The set of "Dancing With the Stars"
Final night
Final night
The last competitor spins away from his partner, fingers still entwined with hers. They spin back together, her long, red hair whipping around her face in a fiery halo as he holds her in a close embrace for a moment. Despite the crowds,the cameras, the judges, and the millions watching at home and online, in that momentary clutch she flashes him a private smile, hidden from the rest of the world. Just for him. He adjusts his hands for their big finale, and lifts his partner off her feet. He hadn't ever done ballroom dancing before being recruited for the show, and so wasn't really the most graceful performer on the show, but his partner was a professional. What grace he lacked he made up for in strength, determination, and raw charisma. They'd been practicing this lift for weeks now, in case they made it to the freestyle at the end of the competition, and he was ready. He lifted his partner into the air, and she flexed into an artistic pose as he set her on his shoulder. He spread his free arm out theatrically as the last beat of music played through the studio, and the crowd responded.
The next twenty minutes or so were a blur. The judges had had their say and given them scores. It hadn't been perfect, but the producers said the judges had been a bit tough this season. He knew he wasn't perfect. For the most part, he knew that his enthusiastic fan base had made up for any actual lack of dancing talent, but his partner was excited. They'd been behind all season, but they'd really nailed it tonight. One of their opponents had stumbled noticeably during their routine, and the other had selected an unfortunate combination of music, costuming, and dance style. They had a real shot!
The lead judge stood to read the card, and announced a name while another judge hoisted the Mirror Ball trophy. The competitor froze, not quite sure what had happened, but he felt his partner's hand tighten on his arm suddenly. People were looking at him. Why was everyone looking at him. She tugged his arm again, urging him forward. He caught her gaze, and only heard her voice.
"It's you, Awoo! You won!"