The Shoes Outside the Dance Hall
Chapter 2 - Counting aloud
Ben counted every step loudly. Clara laughed, lost her place and stepped on his foot. He apologized even though it was hers that had landed badly.
Over the following weeks they became less polite and more useful. Clara told him when he pulled too hard. Ben reminded her to look up instead of watching her shoes. They learned that correction was easier when it did not sound like judgment.
One evening the music stopped during a power failure. The instructor clapped the rhythm. Ben and Clara continued counting, quietly this time.
After class they had tea at a late-opening cafe. Clara told him about the divorce. He listened without asking which person was at fault. She appreciated that more than any clever response.
