23. Dance Partners' Emotions
"Please, have a seat and make yourselves comfortable," Petro said, casting a welcoming glance at the pair before him, urging them to take a seat. And so, they complied.
The two exchanged a wry smile between them. With the music gradually fading into the background, the opportune moment for dancing seemed to have arrived.
Couples began to form on the dance floor, and Sarah, feeling the rhythm of the music, started to sway to its beat. Despite her eagerness to dance, she was without a partner. Glancing around, she locked eyes with Phil, and gathering her courage, she addressed him.
"You're Phil, right?" she inquired. He nodded in affirmation, his gaze fixed on Sarah. Emboldened, she continued, "Would you like to dance?"
Her question caught him off guard, and a nervous smile played across his lips. Although he wanted to dance with Ellen, he chose to bide his time. With a nod, Phil rose from his seat and moved toward her. Extending his hand, he made a courteous gesture, which touched Sarah.
Ellen's face lit up with excitement as she witnessed their interaction. "Catch you later, friend," Sarah bid Ellen goodbye before taking Phil's hand. Together, they entered the ballroom.
Observing the twosome beginning to dance at a leisurely pace, Ellen smiled before turning her attention elsewhere. Her gaze met Paul's, who couldn't seem to look away. She averted her eyes, brushing her bangs aside to clear her vision.
For a moment, Ellen contemplated inviting Petro to dance, given that the man she had initially wanted to dance with had found a partner. Summoning her courage, she turned toward Petro. Sensing her gaze, he met her eyes.
With a nervous smile, she posed her question, "Petro, would you like to dance?" His eyes widened, and he pointed to himself, seeking confirmation.
Chuckling, Ellen obliged, "Yes, you, the only Petro I know." A laugh escaped him as he rose to his feet. Adjusting his coat, he approached her, hand extended.
"Of course, I'd be honored," he responded. Ellen's smile grew, and after a brief exchange of glances, she faced Paul with a meaningful look. Ignoring him, she took Petro's hand and followed his lead onto the dance floor.
Petro's warm, sizable hand enveloped hers. As they positioned themselves among the other dancers, Ellen felt a bit awkward initially. However, Petro's experienced touch guided her, placing her hands at the nape of her neck. The gentle music continued to play, serving as their backdrop.
His hands found her waist, drawing her close. The sensation initially startled her, but she concentrated on the music, willing herself not to be flustered. The scent of Petro's cologne wafted to her, strong and inviting. Yet, she couldn't help but remember Paul's distinctive fragrance—a memory that remained with her.
Petro's unwavering gaze studied her face, attempting to discern what it was that had captivated his brothers so instantaneously. Similarly, Ellen's gaze remained fixed on him, taking in every detail of the man before her. Seeking to strike up a pleasant conversation, she ventured, "I heard from Phil that your mother is English and your parents are from Turkey. It's a bit like my situation, but reversed."
Recognizing her effort, Petro smiled and engaged, "That's correct. We're a close-knit, content family. In my case, I left England temporarily to oversee our family business here." Ellen's eyes widened in astonishment, absorbing the weight of Petro's responsibilities. She commented, "That's a significant responsibility. I hope all goes well for the company."
He shared the sentiment, desiring success for his endeavors. Trying to divert his thoughts, he inquired, "And you, Ellen? My brothers didn't mention much about you, our neighbor. If it's not a bother, tell me about yourself."
Ellen's gaze shifted from his face to his shoes momentarily, her intention to avoid accidentally stepping on his feet. She replied, "It's not a bother at all. Well, there's not too much to tell. I've lived here since I was ten. I work as a hotel security guard, covering both day and night shifts. My major is in forensics, and I aspire to become a detective or a police officer."
Petro was genuinely taken aback by her response. Ellen defied his expectations of being an ordinary woman. Her aspirations intrigued him further, motivating him to learn more. He praised her, "Impressive, Ellen. I hope you achieve all your dreams." His smile drew him closer to her.
Caught off guard by his proximity, Ellen held his gaze, her heart racing. His warm breath near her ear, he playfully commented, "You know, I've uncovered your secret, but don't worry—I won't spill the beans."
Petro resumed their dance, guiding her effortlessly. As they moved, Ellen mulled over his words, trying to decipher their meaning. Unbeknownst to her, Petro was executing a plan to switch dance partners and observe the dynamics.
Approaching Paul and his current partner, Petro offered, "Shall we dance now, beautiful brunette? Afterward, you can return to dancing with Paul." The brunette agreed with a smile, allowing herself to be led by Petro.
Left behind, Ellen's gaze turned to Paul, her emotions turbulent after witnessing their close dance. Paul noticed her retreating, stepping closer and grasping her arm gently. As she turned toward him, their faces and bodies in close proximity, her feelings swirled within her.