Chapter 13 - THE SECOND DANCE
The new charity's opening gala was held in a modest but beautiful venue overlooking the Mississippi River.
There were no humiliating seating arrangements.
No whispered insults.
No people being used as entertainment.
Just families.
Volunteers.
Donors.
And children whose lives the organization hoped to improve.
I stood near the stage, nervous.
Leandro approached.
“You look beautiful.”
I smiled.
“You say that every time.”
“Because it's true every time.”
I laughed.
He offered his hand.
“Dance with me.”
I looked at him.
“Again?”
He smiled.
“Again.”
We stepped onto the dance floor.
This time, nobody stared at his scars.
Nobody laughed at my body.
And if anyone did, I no longer cared.
Leandro moved carefully.
His leg still hurt sometimes.
But he danced.
And I followed.
Halfway through the song, he leaned closer.
“Do you remember what I said the first time?”
I smiled.
“That you hadn't danced in four years.”
He nodded.
“And now?”
I looked at him.
“Now you're making up for lost time.”
May you like
He laughed.
Then kissed my forehead.
