Castle of Light - Part 2

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.