Steliana let out a joyful, ringing laugh that echoed against the music. Instead of teasing her friend further, her eyes softened with immense warmth. She took Mariana’s hands in hers.
Mariana, usually the first to lead the dance with a bold laugh, was unusually distracted. She kept missing her steps, her eyes continuously drifting toward the edge of the square where the young men stood chatting. Steliana let out a joyful, ringing laugh that
Steliana pulled Mariana back toward the center of the square. As the orchestra began to play a fast, spirited rhythm, Steliana raised her voice above the music, singing out playfully to encourage her friend and celebrate the joy of new love. Mariana joined in, her shyness melting away into pure, radiant happiness. Steliana let out a joyful