Aria glanced up at Martin, her heart pounding so loudly she was certain he could hear it. His presence, his unwavering gaze, and the warmth of his hand on hers, it all felt too intense. Somehow, with Martin so close, it felt like much more than a dance.
As they stepped onto the floor, Aria found herself faltering, unsure of where to look or how to move. She couldn't shake the flustered heat that crept up her neck, her mind spinning as she tried to match his confident movements.
"Calm down," Martin murmured softly, his tone soothing. "You're doing just fine."
Her eyes darted to his, catching the slight curve of his lips, a reassuring smile that sent another wave of warmth through her.
Slowly, she took a steadying breath. The music swirled around them, its rhythm tugging at her muscle memory. She let herself fall into the familiarity of it, calling upon the years of training she'd had as a courtesan.