3

_KIMBERLY_

"Yes, perfect," I said happily. "Let's try that again. One two three, one two three, one two th-" I cut myself short. "Jen arms wide, your wrists below like so." I demonstrated and she copied. "Excellent."

One. 

Two. 

Three. 

One. 

Two. 

Three. 

One. 

Two. 

Three. 

"Grace, elegance and posture. Dance is the essence of life. Let the music speak for you," I instructed. 

Ever since I was young, ballet dancing was my life. It expressed me the finest and explained the emotions that I couldn't describe with words. It calmed me and, most importantly, it kept me sane. It saddened me that I would one day grow too old for it so, I wanted to enjoy as much as I could while my body could allow it.

This class wasn't so bad. Well, most of the students' technique was poor but nothing that couldn't be fixed. That's why they are beginners. With a little practice and encouragement, they'd probably start dancing better than me.

My class contained twenty-five students and most were females, as expected. Some people think that guys in tights are gay but this is a common stereotype and it isn't completely true. Some of the kids who practiced the art are made fun of and the few who came usually come without their peer's knowledge. 

After an hour of position and movement practice, I turned off the music. "Great. Let's take a break for fifteen minutes."

Everyone immediately dispersed but Lora stayed behind, practicing in front of the mirror. Her gaze was fixed on her reflection as she moved this way and that. It wasn't graceful but it was adorable. My thoughts slowly drifted to her father.

When I bumped into the tall, long haired and dark brown eyed man the other night, I honestly thought that I was totally screwed. He looked peeved by my mere existence and I was mortified. I could somewhat feel his annoyance radiating off of him and I deserved it, seeing that I ruined his wonderful shirt and whatever program he was in. 

Despite him being obviously in a hurry, he was polite and spared a few smiles. I almost slapped myself when he told me his name. It was beyond me why we even crossed paths for the second time. It was like the universe was excited to rub the fact that I had such an encounter with THE Oliver Woodling in my face. I even offered to take his shirt to a cheap lundramat. Oh God, if only I could turn back time. 

"You really outdid yourself, Kim. Great job," I scolded myself.

There was no denying that he was rich, handsome and successful but I've never heard of him being married, much less having a child. Brushing the unnecessary thoughts aside, I approached Lora. 

"Get a little rest or else you'll end up having muscle cramps," I warned.

"I will. Just give me five more minutes. I want this to look amazing for when I show Dad later."

"We've just started this season's classes and your determination has already impressed me. Your dad must have raised you well."

"Yeah. Dad was kind enough to have me, so I will be the best in everything I do. I wanna grow up to be just like him, hard working and good-hearted. That way, I will pay him back for all the love and care he gives me."

"Kids shouldn't think about such things." I smiled at her and pulled her away from the barres when she continued with her practice. I was already in trouble with Mr. Woodling and I didn't need more things to apologize for. "But your dad would cry if he heard something so touching."

She shook her head. "My Daddy never cries. He's the strongest person I know."

I laughed. "Tears of joy are the hardest to hold in," I laughed, not really sure if that was true because it was something that I have never experienced.

"But he never cries!" She justified with furrowed brows.

"Okay," I laughed, "You win."

She nodded pridefully. "Anyway, it okay if you stay with me until Dad comes to get me?"

Having nothing more to do after classes, I nodded. "I'd be honored."

~

Later that afternoon, classes were over and I was seated with Lora outside on one of the steps leading to the main door. Never would I have thought that such a young girl would be so interesting and amiable. Despite being only seven, Lora was more mature than children her age. 

She also had so much to say that I found it a little difficult to catch up with her. I chuckled softly when I tried to imagine how Oliver puts up with her. He didn't look like a joker or hyperactive man, so it made me wonder where Lora got this part of her personality from.

"Did you always want to be a ballet teacher?" Lora asked, leaning forward to draw patterns on the stairs with her small finger. 

"No, not really. I actually wanted to be an accountant but... " I trailed off as I thought of a better way to explain my situation without giving out too many details. "Plans changed and I became more serious about ballet."

She sat up and turned to her side so that she could face me completely. "Plans changed?" I nodded and she pressed on, "Why?"

I hummed. "As people grow older, things change and you sometimes stop wanting the things that you once did." 

"I wouldn't like that."

"Well, it's for the best sometimes. You can't plan every single thing."

"But my dad plans his day."

"You really idolize your father, huh?" I laughed. She reminded me of how I used to be. "Planning is okay but you can't plan everything. Life has circumstances. Anyway, you mentioned paying your dad back for having you."

"I grew up in an orphanage," she began after some hesitation and looked at me, as if looking for any signs of discomfort. "My parents left me there when I was very small so I don't remember them. The lady at the orphanage didn't even bother to name me. I wasn't treated very nicely.

"When Dad came to look for a child, all the children wanted to be adopted by him because he looked rich and was very kind. He also brought toys for everyone. I didn't bother to go near him because the orphanage lady told me not to, but Dad saw me and asked for my name.

"I didn't have one so I was quiet. He told me not to be shy but I wasn't. I just didn't have the answer to his question. The lady told him not to mind me because I was a stubborn child and that he deserved better, but he refused to believe her words and adopted me instead." She smiled brightly. "He's the best Dad in the world so I want to be the best daughter in the world too. Mr. Woodling saved me."

I stared at her for a while, wondering how much she must've gone through. Orphanages are supposed to be safe havens for orphans and it surprised me that there were places where children are neglected or aren't allowed to be near guests. 

What surprised me most was that the most cheerful girl in my class went through that. I couldn't help but admire how strong she was. Unlike me, she was genuinely happy now. No wonder she held her father in such high accord.

I moved closer to her and gave her a side hug. "You're very blessed to have been adopted by Mr. Woodling."

"Ms. Woodling," a lightly edged masculine voice called. Lora and I looked up at the middle aged driver standing in front of us. "Sorry to disturb your conversation but it's time to go home," he said. 

She stood up hurriedly and slung her backpack on. "Is Daddy with you?"

The driver shook his head with a soft, apologetic smile. "He's having an important meeting and he won't be home tonight."

Her smile dropped and I gently rubbed her arm. 

"He'll be back tomorrow, right?" I comforted. 

She nodded then smiled, although it didn't reach her eyes. "Bye Kim."

I waved as she left and continued sitting there for a little longer while I gazed at the sky above me. Maybe I would one day let go of my demons and be genuinely happy. I looked down to my lap. I hope that day will come soon.