I find myself standing and applauding with the rest, a lump in my throat. Dylan, holding firmly onto the railing, has his eyes fixed on his daughter, with a smile that stretches across his face. I understand perfectly, as my daughter provokes the same feelings in me.
The music fades slowly, and Susy bids farewell with an elegant bow. The lights come back on, and the atmosphere vibrates with the echo of collective enthusiasm. There's no doubt: we have just witnessed something special.
As she leaves the rink, she transforms back into the little girl who finds refuge in her father's and Michelle's arms, as if Michelle were her mother. She looks around and searches for Candace, who gives her a thumbs-up in approval.
And then it's my daughter's turn. Her name is announced, and she steps onto
