One Hundred Letters for James

011

011:

Dancing

(Yesterday was my birthday. For some reason, I expected you to call. You didn't.)

When we were in Grade Nine, I was a competitive dancer. Everyday after dance class, you would come and pick me up and ride on the bus with me since your mom didn't want me to ride on my own.

One day I had to stay a little longer because I had a big competition coming up. I told you to wait with all the parents in the waiting room while I worked on my solo.

It was a lyrical number, one about pain and loss and love. Since I was one of the oldest dancers at the studio, the teachers trusted me alone in a classroom.

I was really in the zone, trying to concentrate on the music, so only when the song ended and you started clapping did I realize that you were there.

"Wow, Kath," You said, using the nickname that you had given me over the years. "You're really good. But you know the part where you're dancing the waltz and pretending that your partner is there?" I'd rolled my eyes, knowing that you thought you were better than me, even though I was the one taking the lessons almost daily.

"Yea,"

"It doesn't look that realistic. Like, have you ever waltzed before? It's more like this." You walked over to me, taking my hand and placing it on your shoulder before placing a hand on my waist. You took my other hand and held it tightly. "Now, start dancing." I did as I was told, making my way across the stage. After a few steps, and when that part of the dance was over, you pulled me a little closer smiling.

"That was great Kathleen!" You cheered. We stood like that a little longer before, in the corner of my eye, I saw you tilt your head a little, as if you were going to kiss me. I did the same, standing a little taller.

"Hey, Kathleen, who's in here with you?" The instructor, Marcy said, walking in. We shot apart.

"Oh, hello miss, I'm James. I was just helping Kath here with her waltz."

"I see," Marcy replied. "Kathleen, it's time to go."

"Okay. Bye Marcy. Lets go James."

And we haven't talked about what could've happened since.