“Youdid,” I told her, walking into the center. “But this isn’t about being perfect. It’s about making them feel you.” I slippedinto the move, showing her how my shoulders rolled deeper, how I sank into the beat instead of skimming across it. “See the difference? You’re skating on the surface. You need to let the music live in your body, not just in your head.”
She chewed on her lip, watching every detail. “So…commit more?”
“Exactly.” I grinned. “Go harder. Get a little ugly with it.”
The track started again, and she went for it. This time her body hit the beat sharp, then melted with control, her face finally alive with it. By the end of the sequence, I couldn’t help but clap and cheer.
A grin tugged at my lips. “There. Do you feel that? That’s the sweet spot.”
Her answering smile was sheepish but bright, and my chest swelled with pride. This was why I loved it. The teaching, the breakthroughs, watching someone discover they could move like the music lived inside them. I opened my mouth to add on, but heavy footsteps cut me off. We both turned in time to see Titan. Even though I’d seen him in person many times before, the sight of him still stole my breath. He was six feet of lean muscle, warm brown skin, and tattoos snaking across his arms and neck. He wore a casual designer tee that somehow made him look effortless. His dark eyes met mine, and for a moment, the world narrowed until it was just him. I couldn’t stop staring.
“I’m sorry ladies, I didn’t mean to interrupt.” Titan said, flashing a smile that made him go from attractive to Please-Father-My-Children.
“Hey, Titan.” Kelsey greeted the singer casually, her own smile widening as he pulled her into a friendly hug before he turned his attention to me.
“You must be Elise.”
I couldn’t help but be surprised, because despite being an Edge Record artist, Titan didn’t make frequent visits to theoffice, and when he did, our encounters were brief with Nathan only referring to me as his assistant, never by my first name.
This was the first time that we were actually interacting with each other without work or Nathan in between us.
“I am?”Nope. There shouldn’t be a question mark behind that Elise.I cleared my throat. “I mean, I am.”
Titan chuckled in response before holding out his hand for me to shake. “It’s nice to meet you. I’m Titan.”
“No introduction needed. I’m a big fan.”
“Appreciate that.” His smile was down right sinful.
“What brings you by? Are you rehearsing for something special?” Kelsey asked.
“I’m actually here to see her,” He pointed at me.
“Me?” I raised my brow. All thoughts of romantic trips to Disney and rehearsals with pop stars flew from my mind.
“Yes,” His smile spread further and there was now a glint in his eyes. “I wanted to personally come down to tell you the news,” Titan paused and I held my breath for his next words. “Congratulations Elise, you’re going on tour with me this Fall.”
“What?”
“Welcome to the In My Head Tour.” Titan grinned.
“Are you serious?” My eyes bounced between my best friend and the mega superstar, wondering if somehow they had gotten together and this was a prank.
“I’m serious. My choreographer, Zane, showed me your audition tape and I have to admit it’s been a while since I've seen someone as talented as you. The kind of passion and presence you have is something I definitely want and need as a part of my team.” Titan praised. “So what do you say Elise, you ready to make history together?”
* * *
“I HAVE GOODNEWS.” I announced the moment Nathan appeared on the other side of the elevator.
“Hello to you too.” He chuckled, allowing both dimples to appear, nearly rendering me speechless at the sight.
I practically raced over to his place in my excitement to tell him about the offer I got. I had to force myself to remain focused and professional for the remainder of rehearsal, which was extremely hard considering all I wanted to do was go home and tell Nathan the good news, but I shoved my excitement down for the next three hours.
Whether she was Kelsey or Rhodium, my best-friend got nothing but the best out of me. And rehearsal went well; Kelsey nailed the choreography with ease and I couldn’t wait until the world saw her dominate the stage like she always did.
But once rehearsals were over, I took a shower at home and changed into my favorite maxi dress before driving to Nathan’s so I could tell him the good news.
I played his reaction in my head at least a dozen times on the drive over. I’d tell him that I was officially one of Titan’s back up dancers, and Nathan would be so proud and we’d make love for the rest of the night. I couldn’t think of a better way to end the day.
