Nina's invitation exposed a skill my System had not improved through accident recovery. I had attended school dances, family celebrations, plus one wedding where remaining seated became competitive, but none qualified me to move near the woman waiting beneath the balcony light.
"I cannot dance," I said, placing the fact between us before false confidence produced injuries.
"Neither can half the people inside," Nina replied, keeping her hand extended while the slower song continued, "they survive through commitment."
"My commitment may endanger your shoes," I warned, accepting her hand despite the prediction.
"Then watch where I place them," she said, moving my other hand toward her waist only after I nodded.
