They danced.
Aurelio was careful with Ivone. He handled her lightly, paid her sweet compliments and smiles he'd reserved just for her. Lurking beneath that shining facade, however, he gave subtle instruction. A touch, a soft word, a flicker of his eyes: he showed her the ones she should pay attention to and the ones she should avoid. He gave warnings and entreaties, using their steps and the music to cover the things he had to convey to her. It was the only time to do so, while she could see their faces and mannerisms, where she would be able to study where they stood and to who they spoke. After the dance was over, and the party had faded, she would be called upon in various different ways and at various different times. He would not be with her all the time. He would not be able to advise her for all occasions. While they would doubtless go over the evening later, he wanted her to begin to memorize faces while she could.
So, they danced.
When their energy had begun to flag, Aurelio pulled her closer than was necessary to begin his last set of instructions.
"I need you to begin a friendship with the Oslun lad -- without tweaking Sparrow's feathers. If we go and speak to him, will you be able to captivate him?"
The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
Re: The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
And so, it began, their contract. Aurelio had paid first and now it was her turn to deliver in return. Amidst the sweet nothings and touches, a sort of code developed. A touch from his hand and she would lean, malleable as you please, her gaze following the direction of the touch to brush across this person or that. A soft word would gain him a pleased smile wherein she would glance away as if shy or embarrassed. Invariably, there was always someone in her line of sight.
She was smitten with him, so acting that way wasn’t all that hard to do. He wasn’t asking her to do anything unusual… yet. When he pulled her close and closer still, his lips and breath brushed against her ear. She shivered, her skin prickling beneath his warm breath. Her heart beat thumped hard in chest.
The sensation was a twin to his first whisper to her in the kitchen, the one that had started the wildfire of the day before, the one that had carried the message she needed to keep in her mind at all times and never, ever, ever forget. Had it really only been just yesterday?
Ivone’s eyes almost closed and she smiled. She would have to win an Oslun for him it seemed, but make it look as if that one had chosen her of his own volition. Could she do it? Ivone didn’t know, she was no coquette, but it seemed these jaded creatures were unprepared for what she was. She would kill them by being something she was and not what she wasn’t.
When, she turned her head away from him and moved to put a more respectable distance between them, it was done on purpose and for a variety of reasons. When he held her too closely, she couldn’t think. Sadly, she never wanted him to stop holding her so close. What was a girl to do but say,
“Yes."
She was smitten with him, so acting that way wasn’t all that hard to do. He wasn’t asking her to do anything unusual… yet. When he pulled her close and closer still, his lips and breath brushed against her ear. She shivered, her skin prickling beneath his warm breath. Her heart beat thumped hard in chest.
The sensation was a twin to his first whisper to her in the kitchen, the one that had started the wildfire of the day before, the one that had carried the message she needed to keep in her mind at all times and never, ever, ever forget. Had it really only been just yesterday?
Ivone’s eyes almost closed and she smiled. She would have to win an Oslun for him it seemed, but make it look as if that one had chosen her of his own volition. Could she do it? Ivone didn’t know, she was no coquette, but it seemed these jaded creatures were unprepared for what she was. She would kill them by being something she was and not what she wasn’t.
When, she turned her head away from him and moved to put a more respectable distance between them, it was done on purpose and for a variety of reasons. When he held her too closely, she couldn’t think. Sadly, she never wanted him to stop holding her so close. What was a girl to do but say,
“Yes."
"Forgive, sounds good.
Forget, I'm not sure I could.
They say time heals everything, but I'm still waiting."
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Forget, I'm not sure I could.
They say time heals everything, but I'm still waiting."
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Re: The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
The musical number ended, and Aurelio escorted them off the dance floor. First, to drinks. They had danced for a long time, and both could use the breather refreshments provided. If they played their timing right, they would have a few minutes before anyone approached them, and hopefully before that he could ease them in the right direction.
"He is fond of the theater. Given your history, see if you can persuade him to secure you an invitation. Use me, if you need; it would be like an Oslun to want to rescue a fair maiden out of my clutches." His voice was low and amused. He bent slightly to put his lips closer to her ear. "Shall I give you cause to look uncomfortable and in need of rescuing?"
"He is fond of the theater. Given your history, see if you can persuade him to secure you an invitation. Use me, if you need; it would be like an Oslun to want to rescue a fair maiden out of my clutches." His voice was low and amused. He bent slightly to put his lips closer to her ear. "Shall I give you cause to look uncomfortable and in need of rescuing?"
Re: The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
Garrick Oslun was the newest of Sparrow’s group. Sparrow had found his fresh face and gallant manners amusing. He was an Oslun and a Descendant, as she was, and the pair had been introduced through the standard marriage mart meetings. But, Sparrow had little intention of settling down and birthing babies anytime soon. Her siblings had birthed a sufficient number, in her mind, to satisfy dynastic needs. So, instead, she paraded the Oslun around much as Aurelio was parading around his little Malatrast. Sparrow smiled. At least hers was a true Descendant.
Seeing the pair approach the table, Sparrow gave a little smile and waved her fan slowly. She made a move toward the refreshments table and as expected, Garrick was by her side.
“Are you thirsty? Allow me.” Sparrow looked up at the gallant Mr. Oslun. His hair was reddish and curled. His eyes were blue. His skin, fair, just as Osluns were wont to be. She did so like red hair, blue eyes and fair skin, but Garrick was just a tad too light in her opinion and certainly not bold enough.
“Oh, Garrick, you spoil me.” Sparrow tittered and pressed the tip of her fan against Garricks chest, just above his heart. She was annoyed that Garrick interrupted, but it would spoil her game with him to get cross with him just yet. Garrick smiled.
“Lady, it is my pleasure.” With that he took himself to the refreshments table, arriving just in time to see Aurelio lean close to Ivone’s left ear. He noted that Ivone tilted her head to the right and stepped to her right. He noted the sinister smirk Merynir wore. Two spots of color were appearing on the apples of the petite woman’s cheeks. He must have said something untoward.
