Page 158 of Salto

When I pulled away, I was swarmed again by chaotic hugs and congratulations from the other girls.

My score on the floor was unreal. A 14.3.

I just knew my mom had to be screaming from the couch at home.

Vault was next and it also went well.

I did my Yurchenko double pike. I didn't get as much height as I'd wanted, but I only took one step on the landing. It wouldn't be my highest-scoring event of the night, but it was solid.

It would definitely suffice.

Vanta currently had the most girls in the top ten. Sloane and Eva were right next to me in the standings, with Lexi not far behind. The rest of the top ten was filled with girls from other teams.

Right now, I had the highest score on floor. I hoped it would stay that way.

Having bars as my last event felt like a gift.

The energy from the crowd was contagious. And I don’t think anything could’ve put a damper on my mood. I was doing what I loved in a place that I’d only ever dreamed of.

I may not get to have every single wish granted from all the stars I'd ever wished upon... But one had definitely been granted tonight.

As I chalked up, the pounding in my chest returned. I did my best to steady it, but being the last event, the pressure was hard to ignore.

One more.

Just one more.

I glanced up and saw Rove standing next to Vanta, his arms crossed over his chest. His gaze met mine the exact second I did.

He said something to Vanta before making his way over to me by the chalk bowl.

"Number?" he asked softly.

"Three."

His shoulders relaxed a little. I hadn't realized he'd been tense until that moment.

"Do you need me to stand there for the dismount?"

I shook my head. "No. I got it."

He hesitated. "Can I stand there?" he asked instead.

I stilled and looked up at him.

It was the first time he'd ever... asked.

And it was different because I could tell he wasn't asking for me.

He was asking for himself.

"Sure. But don't touch me unless I ask," I said quietly. I wasn't going to ask, but if it made him feel better to stand off to the side, it didn't hurt me or the score.

He nodded. Then Lexi finished her routine, and it was my turn.

I waited off to the side until the judge lifted her hand for me to salute. Then I raised my arms, smiled, and stepped onto the board.

I stared at the bar in front of me for a few seconds, sucked in a breath, and jumped.