Show off!! - a Klance Dance AU fanfiction

C5: Jenny's

Tuesday, 2:03am
As I was tiptoeing down the stairs to maybe grab a midnight snack. I was exhausted from staying up all night and I needed some fuel to stay up even later. I had to prepare for three different tests, and I waited to the last minute of course to do so. I heard keys rustle, and as I jerked my head to the door, I saw the knob twist the door open. This time it didn't surprise me who come through the entrance.
"Lance! W-what are you doing up?" Her face goes pale. Petting the disheveled hair out from her face, it was apparent she obviously went somewhere as in a party or something. She had some very interesting and striking makeup.
"Naomi. Cut the bullshit. You've been coming home late, and it's not because of school." I look her up and down, she was wearing a long grey coat that hung at the knees. She had been coming home for short periods of time. Sometimes I was downstairs and saw her, and others I heard her while I was sleeping. Im a light sleeper by the way. When downstairs, she normally grabbed a banana, said she had to drop off some art supplies and pick up a few sketchbooks, and then ran off out the door.
"I... was uhm... bringing my laundry to wash here." She pointed to her car outside which was emitting a rhapsodic light, "I have to go get it, why dont you go back upstairs and-"
"Why don't I get it?" I shift my weight to one foot and cross my arms. She was acting strange.
"No! Just... okay how old are you again?" She looked guilty, and I could see the tears starting to form at the corners of her eyes. Standing, she clutched her purse and stood waiting for me to respond. I was a little hurt she didn't even remember how old I was. She used to pick me up after baseball practice. Looking at her now, it was harder to remember all the times we used to have when I was younger.
"Seventeen, you would know if you-"
"I'm an exotic dancer."
Silence. My arms fell to my sides, and my eyebrows knitted while my eyes flashed with unknown emotions. She bowed her head down, avoiding my glare at all costs.
"I-I've been coming home so late because I need to store my earning somewhere, I've also been changing into different outfits as the girls in the locker room aren't very n-nice and they'll steal my things. I really can't let Mom and Adrian know, they'd be so disappointed... please?" She looked up, her eyes watery.
"So-so... you just let men crawl all over you? Just, just so you can have money? Have you lost your pride?" I make a face of disgust. It's not that I don't like strippers; I believe they have a right to whatever job they please, and they make good money, and they are safe for the most part. It's just their reputation that I fear for her. Mom and Adrian... are not the most... well...
"Lance! It's not like that at all. It's temporary, it's temporary. I just need money to keep up with my errands like groceries and such."
"What about on campus? Can't you get food from the college system or something?" I place a hand on my hip.
She starts to unbutton her coat and a glittery purple mini dress snaked around her body. She had fishnets  and a lacy thigh band. She was wearing these heels that looked like a hell of a time to dance in, which we're also purple to match the dress. A gold necklace that I had actually bought her was hanging from her neck.
"Listen... things happened, and I ran into some difficulties with the director, and-"
"You got kicked out."
Silence once again.
"I can't believe you. So where have you been living? On your own?" Massaging one of my temples, I start to pace.
"I rented out a condo... it's really hard to keep up with the pay which is why this is so hard to ask you because I see that your mad-"
"I'm not mad. Im just... I'm surprised is all. A little disappointed too. What do you want?"
"I need money, all I have is this job and nothings hiring for me." Naomi pleads, clasping her hands together. Tears were slowing streaming down her face, one falling down and hitting her intertwined hands.
"I don't have money, I don't even have a job!" I spurt, then remembering to keep my voice down. Everyone in the house was probably asleep at the moment.
"Please, find a way. I need you Lance." She whispered.
"...Are you planning to tell Mom and Adrian?"
"Hell no! They'd never look at me the same."
"Maybe that's what you need. Don't forget senior year." I clenched my jaw, I was tired of her getting into trouble and having me struggling to get her out of it. 
"..." She looked to the side. Her phone then buzzed, signaling our conversation was over.
"Please figure something out, and don't tell Mom and Dad! Im counting on you," She takes out a pen from her purse and writes a number down on a ripped piece of envelope.
"Text, call, whatever."
"I... I-I'll try." I stammered as she frantically buttoned up her coat.
"Bye." She smiles weakly and waved, opening the door to go back outside in the cold.
Thursday, 2:15 pm
This week had been torturous. Keith happened to always need help, and always at the wrong time. He'd officially joined my lunch table, sat next to me in two classes, and bothered me enough to help with his locker. I didn't mind it so much, but if the dude could stop acting so cool and mysterious, it would help a lot for me to stop hating him.
