Violet tried to concentrate on the music. The Pied Pipers were singing “Open The Door, Richard.” It was a singularly stupid song in her mind, but the beat helped her move along, imitating the broad sweeps Sam made with his legs. Every time she stumbled she’d bend over in nervous laughter. Sam’s arms were strong, and he kept her upright.

“You really are clumsy, darling, but I love you.” Sam patted Violet’s head for a second, not daring to release his grip any longer. By their seventh trip around the oval Violet was feeling secure enough to demand he let her go. Sam shook his head. “You’re not quite ready.”

“I am, too.” He released her slowly, astonished to see her skate ahead. She picked up speed, then panicked as a curve loomed ahead. “How do I slow down?” she screamed. Violet’s deep blue skirt billowed behind her; a storm cloud giving chase. He reached her in time to catch her in a dramatic dip for a kiss.

“You couldn’t do that again in a million years, Sam Davidson,” Violet laughed as she opened her eyes. “Nice move.”

“Yeah, well, no more skating off by yourself. Let’s work on our couple’s routine today, shall we?” Sam pulled Violet’s waist close, watching the glee on her face as they sailed faster and faster. He let go long enough to speed up and face her. He grabbed her hands and skated backward, smiling as Eddy Arnold sang “I’ll Hold You in My Heart.”

“Sam...” Violet said.

“Shh. Just be quiet and enjoy this. I know what I’m doing.”

“But!”

“Violet, be quiet. Listen to the music.” He gazed soulfully into her eyes and clutched her hands tighter. “I could get a gold medal in backward skating.”

Violet jerked her hands away and grabbed the railing as Sam slammed into the grandfather, knocking him to the floor. His granddaughter screamed and skated across the rink. Violet watched in horror as the old man allowed Sam to help him to his knees, begging his forgiveness.

“I’m all right,” the stranger told him. “Why don’t you find another way to show off for your girlfriend for a bit while Katie and I finish skating? We’ll be here for another few minutes, then you can pretend you’re Sonja Henie on wheels all you want.” He nodded at Violet. “That all right with you, miss?”

“Yes, sir. I’m very sorry,” Violet answered. The little girl scowled at her and took her grandfather’s hand.

“Your lipstick is all smeared,” she announced to Violet and the world. “Maybe you should go fix it while Papa and I skate.”

Violet stood silent as they took off. She arched her eyebrows exactly as Alice Glenn did to chastise her family, and Sam heard every unspoken word. He helped her off the rink and removed her skates, terrified to speak.