All tagged dance

Last week I only dared watch, but now, under the baubled lights that sway over a tree-lined square swollen with longing, I buckle my black tango shoes, hold my breath like a platform diver preparing to plunge in, wonder if tonight I will be asked.

I've had a crush on Crystal forever, and now here I am, in front of everyone, expected to stab a flower into her dress, millimeters from her—you know.

Looking straight ahead and not too far back or too far forward – my strategy for dealing with the new normal. I straighten up, and the gut punch comes swiftly and unexpectedly.