"Curmudgeonous, a word used to describe someone who is a pessimist, someone who would be antisocial, as we see on page sixteen that our introduction to Mr. Scrooge fits that exact description." Mr. Iverson spoke in paragraphs, so it was normal to dread fourth period. I glance behind my shoulder to see Keith at the back of the class, twirling a strand of his black hair. He looked deep in thought as he stared out the window.
"Mr. McLain, why don't you join the class and pay attention?" Startled, I blushed and put on a goofy smile.
"My apologies sir, I have full attention on our work now."
Of course I didn't, all I could think about was himand how the Dance off was tomorrow, and how I had no idea who was coming or not. Normally it's just Pidge, Shiro, and two or three of our dancers to back us up against Lotor's class. We meet in the parking lot of Walmart at eleven. I really only go to get drunk and try and impress the ladies but this time it was different. Lotor's class would be the star of our upcoming show and we needed to show him that our class was no joke. Now that Pidge transferred to Allura's class, it would be Shiro and maybe a few more dancers in the group. The more I thought about it the more complicated everything got. This time I really wanted to beat Lotor, especially because last time we had a Dance Off he slapped one of his dancers - a girl- because she was off-beat. When Shiro yelled at him, he threw a hissy fit and told him to mind his own business. It set me off, even drunk off my ass.
The bell sounded, making me jump out of my skin. The drones that were my classmates gathered up their things, and left the classroom. I waited for Keith to walk by and then I grabbed him by the shoulder. I have no idea why I did it, but I did.
"I need you to come to a Dance Battle tomorrow night at eleven, text me for more details." He looks bewildered that I'm talking to him, and then his eyes dart to my hand. I quickly retract it from his shoulder, and dig into my pants pocket to grab out a black sharpie.
"Sorry I don't have a sticky note..." I reluctantly uncap it and write my number very small on his arm, then hurry on my way out the door.
Thursday, 6:32pm
With still no sign of Keith, I step down the stairs to see the family running wildly about downstairs, Mama in the kitchen, and what appeared to be a panicked Georgie rushing to finish a project. He shouted in Spanish tongue to Lia who frantically helped him glue a whale to the blue shoebox. Diego was coloring at the other side of the table, and my brother Hali leaning over his side and complementing his messy scribbles. Diego's twin, Emilio was running aimlessly through the living room, trying to get Diego to join. As I entered the kitchen to try and help Mama finish, Emilio slams into my side and falls back on his rear. He tears up and I help him up to tuck a strand of his long brown hair behind his ear.
"You're okay, you have to be careful Emilio." I dust off his shoulders, and pat his chest. He gives me a smile -he was missing two teeth- then continues running around the house. I leisurely walk into the kitchen and place an arm over Esme.
"How has today been?" I watch her jerk the frying pan with peppers sizzling in the pan.
"I'm living, that's for sure." She breathes, then hurries over to the other side of the counter, grabbing the vegetable oil.
I sigh, "do you need any help?"
"Sí, hijo puede ayudarme con el tamalas?"
I begin to help by folding the thin sheets of dough and rolling them out to form the outside of the tamale. As soon as I reach the last roll, the phone in my pocket alerts me by the default ringing tone. I jump, then pull out the case to reveal a text from none other than Keith.
212-637-1122
Is this Lance?
212-637-1122
Hello?
Contact now renamed to Mullet
Mullet
Answer your goddamn phone
Lance
Sorry, sorry, it's me.
Mullet
Finally
Mullet
What do you want?
Lance
u need to clam down
Lance
clam*
Lance
CALM***
Mullet
You done yet?
Lance
K, I need 2 go 2 my room, brb
Mullet
Jfc
I look up to my mom who is rushing to get dinner finished, and spot Georgie whom is still glueing little pieces of string to the top of the blue shoebox. He was in sixth grade, and for an extracurricular class, he had to make a 3-D model of the Epipelagic, Mesopelagic, and Abyssopelagic zone. It was obvious he was busy. I shift to Hali, who was watching the younger McClain boy color on a sheet of white paper. Hali was my Stepfather's son, and he was the middle child along with Georgie. I usher him over.
He looked confused but complied, "What is it?"
"Can you help Mom cook, she looks stressed and I can't help her out right now."
"Why can't you?" He cocks an eyebrow. Hali had golden brown hair. It was a short buzz, almost like a military cut.
