Pendulum

Sofia moved away to speak to the nearby waiter, who asked her to follow him. Paolo followed them without a word. He watched ahead as Sofia’s bottom moved from side to side in a smooth, wavelike motion. As natural as the swing of a pendulum as she was led to the stairs. Had she turned round, she might have noticed the stares of many of the other diners, men in undisguised admiration and women too, albeit tinged with some envy.

At the stairs the waiter beckoned them up. Sofia led the way, keeping two steps ahead of Paolo. Lucky Paolo!