The Paleys (1921-1927) - An Alternate Romanov Story

Dancing Classes

In Vladimir's humble opinion, no one could match his sister Natalia's unrivalled skill as a dancer. From the moment she first stepped onto a dance floor as a child, her grace and fluidity had captivated all who witnessed it. Every movement she made was a work of art, each step imbued with a natural elegance that seemed to flow effortlessly from her body. While Vladimir had found solace in the pages of books and the melody of music, Natalia had discovered her passion in the realm of physical expression, through dancing and theatre.

Back in Paris, when their parents hosted cultural soirées at their house in Bolougne-sur-Seine, Natalia's eyes were always drawn to the graceful dancers on stage. She was particularly mesmerized by the ballet companies that would occasionally visit, especially the renowned Ballet Russes, whom her family had generously sponsored since its inception. Despite her deep fascination with dance, Natalia had always felt a twinge of regret that her father had never allowed her to learn ballet herself, as he believed it was unsuitable for a girl of her social standing. After all, it was one thing to support ballet artists, another completely different was letting one's daughter learn the art.

On top of everything else, Alexei felt at ease around Natalia, so he wouldn't be overwhelmed and ashamed of his lack of expertise. Also, Natalia was comfortable enough with him to be stern and efficiently prepare Alexei for his coming-of-age festivities. That had been the initial plan and the only thing on Vladimir's mind when he proposed the idea to them separately, and they both agreed immediately to hold a class the next day.

Natalia took her role as a teacher seriously, treating it with the utmost importance and care. In the grand ballroom, she arranged a special corner with heavy velvet curtains for privacy and brought her own gramophone from her bedroom so they could have music to dance to. Though she could dance flawlessly, Natalia asked Vladimir to find a book on the subject to enhance her teaching and explain the movements using the right technical terms.

The next morning, after a hearty breakfast, Natalia led Alexei to the elegant ballroom, with Vladimir and Irina eagerly taking their seats to watch them in anticipation. As Natalia put on a record on the gramophone, a waltz by Strauss echoed through the empty ballroom, giving it a lively and festive atmosphere even in the early morning.

"Right," Natalia said in a booming voice, walking over to Alexei with outstretched arms. "Show me what you know."

Alexei backed up one step, intimidated by Natalia's open posture. "You know how I dance, we've done it before."

Natalia, however, insisted on her method, "Alexei Nikolaevich, do you really think I'm paying attention to your dancing skills during our parties? I would only remember if you were truly terrible, and I don't recall that being the case."

A relieved smile spread across Alexei's face. "I assure you, my dancing is far from elegant."

"We shall see about that," Natalia replied with a mischievous glint in her eyes. She extended her hand, her palm upturned.

With a mixture of eagerness and trepidation, Alexei took her hand. As he awkwardly positioned his other arm around her waist, Natalia gently corrected him. "A bit lower," she said, in a professional tone.

"I am learning," he protested, his face flushing slightly.

"Good," she replied, her tone firm but encouraging. "Now, let's begin."

As they started to dance, Natalia's body moved effortlessly, leading Alexei through the steps. Vladimir, watching from afar, chuckled to himself as Alexei stumbled and recovered, his brow furrowed in concentration.

"Relax, Alexei," Natalia said in a soft tone. "It's just a dance."

"Easier said than done," Alexei replied, his breath coming in short gasps.