The Yule Ball

[Alice Calder]

It wasn’t often that Alice was rendered speechless, and perhaps speechless wasn’t the correct term. But as he challenged her, looking at her with that expression, a soft smirk was all she could manage to maintain. She’d stared at him for nearly a moment too long before looking away, unaware that her face mirrored his expression. Each time he rose to her challenge, going further than even she dared, Alice was surprised, though by now it certainly shouldn’t surprise her. Somehow, he both intrigued and terrified her. What frightened her the most, perhaps, was that the intrigue was oftentimes outweighing the fear, drawing her ever closer to a conclusion she wasn’t sure she was prepared to deal with. Still, it was much easier to get lost in their back and forth rather than deal with any of her inner turmoil.

In the back of her mind, Alice knew using their banter as a distraction from her.. emotions.. were exactly why she had begun to feel the things she felt. She could lie to herself and say she didn’t know. Hell, she could even tell herself she felt nothing for Nathaniel, not even the slightest inkling of romantic interest, but she knew better. Despite knowing better, she shoved it down, pretending it didn’t exist as they continued their conversation. It was all she knew to do.

“Are you saying dancing bores you? Or that you’d like to spice things up a bit more than what dancing would accomplish?”

The words pulled Alice back to reality and she made a face as if she were thinking. “Neither.” She said, matter-o-factly, lifting her chin as she gave him a half-smirk. “Besides, I think dancing could accomplish more than you think.” She said in a low tone as she looked at him, her eyes trailing to his lips before meeting his gaze again. For a second, Alice couldn’t help but think it unfair that he appeared so calm while she struggled to maintain her composure and resolve.

She didn’t care how many times he looked her over. She liked it. Did it serve to weaken her resolve? Possibly. But what served to weaken her resolve more than that was that he didn’t seem to care that she noticed his wandering eyes. Instead, he acknowledged her knowing gaze with a nod before he spoke. At his words, Alice pretended to be offended, gasping quietly as they danced. “Well, I’m certainly glad I didn’t go through all the trouble of looking awful for your benefit, then.” She teased as she looked away from him. “And to be quite honest,” Her gaze returned to his face. “ I’d like to think it’s my reputation in jeopardy here.” She lifted her chin in mock defiance.

Though the silence between them was brief, it had been enough for Alice to slip back into her head. She used the moment to take a calming breath, quieting her mind so she could will herself to think more clearly. He was asking a follow-up question, what she was feeling right now. Her smile slowly faded into a more serious expression as her eyes met his. What did she feel right now? He gently squeezed her hand, the hand at her waist grazing her skin, sending sparks through her entire body. It wasn’t until his hand rested on her back that she realized she was holding her breath. “What am I feeling right now..” She repeated, barely above a whisper. “If you want the honest answer..” She began, her gaze still on his. “I feel both very afraid and very alive.” She admitted. “And I don’t often feel either of those things.” She all but whispered, forcing a soft smile. “Is that a satisfactory answer?” She asked, raising a brow and looking at him as if she hadn’t just moments before shown him any vulnerability.

At her question, he’d paused for a fraction of a moment and Alice gave him a curious look. As they resumed their dance, he seemed to consider her question before he began to answer. She listened curiously as he spoke, immediately interested when he said dignity, though he did offer her up another answer should the first one not suffice. Alice had tilted her head, preparing to ask about one of his answers when he quickly asked her another question. It took a moment for what he’d asked to register and even longer for Alice to formulate an answer. “Knowledge and learning.” She finally answered. The hand at his shoulder slid to his chest, Alice’s eyes following the motion before she looked to his face again.

“What do you feel right now?” There was genuine curiosity in her tone despite her smirk.

[Nathaniel Starke]

Maybe that’s what it was–the banter. It made it easier to become lost in the moment, to become distracted from underlining issues. The way she was looking at him made it all the easier to become lost in her and the moment. Or perhaps more difficult to break away and end things before they’d begin to fall deeper into whatever this was turning into.

Nathaniel was typically serious and expressionless, yet somehow, Alice had managed to keep some sort of smile on his lips throughout the evening. It left him both confused and worried. Was there something so different about Alice that intrigued him? That made him want to stay rather than stray? 

His brows furrowed in confusion. Had he misunderstood her words again? Neither? Neither of his guesses pertained to what those things were that wouldn’t be so boring. But she was suggestive in what she believed dancing could accomplish. It brought another curious smirk along his lips, “Is that so?” His question insinuating that he wanted more of an explanation. 

