I’m not mad.” He was a terrible liar, which was part of why I so often won when we played the game. He wore his emotions openly in contrast to my carefully honed guardedness.
“I know I’m not the best at telling when I’ve offended someone, but even I can tell you’re upset.” I’d been blunt with Tavio, but I tried for a far gentler tone with Rudy. “You heard Tavio and me talking. Yes, there’s an offer from Ballet Philadelphia, but—”