THE MYSTERY DANCER

Episode 1

Maxine's Pov:

"Damn it! Hurry up, Maxine! Even a snail is faster than you" Tammy rasped as I hurried down the stairs with her school bag. "I wonder why she keeps acting clumsy" Ruby also glared at me. Well, I'm not surprised. What do you expect from two sisters with the same characters? "I'm sorry",I muttered as I stretched out the bag to Tammy and she rolled her eyes before snatching it from me. "Are my pretty angels ready?" The familiar voice asked and I turned to see their mother climbing down the stairs, looking so pretty as always. "Yes, mum. I was about coming to your room to kiss you" Tammy said with a pout and went to give her a peck. Well, she was the youngest and tend to behave childish. Mrs Rosalie glared at me when she got to where I was and I quickly took my gaze to the floor. "Okay, dear. You need to hurry up so you won't be late. Be careful, okay?" She said sweetly to her daughters and they nodded "Bye, mum." Ruby said and started walking out. "Bye mummy. I'll get you some small chops on my way back. And I promise to dance for you when I return" Tammy giggled. "Oh! Please Ruby, you and I both know you don't know how to dance" Ruby said as she walked out the door. "That's a lie" Tammy pouted and their mother laughed. "Don't mind your sister. You're a perfect dancer, okay?" She tried petting her. "And what're you staring at??" She snapped at me and I gulped nervously and started walking out of the house, my school bag hung on my right hand. I got out to the parking lot and met Ruby already seated in the black jeep, operating her phone. I tried going in, but she stopped me. "And what do you think you're doing?" She asked with a glare. Oh, please! "I...I..." "I'm not ready to share the car with you today, okay? So, find your way" she snapped and took her eyes back to her phone. Oh God! Not again. Tammy showed up immediately. "Hm" she scoffed and rolled her eyes at me before going into the car as well. "But...how do I get to school? I don't have any money on me" I said and they laughed. "Well, that's your problem; not ours" Tammy smirked and shut the door and the driver took off immediately. I itched my head and watched pathetically as they left. What do I do now? Am I really going to walk to school today again? But the distance is so long. I'll definitely be late for classes. Oh God! I took in a deep breath and having no other choice, I started walking out of the compound. * Want a little introduction? Well, I'm Maxine Daniels. 19 years old and an orphan. Yeah - my parents died a long time ago and since then, I've been forced to live with my uncle and his family since they were the only relatives I knew. The cause of my parents death still remains a mystery as they were both found dead in the early hours of the morning and I'm yet to receive anymore news. My father was a wealthy business tycoon, but when he died, his brother - my uncle - took everything away. Well, it was actually stated in my father's will that he willed everything to him and till date, I still don't know why. I mean, I'm his only child, yet he didn't leave any of his properties or a little part of his wealth for me. And now, I have to depend on my uncle and live as a slave. Anyway, I just decide to go on with life. I mean, as long as there's life, there's hope, right? * I got out to the road and continued walking. Gosh! I was so tired already. I wish I had a cab fare. I can't believe I'll be late for classes again. After a long walk, I came across a billboard that gripped my attention and I stopped to take a proper look at it. On it was boldly written: WHO WILL BE THE STAR DANCER? I smiled as I stared at it. Hmm. The Star Dance Competition. It was one of the greatest dance competitions coming up in a few days time and people from different countries were actually coming to participate. The winner becomes a model and a diva and her life will sure change forever. Its a pity I wouldn't be able to participate because: First, I can't afford the registration fee. And second, my uncle and his wife will never allow me to participate. But I heard they've registered Tammy already. Hm it's quite a pity, though. It'd have been a perfect opportunity to display my talent. I shook my head and continued walking. Well, if there's one thing you should know about me is this - I was made from dance. Like...it's a spirit that can never leave me. I can't stay close to a music without dancing to it. It drives me crazy at times and sometimes, I wonder why I was made like that. Its incredible. I came across a newspaper vendor and my eyes caught the sight of a catchy headline: POPULAR DANCER -NOAH SIGMUND - RETURNS TO NEW YORK FROM HIS TRIP. Oh! I paused and gasped. Noah was back?? Hm. I'm pretty sure he returned with his brother. Wow! I had no idea he was returning today. Well, Noah was the first son of Mr Sigmund - who was the owner of the Star Dance Organization He had a twin brother - Rex - although, they weren't identical and Noah was the cutest - everybody admits to that. He's actually a talented dancer and had won in the World Best Competition which made him popular. He's actually my role model cause his dance steps were incredible and I wonder if I'll ever get a chance meet him so I could tell him how amazing he was. Well, I'm pretty sure I can only meet him in my dreams. I shook my head and laughed and continued on my long way to school. * * * Noah's Pov: "Oh!! My little boys are home!!" Mum exclaimed as I walked into the house with Rex behind me. I smiled and received the embrace she was already offering. "Good morning, mum" I beamed "Oh, my prince charming. You're looking more handsome!" She held my cheeks and said and I chuckled. "Nice to see you, mum." "Yeah - and I guess I'll have to come last" Rex muttered from behind and left me to go to him. "Oh, Rex! Come on; you know you'll always be my little prince", she beamed and kissed him, but he didn't smile or react. Yeah, Whateber. "Come on; what's wrong? Won't you give me a smile, at least?" Mum cooed and he just sighed "Nice seeing you again, mum. I think I'll really be needing a cool shower" he said bluntly and took the stairs, leaving mum astonished. "Noah, what's wrong? Are you two having issues?" She asked, her right hand at akimbo. "Its his problem,,mum. His loss" I scoffed angrily and she flinched. "What's..." "We can talk about it later, okay? But for now, I need to rest" I cut her off, calmly tho and she sighed. "Okay, then. Anyway, your father's on his way home already. You need to get ready cause he's coming to have a big meeting with you" she laughed as she helped me with my buttons. Huh? "What meeting?" I asked, already feeling tired. I'm seriously not ready for one of his arguments. "Well...I think it has to do with you getting married" she shrugged and I furrowed my brows in dismay. "What? Don't tell me he's still into that. Mum..." "Well, its just a guess, Noah. Okay? I'm not really sure. I just think that's his reason. But don't worry, he doesn't have a wife yet" she winked at me and I rolled my eyes, tiredly. "Come on. I'll accompany you to your room" she held my hand and said and started leading me to the stairs. Hmm. "So, how's the dance competition coming up...?" I asked along the way, trying to bring up more conversations. * * *