Were they speaking opposites still? Had Alice actually kept him in mind as she got herself ready for the ball? He quietly wondered though he decided not to ask. Instead, he smirked, keeping his eyes on her, even as she looked away from him. Brown eyes found hers as she returned her gaze to him and he grinned at her mocked defiance. “Your reputation? Why yours? You’re accompanied by a Lieutenant of the army…Surely that would give your reputation some heavy points.” He lifted his chin with that cocky, confident smile of his. Did he really think so highly of himself? Hardly. And that was quite evident in the tone of his sarcasm. 

As soon as Alice’s expression grew serious, so did Nathaniel’s. He watched her, that same curious or perhaps lusting expression appearing in his eyes again. She was throwing aside that sarcastic joking tone and replacing it with seriousness. It made a warm sensation rise through his body and to his head filling him with panic. Maybe he should not have asked that question. Did he want her serious and vulnerable answer? Why was this getting serious?

Part of him was surprised she was giving him such an honest answer and allowing him to see that bit of vulnerability. Nathaniel watched her as she gave her answer. I feel both very afraid and very alive. That would make the two of them. But it left him curious to know more, especially as she claimed she did not often feel that way. He smiled at her and shrugged a shoulder to his ear. “I suppose so.” He said casually before his smile faded and that seriousness crept back upon his features. “But what is it you are afraid of?” He asked her, his voice low, calm and gentle, mimicking her own whispered tone. He understood the feeling alive part, but wondered what she feared. 

Nathaniel watched her in the silence that lingered between them as she thought of her answer to his question. It was a personal question, but he figured it would give him some heavy insight into what kind of person she was and what was important to her. He smiled at her, admiration crept into his gaze as he continued to watch her. 

But the smile was soon to fade to a more serious expression as her hand moved from his shoulder to his chest. His gaze followed her own, glancing down at her hand for a brief moment and back to her face when she looked at him. He wondered if she would be able to feel how fast and hard his heart was beating beneath her hand as she questioned him. How could he even put into words what he was feeling right now? 

He was holding his breath as he stared at her and pondered his answer. All he could seem to focus on was how her hand was making his chest burn, how his heart was racing, and whether or not he should show the same vulnerability and honesty she had just moments ago.

Nathaniel had to clear his throat before answering her to avoid his voice from cracking. He slowly released his breath, trying to regain his calm and unmoving demeanor. “I feel terrified.” He answered simply, though his smile may have contradicted his words. Maybe Alice might think he was mocking her, even. But he wouldn’t let her think that for too long as he was already speaking again before she’d be able to question him. His smile fading again as he looked at her, a serious expression now displayed on his face. “Because I actually think you are beautiful…And I have this strange desire to kiss you…” Brown eyes trailed to her lips briefly before returning to hers. He wouldn’t give her much of the moment to reflect on his words, because he gently took her hand from his chest and quickly spun her around in their dance. Distraction, yes. A ploy to try and lessen that tension, if only for a quick moment. It gave him a chance to take another deep breath and to steady himself. 

When she was facing him again, he drew her closer to him so that her body was pressed against his. He rested his hand on the small of her back, keeping her steady against him, his other hand taking hold of her hand again, his fingers curling around her own. He was already ready with another question, maybe to prevent her from responding to what he had just said to her. “What type of qualities do you look for in a man?”

[Alice Calder]

Alice, too, was usually serious, masking any reactions with an expressionless gaze that looked more like a glare across her small face. Yet somehow, it was as if she couldn’t help but be the complete opposite with him. Smiling and joking, making bold remarks. She felt as if she’d smiled more tonight than she had at her wedding..

At that thought, Alice felt her heart sink into her stomach. It still hurt sometimes, to know that she had once been married to a monster. She’d been in love and had overlooked the signs. Maybe if she’d paid attention and noticed them before..

There was no sign that anything was amiss on the outside, though she almost didn’t hear Nathaniel speak to her. It took her half a second longer than it should have for her to remember what they’d been talking about and respond appropriately. “That is so.” She stated firmly, mimicking his smirk. “And if you’re looking for an explanation, you won’t get one.” She told him as she caught the tone of his voice. “It wouldn’t be very lady-like of me to speak so boldly in public, now would it?” She again feigned innocence as she tilted her head at him.

As their debate about whose reputation was in danger continued, Alice laughed softly. “Perhaps it might. But have you already forgotten that I directly serve our royal family?” She raised a brow. “Is it a greater reward to be commended by royalty or your superior?” She asked teasingly. Of course she didn’t really think Nathaniel would damage her reputation. If anything, he would improve her reputation, but she didn’t really care about any of that anyway. Judging from the way he spoke and teased back, neither did he. That was a refreshing change of pace.

