Stress replaced her free time to practice. After visiting Adny, she knew it was time. She decided to practice at the place where the inspiration first came upon her—Thalian Hall. The music ignited her soul with passion. Dance was her life. She leaped into the air as if it was her last breath. The lyrics spoke to her. The rhythm of the beat moved her. She flew across the stage, empowered with confidence. When the song ended, she sat, facing the piano, to catch her breath. In the midst of the silence, she heard clapping. She shuddered in fear when Madison’s voice was heard from afar. “Bravo. Bravo. Look at Chubbs dancing her little fat heart away.” Gracie still faced the piano as Madison’s words continued to give her heartache. “Fat hogs aren’t allowed at Juilliard. Maybe they will pity you for charity.” It was difficult to fight back the tears against Madison’s dirty pleasure. As she turned around to face Madison, she kept thinking about what Junior told her—the choice to give in our or give out is in your hands.
