“What are we drinking?” Analise asked. “I’ll get the first round. Wait a minute—HLR will take care of everything.”
“Oh, you don’t have to do that,” Cari said.
“I want to,” Analise replied. “Half the group works there, so why not.”
“I’m having beer,” Randi stated.
“Me too,” Eden echoed.
The others nodded and Analise said, “Beer it is.”
“I’ll help you,” Tennie offered as the others settled at the table.
There were several couples circling the dance floor doing different versions of the two-step. Randi nudged Eden’s elbowand nodded towards Cari. She smiled as Cari watched the flow of dancers.
“Are you ready to give it a try?” Randi asked.
“Oh, I don’t know.” Cari looked at her wide-eyed. “I need some liquid courage first.”
“It really isn’t hard, Cari,” Eden said. “It’s back two steps and up one if you’re following or the opposite if you’re leading.”
Cari gasped. “I’m a follower, for sure.”
Randi chuckled.
“Hey, why don’t you show me,” Cari said. “I’ll watch and learn.”
Randi looked at Eden and raised her brows. “Okay, Eden and I will dance right here in front of you, but then you have to try it with me.”
“Okay.” Cari nodded enthusiastically.
“Do you want to lead?” Randi asked as they stepped onto the dance floor.
“Nah, you’re better at it,” Eden said and raised her arms.
Randi put her right hand on Eden’s hip and clasped her hand. She listened for the beat of the music before taking a step forward. They instantly fell into a familiar rhythm as Randi led them in a small circle near their table. She was reminded of many nights when she and Eden had practiced the two-step around their living rooms. Just like Cari, they hadn’t wanted to look foolish when they went out with their new friends after moving to Texas.
Randi smiled and gazed into Eden’s light brown eyes. There was a sparkle in her eyes then Eden winked. “We haven’t done this in a while,” she said.
“Yeah, but we’ve still got it.”
Eden chuckled and Randi’s heart warmed at the familiar sound. She loved Eden’s laugh.
“Lead us over to Cari.”
Randi nodded and guided them to the edge of the dance floor. She motioned for Cari to come towards them. Analise and Tennie had made it back to the table with their drinks.
“Watch Eden’s feet,” Randi said as they danced by Cari.
“Two steps back then one up,” Eden said.
“I think I get it.” Cari smiled.
“Come on,” Randi said, stopping in front of Cari. “Let’s give it a go.”
Eden took Cari’s hand and put it into Randi’s then stepped aside. “You’ve got this.”
Cari widened her eyes and winced.
