**“N-no,”** Cassie stammered holding up her hands. **“I don’t really know how to dance. I’d just step all over you and make a fool of myself.”**

Serix’s unease began to fade when he saw Cassie’s cheeks turn rosy. She was even more flustered than he was. “Come on,” he rolled his eyes. “It’s not that hard, I promise.” He caught her wrists and lifted her to her feet, ignoring her startled protests. In one smooth motion, he repositioned himself so he had one hand on her waist and the other holding her hand out in front of them. Their close proximity set his heart to racing once again, but he covered it up by flashing her a mischievous grin.

 “Just follow my lead, okay?” Serix said. He started slowly, taking the song at half-pace so Cassie could easily adjust to his rhythm. Using subtle touches and directional changes with his arms, he guided her fluidly through the motions, making gentle corrections if she stumbled. He carried on at this slow speed until he felt her grow more confident, then he steadily increased their pace to match the actual beat of the music.

“I’m going to spin you now,” he said. “Ready?” He gave her one four-count to prepare, and then lifted her hand in his, passing their arms over Cassie’s head and spinning her through the arc. He pulled her back and replaced his hand on her waist, grinning at her teasingly. “See? It’s not so bad. Especially if you have someone who knows how to lead properly.”

The tempo of the music slowed, so Serix slowed with it. He altered his movements to a more graceful rhythm, adding more twirling to the sequences. Watching Cassie dance gave him a warm, fuzzy feeling. She really was beautiful, with her flowing golden hair and lithe, agile figure. He spun her again, and in that moment, he felt a pang of longing stronger than any of the others he had felt until this point. He wanted her. In spite of everything –logic, reason, understanding– he _wanted_ her.

Before he knew what he was doing, Serix pulled Cassie back from the spin and wrapped his arms around her in a tight embrace, closing his eyes and pressing his lips to hers. The kiss was sweet. He trembled, weak with relief. He had closed the gap between them at last…

_What am I doing?_ 

The rational part of his mind took over, smothering his passion. He pulled away, breathless, his cheeks burning and his eyes wide with shock. “I-I’m sorry,” he murmured. “I don’t know what came over me… I just… I’m sorry.”