week 06, sunday, after the ball announcement

[hopefragment]

[Okay, Hinata's literally never been to a fancy party in his entire life. Why would he? Normal Japanese teenagers don't normally find themselves in need of formal wear for anything other than a school event, and certainly not for something called a "ball." That's seriously something he's only ever seen in movies.

So when the announcement is made, he half-considers ignoring it because, well, he'll just make a fool of himself. But... he also owes it to a certain someone to show up, just in case she's there? Which is what brings him knocking on Poland's door, or finding her wherever she might be wandering around, doing his very best to look Cool with a bag from the clothes store slung over his arm.]

Um... Poland, can I ask you something? It's not important, and if you're busy, it's fine...

Comments

[sobowtor]

In moderation! Just like when things get kind of stale and you need a change of pace.

There's also dipping-- you're a little tall for me to dip so you have to figure this one out.

Just pull me close and then lean me back... slowly.

[hopefragment]

Uh... right.

[He is much too tall for her to dip, so he does exactly as instructed, pulling her in and shifting his hands to try leaning her back. Except--]

Am I supposed to lean forward with you, or stay standing straight up?

[sobowtor]

[Nice job Hinata.] You can lean in too, just make sure you're stable so you don't drop anyone.

[hopefragment]

[he tries his best! and hopefully the silly, pleased grin on his face makes up for any awkwardness, because he honestly seems a little proud of himself for being able to do it.]

Got it.

[and he tries to lean in! before pulling her back upright and grinning.]

I think I can do that.

[sobowtor]

Congratulations!

You've passed Dancing 101.

Here's your proof of certification.

[Poland pecks him on the cheek. Red lip stick smudge and all.]

[hopefragment]

Ah...

[Well now he's flaring pink enough to match his tie, covering that spot with his hand as he laughs.]

We'll see if I remember any of it by tonight, but... thanks, Poland. I really do appreciate all of this.

[Wait, no, okay, he's seen this shit in movies. At the end of a dance, guys usually...

He takes a step back and brings her hand to his lips to kiss her knuckles -- then laughs again because honestly, he feels ridiculous.]

[sobowtor]

[Awwwww Hinata! Poland's pink now too!]

You're welcome!