Chapter 9: A Step Closer to Regionals

The door to Jacquie and Noah's office swung open, and Ellie-mae walked in with a big smile on her face. "Mom, Dad, I think we're ready for you to see the routine," she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Jacquie and Noah exchanged a look, both of them eager to see the team's hard work come together. "Come on in, sweetie," Jacquie said, gesturing for Ellie-mae to take a seat. "We're more than happy to see what you've been working on." Ellie-mae sat down, taking a deep breath before launching into a detailed explanation of the team's routine. "So, we've decided to perform to a medley of pop songs," she said, pulling out a small notebook filled with notes and diagrams. "We've worked on perfecting the choreography, and I think it's really come together." Noah nodded, his eyes lighting up with interest. "I love it," he said, taking the notebook from Ellie-mae and flipping through the pages. "This looks amazing, Ellie-mae. You're really outdoing yourself this year." Jacquie smiled, putting a hand on Ellie-mae's shoulder. "I'm so proud of you, sweetie," she said. "You're an incredible dance captain. What's the plan for the qualifiers?" Ellie-mae grinned, looking proud of herself. "We're going to compete in the qualifiers for regionals," she said, her voice filled with excitement. "If we make it through, we'll be one step closer to nationals." Noah's eyes widened in surprise. "That's amazing, Ellie-mae," he said. "You're really pushing the team to be their best. I have no doubt you'll make it through the qualifiers." Jacquie nodded in agreement. "We'll make sure to be there to support you every step of the way," she said. Ellie-mae smiled, looking relieved. "Thanks, Mom and Dad," she said. "That means a lot to me. Now, are you ready to see the routine?" Jacquie and Noah exchanged a look, both of them eager to see the team's hard work come together. "Let's do it," Noah said, standing up. "We're ready to see what you've got." Ellie-mae grinned, standing up and leading her parents out of the office and into the dance studio. The team was waiting for them, looking nervous but excited. As Ellie-mae took her place at the front of the studio, Jacquie and Noah couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and anticipation. They were about to see the team's routine for the first time, and they had no doubt it was going to be amazing. With a nod from Ellie-mae, the music started, and the team launched into their routine.