"I have something." I fiddle with the off button on my phone from behind my back.
"What's the something?"
"Jesus Christ just help mom!" I roll my eyes and start to sneak out of the kitchen so Esme doesn't notice.
On the way up the stairs I take out the phone and open the messages.
Lance
K, I'm good.
Mullet
Finally.
Lance
Wat I wanted 2 talk about is the Dance Off
Mullet
Dance Off?
Lance
It's like, a dance battle
Mullet
What about it?
Lance
We need u 2 join the team bc ur good
Mullet
...
Mullet
No thanks.
Lance
Come on! Plz!
Mullet
No. Thanks.
Lance
wat if I buy u a milkshake at Jenny's
Lance
I'm going 2 regret this
Mullet
...fine, you're buying me fries too though.
Lance
Ugh... my wallet.......... fine! Deal
Mullet
Meet you at 8?
Lance
At 8
Mullet
Shit I need to go
Mullet
Sorry bye!
A smile creeps on my lips and I throw my phone to the side and flop down on my bed. I hear mom shouting all the way from down stairs, but I ignore her and reach for my backpack to pull out a blue binder. If you haven't noticed, blue is kinda my thing. It was my Biology homework, which by the way sucked. Though this is a good way to pass time before I would need to head out to Jenny's.
Jenny's was a local diner that a lot of teens went to after school, or on dates. They were famous for their milkshakes, and god were their vanilla ones just magical, although their food isn't really that good. The last time I ordered a burger it was barely cooked, and instantly made me sick.
I glanced to the clock, 7:00.
Ugh, this was going to be a long homework assignment.
Thursday, 7:45pm
After I finished what seemed like decades of homework, I look to the clock and realize I'm late, since it takes around 10 minutes to get there and I still had to get ready. I jump out of bed and pull off my sweatpants to grab a pair of skinny jeans, and to grab a Defenders Dancing shirt, classic print on the back with our logo. I reach for my wallet and stuff it into my back pocket.
I practically run out the door and sped down the stairs.
"What's the rush hijo?" Esme's eyes sparkle, and she sets down a few plates on the table, Hali was helping her set down the silverware as well.
"I forgot, I promised to bring the new kid to Jenny's for a milkshake and fries."
She rubs her temples, "fine, fine! If your still hungry when you come back I'll have a plate in the fridge for you."
"Gracias, Gracias Mama!" I button up my coat and run out the door to the car. It's freezing outside, but why risk looking unfashionable and warm when you can look bomb-tastic and cold. The car door was almost frozen, as I heaved it open. Little bits of ice came off the bottom. I quickly stuff the key in the ignition and turn on the heat full blast. It wasn't even December yet, and it was already freezing up.
"Okay, Keith and then Jenny's." I muttered to myself, and looked behind in the mirror to back out. Deciding to call him to tell him I'm on my way there, I stop the car abruptly and unlock my phone to call him. It almost immediately went to voicemail.
"Yeah this is Keith or whatever dont call back, don't leave a message, dont look at me. Bye." His voice sounded mundane and bored, kind of how his expression resembles when he's in practice. I giggle to myself a little bit, I was sure to make fun of him later for it.
I continue pulling out of the driveway, and speed my way down the street. Taking a couple turns, I turn up the radio all the way, listening to a song that sounded kind of familiar. It was Mí gente, one of Lia's favorite songs to dance with me to.
I sing along to the lyrics, even though I suck at singing. Seriously, I could murder birds with my voice. Lia wasn't that great of a dancer, though she loved to dance with me whenever we got sent to do chores, or when we needed a break from studying. She was kind of my best friend, next to Pidge of course.
I finally reach the restaurant after a short drive, and pull out my keys. Stepping out of the car, I twirl the lanyard on my index finger, leisurely walking into the restaurant. There was a few regulars, and two people I've seen around town before. No Keith. I say hi to the old couple that comes here often, and take my seat at an empty booth.
Staring out the window, I tap my fingers impatiently waiting for his motorcycle to appear and him walking in like the jackass he is. I would assume he'd waltz in like he owned the place, and start an argument with me. How long was it? Three minutes? He might've stood me up. Wait this isn't a date; what am I saying?
"Would you like to order?" The waitress bows her head to my eye level, and I realize she'd probably had been standing there for a short while.
"O-oh! I'm sorry I didn't see you there haha... no I'm waiting for someone."
