GENESIS

My heart pounded so hard I swore it wanted to break free of my chest. I stared at Jaden’s hand for a moment, unwilling to place mine on his. My eyes darted around the room, searching—no, my body searching—for someone. And I knew exactly who.

The piano swelled, its opening notes floating through the studio like silk. I had no choice. Slowly, hesitantly, I placed my trembling hand in Jaden’s.

His fingers closed around mine, warm and firm. Suddenly, we were moving.

The instructor’s voice cut sharp through the music. “First position. Partnering—support her port de bras. Genesis, open. Jaden, sustain her line.”

Jaden shifted closer, his palm brushing...