Garrick opened his mouth to speak, but it was another voice that cut in.
“Why, Ivone, how nice to see you out and about again.”
Garrick turned his head to look. Jaime Peris, the famed actor, had approached. Garrick smiled. He was a fan of Jaime’s work.
“Mr. Peris, pardon my interruption. It is a pleasure to meet you. Garrick Oslun at your service. My Lady Ivone. Master Merynir.” Garrick’s distaste of Aurelio was obvious. Sparrow had told him how poorly Aurelio had treated her and now it seemed he had another gentle woman to defile.
Jaime glanced to Garrick and his gaze traveled the length of the young man’s body. He quirked an eyebrow.
“My pleasure, Mr. Oslun. Please, call me Jaime.”
Jaime reached out and stroked his fingers over Garrick’s hand and noted the young man pull back slightly. Ah well, perhaps with time, he could seduce him. They all fell to his charms eventually. In that respect, Jaime was not much different from Sparrow, collecting paramours like charms for a bracelet. But, that was not his purpose.
Jaime wore mourning blue and like Ivone, had splashed a little color here and there. They were more alike than either cared to admit. Tian had formed them both.
When Aurelio spoke, Ivone responded to his tease and for a moment, she was annoyed by her response and his knowledge of how to use it. Though she was annoyed, her head tilted to the side allowing his access to her neck. Though she was annoyed, heat pooled low between her thighs as images of she and him shocking everyone and having each other right there on the refreshments table filled her head. Heat crept into her cheeks, too, in embarrassment that she would even think like that at all. Ivone moved to step away from him.
A body blocked her way. Jaime Peris. He was a little bigger than Tian, but not much. His boyish looks kept the years at bay and gave him the pick of choice roles, still. When Jaime turned, she spied Garrick there, who alternated between hero worship when he saw Jaime and affront when he looked at Aurelio. Ivone immediately curtisied.
“Jaime. Mr. Oslun.”
Ivone wanted to pull Jaime’s hair out. How dare he mourn her husband as if he was still Jaime’s.
“Darling Ivone, you move so gracefully. I hope you will join me in the next set.” Garrick looked from Jaime Peris to Ivone and interjected.
“Yes, I would enjoy having you partner me, as well. And, I know James was looking forward to speaking with you again.”
Jaime gave a half smile and held out his arm.
“Ivone, darling, I insist you take a turn about the room with me.”
Ivone was in a quandary. The last thing she wanted was to be alone, even as alone as a turn around the room offered, with Jaime Peris.
“Oh…” Ivone gave a little laugh. “You both overwhelm me and I am in desperate need of refreshment. Yes, Jaime, … and Garrick was it? I will happily dance the next set with you.”
With that she reached for a cup of whatever they were serving. Whatever they were serving turned out to be champagne mixed with some fruity red drink. The taste was a little sweet and bubbled in one’s mouth. Ivone was surprised by it, but not put off. She rather liked it. Decorum insisted, though, that instead of gulping down the drink to quench her thirst she would have to take dainty sips.
Ivone’s eyes widened and color returned to her cheeks again as she pressed her fingers to her lips. The champagne had given her hiccoughs.
“Oh…” a pause… “…my.” Ivone looked away from the two men, even as her shoulders lifted. Her hiccoughs were quiet, but showed.
Garrick seemed suddenly enchanted by how cute and silly Ivone’s hiccoughs were. Ivone her hiccoughs were dainty, it seemed. Little he know how much a tiger she could be in private. Jaime sneered into his cup.
“I’m afraid I must take my leave, but may I recommend drinking a glass of water to cure your hiccoughs? And, save a set for me, Lady Ivone. I fully intend to have it.”
Ivone nodded, fingers still pressed to her lips and cheeks red with embarrassment. Her eyes were downcast. Jaime watched Garrick leave.
“Ivone, darling, it’s amazing how that innocent façade of yours gains you so many admirers. Poor Tian never had a chance did he, dear?”
Oh, how she hated him! Ivone turned her back to Jaime and found Aurelio’s chest blocking her view. He had remained beside her the entire time. She wanted to bury her face in his chest and cry, but knew she couldn’t do that.
“I…” a hiccough wracked her body again. “Please… excu- excuse me.”
Ivone stepped around Aurelio and made her way to the ladies room. When Ivone had left, Jaime turned his attention to Aurelio.
“You know, you could find more willing bed partners than her.” Granted, Jaime did not know what had already transpired between the pair. He assumed, wrongly, that Ivone had not allowed Aurelio to have her, based on the way she blushed and pulled away. "Though, I do believe you've managed make some headway. Her blushes show she is interested." Jaime should know. It was that disgusting openness that had stolen Tian away from him.
“But, I suppose I will especially enjoy watching you strip her and share her around as you’ve done with all the others. And,” Jaime took a sip of his drink, smirking still. “From the looks of it, I’m not the only one." Jaime's brows raised and his head tilted in the direction of the group from which they'd come. "And, if you aren't careful, I'd say your former lover is going to steal her away from you."
Jaime stepped closer to Aurelio. His hand slipped to rest on Aurelio's lower back.
"She's not the only one in the room who finds you attractive, you know." A promise twinkled in Jaime's eyes. "Perhaps, I could show you."
Seeing the pair approach the table, Sparrow gave a little smile and waved her fan slowly. She made a move toward the refreshments table and as expected, Garrick was by her side.
“Are you thirsty? Allow me.” Sparrow looked up at the gallant Mr. Oslun. His hair was reddish and curled. His eyes were blue. His skin, fair, just as Osluns were wont to be. She did so like red hair, blue eyes and fair skin, but Garrick was just a tad too light in her opinion and certainly not bold enough.