She was happy to see his smile reappear when he voiced that her answer was satisfactory. It was a welcome change from the way he’d looked at her just moments before. She could get lost in that look of desire. If she’d only allow herself, she knew it would be far too easy to get caught up in him. It already felt like no one existed inside the ballroom except the two of them. How long had it been since the world around her had fallen away, leaving the two of them in an imaginary spotlight that felt overwhelmingly real? The gentleness of his voice steadied as he further questioned her and she pressed her lips into a hard line, wondering if she should really give him the answer he sought. “I use to fear nothing, but lately..” She made sure her eyes met his. “I seem to fear everything.” She explained.

Was it a vague answer? Absolutely. But it was also true. Before meeting Nathaniel, there were no lingering if’s. Now, when he crossed her mind, she feared she wouldn’t see him again. In that same breath, she feared she would see him again. She feared what would happen if she kept looking into his eyes, at his lips. She feared what would happen should their lips meet in a soft kiss.. Feeling his rapid heartbeat beneath her fingertips, she wondered for a moment if he were just as fearful as she was.

When he finally spoke, Alice gave him a curious look, wondering if he was mocking her, already preparing to scold him. But before she could, he was explaining, his explanation causing Alice’s hard to beat hard against her chest, sending a wave of electricity across every nerve in her body. Forcing herself to keep her composure, she smirked at him as his eyes fell to her lips before meeting her face again. Again, she prepared to speak, only to be spun unexpectedly, though the motion seemed entirely purposeful as she fluidly returned to his arms. The way her torso met his nearly caused her to push him away, but she resisted the urge, thankful for his hand to keep her steady. For the second time, she tried to address his previous statement, but she quickly held her tongue as he questioned her. She laughed, more to herself than him, rolling her eyes. She could play their game a while longer.

“I suppose there’s the obvious qualities; kind, educated, honest..” Her words trailed off as she paused, glancing away from him briefly. “I would add to that; humility, desire to succeed..” Her gaze fell to his lips. “Dignity.” She said the word slowly with a smirk, as if challenging him. When her brown eyes looked back up at him, it was clear before she spoke that she was challenging him. A small smile spread across her red lips and a lustful spark lit up her brown eyes though she quickly looked away.

“For what it’s worth,” She began, her voice gentle even though she tried to maintain a casual tone. “It was nice to hear you call me that.” She referred to his earlier compliment. “And I suppose I should make sure you know that you do really look handsome.” She finally met his gaze again, biting her bottom lip gently as she contemplated before she spoke.

“If you have a strange desire to kiss me, why haven’t you?” The question came slowly off her lips as she subconsciously squeezed his hand to quiet her own panic.

[Nathaniel Starke]

Nathaniel’s sisters often told him that he was far too serious and needed to smile more often or he would never find a wife. His mother oftentimes gave him a hard time about nearing his thirties and not finding a wife yet. He needed to settle down and give her grandchildren, and she did not understand why he had such a hard time keeping a woman in his life. His father never said anything to him about it, except that he needed to get over it as if saying so would magically cure and fix everything for him.

He looked at her with a heavy curiosity. She wasn’t going to tell him what thoughts had gone through her mind when she said she could think of better things to do that would not be so boring. It would seem he would have to assume and use his imagination–especially as she admitted it would not be lady-like of her to speak so boldly in public. Her words made him smirk and he looked away from her and around the room again. Had he really forgotten they were here amongst a large crowd of people? 

He looked back at her and smiled, leaning a bit closer to her and speaking in a whispered, low voice. “Perhaps, then, we could move our conversation elsewhere and away from the public.” 

Nathaniel tilted his head as he regarded her for a moment. Sure, it might look good for him to be involved with one of the ladies- but maybe not. The public eye would be on him and there would be that pressure of ensuring he remained in noble status and would not mess up the relationship. He would need to earn the approval of the court, too. Maybe it was too much work. But… This wouldn’t ever amount to any of that, he told himself. “Perhaps…” He quietly answered her. 

His smile slowly faded as she admitted to fearing everything lately. It was a vague answer, and he hardly thought it was this moment in time that had her afraid. Alice seemed so confident and sure of herself, he couldn’t imagine her being afraid of him or whatever was happening. He wondered if something was going on in her life and he silently decided, if she’d allow him to stick around, he would protect her. 

He looked back into her eyes and searched them for a moment, looking at her with concern. Something told him that no matter what it was, she wasn't going to tell him- otherwise, she would not have been so vague, especially since he had already asked her what she was afraid of. He spoke seriously and in just a whispered tone, “If something has happened…” He trailed off. In all honesty, he wasn’t sure how to finish his sentence. Alice did not seem the type that needed saving. She was no damsel, he could tell. He hesitated with his words, though his eyes never strayed from hers. He wanted to tell her that she could tell him, that he could help her and trust him. But they only met–how could anyone trust someone that they just met? Nathaniel decided not to say anything else.

