The Black Swan's Final Revenge Pirouette: The 99th Game Was Mine All Along by Kylie Homme

Chapter 25

“So this is what elite ballet training really looks like,” Leo said, leaning in the doorway of the rehearsal room as he watched Ariana finish her warm–up. “Makes hockey practice look like

a walk in the park.

Ariana laughed, wiping sweat from her forehead with a towel. “Yeah right. I bet your training sessions are just as brutal.”

Leo walked in and sat on a nearby bench, offering her a bottle of water. “To be honest, I always thought ballet was all about grace and floating around. But watching you train… it’s. like seeing a serious athlete at work.”

Ariana took a sip and nodded. “Most people get it wrong. Every ‘effortless‘ move you see on stage comes from thousands of hours of practice and too many injuries to count.”

Leo’s eyes sparkled with admiration. “Just like hockey. People only see us gliding around. scoring goals, but never the 5 AM practices or the bruises.”

They exchanged knowing smiles, understanding each other without needing words.

“Any chance you’re free after my show tonight?” she asked as she adjusted her pointe shoes. “There’s this great place around the corner…”

“I’m free,” Leo answered without hesitation, his smile warm. “Always free for you.”

That dinner became their first real date, then came a second, third… With each meeting. their connection grew deeper.

while Ariana caught his games whenever possible. In their professional worlds, they discovered shared values – the relentless. pursuit of excellence, passion for their

the reality of

sick,” Leo told her one evening as they sat on a bench in Central Park. “Doctors don’t

Chapter 25

“I’m so sorry, Leo. Is

falling apart. Dad’s always been the one running everything, and as the only son, I need to

have to retire from hockey,” Ariana said softly, understanding his

my family. I can’t just let everything my dad

–

man’s vulnerability, Ariana felt a surge of love wash over her. During these past months, she’d truly gotten to know Leo Reed his kindness, his integrity, his unwavering loyalty

made her

she said firmly. “I can find dance opportunities in America. Maybe not as principal dancer, but…”

“Your career is at its peak right now. Principal dancer at the National Ballet – that’s what dancers dream about

that up.”

I believe once.

stared at her, surprise and gratitude filling his eyes.

smiled, gently kissing him. “Not for you.

hometown and taking over the family business proved far more complicated than they’d imagined. Reed Enterprises was on the