“Oh, Garrick, you spoil me.” Sparrow tittered and pressed the tip of her fan against Garricks chest, just above his heart. She was annoyed that Garrick interrupted, but it would spoil her game with him to get cross with him just yet. Garrick smiled.
“Lady, it is my pleasure.” With that he took himself to the refreshments table, arriving just in time to see Aurelio lean close to Ivone’s left ear. He noted that Ivone tilted her head to the right and stepped to her right. He noted the sinister smirk Merynir wore. Two spots of color were appearing on the apples of the petite woman’s cheeks. He must have said something untoward.
Garrick opened his mouth to speak, but it was another voice that cut in.
“Why, Ivone, how nice to see you out and about again.”
Garrick turned his head to look. Jaime Peris, the famed actor, had approached. Garrick smiled. He was a fan of Jaime’s work.
“Mr. Peris, pardon my interruption. It is a pleasure to meet you. Garrick Oslun at your service. My Lady Ivone. Master Merynir.” Garrick’s distaste of Aurelio was obvious. Sparrow had told him how poorly Aurelio had treated her and now it seemed he had another gentle woman to defile.
Jaime glanced to Garrick and his gaze traveled the length of the young man’s body. He quirked an eyebrow.
“My pleasure, Mr. Oslun. Please, call me Jaime.”
Jaime reached out and stroked his fingers over Garrick’s hand and noted the young man pull back slightly. Ah well, perhaps with time, he could seduce him. They all fell to his charms eventually. In that respect, Jaime was not much different from Sparrow, collecting paramours like charms for a bracelet. But, that was not his purpose.
Jaime wore mourning blue and like Ivone, had splashed a little color here and there. They were more alike than either cared to admit. Tian had formed them both.
When Aurelio spoke, Ivone responded to his tease and for a moment, she was annoyed by her response and his knowledge of how to use it. Though she was annoyed, her head tilted to the side allowing his access to her neck. Though she was annoyed, heat pooled low between her thighs as images of she and him shocking everyone and having each other right there on the refreshments table filled her head. Heat crept into her cheeks, too, in embarrassment that she would even think like that at all. Ivone moved to step away from him.
A body blocked her way. Jaime Peris. He was a little bigger than Tian, but not much. His boyish looks kept the years at bay and gave him the pick of choice roles, still. When Jaime turned, she spied Garrick there, who alternated between hero worship when he saw Jaime and affront when he looked at Aurelio. Ivone immediately curtisied.
“Jaime. Mr. Oslun.”
Ivone wanted to pull Jaime’s hair out. How dare he mourn her husband as if he was still Jaime’s.
“Darling Ivone, you move so gracefully. I hope you will join me in the next set.” Garrick looked from Jaime Peris to Ivone and interjected.
“Yes, I would enjoy having you partner me, as well. And, I know James was looking forward to speaking with you again.”
Jaime gave a half smile and held out his arm.
“Ivone, darling, I insist you take a turn about the room with me.”
Ivone was in a quandary. The last thing she wanted was to be alone, even as alone as a turn around the room offered, with Jaime Peris.
“Oh…” Ivone gave a little laugh. “You both overwhelm me and I am in desperate need of refreshment. Yes, Jaime, … and Garrick was it? I will happily dance the next set with you.”
With that she reached for a cup of whatever they were serving. Whatever they were serving turned out to be champagne mixed with some fruity red drink. The taste was a little sweet and bubbled in one’s mouth. Ivone was surprised by it, but not put off. She rather liked it. Decorum insisted, though, that instead of gulping down the drink to quench her thirst she would have to take dainty sips.
Ivone’s eyes widened and color returned to her cheeks again as she pressed her fingers to her lips. The champagne had given her hiccoughs.
“Oh…” a pause… “…my.” Ivone looked away from the two men, even as her shoulders lifted. Her hiccoughs were quiet, but showed.
Garrick seemed suddenly enchanted by how cute and silly Ivone’s hiccoughs were. Ivone her hiccoughs were dainty, it seemed. Little he know how much a tiger she could be in private. Jaime sneered into his cup.
“I’m afraid I must take my leave, but may I recommend drinking a glass of water to cure your hiccoughs? And, save a set for me, Lady Ivone. I fully intend to have it.”
Ivone nodded, fingers still pressed to her lips and cheeks red with embarrassment. Her eyes were downcast. Jaime watched Garrick leave.
“Ivone, darling, it’s amazing how that innocent façade of yours gains you so many admirers. Poor Tian never had a chance did he, dear?”
Oh, how she hated him! Ivone turned her back to Jaime and found Aurelio’s chest blocking her view. He had remained beside her the entire time. She wanted to bury her face in his chest and cry, but knew she couldn’t do that.
“I…” a hiccough wracked her body again. “Please… excu- excuse me.”
Ivone stepped around Aurelio and made her way to the ladies room. When Ivone had left, Jaime turned his attention to Aurelio.
“You know, you could find more willing bed partners than her.” Granted, Jaime did not know what had already transpired between the pair. He assumed, wrongly, that Ivone had not allowed Aurelio to have her, based on the way she blushed and pulled away. "Though, I do believe you've managed make some headway. Her blushes show she is interested." Jaime should know. It was that disgusting openness that had stolen Tian away from him.
“But, I suppose I will especially enjoy watching you strip her and share her around as you’ve done with all the others. And,” Jaime took a sip of his drink, smirking still. “From the looks of it, I’m not the only one." Jaime's brows raised and his head tilted in the direction of the group from which they'd come. "And, if you aren't careful, I'd say your former lover is going to steal her away from you."
Jaime stepped closer to Aurelio. His hand slipped to rest on Aurelio's lower back.
"She's not the only one in the room who finds you attractive, you know." A promise twinkled in Jaime's eyes. "Perhaps, I could show you."
"Forgive, sounds good.
Forget, I'm not sure I could.
