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As the murmur of the crowd subsided, a hush fell over the grand ballroom. The stage, previously bathed in a soft, ambient glow, now brightened as a group of dancers in traditional Czech attire took their positions. The women wore. Intricately embroidered colorful skirts and blouses, while the men wore dark trousers and crisp, white shirts accented with waistcoats. The very air seemed to thrum with anticipation as they took their positions.
“This is one of my favorite parts. Have you ever heard traditional Czech music?”
I shook my head. “I can’t say that I have.”
She squeezed my arm. “Prepare to lose yourself.”
As the music began, a lively, rhythmic melody pulsed through the room. The dancers sprang into action, weaving around each other in fluid, intricate moves.
Dominika offered me whispered insights into each dance. "This first one is based on a legend about the Vltava River," she gestured toward the dancers who moved like flowing water. "It's a story about love and resilience, much like the river itself."
I watched, captivated, as the dancers brought the legend to life. Their movements ebbed and flowed, perfectly synchronized with the hauntingly beautiful music.
The music faded, and the crowd clapped. After a brief pause, the music started again.
"And this next dance," Dominika continued as the tempo changed. “Is a traditional harvest dance. It symbolizes the joy and community spirit of the harvest season." The dancers' steps became more jubilant, their hands mimicking the motions of reaping and sowing, their faces alight with smiles that reached their eyes.
The last dance concluded, and applause echoed through the grand ballroom.
“What did you think?” Dominika asked.
“That was—beautiful. I loved it.”
“Not the only beautiful thing in the room. You two look stunning.” Turning, I found myself looking up into Ondrej’s eyes.
I had to catch my breath at the sight of him. He wore a charcoal gray suit that was perfectly tailored to his tall, sinewed frame. His dark hair was slightly tousled in an intentional model kind of way. His hazel eyes glowed in the ballroom’s soft honey light.
He looked down at me like he saw me for the first time. His gaze was so intense I wanted to squirm.
“Look at you all cleaned up,” Dominika said, playfully swatting her brother’s arm.
“I have my moments. What do you think of our little tradition?” Ondrej asked me.
“I haven’t been to anything this fancy since my senior prom.”
They both looked at me questioningly, and I shook my head. “Never mind. It’s incredible. Enchanting.”
“Speaking of enchanting,” Dominika said. “The ice sculpture finally arrived. Only three hours late.Hloupý.Excuse me while I yell at people.”
Ondrej and I both hid our smiles as an annoyed Dominika scurried off, muttering what I’m pretty sure were Czech profanities as she went.
“When she gets on a mission, watch out,” Ondrej said with a laugh.
“And will your terrifying Santa Clause and his minions be making an appearance tonight?”
Ondrej shrugged. “Possibly. You never know when he’ll show up. Have you been naughty or nice this year?” He had a very naughty glint in his eye.
“Depends. I feel those labels are quite subjective.”
The band started up again, but this time, it was not for a performance. Guests headed to the dance floor.
Ondrej turned to me and extended his hand in a subtle invitation. “Care to?”
For a moment, I hesitated. My mind raced with reasons why I should decline–we were here on business, and I didn't want to blur the lines of our professional relationship. But as I looked into his eyes, something in me melted. There was an earnestness there, a genuine invitation that was hard to resist.
My hand was utterly shaking as I slowly placed it in his and nodded.
“I can’t remember the last time I danced with someone.”
