Reluctantly, I took Derek's hand and let him lead me to the middle of the crowded dancefloor. The faint sounds of evening gowns rustling and heels clicking on the marble floor sounded between and on top of the orchestra's waltzy notes. We assumed the dancing positions, my right hand in his, my left on his shoulder, and moved our feet in the box step. Derek held me close to him, much closer than Kendra had when she'd taught me, his movements smooth and practiced.

I sighed ...