"That's perfectly fine! Take your time!" Her smile was radiant, and she seemed somewhat familiar. It took a few minutes to recognize her, but the silver hair gave it away. I outstretch my arm to stop her.
"You're Allura correct? Ah, sorry my name is Lance. You work at the dance studio I train at as well. My friend just enrolled in your class." I flash her one of my signature smiles and a wink. Gets the ladies every time. Though she didn't swoon, which wasn't usual for girls.
"Pidge is your friend? She is a lovely addition to the class!" Allura smiles, and nods. I cringe at the 'she', it was possible Allura didn't catch on, or perhaps Pidge didn't tell her. "Out of everyone who transferred, Pidge was one out of three that actually followed kept with it!" I didn't want to be rude, but when it comes to Pidge there was no way I wanted him to get hurt.
"He, actually," I give her a crooked smile, "Pidge is a boy, not a girl."
Her eyes shine for a moment, and then the guilt flashed through.
"Oh goodness! I hope I didn't offend him... I should apologize as soon as possible!" Her voice sounded worried, as she placed a hand over her mouth.
"I'm sure he won't take it to heart princess~" I reassure her. Her eyes relaxed, and burst with a beautiful baby blue by doing so. She looked almost unrealistic with her beautiful chocolate skin, with a complexion to die for. She had beautiful long silver hair, tied back into a half ponytail. Her outfit was simple pink skinny jeans with a white blouse.
"Wow, never took you for such a flirt."
I look over to the front of the diner, Keith in all his glory stepping toward my booth. He had a cocky look on his face, as he rolled his eyes.
"You simply cannot resist making a fool of  yourself in front of other people." He slid into the booth, while simultaneously taking off his red, white, and yellow leather jacket.
Allura raised an eyebrow towards me as if asking if I knew him. I rolled my eyes and looked over to Keith uninterested.
"As long as making a fool of myself makes the ladies laugh, I'd be glad to. I'm sure you've never done that though." I smirk at my own joke, and feel a rush of dignity hit me as I hear a girly giggle from the right.
"Tch," he looked to Allura as if he hadn't even noticed her, "mind if I order?"
"That's what I'm getting paid for." She pulled out her notepad and pen and waited for Keith to start ordering.
I was surprised that he already knew what he wanted, almost like he'd practiced it, or maybe he had already gotten the same order from here before.
"A vanilla milkshake, with a side of regular fries please." He was fiddling with his thumbs like a child, something I'd also have to remind him of later.
"How about you?" She looked over to me, pen ready in hand.
"Nothing my dear, thank you." She nodded in response and hurried her way off to the kitchen.
I then focus my attention on Keith. He wasn't even looking at me, which I found kind of ridiculous. He stared out the window, at nothing really, maybe a few cars passing by; but not much happened around here.
"Where did you move from?" I wanted to start a conversation maybe that wasn't a complete douche battle.
"Michigan, and New York." He didn't stray from his long glare. His fingers kept busy fiddling and twirling around against the other.
"Oh... that's cool." I found it hard to strike a conversation with Keith as he didn't seem like the talkative type. After a minute of silence, I then remember that I originally invited him to talk about the competition. For a little while I was just content watching him, how his hands never stayed still, his gaze always fixed in all different directions, and his posture as perfect and professional. Oh, there I go again getting side-tracked. As much as I'd like to not admit it, we needed him to win. Since we don't have Pidge anymore, we didn't even have a chance against Lotor's class.
"Hey, so uhm... the dance battle."
He looks over to me, his jet black hair swiping to the side. "Yeah, you mentioned it before, why do you want me to join you guys?"
"Pidge left, and as much as I'd hate to admit it, you're a good dancer. A really good dancer. Not any better to me, but we desperately need to beat Lotor's class." Despite giving him a compliment, he doesn't thank me, or even really smile. His eyes widen a little after he hears Lotor's name.
"Why are you so obsessed with beating him?" His lips looked soft, they were pale shade of pink, something I didn't really notice before.
"Hello?" He waves a hand in my face, I blink out of my trance, and look over to the right to see Allura with a small tray. Keith nods to her as she hands over the beverage and basket of fries. I steal one from the pile and pop it into my mouth. It was very salty, very salty. She smiles, and then backs away to return the tray.
"I'm not obsessed with beating him, it's just that this is important to lift our spirits up and prepare for the winter showcase." I say rather matter-factly, watching him pick up a fry and dip it into his milkshake.
