“Keep your knees soft,” she said. “And don’t look at your feet. They already know what they’re doing.”
Abby tried and nearly toppled.
Kitty reached out without hesitation, steadying her. “That was close, but you stayed upright. That counts.”
Abby beamed and tried again.
Eva leaned toward me. “See that?”
“Yes,” I said quietly.
“She’s good,” Eva said. “And she doesn’t even know it yet.”
I watched Kitty guide Abby through the movement again, patience unwavering. Abby responded instantly, adjusting her stance and managing a small but recognizable turn.
“I did it,” Abby shouted.
“You did,” Kitty confirmed. “And you didn’t panic.”
Eva clapped loudly enough to draw a few looks from nearby skaters. “You are a natural instructor.”
Kitty laughed, flustered. “I’m just explaining it.”
“That’s literally the job,” Eva replied.
Abby skated back toward us, glowing. “Uncle Caleb, did you see?”
“I did,” I said, and meant more than she knew.
Eva turned to Kitty with interest sharpening her voice. “Have you ever thought about teaching?”
Kitty blinked. “Teaching what?”
“Skating,” Eva said. “For kids and beginners. You’re very good at breaking the steps down.”
Kitty waved a hand. “Oh, no. I just skate. I’m not—”
“Good,” Eva interrupted. “You’re good.”
Kitty’s smile faltered slightly, uncertainty creeping in. “I wouldn’t know where to start.”
“You started with Abby,” Eva said. “That’s usually how it works.”
I cleared my throat softly. “She’s right. You’re calm and did really well with her.”
Kitty glanced at me, surprised. “You think so?”
“Yes,” I said simply.
For a moment, something shifted between us.
Eva, sensing it immediately, clapped her hands together. “I’m going to get hot chocolate. Abby, you coming?”
Abby shook her head. “I want to practice.”
“Of course you do,” Eva said. “Caleb, supervise.”
She skated away before either of us could object.