They say time heals everything, but I'm still waiting."
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Forget, I'm not sure I could.
They say time heals everything, but I'm still waiting."
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Re: The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
"There are those who do enjoy those who prefer to simply lie abed and take what is offered, I suppose, but I am not one of them. More's the pity." Aurelio's voice was lethargic, though it did not carry into his eyes as he looked at Jaime. There was no disinterest there. "Besides, I always welcome a . . . challenge." Aurelio's smile was all edge, and he danced along it as he leaned into Jaime's touch.
"Though I daresay you've never made much of challenges, have you?" His voice was soft, deceptively so, as he leaned closer to Jaime. The caress of his fingertips along Jaime's arm were an insinuation that he could have Jaime at any time of his choosing.
Aurelio stepped away. "But ah, forgive my poor manners. I trust you have been well? Whatever happened to that fluff that had attached to you at the start of the Season?"
___________________________
Sparrow did not let much escape her attention. When she did, it was on purpose, and it always served a purpose. So it was that when Ivone nearly collided into her, it was not Ivone's fault so much as Sparrow's -- not that the other woman would be of a mind to necessarily notice. "Oh, my dear!" Sparrow took hold of Ivone's shoulders, and drew her into a curtained alcove. It was empty. Sparrow had known that. "Are you quite all right?"
Her expression was the perfect mix of warmth and concern.
Naturally.
"Though I daresay you've never made much of challenges, have you?" His voice was soft, deceptively so, as he leaned closer to Jaime. The caress of his fingertips along Jaime's arm were an insinuation that he could have Jaime at any time of his choosing.
Aurelio stepped away. "But ah, forgive my poor manners. I trust you have been well? Whatever happened to that fluff that had attached to you at the start of the Season?"
___________________________
Sparrow did not let much escape her attention. When she did, it was on purpose, and it always served a purpose. So it was that when Ivone nearly collided into her, it was not Ivone's fault so much as Sparrow's -- not that the other woman would be of a mind to necessarily notice. "Oh, my dear!" Sparrow took hold of Ivone's shoulders, and drew her into a curtained alcove. It was empty. Sparrow had known that. "Are you quite all right?"
Her expression was the perfect mix of warmth and concern.
Naturally.
Re: The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
Jaime quelled the thrill as Aurelio leaned in toward him. Jaime smiled his perfect, actor’s smile. It was a coy one as he tilted his head. Oh, he knew Aurelio knew. Aurelio’s comment cut as it was meant to, but that just made Jaime smile all the more. It was all part of the game.
“Such a player! “ Jaime bantered back. He welcomed the brush of Aurelio’s breath against his cheek as the man leaned in to speak so softly.
“Oh, my dear, I always make much of challenges!” Jaime’s reply was in a throaty purr, “The simple truth is I know I can do you better than anyone else.” Jaime winked. “And so do you. Home advantage and all that. Besides, I am patient.”
The insinuation wrankled, but it was true that Jaime wouldn’t say no – especially now. No, he woudn’t. Having Ivone come across him and Aurelio in compromising positions… the idea just sent shivers right through him! And, he’d noticed Aurelio’s gaze held some interest. Jaime acted as if nothing had happened when Aurelio pulled away.
“Oh, Fargo? That little bitch was a horrid lover and thought if he slept with me, he’d get stage time.” Jaime rolled his eyes and waved off the memory. “Only his acting sucked worse than his mouth.”
Another young thing came up to them, this one with jealousy in his eyes as he looked from Jaime to Aurelio. “Jaime, really, you have been away much too long.”
Jaime smiled contentedly. “This one’s acting is nonexistent, but he still sucks. Don’t you dear?” Jaime ruffled his fingers through the young man’s hair, then slipped his arm through the crook of the young man’s arm.
“Don’t be jealous, my sweet. You know I’m a horrible flirt!” Jaime glanced back over his shoulder at Aurelio and gave him another wink.
“Don’t forget that show you always do, Aurelio dear. I look forward to having front row seats!”
“Oh, is he another actor?” asked the young man. Jaime tittered and moved off.
“Of the most amazing caliber, sweetie. Oh my, where did our little Sparrow go?
___________________________
Ivone was attempting to hold her breath, but even that wasn’t working. She gasped when she bumped into someone.
“Oh! I’m so… sorry!” The hiccoughs were still on her, even after being surprised. And, somehow, the woman had pulled her into a quiet place away from others. Ivone nodded, color still high on her cheeks, as she still had an audience.
“Just… just hiccoughs,” Ivone admitted ruefully. “Please… I will be fine.” Ivone willed the hiccoughs to go away, which only seemed to make them come on faster.
Ivone viewed the woman before her, blue-violet eyes wide and hand pressed to her lips. She was beautiful, and Ivone’s opposite. Tall and statuesque, her glossy, brunette hair fell around her shoulders in a cascade of perfect curls that just brushed the tops of full, well-rounded breasts that strained the bodice of her dress. Dark eyes were lined artfully with kohl and full lips were curved in a warm, inviting smile. The woman smelled slightly of cinnabar. She made Ivone feel like that flat-chested thirteen year-old from years ago.
Ivone recognized the woman from the Register: Isadora Moryldar. All Descendant and upper class families were listed in the Register. Even Ivone had been added as a smaller listing beneath Tian’s once they had been married. Part of her training had been to learn them all. When another hiccough escaped her as a little inhaled squeak, she blushed furiously again and looked away from the woman. Now, she felt even more childish. But, training and manners dictated and would not be ignored. Pressing her lips together in the hopes that the hiccoughs would not interrupt, Ivone curtsied to the woman. Her form was perfect, but for the hiccoughs. Hiccoughs have no care for manners. They interrupted her more than once as she spoke.
