Marina walked on stage, looking wonderful, stepping on pointe, being magnificent. Of course, Mr. Kumarov had a keen eye, he could see faults and details where others couldn't. He pointed out one such mistake as soon as Marina stepped in front of him, and all the girls smiled. Natalia did not.
Marina turned her lips into a line and performed for the demanding man. He nodded, stippling his fingers, his attention on her. He gave her a few more instructions, she performed beautifully.
Mr. Kumarov waved. "Bring the boy, please."
Miss Olga pushed Evan onto the stage and all the ballerinas sighed as he walked past them. The music started. He got on the mark and followed the instructions of Mr. Kumarov, dancing with Marina.
Every second that passed, the previously bored Mr. Kumarov became more