Episode 2

Maxine's Pov:

The road to school was a very long one and I felt like crying. And I wasn't even getting close yet. "Maxine!" I heard someone call from behind and tiredly turned to have a look. Oh! "Pablo!" I beamed as he scuttled to where I was, holding a box of pizza. "Little pretty girl" he laughed. That's what he always calls me. "Good morning" I greeted, stealing sometime to rest. "Yeah - hey, why are you walking around? Shouldn't you be in school?" He asked and I itched my head. "Uh...actually, I'm on my way to school" I replied. "Huh? Don't tell me your sisters left you behind again?" "Well...?" I shrugged and he shook his head "Well, it's your lucky day. Come on; I'll give you a ride" he said and my eyes beamed. Ah! Thank goodness. "Thank you so much" I said hopefully and followed him to his car. Might be wondering how I got to know him? Well, he owns a classic bar and I go there on most occasions to dance - yeah. I entertain his customers by dancing on stage and in return, I get paid. Well, just so you know, my uncle doesn't really care much about my educational fees and in most cases, I tend to provide for myself. And this semester has been the worst. He hasn't paid a dime from my fees and the principal's already threatening to kick me out. Plus, I've got books to buy and also need a new school bag and pair of shoes. The one I'm currently having can make a blind man laugh. So, Pablo offers me an opportunity to make little money from him by dancing in his bar and get paid. And despite the fact that my family's warned me to stop dancing, I've got no option but have to do it. "So, how was your night?" Pablo asked as we set out on the road. "Well...same as always -I guess" I shrugged. "When will your family ever change towards you, Maxine?" He asked, disappointedly. "Anyway, will you be coming over to the bar today? I'll be having lots of customers and perhaps, you might be interested?" "Okay. What time?" I asked. "Let's say...when you're done from school. What do you think?" "Hmm. I think that'll be perfect. I'll sure be there. Thanks" "It's nothing, little pretty girl. Just make sure you come in time, okay?" "Okay; sure". And we continued the ride smoothly. * * Noah's Pov: I tied the white towel around my waist after taking a long sweet bath and decided to return to the room. I couldn't wait to eat and get some sleep. I retuned to the bedroom and surprisingly, met dad on the bed. Oh! He's back. "Dad!" I called warmly and budged forward. "Son! How was your trip?" He asked, a little coldly. Well, I'm really not surprised. That's just the kind of person dad is. He's very strict. "Urgh..it was pleasant, of course. Thanks. I'm glad to see you". "Same here. I'm more than happy you've returned." He paused and beckoned on me to sit next to him and I did. "So...Wat's up, dad? Mum told me you wanted to have a meeting with me" I laughed at the end and he smiled. "Your mother Can never keep a secret, huh? Anyway, yes. I wanna have a discussion with you. And it's about the company, Noah. "I need you to gain possession of it, but first, you need to get married" he said and I rolled my eyes. Geez! I guess mom was right afterall. "Married?" I scoffed. "And why do I need to get married?" "Because I wouldn't want you squandering your money aimlessly when you take over. In a situation where you have too many women controlling you, you lose focus and put the company at risk. So, I want you, Noah, to get married and settled with one woman before I can trust my company to you. And I'd suggest you do it pretty fast cause time is not on your side." He explained, making it sound more ridiculous. "This is not possible, dad. I'm not ready to get married!" "Well, listen to me" he reduced his voice to a mutter. "If you don't do it, I'll be forced to give it to your brother cause I'm sure he's more than willing to get married for the company. Think wisely, son." And he stood up. "I'm giving you two weeks" he said. "Just two weeks to find a wife of your choice and bring her to me. And if you're unable to find a wife by then, the company and everything will go to your brother". And with that, he left the room, leaving me gob smacked. * *