“Ivone … Mala…trast. A plea…pleasure to make your acq.. acquaintance, my Lady Isadora.” Aurelio had called her Sparrow, but Ivone had not been given leave to call her that. As such, protocols demanded she acknowledge the woman by her given name. Ivone rose as gracefully as she could considering the circumstances.
Ivone wondered why the woman was here, talking to her. If she’d read Aurelio’s cues correctly, Sparrow was a woman not to be trifled with. Had Garrick’s attention to her already ruffled the Sparrow’s feather. Sparrow? HA. More like hawk.
“Such a player! “ Jaime bantered back. He welcomed the brush of Aurelio’s breath against his cheek as the man leaned in to speak so softly.
“Oh, my dear, I always make much of challenges!” Jaime’s reply was in a throaty purr, “The simple truth is I know I can do you better than anyone else.” Jaime winked. “And so do you. Home advantage and all that. Besides, I am patient.”
The insinuation wrankled, but it was true that Jaime wouldn’t say no – especially now. No, he woudn’t. Having Ivone come across him and Aurelio in compromising positions… the idea just sent shivers right through him! And, he’d noticed Aurelio’s gaze held some interest. Jaime acted as if nothing had happened when Aurelio pulled away.
“Oh, Fargo? That little bitch was a horrid lover and thought if he slept with me, he’d get stage time.” Jaime rolled his eyes and waved off the memory. “Only his acting sucked worse than his mouth.”
Another young thing came up to them, this one with jealousy in his eyes as he looked from Jaime to Aurelio. “Jaime, really, you have been away much too long.”
Jaime smiled contentedly. “This one’s acting is nonexistent, but he still sucks. Don’t you dear?” Jaime ruffled his fingers through the young man’s hair, then slipped his arm through the crook of the young man’s arm.
“Don’t be jealous, my sweet. You know I’m a horrible flirt!” Jaime glanced back over his shoulder at Aurelio and gave him another wink.
“Don’t forget that show you always do, Aurelio dear. I look forward to having front row seats!”
“Oh, is he another actor?” asked the young man. Jaime tittered and moved off.
“Of the most amazing caliber, sweetie. Oh my, where did our little Sparrow go?
___________________________
Ivone was attempting to hold her breath, but even that wasn’t working. She gasped when she bumped into someone.
“Oh! I’m so… sorry!” The hiccoughs were still on her, even after being surprised. And, somehow, the woman had pulled her into a quiet place away from others. Ivone nodded, color still high on her cheeks, as she still had an audience.
“Just… just hiccoughs,” Ivone admitted ruefully. “Please… I will be fine.” Ivone willed the hiccoughs to go away, which only seemed to make them come on faster.
Ivone viewed the woman before her, blue-violet eyes wide and hand pressed to her lips. She was beautiful, and Ivone’s opposite. Tall and statuesque, her glossy, brunette hair fell around her shoulders in a cascade of perfect curls that just brushed the tops of full, well-rounded breasts that strained the bodice of her dress. Dark eyes were lined artfully with kohl and full lips were curved in a warm, inviting smile. The woman smelled slightly of cinnabar. She made Ivone feel like that flat-chested thirteen year-old from years ago.
Ivone recognized the woman from the Register: Isadora Moryldar. All Descendant and upper class families were listed in the Register. Even Ivone had been added as a smaller listing beneath Tian’s once they had been married. Part of her training had been to learn them all. When another hiccough escaped her as a little inhaled squeak, she blushed furiously again and looked away from the woman. Now, she felt even more childish. But, training and manners dictated and would not be ignored. Pressing her lips together in the hopes that the hiccoughs would not interrupt, Ivone curtsied to the woman. Her form was perfect, but for the hiccoughs. Hiccoughs have no care for manners. They interrupted her more than once as she spoke.
“Ivone … Mala…trast. A plea…pleasure to make your acq.. acquaintance, my Lady Isadora.” Aurelio had called her Sparrow, but Ivone had not been given leave to call her that. As such, protocols demanded she acknowledge the woman by her given name. Ivone rose as gracefully as she could considering the circumstances.
Ivone wondered why the woman was here, talking to her. If she’d read Aurelio’s cues correctly, Sparrow was a woman not to be trifled with. Had Garrick’s attention to her already ruffled the Sparrow’s feather. Sparrow? HA. More like hawk.
"Forgive, sounds good.
Forget, I'm not sure I could.
They say time heals everything, but I'm still waiting."
Thread Tracker
Forget, I'm not sure I could.
They say time heals everything, but I'm still waiting."
Thread Tracker
Re: The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
Sparrow giggled. "Never you mind that -- though it is, of course, a pleasure, my dear Lady Ivone." Sparrow pressed down on Ivone's shoulders to settle her onto one of the cushioned benches that lined the rectangular alcove. The curtain they'd disturbed upon their entrance stilled, and for the moment they existed in their own little bubble.
Sparrow liked neat things. "It has been some time since you have tread the waters, no? And never at a little trifle like this. It is no wonder you have, ah," she gestured towards her own middle. Her voice was high and lilting -- one of the reasons for her nickname. "Sit and rest, and do tell me what you think!"
Sparrow sat alongside Ivone so that their skirts touched, and leaned close to the other woman. The illusion of sisterhood secrets was one she was well versed in, and she did not hesitate in its use.
Sparrow liked neat things. "It has been some time since you have tread the waters, no? And never at a little trifle like this. It is no wonder you have, ah," she gestured towards her own middle. Her voice was high and lilting -- one of the reasons for her nickname. "Sit and rest, and do tell me what you think!"
Sparrow sat alongside Ivone so that their skirts touched, and leaned close to the other woman. The illusion of sisterhood secrets was one she was well versed in, and she did not hesitate in its use.
Re: The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
Oh… she knows who I am? In the surprise of that realization, Sparrow easily maneuvered her onto a settee. Ivone’s hands naturally, smoothed the back of the skirt as she sat. Then, she clasped them neatly into her lap. A lone lift of her shoulders indicated her hiccoughs had not given up yet. The thick curtains muted the sounds from the soiree.
