Her dazzling smile caught me off guard, as did the way the sunlight’s rays seemed to adore her. It made her red hair, down in long, loose waves, appear as fire. But as dazzling as her smile was, it was still missing something—her heart.
“I’m not a gymnastics guy,” I assured her.
“You’ll be fine. I promise.” She held out her hand to me.
Without a second thought, I took it. Anything to touch her.
When I placed my hand in Demi’s, Junie beamed unnaturally. I knew that devious look in her eyes. Her goddess spoke to her.
The god in me had some things to say too. He longed for this connection, as did I.
Demi helped pull me up and held on to my hand for a moment longer, still trying to read me. Odd, considering she always could. But it was like she’d read something and couldn’t decipher it.
“What do you want to know?” I asked.
She flushed an adorable shade of red and dropped her hand. “Uh . . . nothing. Just want to make sure you’re up for this challenge.”
“I am!” Junie shouted, bouncing on her toes.
I wished I could bottle her energy.
Demi ruffled Junie’s hair.
“Let’s do this, then. As a gymnast, balance is very important. So, we’re going to do a couple of balancing exercises. Are you ready?”
Junie nodded.
“First, we are going to start with a flamingo stand.”
“I love flamingos because they’re pink,” Junie informed Demi.
“I love flamingos too,” Demi replied. “And we are going to stand on one foot like one. To start, spread your arms out wide, and when you feel comfortable, lift one leg.”
She demonstrated with effortless grace—arms extended, one leg bent, then hands coming together at her chest like a prayer. She didn’t wobble. Not even once. She was a goddess. And not just because of her lineage.
“Okay, now you try.” Demi stayed in position, perfectly posed, with not even a hint of wavering even though the ground below us was uneven.
Not to brag, but I nailed it. One leg up, arms out, hands to heart. I even matched her expression—focused, serene, slightly amused.
“Very good, Padawan,” Demi teased.
I laughed, and it threw me off-balance enough that I had to drop my leg to steady myself.
Demi smirked, victorious, before turning her attention to Junie, trying her hardest to keep her leg up for more than asecond at a time. Her arms flailed. Her foot wobbled. But her determination? Unshakable.
It was one of the things I loved most about my daughter.
“Close your eyes, Junie,” Demi instructed. “And just focus on your breath while lifting your leg. The key to balance is finding your center, and in the center of everything is your breath.”
Wise words,I thought. I also couldn’t help but think how lovely Demi was. It amazed me how steady she was on one leg as she carefully watched Junie and tried to guide her. Her physical stamina was incredible. And I loved how patient she was with Junie. I bet she would have made a great coach if she’d been given the chance.
After several attempts, Junie was finally able to keep her leg up for a few seconds. She beamed with pride.
“Daddy, I’m doing it.”
“Yes, you are. I’m proud of you.”
“Me too,” Demi said, her voice warm and full of praise. “Now, are you ready for something a little harder?”
