FIRST IMPRESSIONS

The dance studio buzzed with energy as dancers practiced their routines, their movements a blur of grace and precision. Ari, trailed behind her sister, trying to stay inconspicuous in the lively environment. Her sister had invited her to watch her practice, and though she wasn’t particularly interested in dance, she was more curious about the world her sister was so passionate about.

The moment she stepped in, her eyes were drawn to him—Leo. He moved with a fluidity that seemed almost otherworldly, each step perfectly executed, each gesture imbued with an effortless elegance. He was a striking figure amidst the crowd, his presence commanding attention even when he wasn’t actively performing.

Ari tried to keep my gaze discreet, not wanting to appear too interested, but it was impossible not to be captivated by him. Her sister introduced her to a few of her friends, and they greeted Ari warmly. Everyone, that is, except Leo. He walked past her with a casual indifference that stung more than she expected. She had hoped for a nod or a smile, something to acknowledge her presence, but he seemed to bypass her entirely.

That evening, when Ari returned home, she couldn’t shake off the feeling of rejection. Her sister mentioned her comment about Leo’s apparent pride to him on a chat, and she regretted it instantly. She hadn’t meant to sound judgmental, but the way he had ignored her had left her feeling unworthy of his notice.

A few days later, Her sister mentioned she was welcome to visit the studio again. Despite her lingering feelings of awkwardness, she decided to go. She hoped for a chance to redeem herself or at least understand why Leo had made her feel so insignificant.

As she entered the studio, she spotted Leo at the far end, engaged in a conversation with another dancer. Ari's heart skipped a beat when he looked up and his gaze met hers. To her surprise, he walked over, carrying a chair with a nonchalant air. He placed the chair directly in front of her and sat down, his eyes fixed on her with an intensity that caught her off guard.

“Hi,” he said, his voice steady and commanding. “I heard you called me proud the other day.”

His question was direct, and the way he said it made her stomach churn. She wasn’t expecting him to bring it up, let alone confront her so openly. She took a deep breath, trying to maintain her composure.

“Yes,” she replied, trying to sound calm despite her racing heart. “I think you’re proud.”

Leo’s expression remained unreadable, and for a moment, she wondered if she had said something wrong. “You think I’m proud just because I didn’t come over to greet a new face?” he asked, his tone carrying a hint of challenge.

Ari swallowed hard, feeling a wave of embarrassment. “I guess... I just thought so.”

He studied her for a moment, and she could feel the weight of his gaze. There was something intimidating about his scrutiny, but at the same time, it was oddly exhilarating. She wasn’t sure what to make of him, but she couldn’t deny the magnetic pull she felt.

Their conversation continued, and for the first time, Ari found herself engaged in a discussion with Leo that was both awkward and surprisingly comfortable. They talked about themselves, their interests, and the things they liked. His questions were probing, and she found herself opening up in ways she hadn’t anticipated.

As the session came to an end, Ari knew it was time to leave. She stood up to say goodbye, feeling a mixture of relief and disappointment. To her surprise, Leo stood up as well and, without a word, pulled her into a hug. It was unexpected, a brief yet significant embrace that left her feeling warm and confused all at once.

The hug was over almost as soon as it began, but its impact lingered long after she left the studio. She replayed the moment in her mind, the feeling of his arms around her, the softness of his touch. It was a simple gesture, but it carried a weight of significance that she couldn’t ignore.

As Ari walked home, she felt a strange mix of anticipation and curiosity. She wanted to understand what this connection meant and what would come next. Leo had managed to both frustrate and fascinate her, and she couldn’t help but look forward to their next encounter.