Ivone had to look up, even though they sat. The difference was not as much as when they were standing, but this close it couldn’t be helped. There was a maturity around Sparrow’s eyes, that made Ivone think Sparrow was closer to Aurelio’s age than her own. The woman sat close to her as if they were friends already.
When Sparrow spoke, Ivone nodded. “Yes, at least five… years and never at one of… these.” She and Tian had attended parties, of course, and danced. Sparrow’s voice was melodious and higher than Ivone’s. It was just another way they were different. She smiled at Sparrow shyly and shook her head.
“I think it was the extra bubbles in the champagne that did it.” Sparrow’s comment, though, was asking for more than that.
“The musicians play very well. Were you the one who organized it?” Ivone turned to Sparrow a little.
Ivone had to look up, even though they sat. The difference was not as much as when they were standing, but this close it couldn’t be helped. There was a maturity around Sparrow’s eyes, that made Ivone think Sparrow was closer to Aurelio’s age than her own. The woman sat close to her as if they were friends already.
When Sparrow spoke, Ivone nodded. “Yes, at least five… years and never at one of… these.” She and Tian had attended parties, of course, and danced. Sparrow’s voice was melodious and higher than Ivone’s. It was just another way they were different. She smiled at Sparrow shyly and shook her head.
“I think it was the extra bubbles in the champagne that did it.” Sparrow’s comment, though, was asking for more than that.
“The musicians play very well. Were you the one who organized it?” Ivone turned to Sparrow a little.
"Forgive, sounds good.
Forget, I'm not sure I could.
They say time heals everything, but I'm still waiting."
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Forget, I'm not sure I could.
They say time heals everything, but I'm still waiting."
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Re: The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
Sparrow tittered, hand held over her mouth in a mannerism that bespoke femininity and class. "This trifling thing? Oh no, darling, this is but a brief amusement between the grander sets. It is likely someone's servants secured the details while the rest of us who enjoy throwing parties attend to those which are most complex. This is a good start for your first time, however, don't get me wrong." Her words were softened with a bright, guileless smile. It reached up to her eyes, crinkling their edges and making her appear most gay.
A happy expression. So very happy.
"I will, of course, see to it invitations are extended to you if you decide you would like to attend more of these. You are so very lovely, darling, you would be another perfect jewel to keep these affairs exciting. You are enjoying yourself, are you not? You seem a bit off. Oh, if there is anything causing you strain you must say something. Especially at your first one! It would be dreadful if someone caused you ill!"
Sparrow reached out to take Ivone's hand, eyebrows drawn down and mouth forming a small 'o' of concern.
A happy expression. So very happy.
"I will, of course, see to it invitations are extended to you if you decide you would like to attend more of these. You are so very lovely, darling, you would be another perfect jewel to keep these affairs exciting. You are enjoying yourself, are you not? You seem a bit off. Oh, if there is anything causing you strain you must say something. Especially at your first one! It would be dreadful if someone caused you ill!"
Sparrow reached out to take Ivone's hand, eyebrows drawn down and mouth forming a small 'o' of concern.
Re: The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
Ivone hoped she hadn't offended Sparrow, though the way the woman smiled made it seem she hadn't.
"You're too kind, I would like that." responded Ivone with a sweet smile for Sparrow. She really looked like she meant it. Like Sparrow, the look was guileless. Plus, the silly hiccoughs had finally decided to go away.
Ivone tilted her head slightly.
"Off? Do I? I am having fun. I..." Ivone's expression was genuine. The sadness that lurked at the surface threatened. "My husband and.. and my child died not long ago, as you probably know. I've just begun socializing again. So, that might be it? And, well... " Ivone paused, considering sharing a confidence with Sparrow, and looked at their clasped hands, before looking up.
"I wasn't expecting to see Jaime Faris here, though I can't imagine why I wasn't. He and my husband were partners for several years before Tian offered marriage, but you probably already know that, too." Ivone looked away from Sparrow's concerned gaze. Even if she were as fake as the rest, even talking about it made her eyes wet and she did not want to be weak in front of this woman. Ivone took in a determined breath, lifted her chin, and forced a smile.
"Sorry, we've only just met and here I am telling sad stories! My malady has gone and the music has started up again. My favorite part of things like this is in the dancing. Do you like to dance, Lady Isadora?" Safer ground...
"You're too kind, I would like that." responded Ivone with a sweet smile for Sparrow. She really looked like she meant it. Like Sparrow, the look was guileless. Plus, the silly hiccoughs had finally decided to go away.
Ivone tilted her head slightly.
"Off? Do I? I am having fun. I..." Ivone's expression was genuine. The sadness that lurked at the surface threatened. "My husband and.. and my child died not long ago, as you probably know. I've just begun socializing again. So, that might be it? And, well... " Ivone paused, considering sharing a confidence with Sparrow, and looked at their clasped hands, before looking up.
"I wasn't expecting to see Jaime Faris here, though I can't imagine why I wasn't. He and my husband were partners for several years before Tian offered marriage, but you probably already know that, too." Ivone looked away from Sparrow's concerned gaze. Even if she were as fake as the rest, even talking about it made her eyes wet and she did not want to be weak in front of this woman. Ivone took in a determined breath, lifted her chin, and forced a smile.
"Sorry, we've only just met and here I am telling sad stories! My malady has gone and the music has started up again. My favorite part of things like this is in the dancing. Do you like to dance, Lady Isadora?" Safer ground...
"Forgive, sounds good.
Forget, I'm not sure I could.
They say time heals everything, but I'm still waiting."
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Forget, I'm not sure I could.
They say time heals everything, but I'm still waiting."
Thread Tracker
Re: The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
"I was -- we all were -- so sorry to hear that." Sparrow murmured at the mention of death. Automatic response. She didn't interrupt further.
