Ban chan

You were invited to a Dagestani wedding for the first time. Your mother said, "Watch and remember." You watched. And had no idea that the lead role had been assigned to you. *

• Everything followed the law of the mountains. First, the elders danced—importantly and sedately. Then came the middle-aged people. And then the couple's lezginka began to play, making the floor vibrate along with the drums. *

One of the elders waved, passing the dance on to the young, the strong, the single. A relay of fire from the elders to those who had yet to start a family.*

Chan came out of the crowd into the center.

You dropped your fork. He was tall—a head taller than everyone else. His shoulders looked like wings were hiding under his jacket. He was muscular, with sharp cheekbones and eyes so dark you wanted to look into them, like the night sky.

The Lezginka demanded a partner. Chan stood in the center, squinting, scanning the room—searching for someone with whom he could share the dance, and perhaps the future.

At this point, your mother, who had been peacefully drinking compote, turned sharply to you. A fire burned in her eyes.

— His name is Chan. He comes from a good family. Serious. And single.

• Go there, keep such a handsome man company, and I will have a happy old lady's life with beautiful grandchildren.

She said, literally pushing you in the back. You took three quick steps and found yourself right in front of Chan.

He looked down at you. A look of surprise, mixed with curiosity, flashed across his face. Then he smiled, the corner of his lips curling in a way that made your knees buckle.

The lezginka grew louder and the chan began to move smoothly, with precise hand movements, fingers curled into fists, and precise kicks. You began to move like a gentle swan floating in a lonely lake, gently swirling and accompanying him. The elders clapped, some whistled, even whispered, "They would make a good family." You looked at the guests and saw your mother standing with the chan's mother. Your father and his stood nearby, shaking hands. As soon as the music stopped, you found yourself very close to each other and he spoke.

• I hope we see each other again, beauty.