Cirque Mystique: The Trapeze Artist's Secret

The hum of anticipation thrummed through the air, a familiar symphony of nervous energy and last-minute preparations. Outside, the big top stood tall, a vibrant beacon against the California sky, secured by a myriad of ropes that were as familiar to me as my own hands.
I ducked under the entrance flap, the scent of sawdust and canvas filling my lungs. Silver was already there, pacing in the center of the ring, her expression a whirlwind of relief and exasperation as she spotted me. "Corey! You're here! Jesus, I was wondering if you were even going to show this afternoon."
"Sorry. I, uh... I got caught up."
My eyes flickered towards the stalls, where Rhona and her entourage watched with thinly veiled impatience. This wasn't just any practice; it was a test, and I knew it.