"Jaime is quite like a hunting hawk, isn't he? I could not possibly blame you for remembering sad tidings in his presence. He does bring about a fugue like a cloak wherever he goes. Fear not, however: he is harmless outside of his words. I will see to his distraction for the remainder of the evening so that you might enjoy yourself -- it is so good to see you out and about! You do so look lovely on the dance floor. Much lovelier than myself, I'm afraid. Had you not come with Master Aurelio I am sure you would be attended as is the flower by bees." Sparrow winked. "So, now, you won't leave the dance floor bereft of your presence long, I hope? I'm sure there are any number of partners you might take if you have wearied of Aurelio's hapless charm."
"Jaime is quite like a hunting hawk, isn't he? I could not possibly blame you for remembering sad tidings in his presence. He does bring about a fugue like a cloak wherever he goes. Fear not, however: he is harmless outside of his words. I will see to his distraction for the remainder of the evening so that you might enjoy yourself -- it is so good to see you out and about! You do so look lovely on the dance floor. Much lovelier than myself, I'm afraid. Had you not come with Master Aurelio I am sure you would be attended as is the flower by bees." Sparrow winked. "So, now, you won't leave the dance floor bereft of your presence long, I hope? I'm sure there are any number of partners you might take if you have wearied of Aurelio's hapless charm."
Re: The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
Ivone shook her head, demurring Sparrow’s comment. “There is no way I am more lovely than you. Just look at you!” Ivone’s eyes widened. “You are stunningly beautiful. And me?” Ivone’s gaze sparkled in amusement as she gestured from her chest to her toes.
“I look like a girl. While you, you… are all woman.” It was true, Sparrow was stunning, voluptuous, and every other word in the dictionary that could be applied. Ivone was honest in her praise.
As Sparrow talked, Ivone searched her memories. Hadn’t Sparrow and Aurelio been slated for marriage before Aurelio’s “transgression?” Hadn’t it been arranged since both of their births? Had Sparrow been one of the women surrounding Aurelio when he’d offered Ivone her first dance all those years ago? It was possible. Sparrow probably didn’t remember Ivone from then any more than Aurelio had.
Sparrow had let Aurelio go because of circumstance. She’d let him down in the most important way. She’d abandoned Aurelio when he’d needed her the most. Sparrow’s words only made Ivone consider the woman with annoyance. The more Ivone thought about it the more, she began to despise the woman. There she sat all cheerful smiles and fake concern. She could have anything she wanted, except the one thing she wanted most, and since she couldn’t have it, she didn’t want anyone to.
Ivone nodded and leaned a little closer, in that sisterly confidence, and her voice dropped to an intimate tone.
“Can I be completely honest?” Ivone glanced at the curtains, but they weren’t moving. Sparrow’s expression of cheery support didn’t change, but the interest that peeked through those deceitful, brown eyes wasn’t lost on Ivone. There again the sadness rose to her features, unbidden and honest, and because of its genuineness made the statements that followed all that more believable. Ivone leaned closer, to speak to the woman’s ear.
“Pamela Malatrast decided I needed help working through my grief and arranged a marriage mart meeting between us. But, I’m just using him for his business acumen and connections. What I want is to make an income separate from that which Tian left for me. Keeping busy allows me to work through my grief and for all his haplessness, Aurelio is an excellent businessman. I made sure to research a little about him before I agreed to meet with him.”
Ivone leaned back and looked at their hands, as if thinking. She then lifted their hands and pressed a kiss to Sparrow’s fingers. She smiled beatifically and winsomely up at the woman, the gesture lighting up her face. Trust seemed to sparkle in her eyes. “I hope I can trust you to keep my confidence.”
As they sat there, the ending strains sounded of another set.
“Oh, my! Have we talked for so long?” Ivone’s eyes widened again, this time twinkling with a muted merriment. “The bees must be droning most dolorously by now.” Ivone understood that Sparrow had effectively dismissed her when she suggested Ivone return to dancing. Ivone rose, smiled, and leaned in, pressing a kiss to Sparrow’s cheek. She still held the older woman’s hands in her own. Giving them a light squeeze, she took her leave with another curtsy.
True to Sparrow’s word, when Ivone emerged without Aurelio on her arm, she found herself amidst a few admirers, one of whom was Garrick. Garrick took her hand in his and slipped her arm through his.
“Miss Ivone, I do believe you agreed to a dance with me.” He smiled charmingly down at Ivone. Ivone returned the charming smile. “And, allow me to introduce…” Ivone greeted each one. Some were older, none younger. The only bother was that she couldn’t see Aurelio for all the broad and narrow shoulders that towered above her. That made her nervous. She felt as if she were adrift without oars or anchor. She wasn’t sure how, but after a few dances, she had somehow managed to secure an invitation from Garrick Oslun to attend an afternoon play followed by an early dinner at some restaurant or other featuring the newest member of the troupe, Fargo.
Ivone allowed herself to be moved along the tide of human bodies, finding herself back on the dance floor again. She was driftwood, albeit a pretty piece, swept along and eddied about on a current of hands. The faces blurred as she worked to remember this person or that. Where had Aurelio gone? Had Sparrow set this legion upon her? Ivone was feeling overwhelmed by the press of bodies. She smiled, but it was held in place only by determination and years of training.
“Please,” she said to her most current partner, “excuse me…” Ivone moved to press through the crowd. When had all these people arrived? Was she even heading toward the refreshments table?
“I look like a girl. While you, you… are all woman.” It was true, Sparrow was stunning, voluptuous, and every other word in the dictionary that could be applied. Ivone was honest in her praise.
As Sparrow talked, Ivone searched her memories. Hadn’t Sparrow and Aurelio been slated for marriage before Aurelio’s “transgression?” Hadn’t it been arranged since both of their births? Had Sparrow been one of the women surrounding Aurelio when he’d offered Ivone her first dance all those years ago? It was possible. Sparrow probably didn’t remember Ivone from then any more than Aurelio had.