"Whatever," he takes a bite of the fry looking up to me, one of the first time he actually made eye contact with me. "I'll do it, but only because you bought me something to eat and drink."
"Deal!" I smirk, and put my hand out in front, ready to shake his. When Keith gives me a surprised look, I start to pull my hand away, and look to the left a little embarrassed. I then feel a firm tug on my hand.
His hands are so cold, and his fingernails were chipped with black. I could feel the smile tugging at the corner of my lips, and my cheeks were growing a nice comforting warmness.
"Deal."
Friday, 2:11pm
24, tic, 25, tic, 26.
I stare at the clock; counting the seconds, waiting for the bell to ring, waiting for class to end so I can run out and prepare for the battle. Once again, Mr. Iverson was speaking with no tone at all. It was hard to follow him, and my grades were proof. I then take a look behind me, as I always do in this class. And like always, Keith's gaze was fixed out the window, his pale skin glowed against the harsh contrast with his ebony hair. He was so hard to read, and I desperately wanted to crack him open, just as in every love story there's the other who is mysterious and secretive. Eventually they open them self to the other, now able to read expressions, the secret language being spoken without words. Something I wish to master, major, and understand with Keith. He seemed like he needed someone who can read him and understand him more than he can himself.
Shhwsh!
Startled, I turn my body to the left, now looking up to the older man next to me. I look down to the desk to then see a slip of paper. His hand was spread up against it, as if he slapped it down against the table. I then look to my classmates around the room, which all had their eyes fixed on me; even Keith, who never pays attention.
"Would you see me after class?"
Did I do something? Other than not paying attention? He never had done this to anyone before.
He silently walked to his desk once again, everyone's eyes including my own following his steps with full attention.
When he started to talk, I instantly blocked all the noise and turned over the slip of paper curiously.
'Faggot, hanging with the new gay kid?'
My heart pounded in its chest, I was confused, and especially worried. Who wrote this? Why did Mr. Iverson of all people have it?
Brring!
I wait for everyone to flood out the classroom, including Keith. He pressed black earbuds in, and walked hurriedly out the door. I then march to the teacher's desk, him grading papers with no acknowledgement to me at all. I pound the paper against his desk and give him an intense glare, my stomach boiling.
"Why did you give this to me?" I clench my jaw, teeth grinding. He just simply takes off his glasses, and leaned backwards into his chair, staring me right back.
"I just so happened to come to work early today, and was strolling down the hall when I found this taped to your locker." He looks down at his folded hands, then fixed his gaze on me.
"How long?"
Where to start? How long? It was a simple question, yet every part of my body didn't want to answer, didn't want to let him know how much it stung to get called names. Or how many times I've gotten berated for being openly bisexual. I just didn't want to answer to him. I didn't want to answer anyone. Especially my English teacher.
So I did what came first to my head.
I took the sheet of paper, crumpled it in front of his gaze, looking him straight in the eye.
"That's none of your business." I harshly drop it onto his desk and walk out the classroom. Now the halls deserted, few students walking and talking.
I see Keith pulling out his backpack while talking to another teacher, whom I'm guessing was a language teacher since I didn't recognize her. He looks over to me with a sideways glance, and I nod to him.
Tonight was going to be a night to remember
Friday, 11:05pm
I pulled into the deserted parking lot of Walmart, with Keith in shotgun. He of course didn't say anything, more of just looking out the window. I don't blame him this time, the stars were beautifully casted upon the night sky. It looked like thousands of lanterns flickering against an ocean of cobalt waves. It was a gorgeous night. On nights like these, I'd kill to go out for a stroll, see all the city lights and the cloud of my hot breath against the cool beginnings of winter breeze.
Keith was wearing a red long sleeve shirt that was cut off to be a crop top, underneath was a black tank top to keep him somewhat warm. He had on black leggings with white and red high tops.
For me, I was wearing something similar although in blue. I was wearing a blue tank top with our logo in black, and a sleeveless dark blue hoodie, the logo on the back as well. For my pants, I wore black skinny jeans to match with my black logo. I had nice comfy white sneakers, and a blue and white galaxy hat to match, which my hood covered the top. From the windshield I see Shiro striding over to the group of teens stretching and conversing. He was obviously looking for Lotor. Sooner or later, the crowd would appear to watch the most thrilling dance battle of the year. Yes, even a crowd comes and roots for our teams. Mostly students from the dance studio, but sometimes friends, or people at school would come and watch intently.
