Thread: Oh Ye Of Little Faith (darkangel76 & Erit of Eastcris)

The pirouette was a killer at the end of the dance routine. Miranda Craddock's leg burned as she spun, all her weight resting on that one leg, while her muscles aches and threatened to give way beneath her. But this was the moment in which she had to keep it together, show her strength and determination as she stayed strong upon that leg. That's it, Mira, the guy stated with overtones of enthusiasm. His large hands brushed against Mira's waist, the heat emanating from his splayed palms, while he acted as her anchor during such an intense move. Mira came to her final spinapproximately twenty in alland finally extended her right leg behind herself, planting her feet and gracefully raising her arms. She had all she could do to remain standing. But she would. She had to. When the music stopped, only then did she allow herself to slump over slightly, her muscles feeling the fatigue, embracing it. Her dance partner looked upon her with hungry eyes, but she hadn't noticed, her thoughts dwelling on the moment, on what she'd just accomplished. It wasn't the first time she'd been oblivious to her dance partners words and actions. And it certainly wouldn't be the last. Panting heavily, Mira finally moved to sit on the floor. She was done, tired yet thrilled! She was also ready to head to her favorite coffee shop and then to her home-sweet-home. For the past six monthsever since joining the studioit had become a ritual to treat herself after hours of rigorous practice. She delighted in her little indulgence and refused to miss a chance in being able to seize it with both hands. It was the least she could do before having to go out and work at her job. Night shifts were the worst! But the pay more than made up for it. Mira got up and walked over to her dance bag. Her slender fingers worked the zipper open and she pulled out a brush. She took out the bun that had been holding up her hair, mahogany-colored curls cascading along her pale back. She then let the soft bristles of the brush move through her hair. It felt good and relaxing, but made her giddy all the same. She then put the brush away and moved to untie her ballet toe-shoes. Her feet were sore, but that was nothing new and her leg still ached despite having rested a bit. But no matter. The day had ended and soon she'd be heading home. Great practice! Mira exclaimed as she put away the essentials and changed her shoes. She then grabbed her hoodie and pulled it on over her head. Her dance partner just stared and smiled, the other girls in the studio looking upon her with envy. I'll see you tomorrow, she added as she stood up and made for the exit. It was a short walk to the coffee shop, but it was then that she always found time to think. And usually on things she knew she shouldn't. If only her parents were still alive. The way their bodies had been brutalized when they'd been murdered was forever seared into her mind. She'd lost her support system, the ones she counted on, the ones she'd loved. Her life took a turn once she'd lost them, all her dreams and aspirations dashed in a single moment. She'd been ready to go to dance school, but it had been put to a stop, all the money that had been set aside needing to go toward other things. It hadn't been fair, though life rarely ever was. It was its way to be cruel, to mock and tease whenever it could. But she'd done her best to rise above it. If only her best had been good enough. Mira smiled as she pushed against the glass door to the coffee shop. The glass was cool against her heated skin, her face still flushed from her earlier exertion. She got in line, a tiny wave of giddy pleasure taking hold. Oh yes, she needed this! The usual? the barista asked. Mira nodded in response. The barista punched in Mira's order and held out his hand for her money. It had been the same ritual for so long. Mira rummages through her bag, searching for her money, but none could be found. No cash, no card, just...nothing. She could feel the start of tears pricking her blue eyes as panic began to settle in. Had she forgotten her wallet? She must have! I... Mira choked out, her thoughts running wild, as she retraced her steps in her mind. The barista frowned, his face a mix of shock and disappointment. I'm sorry. Me too, the barista answered. Though before he had a chance to drain Mira's cup and throw it out, a kind voice sounded behind her. He was offering to pay, to help her out of her bind. Th-thank you, Mira said softly, her cheeks reddening due to the unexpected gesture. But I can't, I... But the strange man with beautiful eyes insisted. His voice the sort that could make her melt if she listened long enough. Thank you. Mira took the money and handed it to the barista. He then handed over her coffee and placed the cash I the register. Without a word, he removed her change and handed it over with a small smirk. Mira couldn't look the barista in the eyes. Instead, she turned toward the kind stranger, palm open and extended, holding out his change. This is yours, she said. How can I ever pay you back? she then asked.