Sparrow had let Aurelio go because of circumstance. She’d let him down in the most important way. She’d abandoned Aurelio when he’d needed her the most. Sparrow’s words only made Ivone consider the woman with annoyance. The more Ivone thought about it the more, she began to despise the woman. There she sat all cheerful smiles and fake concern. She could have anything she wanted, except the one thing she wanted most, and since she couldn’t have it, she didn’t want anyone to.
Ivone nodded and leaned a little closer, in that sisterly confidence, and her voice dropped to an intimate tone.
“Can I be completely honest?” Ivone glanced at the curtains, but they weren’t moving. Sparrow’s expression of cheery support didn’t change, but the interest that peeked through those deceitful, brown eyes wasn’t lost on Ivone. There again the sadness rose to her features, unbidden and honest, and because of its genuineness made the statements that followed all that more believable. Ivone leaned closer, to speak to the woman’s ear.
“Pamela Malatrast decided I needed help working through my grief and arranged a marriage mart meeting between us. But, I’m just using him for his business acumen and connections. What I want is to make an income separate from that which Tian left for me. Keeping busy allows me to work through my grief and for all his haplessness, Aurelio is an excellent businessman. I made sure to research a little about him before I agreed to meet with him.”
Ivone leaned back and looked at their hands, as if thinking. She then lifted their hands and pressed a kiss to Sparrow’s fingers. She smiled beatifically and winsomely up at the woman, the gesture lighting up her face. Trust seemed to sparkle in her eyes. “I hope I can trust you to keep my confidence.”
As they sat there, the ending strains sounded of another set.
“Oh, my! Have we talked for so long?” Ivone’s eyes widened again, this time twinkling with a muted merriment. “The bees must be droning most dolorously by now.” Ivone understood that Sparrow had effectively dismissed her when she suggested Ivone return to dancing. Ivone rose, smiled, and leaned in, pressing a kiss to Sparrow’s cheek. She still held the older woman’s hands in her own. Giving them a light squeeze, she took her leave with another curtsy.
True to Sparrow’s word, when Ivone emerged without Aurelio on her arm, she found herself amidst a few admirers, one of whom was Garrick. Garrick took her hand in his and slipped her arm through his.
“Miss Ivone, I do believe you agreed to a dance with me.” He smiled charmingly down at Ivone. Ivone returned the charming smile. “And, allow me to introduce…” Ivone greeted each one. Some were older, none younger. The only bother was that she couldn’t see Aurelio for all the broad and narrow shoulders that towered above her. That made her nervous. She felt as if she were adrift without oars or anchor. She wasn’t sure how, but after a few dances, she had somehow managed to secure an invitation from Garrick Oslun to attend an afternoon play followed by an early dinner at some restaurant or other featuring the newest member of the troupe, Fargo.
Ivone allowed herself to be moved along the tide of human bodies, finding herself back on the dance floor again. She was driftwood, albeit a pretty piece, swept along and eddied about on a current of hands. The faces blurred as she worked to remember this person or that. Where had Aurelio gone? Had Sparrow set this legion upon her? Ivone was feeling overwhelmed by the press of bodies. She smiled, but it was held in place only by determination and years of training.
“Please,” she said to her most current partner, “excuse me…” Ivone moved to press through the crowd. When had all these people arrived? Was she even heading toward the refreshments table?
Re: The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
"Come now, dear -- I am flattered by your praise, but think you that there is only one way in which a woman might be beautiful?" Sparrow's giggle was airy. "You are, yourself, a jewel. How else might you have caught Aurelio's eye?" She tsked.
She listened to Ivone, and there was interest in her bearing and her eyes. "Of course," Sparrow breathed. "You are intelligent, as well as a beauty all your own."
Ivone left.
Sparrow was smiling quite happily as she left the alcove, herself.
Aurelio caught her shortly after she left. His eyes drifted over her, settling on her lips. "My dear lady, it has been . . . far too long, wouldn't you say?"
She listened to Ivone, and there was interest in her bearing and her eyes. "Of course," Sparrow breathed. "You are intelligent, as well as a beauty all your own."
Ivone left.
Sparrow was smiling quite happily as she left the alcove, herself.
Aurelio caught her shortly after she left. His eyes drifted over her, settling on her lips. "My dear lady, it has been . . . far too long, wouldn't you say?"
Re: The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
Sparrow smiled benignly at Aurelio. Her little nugget of knowledge was like a shield. Up came the fan, waving gently back and forth at chest level, as she eyed Aurelio right back.
“As you say, dear Aurelio. To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?“
“As you say, dear Aurelio. To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?“
"Forgive, sounds good.
Forget, I'm not sure I could.
They say time heals everything, but I'm still waiting."
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Forget, I'm not sure I could.
They say time heals everything, but I'm still waiting."
Thread Tracker
Re: The Black Widow and the Peacock: Second Date
"I cannot help but admire the way you handle a room, milady. Truly, you flit about with the grace of your namesake, while putting it to shame with your allure. It is easy to see why you are one of the premiere hostesses in the city. You certainly do have a way with people, putting even those of delicate constitution to ease."
He turned to stand next to her, rather than opposite, to look out over the room. If he saw Ivone, he made no sign. But he would be clearly visible, standing next to Sparrow. People would talk, and inevitably he would be one of the subjects. Not all at once, and only intermittently (Jaime was always a crowd teaser, himself), but it would be a subject broached.
He turned to stand next to her, rather than opposite, to look out over the room. If he saw Ivone, he made no sign. But he would be clearly visible, standing next to Sparrow. People would talk, and inevitably he would be one of the subjects. Not all at once, and only intermittently (Jaime was always a crowd teaser, himself), but it would be a subject broached.