As Alice answered his question, his eyes remained on her, curiously. All of the qualities she listed described him, or he at least liked to think so. He had humility and the desire to succeed. When she repeated the word dignity, Nathaniel’s smile returned to his lips. Was she describing him? He did not wish to assume, but it certainly seemed that way. He was smiling like an idiot then, even as she looked away from him. Strangely, he appreciated her honesty and vulnerability to him. She was real, rather than most of the fake women he had met in his life. 

It would seem that Alice would not let him get away with his previous response. His feelings. She was acknowledging him calling her beautiful and admitting she liked hearing him say such. But Nathaniel could feel his heart beating wildly in his chest because it only meant she would respond to his comment on wanting to kiss her. He barely heard her tell him he was handsome and he watched as she drew her lower lip in and bit down on it. 

If you have a strange desire to kiss me, why haven’t you? He held his breath, his eyes diverting from her, if only for a moment. How could he answer her question? She was so sneaky to use it as her next question, he decided, and so far, they had been all but honest in their answers. 

He felt her hand squeeze his own, causing him to return his gaze to her eyes, his expression serious again, as he just stared at her, contemplating his response. His eyes were filled with a burning desire. Nathaniel did not let go of her hand, but slowly removed the hand on her back and placed it on her cheek. Perhaps she was daring him to kiss her, but again, he did not wish to assume. Maybe she was just curious. “Respect…” His voice nearly cracked as he spoke the one-worded response. He would never dream of forcing himself on anyone, even if it was just a kiss. 

Nathaniel could feel his pulse in his ears as he continued to stare at her, his eyes glancing down at her lips for a moment before returning to her eyes. “Do you want me to kiss you?”

[Alice Calder]

The motion of him leaning forward caught Alice’s focus and she listened carefully as he spoke in a hushed tone. He was suggesting they take their conversation away from the public which caused Alice to raise a brow at him. Part of her began to panic. She could maintain her composure under the public eye.. But she wasn’t sure she could trust her resolve if it were just the two of them.. Alone. She took a slow breath, pursing her lips as if in thought. “Perhaps we could..” She said slowly, as if trying to gauge his seriousness on the matter. Some fresh air did sound nice.

She watched his expressions change as they spoke. Somehow, she found it easy, and yet difficult, to read him. His smile had faded when she’d answered his question and he looked concerned as he seemingly tried to read her face. She was preparing to ask him if something was wrong when he spoke, whispered words that Alice barely made out. Tilting her head at him, she offered a half-smile. “Nothing has happened that I can’t handle.” She, too, had barely spoken above a whisper, the words feeling like a lie as she spoke them. She could handle this right? Of course she could.. She'd handled many things much worse than some spontaneous feelings. Besides, how long would it truly last anyway? They were only attending a ball together after all. And why did that thought suddenly make her feel so disappointed?

The moment she’d looked away was the moment she’d tightened her resolve. In silent defiance of herself, she swallowed her anxiety and desires. She could allow herself to get swept away in the moment of one evening. Nothing had to come of it, none of it had to mean anything. That’s what she told herself, hoping to repress any emotions he evoked.

A long silence had seemed to stretch between them at her question and she watched him through curious eyes. His gaze was serious again and she took a moment to appreciate how intimidating he looked with such a solemn expression. She wouldn’t mind if those brown eyes stared at her like that for all eternity. Then, his hand was on her cheek, causing chills to trail down her spine. Without thinking, Alice was leaning against his touch, her eyes closing for a brief moment, opening and returning to his face when he spoke. Her brows furrowed in curiosity as she looked up at him, mulling his answer around in her head before his next question came.

She was surprised, to say the least. She’d noticed him dodge things he didn’t want questioned by changing the subject with his own questions. Up until he admitted to wanting to kiss her, she’d allowed him to get away with it. Truthfully, she would have allowed him to change the subject again, but instead, he rolled with the challenge, one-upping her gracefully. There was a stunned silence as she stared at him. The look in her eyes was likely enough to answer his question, despite her blank facial expression. “Of course I do.” She told him aloud, a smirk beginning to pull at the corners of her lips as she tilted her chin towards him. “But if someone seeing you dancing with me could ruin your reputation, imagine what being seen kissing me could do.” She joked as she stopped their dance, dropping her hands away from him and taking a step back. “Would you like to accompany me to get a moment of quiet? Perhaps some air?” She asked him with a small smile.

