Innocence 22

"How can you learn if you don't feel pain? More importantly, you have to be bold. Don't be afraid. You will never learn how to walk while holding onto the railing!"

As he said this, he extended his hand towards me. "Come, give me your hand!"

I eyed him warily. "What do you want?"

"Give me your hand."

I hesitated for several seconds before reaching out timidly. He grabbed my hand and pulled me in front of him. I swayed as he drew me towards him, my body so stiff I didn't dare move.

"Relax a little!"

He looked at me and laughed. "You're usually quite fierce. You look like you dominate over everything and are not afraid of anything. Why are you so timid now that you're on roller skates?"

I snorted a few times but did not reply.

Then he faced me, holding my hand as he glided backwards.

I gaped at him, completely amazed.

"Won't you fall skating backwards?"