Anyways, Shiro was wearing his usual, a white short sleeved shirt that was short enough to show off his six-pack. It bore our symbol in black on the front center. He wore black leather pants, and black and white high tops. His hair was pulled back into a tight ponytail. Some of our dancers were already there, maybe two girls and one boy? We could make this work. They wore regular dancing attire with our logo in black on the front as usual. Lotor's team was wearing purple shirts of all kinds, and black pants. They all didn't fail to match.
I look over to Keith, who was still gazing out the car window.
"You don't have anything with our logo on it." I meant to say it as a question, though it came out as more of a, like; Are you serious, dude.
"Yeah, well if you hadn't noticed," He turned his head to look me in the eye with an annoyed expression. "I joined this stupid waste of time barely a week ago. I dont have the time or money or the care to buy merch." He reached for the car door handle when I put my hand in front of his body to stop him.
"I was going to give you my hoodie, but not if you don't want to wear it." I grit my teeth, the nerve this guy has. I've been trying to get along with him, like Shiro had wanted. But it was going to be damn hard if he was going to be like this all the time. What was it? His time of the month?
"F-Fine..." He looked at me with a puzzled look, as the apples of his cheeks grew a light pink. Now what was this?
I slid off my sleeveless hoodie and handed it to him. As I placed my hoodie into his outstretched hand our fingertips touched, and I felt almost like a jolt of electricity hit me.
Oh no, not him. Anyone but him.
I looked at our hands which wear now growing to hold, then up at him who was staring at me in a gaze that he only had when he looked out to the scenery. His face just radiated pure emotion, raw and beautiful. Captivating, his pale skin like snow, and his soft matted black hair that I desperately wanted to touch and see if it felt as fluffy as it looked.
His hands were cold.
"Uh! Anyways, we should start heading over to the rest of the group!" I interrupt, as we snapback to reality. He quickly pulls over my hoodie as I jolt out of the car to stretch out my legs. 
...
After talking to a few of the dancers, the crowd started to fill up. It wasn't that many people, but at least thirty were lined up and mingling. As cliche as it is, a red solo cup in each hand, with glow sticks draped around the wrists and necks. Pidge had finally arrived, he always came with some of his DJing equipment and performed the music for the battle. He gave a us an open hand, signaling five minutes.
I look over to Keith and Shiro, who were stretching their arms, and chatting. A girl on Lotor's team sashayed over to me. Her name is Ezor, this not being the first time we battled against each other. The second time in fact. She was relatively new compared to a few of the other dancers who were in the previous Zarkon class. She had beautiful orange hair that was tied back into a tight ponytail. Her skin was olive, with freckles dusting under her sea blue eyes. If she wasn't so rude, maybe I would've asked her out. Though we have been known to flirt, almost like a hate-love thing. Girls like her loved to play hard to get with me all the time.
"Ready to lose?" She smirked, and whipped her hair to the back. Then placing a hand sassily on her hip.
"Do you always talk to yourself like that?" I scoff, rolling my eyes playfully. It was obvious she couldn't resist the temptation of my beauty, as it just lured people in, who couldn't resist the trap.
"Alright! The dance battle will begin in ten-!" Pidge yelled above the noise, starting to pull over his headphones. The crowd jeered along with him, and Ezor skipped over to join her teammates. She dragged a finger across her throat dramatically, giving me a wink.
When Pidge was in our class, he'd hand over the DJing role to Matt, though since he wasn't in the competition, he didn't have any reason to not do it himself.
"Five! Four! Three! Two! One!" The crowd pumped their fists in the air, Pidge then putting on low volume music, enough so you could hear his voice.
"Alright, we have Team Shiro!" It wasn't too loud, but a few hollers were heard of excitement.
"And we have Team Lotor!"
The crowd roared, Lotor amping it up by waving his arms in the air. He was such a narcissist.
"To get this started, I will announce the rules of our competition! As usual, the winning team gets the last performance of the night at the winter showcase!" My eyes widen in shock as I jerk my head to Shiro's direction, whom he looked just as confused. This know was more than a petty competition, this is where we could finally show off, we're we could be the stars.
"Rule number one, by any circumstance there will be no kicking, punching, biting, or any forms of physical contact that may harm the other. Rule number two, we will flip a coin to see who goes first, then we will follow that pattern when you hear the discs skid. Rule number three, you must have at least five players, and a maximum of eight per team." Pidge lowers the mic, and death stares Lotor's team, which had at least thirteen crew members all grouped together. Lotor gave an unsure glance, than a cocky smirk forming at the corners of his lips, his eyes full of lust for winning.
