“Tip-tapTip-tap,One-TwoOne-Two,”I repeat. “One-stepOne-step,One-TwoTwo-Three,”He whispers. I falter,I sway,I trip,I bumble. I leap,I soar,I fly,I descend. “My love,My love,”I call. “My dove,You okay?”He asks. “My darling,Never better,”I reply. For I am yours,Mon amor.

It was early Monday morning. My mom, Geree, and I were having coffee. Our favorite spot was the little coffee shop several blocks away from her assisted living community. The air was bright and cool for a fall morning in Houston, so we sat at a small outside table. Mom’s cheeks were rosy and complemented ...