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“Always.”
And he leads me to the floor.
As we dance this tanda, I get lost in the feel of it. We’re in our close embrace, eyes closed, completely succumbing to the music.
These shoes have had such a life, and now they’ve given me one, too. They’ve given me him. And I have to believe that even if abuela’s not here, even if she can’t see this, she approves of this. Of everything I’ve had the chance to do with her beautiful shoes.
Once I step off the dance floor, walking over to get some water, I spot them, staring back at me wide-eyed. Past me would have hidden behind guilt, but I just feel loved and supported when I see them. Familiar faces in what has become a familiar place.
“Oh my god, you were hidingthisfrom us?” Delfina asks.
“He’s practically falling at your feet,” T says in awe.
“That’s just the dancing.” I try to wave off.
“Oh no, it isn’t,” they respond in unison.
“I thought you guys had things to do,” I say.
“We lied,” Delfi confesses.
“We absolutely lied,” T agrees. “You expected us to missthis? And look at this fucking dress!”
“It’s nice, right?”
“Nice is an understatement,” Delfi responds, taking in the beauty of the dress.
Just then Logan walks up to us, waving. “Hey ladies, nice to see you again.” He passes me a cup of water. “Thought you could use some.”
“Thanks,” I say.
They watch this exchange with wide grins, practically bursting at the seams.
“Why are you guys acting like you’ve never been out in public before? Go dance with somebody.”
“I could introduce you to some people?” Logan offers.
“Sounds great.” Delfina smiles.
“Oh no. I’m just going to park it right here and keep watching you. I am thoroughly entertained.”
“Gavin might be here later,” Logan adds, which only results in T scowling. But then her eyes snag on somebody nearby.
“Javier!” she calls out, and gives him a kiss in greeting when he comes over.
“Hola rubia, cómo estás?” He looks over and notices all of us, his eyes lighting up, his smile growing bigger. “En serio? Todos están acá? Qué bueno!”
“Sentáte,” I say, offering him a seat.
Tara walks by our table and stops when she sees all of us sitting down, quickly joining in.
“Javier, hi!” she exclaims, then turns to Logan, “This is so great. Thanks for this.” She looks over at the rest of the table and introduces herself. “Hi! I’m Tara.”
“Oh, were you the partner?” Delfi asks, animated.
“Ah, yes. That’s me. End of an era, you know?”
“But a new one is beginning,” Javier adds, patting her hand.
