The Rhythm Between Us TAYNEW

Prologue

The city still feels unfamiliar. The streets are wider, the buildings taller, the people strangers. Tay has only just arrived, but everything already seems to be moving at a relentless pace. He's barely had time to settle, his new job demands his attention, and the days blur together. But that's fine. It's why he came here. Not for the money, not to run from anything, but because the challenge called to him.

And yet, something nags at him. A hollow feeling he can't quite ignore.

Dancing.

For years, it was a constant in his life. Not just the steps and the music, but the connection, the rhythm he shared with Mook. She understood him without words. They were a team, whether it was in class, on stage, or during late-night practice sessions until their feet ached.

And now? Now he has no one to dance with.

Mook hadn't even let him argue. "If you don't join something and just work all the time, you'll burn out in no time, Tay." Her stare had left no room for debate. "Find a dance school. No excuses."

So here he is, standing in front of a dance studio in an unfamiliar city. Reluctant, but with a flicker of hope.

With a deep sigh, Tay pushes the door open to the dance studio. The scent of wood and a faint trace of deodorant greet him. Along the mirrored wall, dancers stretch, their voices muffled by the steady pulse of music from the speakers. It feels familiar, yet strange. He doesn't belong here. Not without Mook.

Still, he moves forward, heading straight for the instructor, Arm, the owner had said when they spoke on the phone. A man with a warm smile and an easygoing presence. Tay introduces himself, and Arm nods in welcome. "Glad you're here. We just got started."

Tay's gaze sweeps across the room. Everyone is already paired up. Hands on shoulders, fingers intertwined. Synchronized movements, rehearsed steps. Regret creeps in, until the door behind him bursts open.

"Hey, sorry! Train delays."

A man with messy hair and slightly ragged breaths steps inside, brushing a loose strand from his face before flashing a wide grin. "I ran like hell, but I made it."

Arm chuckles. "No worries, New. It happens."

New. Tay watches as the man hurriedly joins the group, alone. No partner. His curiosity outweighs his hesitation.

Arm strolls over. "Tay, right? You don't have a partner yet, and New's just lost his." He glances between them. "Sounds like a perfect match."

Tay hesitates. This isn't how he pictured it. But before he can say anything, New turns to him with an easy smile. "Sounds fun."

"I don't know," Tay starts.

New casually leans back. "Alright, you can lead."

Tay frowns. "What?"

"You can take the men's role." New's expression is playful, almost teasing. "I can do both." He winks.

Tay isn't sure if he's talking about the dance, but he agrees anyway.