His sure and steadfast gait has started to waver.

He lists a bit, from side to side; drifts and veers off course, threatens to capsize.

She feigns difficulty navigating the the relatively smooth terrain; puts her arm around him, leans in close.

He instinctively reciprocates; those early days of courtship, when she insisted on wearing her highest heels, despite the fact that balancing in them was impossible, are hardwired into him.

Always he caught her just before she stumbled; supported her, held her close, unaware that the shoes were worn for that purpose alone.

Now it is she who steadies and stabilizes him; steers him to the car.

Helps him keep his balance and his pride.