Noise everywhere.

All around me, they pound their hands together and shout. Their heavily hair-sprayed ponytails bob up and down with every turn of their heads. Light hits the black leotards and glittery eye shadow.

Music blares from the speakers. One gymnast dances into the corner of the floor.

I stare straight ahead, hands on hips. My feet pace and pause, pace and pause.

“Let’s go! C’mon!”

I gotta pee.

“Aw, shit, how could she fall on that?”

She does it all the time.

“You got it! There ya go! Finish strong!”

Don’t miss –

“Another fall…we’re screwed.”

I should have done another full. Nah, I’m fine...

“Are you ready?”

Wasn’t ready when I landed before and I still feel the sting in my back –

“You looked great warming up.”

I hope I don’t throw up.

“Next up on floor is Diana Gallagher.”