?Chapter 102:


    That evening, she decided to pass her chance to dance with Brian to someone else. The girl was overjoyed, her eyes widening in disbelief. “I can dance with Brian? Are you serious about giving this to me?”


    As Rachel watched Tracy, her expression grew resigned. She nodded decisively. “Yes, I’m not feeling well, so it’s yours.”


    “Wow, thank you so much! This is unbelievable!” the girl eximed.


    That evening, Rachel quietly upied a corner, watching as Brian gracefully danced with various partners. Each dancer was elegantly dressed, their steps practiced and sleek. She was relieved she hadn’t joined them on the dance floor, fearing she might have embarrassed herself.


    The expenses for the dance sses and her dress had relegated her to a diet of mere bread for almost a month. Additionally, she had to work a part-time job for two months to pay back the funds she had borrowed from her peers.


    Yet, despite all her sacrifices, she fell short of her goal. From that point on, she swore off dancing.


    Brian wasn’t put off when Rachel hesitated to reach out her hand. “I can lead well enough for both of us,” he said.


    “No, I’ll ruin it,” she replied.


    But he didn’t allow her to retreat. He gently grabbed her wrist and pulled her toward him with determination.


    Frightened, she gripped his jacket. “Brian, stop! I can’t do this, I really can’t!”


    However, Brian had already escorted her to the dance floor.


    “Don’t worry,” he whispered soothingly. “Stick with me, and you’ll be the star of this dance floor.”


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    He wrapped an arm securely around her waist, holding her close, his tone filled with calm assurance. Despite her nervousness, he signaled the band to begin.


    With one hand sped in hers and the other securing her waist, he led her carefully through each step, his guidance gentle and patient. Yet, Rachel felt rigid, her steps awkward and halting. Her high heels, which were already ufortable, began to mark her feet with red indentations. Instead of stepping back, she mistakenly moved forward, stepping directly onto his foot.


    “Oh, I’m terribly sorry!” Rachel blurted out, her face flushed with embarrassment.


    Memories of Brian dancing wlessly with Tracy haunted her, showcasing a natural, fluid partnership. In contrast, she felt utterly out of ce.


    “It’s okay,” Brianforted her, his voice gentle. “Let’s try a few more times. Just follow my lead, and I’ll guide you. Jeffrey is over there, watching. I’m sure he’d be thrilled to see usplete a dance together.” His voice was soft,forting like a soothing breeze by her ear.


    Rachel’s tension eased a bit as she tried to sync with his steps. However, her inexperience was apparent, and she kept apologizing.


    “I’m sorry…”


    “Sorry again…”


    “I’m so sorry.”


    After several more mistakes, Rachel reached her limit.


    “I’m sorry, this is all my fault. I’m just not meant for this. I should stop.” She began to lift her dress, intending to exit the dance floor.


    Brian, however, was determined not to let her give up. He caught her arm and twirled her twice before drawing her back into a firm embrace. As she leaned back, he dipped down, their eyes locking mid-air. They were so close that a mere tilt could have their lips touch. At that moment, time seemed to stand still.


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