[Nathaniel Starke]

It was sweltering in the room, and the fresh air did sound nice. But it also meant they would be alone and that scared him quite a bit. Words were one thing- they were easier. But actions were another, and that's what terrified him. If they were alone, Nathaniel knew it had to be more than just words. Or maybe they could keep up this charade.

Nothing has happened that I can’t handle. That concerned expression remained on Nathaniel's face, despite her assuring him what he expected. Alice was a strong woman who could handle her own. She did not need saving nor his protection. But even still, everyone needed a little help regardless. God only knew he needed more help than he would ever let on. He forced a smile and nodded his head only once. "Of course you can handle it." A bold statement perhaps, seeing as he barely knew the woman. But he could sense it, maybe even see that about her, with how she held herself, the words she used to stand up to him and challenge him. She was unlike any other lady he'd ever met, and he liked it. He even found himself wondering if she would allow him to push her away if they got close enough. Or if she would willingly leave, not wishing to put up with or deal with his issues? He could see her on both sides of that fence and it made him curious to know how she handled stress and complications. 

Nathaniel was a walking complication. He had just learned to hide it extremely well. He often wondered if anyone would even believe his story if he ever had the courage to tell it to someone. 

He noticed that look in her eyes after the question left his lips, already knowing the answer before she even spoke it. Part of him wanted her to say no- to slap him in the face for being so bold, to walk away from him. It would have made this all the easier. He felt panic rise within him and a warmth burned through his body. He swore his heart might give out if it beat any faster. Of course I do, she finally answered, and it made him hold his breath, a dizzying sensation coming over him as he began to panic further because she didn't say no, or slap him. And she wasn't walking away. 

Her voice sounded so far away when she spoke again, and despite her joke, Nathaniel's expression remained serious, maybe allowing a small bit of his vulnerability show for her to see. He forced a smile and only nodded in response. For once, he didn't have a comeback or anything smart to respond with. So he left it at that, thankful for her next question.

"Very much so," he answered rather quickly. Air. He needed air so badly. Perhaps he might faint if he did not get out of this room soon enough. It was then that he noticed when she had pulled away from him, the warmth from her body being replaced by a cool empty space and the sounds in the room came crashing down around him. Had he not noticed how loud it had been before? Brown eyes glanced around the room for a quick moment before turning to her again. He offered her his arm and a confident smile as if he had no other care in the world. "Shall we?" 

He waited for her to take his arm before he led her out of the room.

[Wesley deGrey]

What was it they said about payback?

Yep.

To be fair, Lucian had started this first, back at Hewitt House last evening for dinner. He was actually trying to get more of a rile out of his brother, or at least see him sheepishly try to hide himself and not so much Anemone. And the intriguing thing was, Luci seemed to be far more embarrassed than his date was. Sure, Anemone's lovely eyes widened in surprise to hear Wesley blatantly state such a thing, and her cheeks were flushed pink, but she didn't let it linger. And that was how you gained points with the sailor.

He had reached for a glass from a passing server- it was wine or something other. It was brought to his lips for a sip and he cringed lightly. It was too sweet. But what was really sweet was Ane's reply, and it brought those bright blues over to the blonde in sheer amusement. That's the spirit!

A smile stretched wide across his face, but he was hardly skipping a beat as he replied, "Oh, I'm playin' hard to get, my lady." Something like that. It was more like...he wasn't playing at all. Because he couldn't. You know reasons. Offering Anemone a wink, he glanced over to his brother. "I like her, Luce." So, don't be a spaz and let her go, was what he nearly said.

'Countess Helene Hewitt!'

Somehow, her announced name cut through the crowd of people and he was instantly pausing with the glass at his lips again. He swallowed, his head swiveling to the side to catch a quick glimpse of her through the gathering people in that red dress. A very nice red dress. It was in that brief second that all humor seemed to drain from his face and he was discarding the glass upon the table to stand up straight. He wasn't trying to be rude, but he couldn't look to those gathered around as he found himself beginning to walk away. "Will you, uh...excuse me."

Reasons, Wesley. Reasons.

Right...what were those reasons again?

[exit Wesley, continued in Behind Closed Doors]

[Kaiden Dellario]

Kaiden smiled and took Lucian deGrey's hand as well. Loud and forward was mild? He chuckled as the brothers jabbed each other with the introduction and the continued conversation that his introduction had temporarily put on hold. He sort of missed that. Being the younger brother hadn't always been fun, but having an older brother at all had been worth it. The man had never thought he would missed Kyler embarrassing him in public, but here he was.