"Easy-peasy, my best dancers." He walks slyly around the group, tapping seven others on the shoulder. First there was the orange haired Ezor, who jumped ecstatically at the touch. Then another girl who looked unfamiliar. She had blue-ish purple hair, that was short with long bangs. She just crossed her arms. Although you could see the happiness and pride in her eyes. It almost seemed like an award to get picked by Lotor, like it was a gold medal. He tapped two other unfamiliar girls on the shoulder, one with a bandana tied around her mouth and nose, and another with broad shoulders and loud lipstick.
He then moved onto the boys, one of them I knew as Sendak, a senior from when I was a freshman. He was very buff now, quite the rough-and-tough look. Then two others, who looked similar to Sendak, although a little less fierce. Not a piercing glare, that almost screamed that he already disliked you from just glancing at your scrawny figure. More like a; I definitely don't like you don't look at me.
"Great." Pidge speaks unto the microphone once again, then looking over to our group, which was only eight members to begin with. Three girls and five boys.
"Also, great." He looked down at his laptop then up, reaching in his pocket to pull out a coin. He then strides out from the workspace, with his mic in hand.
"Heads or tails?"
"Heads!" Lotor shouts, pumping a fist in the air. The crowd cheered once again.
"Then tails." Shiro nods matter-of-factly. Pidge tosses the coin in the air, rolling in the air, almost stopping time. Everyone was anxious to see who starting things off.
"And..." Pidge begins, slapping the coin against the back of his hand. "Tails! Team Shiro goes first! Your song selection?"
His lips purse, and for some reason, all I could think of was the song Mí gente. It was one of the last songs I listened to, and sang along to.
"Mí gente!" I interrupt from behind Shiro. "We pick Mí gente!" Shiro looked over to me with a questioned look, but shrugged to the thought.
"Mí gente it is."
Pidge strolled back to his workspace, clicking a few times, raising the volume as well.
"Follow my lead." I whisper into the huddle. We disperse and I line up our dancers single file from behind me, telling them to get into poses they felt most comfortable in. 
The crowd is silent, and as I look up for one last time, I see Lotor's cocky ass grin, something I wanted to destroy.
I hear the beginning notes.
I slowly nod my head, and subtly swing my hips. Alike to when I danced to despacito, the song that made me realize how good Keith was. The song that I knew most of the words too shamefully. The song I danced the best routine I've done in so long.
Si el ritmo te lleva a mover la cabeza ya empezamos como es
Mi música no discrimina a nadie así que vamos a romper
I do some quick steps, spinning and dropping down, sort of in a hipster kind of way. The backing track was interesting, and I pictured a gangster, hip-hop vibe. I throw my arm out to the side and slide right, letting Shiro come out and dance freestyle to the next lines.
Toda mi gente se mueve
Mira el ritmo cómo los tiene
He did something similar to my style, though he lacked the Cuban sass that was needed for the song.
He slid to the left holding the pose, as two dancers, a boy and girl danced to the next verse. I knew them as Nyma and Rolo. The two that actually dated outside of the class. She was a junior at my school, Rolo a senior in my grade as well. She had long golden hair that was somewhat tied back. He had a little bit of black stubble to make his almost purple-looking black hair.
Hago música que entretiene
El mundo nos quiere, nos quiere
Y me quiere a mí
They danced sexily, her rolling her hips and shimming her shoulders backward as Rolo dropped down and back up. The spread out from the middle.
The next girl came up. She was a beginner, as she joined at least three weeks ago (I actually didn't remember her name unfortunately, maybe I'll get to know her in the future). She was okay, though it showed she lacked experience. Her steps were a little off beat. She slid to the right almost tripping.
Toda mi gente se mueve
Mira el ritmo cómo los tiene
The last couple before Keith came in and danced to the last verse before the chorus. They lacked the sex appeal, but they looked fantastic. To finish their duo, the boy threw the girl between his legs, which she stood and posed to him. The crowd jeered and hollered, something I took pride in.
Hago música que entretiene
Mi música los tiene fuerte bailando
Y se baila así
When the music went into instrumental, everyone paired up except for myself. Shiro had the beginner, Rolo and Nyma, and then the one girl and other boy. I danced myself in the front, as the couples did their own freestyle dances together. They weren't coordinated at all, and no one was dancing the same. But I bet, it looked great.
