Ribbons

On the night of the Nutcracker performance, Robin dresses up and wanders around the city, to make sure that Mom won’t suspect she’s given away the ticket. Meanwhile, Thomas, winner of the coin toss, goes to the performance. 

After the holiday, ballet classes resume, and Thomas, Leah, and Amy pester Robin about returning. Meanwhile, Robin keeps up with her own practice, dancing until her legs ache. Even outside of her own makeshift studio, Robin slips into dance, eager to work out excess energy. Mom encourages Robin to try another after school activity, but Robin refuses.

Bureaucratic mistakes delay both Grandmother’s arrival and Robin’s return to class. Much to her chagrin, Robin grows even taller. Soon, her pointe shoes are too small. Scared to ask Mom for a new pair, Robin forces her feet into the old ones, ignoring the pain. 

Next October, Grandmother—“Paw-paw” in Chinese—finally arrives. As the family gathers outside, Dad unloads Grandmother’s many belongings. Sliding across the seats, Grandmother moves to climb out of the car. Robin notices that Grandmother is short, wearing a silk jacket and ankle-high slippers. Across her knees are two canes, which Grandmother uses to steady herself. Though Dad offers his help, Grandmother insists on walking alone.