He glanced from Anemone to Lucian. Well, they were sitting quite close together and were clearly a couple, official or not. Neither of them made an effort to refute the claim. So it was at least three then, and only the two of them knew what else? This was exactly why he had never shared any of his romantic exploits with his own older brother. Well, after the first time, anyway. Elyscia Demarais seemed to find the gossip quite exciting, and he was tempted to make his own joke about them not having kissed but decided against that per his date.

As he turned to Elyscia's quiet words of concern, he caught sight of a couple, faces he recognized but names he didn't know immediately, talking over food. The tension there was palpable across the room, and he had to smile. Quite a lot of romance this evening. That was a Yule tradition here, was it not? Pairing up? The hall certainly provided the right atmosphere.

"A little tired, but I'm alright," he said honestly with an appreciative smile for her concern. It would take a bit to feel out her family and friends but that was to be expected. He wasn't comfortable, certainly, but he wasn't uncomfortable either. Before he could say much more, Wesley was excusing himself and a blonde he also found familiar but didn't have a name for asked to join them.

"Of course," he said, and would stand to pull out a chair for the woman, whichever she indicated she wished to sit at. "The more the merrier." Again, he would let the others handle introductions, considering it was clear the woman recognized Lucian and Anemone. He was quite alright with being a bit of a fourth or fifth wheel at the moment. At least he could be a polite one.

Avalynn O'Shea

[Shane O'Sullivan]

A part of him wished he hadn't agreed to this.

Yes, it was a selfish thought, but agreeing to come to this ball meant that he had to have the appropriate attire...which was not in his usual luggage. So, that meant he had had to go home, something he always dreaded. Something he always avoided if he could. If Shane knew ahead of time that his father would not be there, then all was well, but this time Eamon had been home. Suffice to say, the reunion didn't go well.

Even still, he managed to find a decent suit that still fit, with a tailored long jacket, and stormed his way out of the manor. He figured, because of all of that, because he felt like he shouldn't be arriving empty-handed either, he would be late. Would she think ill of him? Would she think he would go back on his word and not come? Sure, these kinds of gatherings and the people weren't something he enjoyed, as he told her, but he was also a man of his word if nothing else. To be truthful, he was kind of surprised she even asked him to join her this evening. And it wouldn't be anything more than this evening. It wasn't a "sailor code"- it was his code. Avalynn was a sweet and bright young woman, but any sort of affection or love was not in his future. And she quite clearly deserved someone that would treat her the way she deserved and give her all of the time in the world.

"Lord Shane O'Sullivan!" the announcer bellowed out as he entered awkwardly. Those bright eyes were sweeping across the array of people, just in time to see Wesley brushing past him quickly with a strange determination on his face. Lips parted to call out to him but he refrained; instead he sighed as he moved further into the room. He did not know what color Ava decided to wear, and reds and greens seemed to be the popular choices amongst everyone. All he could do was slowly weave his way through the groups of people in hopes of finding her.

[Lucian deGrey]

What Lucian wasn't expecting, was for Anemone to blurt out what she did, firing right back at Wesley. He was in mid-sip of his wine and at her comment, he nearly spit it out, but instead, swallowed it far too quickly, causing him to choke slightly.

He laughed out loudly, pointing his finger at his brother for the briefest moment before he let it fall back to the table. Wesley was trying to play it cool, then, claiming that he was playing hard to get, and he found himself shaking his head as he laughed quietly.

Lucian felt Anemone's hand in his and he squeezed it back gently, glancing at her and smiling admirably at her. His brother's voice gained his attention as he claimed he liked her. It brought another smile to his face. It wouldn't have made much of a difference to him if his brothers didn't like Anemone. But it was always an added bonus when he had his brothers' approval of something. Then again, he imagined it would be difficult to not like Anemone.

Wesley was suddenly excusing himself, and his brows lowered in confusion and concern. He imagined it might have something to do with them calling out Helene's name. He grinned and called out after Wesley. "Be careful you don't get pounced on again."

Avalynn was joining them, then, which Kaiden had helped pull her chair out. He offered her a smile and a nod in greeting. He had recognized her from the funeral get-together and remembered she was another one of the Queen's ladies.

He turned to Anemone and leaned in closer towards her to speak quietly in her ear. "I didn't mean to embarrass you...I was pressured into speaking about what happened at the chase. And I just felt... happy." He smiled and sat straight again.

[Elyscia Demarais]

Elyscia loved the banter between her two cousins. It was rather comical, especially when Anemone got in the middle of it. She laughed but quickly covered her mouth to hide it. Anemone hadn't told her about this and now she was curious. She couldn't help but laugh further as Anemone stood up to Wesley, putting him right in his place, leaving poor Lucian to choke on his wine.

