Re: Axel: Eli & Mao
Eli wondered if he was wandering into a trap. Not the sort that would risk his life, but certainly one that might bruise his ego if not his body. He'd seen a few of the skaters stumble and like a shark in the ocean he had smelt the few drops of blood from grazed knees and elbows from across the room.
He watched Mao with fascination as the boy drifted across the floor as if he were skating on ice. Not even a moment's hesitation as he weaved around the other people mingling between the rink and the concessions counters. The elegance of the movement was not lost on Eli. Mao was certainly something to admire.
"Nice to meet you Mao," He said, reaching out to shake the unexpectedly proffered hand. He hoped his own grip wasn't too cold. "I'm Eli. Lemme get some skates and we'll see how good you are at teaching, 'kay?"
He departed for the counter and returned a few minutes later a couple of dollars lighter and a pair of glowing red skates heavier. He sat and began to remove his beaten old converse sneakers. The skates were felt heavier on his feet than they had in his hand, and Eli began to doubt very much that he'd even manage to stand up in them, let alone mimic the graceful Mao's movements.