A Dose of Support

F the burden Brittany feels about winning the competition

G The sense of relief Brittany feels from Alix's presence

H The mutual respect Brittany and Alix have for each other

The challenges in gymnastics that Brittany has had to overcome

A serious

B confused

C shocked

D annoyed

F With that, Alix turned and headed toward the exit. (paragraph 4)

G Brittany stared at the empty stands, imagining how she must have made Alix feel. (paragraph 9)

H Alix placed her hands on Brittany's shoulders and gave her a little shake. (paragraph 14)

J She saw Alix, giving two thumbs up, and Brittany envisioned the judges giving her the same gesture after her routine. (paragraph 15)

A "I'm sorry, Brittany, I know you're great at gymnastics, but I was just trying to offer some advice." (paragraph 4)

B Five days had passed since Brittany had confronted Alix -- and just two days were left until the competition. (paragraph 6)

C "You seem off your game, Brit -- and you need to get it together by Saturday morning." (paragraph 8)

D Brittany approached the edge of the mat with her head held high. (paragraph 15)

F By causing Brittany to believe that Alix will not come to support her

G By increasing the pressure Brittany feels about her performance

H By revealing that Brittany has practiced as much as she can for the competition

J By highlighting the reason Brittany needed time apart from Alix

A By explaining that it is important to be honest with others

B By revealing that achieving a goal often requires eliminating distractions

C By suggesting that participating in athletic competitions can be stressful

D By showing that good relationships can withstand minor disagreements

F fondness

G admiration

H hopefulness

J amusement