She grinned and turned her gaze to Kaiden, hoping he didn't feel too awkward or out of place at the moment. He assured her that he was alright, despite being tired and she gave him a warm smile. "We can make it an early night if you'd like." She realized how that might have sound and she bit her lower lip as she looked away from him, the faintest of a smirk playing along her lips.

It was then that Avalynn decided to join them and she offered the woman a warm smile, watching as her fiancee went to pull her chair out for her, welcoming her to their table. While Avalynn seemed to be a nice lady, a bit too hyper and outspoken perhaps, Elyscia hardly knew her enough to make much of a judgment on her aside from her outward appearance. It was a daring dress, to say the least. She couldn't help but let her mind wonder what Kaiden thought of it since he was so quick to jump at helping her. Did he think she was prettier than she was, perhaps? No- She wouldn't be that type of woman- the jealous kind. She hardly knew Kaiden yet, there was nothing to be jealous over at the moment.

Wesley was excusing himself, and she watched curiously as Lucian called after him- something about being pounced? She supposed it was some sort of joke between the two of them.

Her eyes briefly wanded around the room and she searched for her older sister, wondering if she would join them, or if she had other plans for the evening. She would have to bother her at some point during the evening.

[Avalynn O'Shea]

Avalynn moved to take the seat next to Anemone, but before she could pull the chair out, Kaiden was doing so for her. She offered him a smile, "thank you." She sat down and leaned into Anemone, grabbing hold of her arm as she leaned in closer and whispered. "The two of you look adorable together." She grinned and sat up straight, her eyes shifting around the ballroom once again, as if she were looking for someone.

She spotted Alice at a nearby table. Was she sitting with a man? She noticed the way he was looking at her, and Alice's body language clearly showed that she was into him. It seemed there was some steamy tension between them, and it made her smile and made her horribly curious. Avalynn decided she would pay the woman a visit in the next couple of days to try and get some information out of her. She doubted Alice would tell her much, but she wanted to at least be there for her if she ever did want to talk and needed a friend. Whether for good or bad things in life.

Avalynn caught sight of Elyscia's smile, to which she smiled back at her. She didn't know much about the woman other than she was cousin to the royal family. She looked sweet and Avalynn hoped someday the two could talk and become friends.

For once, Avalynn sat there silently, watching and listening to everyone else. Her stomach was in knots with nervousness, which only heightened when she heard Shane announced as he entered the room. There was the most silent squeak of panic that escaped her throat and she quickly glanced around the room until she spotted him. He seemingly cleaned up nicely in the suit he wore, and she swore she could feel the color rising in her cheeks. Instinctively, her hand went to grab hold of Anemone's and she squeezed it, allowing her friend to get a sense of her nervousness. She leaned in closer to her and motioned over to where Shane was standing. "That's him!"

Avalynn froze, a bit surprised that he had actually come. She barely knew the man, but he had been hesitant and she was sure that she would never see the man again. But he had come. For her. Unless he had horribly misled her and was here for someone else. But, she couldn't help but sit there motionless, unsure of what to do. Should she approach him? Let him look for her? "What do I do?" She asked Anemone quietly.

Shane was walking right by their table, and without thinking, she called out to him. "Lord O'Sullivan!" She clapped her hand over her mouth, her eyes widened. It had just slipped out. How strange it felt to call out to him. Embarrassing really. Oh boy- here she went again. She was already doing it. Please don't make yourself out to be a complete fool, tonight, Avalynn. She quietly groaned, almost wishing to slide under the table and hide, but she sat still, waiting to see if he would actually spot her and come over to their table.

[Shane O'Sullivan]

Shane was attempting to try and convince himself that this wasn't a horrible idea, that he wouldn't be disappointing the young woman by showing up and then disappearing however many days later. Maybe he should have been a bit more honest with her, but then again, this wasn't necessarily anything, right? He was just accompanying her to the Yule ball and that was all. Avalynn had been pleasant company for certain, so this couldn't possibly be as terrible as his mind was trying to convince him it would be.

He just didn't do well at such gatherings, and he was attempting to push that aside.

There were a lot more people in the ballroom than he had expected, with a lot of them already up and dancing, filling the dancefloor with their merriment. Conversations were going on all around him, there was laughter in the air, sounds of clinking glasses and silverware upon plates. Shane was used to noise, but not this kind. He enjoyed the creaking of wood, the straining of the rigging, the flapping of canvas sails when a good wind caught them or the dinging of the bell. Even a vicious storm was more of a comfort to him than this.

So, perhaps, that was why he was startled a little when someone suddenly called out his name. He'd been too lost in his thought that he was walking right past the table and the very woman he was searching for. He nearly missed her even though he was actually trying to find her.

