"B-But I don't know how," he stammered, taking a step back.
"That's fine, dear," she replied with a gentle smile. "I'll simply have to teach you."
Hershel hesitated. He struggled to think of a counter, but it was useless. His shoulders slouched in defeat.
Claire smiled in triumph. "Good. Now, come here." She spread her arms for him to come closer.
With a sigh, Hershel reluctantly complied. Claire took up his hand and placed it on her hip-
"-I'mmm not so certain about this," he said, slipping his hand back, a deep rooted blush resting on his face. "I-I'll most likely step on your toes." He took a keen interest in the ground.
Claire let out a sigh and crossed her arms. "Hershel, how are you supposed to learn if you don't let me show you? Come along." She reached out her hands to take his.
He slowly placed his hands in hers, but he didn't dare look up. God, why did he have to be so shy around her? He wasn't like this with anyone else. Once more, she placed his right hand on her hip. He wanted to pull it back, but he knew that she would catch his hand again and start the cycle over. He took a shaky breath to compose himself.
"Very good," Clare praised, resting her left hand on his shoulder and entwining the fingers of her right hand with his left. "You have to look up, though."
Hershel obeyed, his face reddening. They were so close…
"Now, just step your left foot forward and relax."