At the center of the ballroom, beneath a golden chandelier glowing with candlelight, Lady Beatrice stood close; her right hand on my left shoulder, her left hand interlaced with mine at shoulder height.
Leaning in close, she whispered, "Waltz is a simple dance. Follow my lead."
A solo pianist began to play a waltz. The music swept through the grand hall, wrapping the space in a romantic, dreamlike atmosphere.
"Oom-pah-pah."
"I'm nervous," I admitted, locking eyes with Lady Beatrice as she lifted her chin to match my height.
Lady Beatrice gave my hand a slight squeeze and smiled softly. "Just follow my lead, and you'll be fine."
I swallowed hard, my eyes flicking toward the audience waiting in silence. "What should I do?" I asked.
"Step forward with your left foot," she instructed.
My leg moved forward, and simultaneously, Lady Beatrice elegantly backstepped, allowing me to push her leg back.
"Now, step your right foot sideways to the right."