Shane stopped to turn before blue eyes finally alighted upon Avalynn seated with her friends at the table. As he tried to gather his composure, his attention drifted briefly to the only other deGrey he somewhat knew. "Good to see you, Lucien," he said. He knew him a little bit through Wesley who often claimed his youngest brother was his favorite. They hadn't gotten to talk terribly much, but Shane certainly liked the man.

He nodded a greeting to all at the table before those bright eyes rested back on Avalynn. From what he could see of her seated there, she was quite lovely, but she had been lovely even yesterday. Even after tripping all over herself more than a few times. The sailor smiled warmly, bowing his head in that respectful way once again, "Good to see you again, Lady Avalynn." He supposed compliments were in order, because again, from what he could see of that dress...well...ahem...yet there were also eyes on him and it kept him silent. Instead, he remained standing, unsure of whether or not he should be taking a seat. It had definitely been awhile since he attended court.

[Anemone Sellar]

She'd gotten his approval right off the bat! That was beyond exciting--while she was fairly well convinced that Lucian liked her as much as she liked him, she was well aware that his family's influence would be no small matter in this moving forward. If anything was to come of this, it would have to be with the approval of his three older, influential brothers. The thought was more than a little intimidating. Of course, that was a mere pebble in her shoe compared to her own baggage, she really hadn't any business comparing the two. It was that little fact, the one tied up in her past and her future, that would really make or break this.

Still, as she looked back over at Lucian, she felt herself relax. She ran her thumb over his knuckles, reassuring the both of them. Things would be alright. Whatever was meant to be would be. She was about to say so to Lucian, when Ava appeared. She blushed lightly and gave her friend a mock-stern look at her comment. Looking adorable was all well and good…the real question was if this was where he wanted to be. She couldn’t exactly say so to Ava, and anyway, she was looking around at the others chatting around her.

Lucian leaned in to whisper to her while Ava was distracted. She leaned her head onto his shoulder for a moment when he sat back up, smiling up at him. “I’m just fine, I promise. I know how it is to be the baby of the family!” She winked.

Sitting up again at Ava’s exclaimation, she followed her friend’s motion over to a tall man looking slightly nervous as he roamed the room. What should she do? Talk to him, obviously! She didn’t even have time to say so before Avalynn was doing it all of her own accord. She beamed. Good work, Ava! You can do it!

She smiled warmly at Shane O'Sullivan as he approached, wanting him to feel welcome at his table, but it seemed she needn’t worry too much–he already knew Lucian as well! How lovely. She knew one of the deGrey’s was a sailor, and Lord O’Sullivan was a sailor…perhaps that was how they’d met? He didn’t seem the military type.

Anemone looked between the two other pairs that had formed, and a plan formed. Her smile was slightly mischievous as she rose from her seat, tugging Lucian with her where he still held her hand.

“Lucian and I were just about to go dance. Of course, you’re quite welcome at our table, Lord O’Sullivan. Make yourself at home.” She threw a quick encouraging look to Ava, then turned to Ely and her date.

“I’m sure we’ll see you two again soon. Enjoy yourselves!” She put her free hand on Ely’s shoulder as they passed and squeezed it gently, hoping to encourage her as well.

Now she just hoped that Lucian deGrey would follow her lead and act as if this had been his plan all along…

[Lucian deGrey]

Lucian liked the way Anemone’s hand felt in his. Despite them only knowing each other for a short time, it strangely felt like he had known her a lot longer. Maybe it was the way she smiled and looked at him or the way she leaned her head on his shoulder. He couldn’t quite get a grasp of why he felt that way, but he wouldn’t complain.

He smiled at Anemone when she did and he nodded appreciatively at her dismissing his apology. As she told him she knew how it was to be the baby of the family, he smirked and nodded knowingly. It hit him then at the moment, that he hadn’t learned much about Anemone and perhaps this night would be a good one to start getting to know one another better. “So you’re the youngest in your family, too? How big is your family?”

But before Anemone had a chance to answer him, he heard Avalynn shouting over to catch the attention of Shane. Another sailor from his brother’s ship. He watched as the man approached, seemingly nervous. At Shane’s greeting, he smiled and nodded, “It’s good to see you too, Shane.” He had seen the man at the chase as Wesley pushed him out of his way- it had been why Lucian pushed his brother back, to stick up for Shane. Then it suddenly clicked- Had Shane and Avalynn met up at the Chase?

He felt Anemone tug on his hand, urging him to stand up with her, and she was suddenly announcing that they were about to go dance. They hadn’t even eaten dinner yet, though. But Lucian stood and smiled at Shane and Avalynn and nodded to them. “Good to see you both,” he said politely before walking off with Anemone to go dance.