On The Verge Of It

My name is Tony, I am 20 years old and the only son of George and Caroline, who are both 43. I have one sibling, Kate, my 25-year-old very married older sister. Although mum and dad are well respected in the community, we are just an average middle class family. Not supermodels or super jocks/studs.

My parents love to dance and spend a lot of time practicing and competing. They are so committed that they had the entire basement converted into their own personal mirror lined dance studio with a small bedroom and ensuite at one end. Mum and Dad always hosted the annual family get-together, mostly so that they could show off their fantastic dancing skills. I was especially looking forward to this year’s event as I was bringing my girlfriend along for the first time. Although we have been together for about 3 years (and living together for the past 8 months) Sharon has never been able to make it previously because she is a nurse and has had to work. Usually both sides of the family come over and it’s usually a great day with all the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins catching up, overeating and getting pissed.

Just before lunch my parents usually put on their latest dancing routine. They have been together for so many years now that they just melt into each other and instinctively know what the other is doing. I never tire of watching them and have often wished that I could dance they way they do. This year was another successful reunion and Sharon and I stayed behind to help with the cleanup after everyone had gone. When we had finished we all sat down for one last drink before Sharon and I headed for home. “I wish I could dance like you guys,” I said to both mum and dad “yeah!” echoed Sharon, “you are fantastic” “Well, why don’t you both go along to the club for some lessons” said Dad “you know your mum and I can help you at other times. It wont take long and you will be dancing just like us.” “Its not that easy Dad. We have discussed it before and Sharon cannot commit to anything because of her work. You know how she works odd hours and is on call. Its just not possible” “I feel awful,” said Sharon “because I know how much Tony would love to dance properly. I even suggested that he go by himself, but he won’t do that either.”