A Soft First Step

Silence filled the grand room, bathed in gentle evening light. My arms were already curved aloft, as if waiting for music. Slowly, warmth stirred in my joints. I lowered my lifted right foot, testing the surface beneath me. The smooth wooden plank felt cool, firm, and real. With a measured breath, I shifted my weight onto both pointe shoes, letting my fingers flutter ever so slightly against the quiet air. I was truly standing on my own.

1 Nauk