Taking a risky glance I see Lotor whispering, and positioning his team in certain positions and poses in ease, ready for when the music starts.
I don't know how, but out of the corner of my eye, I could see Keith strolling, popping his hips as he came over to me. I continue dancing though, giving him a side smirk.
He laid a hand against my chest and looked up at me seductively. His eyes half shut, though they glinted a hunger for passion.
Was it hot? I think it's starting to warm up? Climate change am I right?
Tamo' rompiendo la discoteca
La fiesta no para, apenas comienza
C'est comme-ci, c'est comme-ça
Ma chèrie, la-la-la-la-la
Keeping up with him was a challenge, he swayed, his hips out of control. I spun him, and then dipped him. He stood back up and dropped down, almost brushing against my front side. He came back up, and we continued our dance.
Francia, Colombia
Me gusta (Freeze)
We freeze, my hands on his waist from behind him, his arms outstretched around my neck.
J Balvin, Willy William
Me gusta (Freeze)
We freeze once again, me dipping him, our faces so close. I felt my stomach turn to knots. It was like he was acting, though impressively surreal. I knew he hated me, but for a second, his expression gave some whole new meaning.
Los DJ's no mienten, le gusta a mi gente
He gives me a nod, and jumps up onto me, his legs holding himself up. I extend my arm to hold his back for support.
Y eso se fue mundial (Freeze)
He leans back, and I feel the copper on the back in my tongue. I quickly tighten the muscles on my arm as he hangs from it for support. He sits back up on me rolling his eyes. He gets off of me, pushing my chest to walk away sassily. The crowd follows the sexy gesture whistling and shouting after him. It wasn't a lot of people, in fact after looking up, some of them seemed digested, I saw two others leave. I felt a drum in my chest, everyone just saw me grinding against the new kid.
No le bajamos, más nunca paramos
Es otro palo y ¡blam!
Suddenly, we hear the skid of the turntables, I looked up and saw Lotor's group already dancing, their shoes sliding against the cement, the very often sounds of pebbles scraping against the hard ground, barely audible over the music.
I'm panting, as I reach over for a swig of whatever alcohol there was. It made my eyes water, as it had a tangy sour taste. I didn't bother being sneaky about it, Shiro already knew I drank when I came to these events, and no matter how many times he tried to stop me, he eventually gave up. It's not like I got too hammered, and even if I did, I either slept over Pidge's or his own apartment/condo afterwards anyways.
Anyways, back to the dance, Lotor's team was dancing as if it was rehearsed. They knew what they were doing, and it looked very professional. I wouldn't doubt they were conversing and creating a battle strategy while we were doing our own number. Lotor was the competitive type, as well as the perfectionist. His group hasn't lost a single dance recital, and he has a famous name in the dancing industry. Mostly for his ballet routines. I wouldn't be surprised if even Keith knew who he was.
I found Keith next to my side, arms crossed, and a slight smirk spread across his face.
What was his deal?
I elbow him gently to get his attention and try to talk over the screaming crowd and obnoxious music.
"Why did you do that?!" I didn't mean to sound alarmed, it was just how it came out. I found it hard to speak my mind when he was around.
He shrugged.
Just, shrugged.
I look over to the side, as I bite the inside of my cheek. I whisk a cup of the mystery alcohol and hand it to Keith.
"I'm not gonna press you, but its really good!"
He took the cup and drank whatever was left in it. Now turning my line of vision to Lotor's team; they had everything down pat. They only thing I could say I didn't like, was the lack of emotion. It just missed something. You can't sing, dance, play an instrument, write, or even win a mathletes tournament without ambition and passion. I didn't see this in the group, and maybe that's a good thing.
They'd probably blind us if they were that good. Soon enough, the music died out, and the crowd hollered out, some even chanting 'Lotor! Lotor!' Pidge raised a hand in the air, everyone falling completely silent. He then pointed to Lotor's group, the crowd screaming at the top of their lungs. He swung and flicked his hand once again, and pointed it straight to my group.
My heart sank.
Silence.
I heard a few claps, and then it died out. Pidge, looking guilty, walked out of his little music booth and pulled over Shiro and Lotor.
Silence.
Pidge took Lotor's and Shiro's arm.
Silence.
He raised...

Lotor's.

// 7624 words of fucking fanfiction thank you so much for 1k I really do appreciate it, midterms set off the release of the chapter so I do apologize! Love you guys💕//