Episode 3

Maxine's Pov: After what seemed like forever to me, I finally got to school and of course, I was very late. Classes were already on. I felt so nervous as I walked into the classroom. "And why the hell are you just coming?" The teacher stopped to ask me and I also stopped walking. Oh, God! All eyes turned on me - including Ruby. She was smirking at me. "I'm...I'm so sorry, ma'am. I had to walk all the way here" I replied shyly. "Really? You mean you walked like a dog?" One of the students close by asked and the others busted into laughter. "Fine" the teacher sighed and said. "Come on and have a seat". And I gulped down nothing and went to take my seat. We had two more classes before break time and while others were happily leaving the class in pairs, I had no idea what to do cause I had no friend nor money to get something from the cafe. Thank goodness I ate before coming. I just remained on my seat and fortunately, I overheard three ladies in front of me talking about Noah. Well, I'd call it fortunate cause I had something to keep me busy. "Oh, my! He's so cute!" The first one squealed. "Yeah - look at his eyes..." "You won't believe I replayed his dance video seven times before going to bed last night..." Huh? "I wish I'd be able to attend his parent's anniversary party..."; "Yeah - its gonna be a blast..." "I heard they're actually looking for a talented dancer to entertain the guests on that day. Too bad. I wish I was a dancer..." Hmm. I placed my hand on my chin and thought. The anniversary party was actually in three days time and yes - his parents were looking for a talented dancer to entertain the guests. Perhaps, if not for my restrictions, I'd have applied for it. Unfortunately, my *family* has warned me never to dance again and I really don't know why. Although, they can never kill the spirit in me. I was made from dance and will never leave it unless I die. * * Rex's Pov: I laid quietly on the bed, enjoying songs with my headphone when the door opened and I turned to see it was mum. Her lips were moving, but I couldn't hear what she was saying as a result of the headphones and I quickly unplugged them. "Mum" I called and sat up. "Rex! What the hell have you been doing? I've been knocking for hours now!" She grouse. "Yeah, I'm sorry. My headphone was connected" I replied and she sighed and came to sit next to me. "Anyway, how're you?" She asked. "Well..I think I'm cool" I shrugged. "Are you sure? You didn't look fine to me when you returned." She said. "I was just stressed out..." "You haven't been joking around with your brother like you normally do. What's wrong? Are you two having issues?" I took In a deep breath and ran my fingers into my hair. "Maybe you should try asking him that question. Besides, he's the first son, right?" I rolled my eyes. "Rex! What has gotten into you? What the hell happened between you two?" "It's nothing serious, anyway. That reminds me; I've got a little surprise for you". I smiled as I stood up and went to my luggage, bringing out the pretty gold necklace I brought home with me. "Oh, my! Don't tell me its for me" she squealed happily and I laughed and locked it around her neck. "It looks pretty on you" I told her and she flushed and ran to the mirror to have a look. * * Maxine's Pov: Finally, the school came to an end for the day and while others were happy, I was moody - getting to know I'll be going home again. That house was more like hell for.me. I spotted Tammy and Ruby and as expected, they still left without me. And thank goodness! That was just what I needed. I needed to leave without me so I could have enough time to go to Pablo's bar and dance. I just hope the pay will be good this time around. I quickly rushed out to the road to get a cab. Incase you're wondering, it was Pablo who had given the cab fare to me. Else, I'm completely broke. I got a cab and boarded it to the bar. I just hope my family doesn't get to know about this. * * Noah's Pov: I sat angrily in my room, feeling so angry and dejected. What the hell does dad mean by I'd have to get married before gaining possession of the company? Damn it! Is he trying to blame me or what? He can't possibly do this to me. He knows how much I adore dancing. He knows dancing is a part of me and I've always wanted to be in charge of the company. So, why's he trying to blackmail me now? How does he expect me to find a wife in less than two weeks? First of all, I'm not in any relationship. Secondly, there isn't a single girl on earth that's gotten my attention. I'm not crushing on anyone. So, how am I expected to find a wife in less than two weeks? Gosh! I stormed out of the room, out to the balcony. I just needed to be away from here - needed to clear my head. Perhaps, chilling in a bar will be okay. I got to the parking lot and met my driver standing beside the car. "We're going out" I told him as I reached for the door. "Big brother!" I heard Rex call and turned to see him coming towards me. F**k! What does he want this time around? I'm seriously not in the mood for another argument. "What is it, Rex?" I asked a little huskily. "Hey, take some chill pills,okay? I mean no harm" he smirked as he stood in front of me. "Anyway, are you going out? I...feel like spending some time with my brother" he said and I scoffed. "Well, soothe yourself",I replied and walked into the car. Surprisingly, he followed and sat next to me. Hmph. "So, shall we?" He smiled fatuously after shutting the door My driver also got in and ignited the car. "Um...sir, where am I taking you?" He turned slightly and asked. "Just take me to any classic bar..." "Us" Rex cut in with a smile. "Take us to any classic bar". I scoffed at his capricious attitude and the driver took off. * *