A/N: Written because listening to the soundtrack gives me too many damned plot bunnies.

Disclaimer: I don't own anything…

.:Dancing Lessons:.

You smell lovely, Mrs. Lovett. You smell of what we've made, the trail of righteous bloodshed that we've brought to this city. But now, leaning in close like I'm doing, I smell something disgusting. I've caught a whiff of the deception that you'll never hide from me again.

We didn't just start dancing down here, did we, love? We've been waltzing and dazzling each other this whole time, haven't we? But, you see, your footwork grew sloppy, and I've been forced to correct you in that. Rest assured, my darling Lovett, that this is one dance you'll never forget.

Just a moment ago, your eyes went wide with fear, and your feet faltered in their elaborate tango. But you're thinking maybe the record just skipped a couple of notes, right? You think I can't see how much you stumbled over there.

But I digress, love, and I hope you can find it in yourself to forgive me for that. As I said before, I just realized the dance we've been doing all along. I wandered into the ballroom, all alone, and you, spirited dancer that you are, charmed me with the music and your moves. I learned to dance, Mrs. Lovett.

As we twirled in perfect harmony, you smiling as I slit throats, I could almost believe the music would never end. The violins sang, and I gave that pompous piece of shit Pirelli the grave he deserved. In the midst of the crescendo, we slashed our way through London's finest. The chorus came again, and I slew the bastard who made me the way I am.

But I should have known better than to dance with you, Mrs. Lovett. You made me step on Lucy's toes.

You don't know how to dance after all, love. Here, I'll show you. Put some energy into it, don't be shy. Left, right, left. Now you're getting the idea. Back a little more, round and round. There you go.

The violins give their last notes. The conductor signals sharply. The music is ending.

Your hands slip from mine for the last time.

As I move to close the door, I see your eyes, finally understanding. You know, now, that you never should have danced with me.