[mathieiu]

"i did not think you would notice my absence .. think nothing of it," he flashed her a quick disingenuous smile, "it would be improper to make your new dance partner wait."

closed starter for @cfislas

[mathieiu]

"Aren't we in a good mood today?" Although his tone is teasing, he is genuinely happy to see the look of pure joy adorning his brother's face. He was fairly certain what or who was to blame for his brother's positive demeanour, but there was no fun in speaking plainly. "Shall I alert the columnists?"

@lordreeves

[cfislas]

everything between the two best friends was leaving isla in a constant state of confusion . they had spent the winter in what she had believed , was a new chapter for them as secret touches and kisses were exchanged . however , as the young lady returned to mayfair , he had never spoken about what transpired between them . it was as though , he was avoiding such a subject . even now as isla sat in the zhou drawing room , standing before mathieu , dark hues looked in confusion at the taller gentleman . " thank you , mathieu . these are beautiful . you did not have to buy me anything . " her words were sincere as she accepted the bouquet from him with a bright smile . she would worry about it another time . passing the flowers to a member of staff , she took a hold of his arm without him offering , " shall we enjoy our day then ? "

[mathieiu]

his brows furrowed as he linked arms with her. "of course i did, it is not just any other day. it is fete day!" he replied with a smile. her response was confusing but he does not allow the confusion to show on his face, fearing that it might result in a strange interaction and their day had barely begun. in mathieu's mind, the pair were courting and gifts were customary. he, of course, would always greet her with small trinkets that made him think of her but after their winter of love, he felt as though he needed to improve the quality of his offering. "indeed we shall, miss isla," he nodded as he led her out of the home, "which stall shall we visit first?"

[mathieiu]

every day that began with a visit to isla was a good day. while he adored his family, hers was the first face he wished to see in the morning, so, every chance he got, he would make his way over to her, usually with a small token of his affection in hand. today, he had a bouquet of fresh flowers to offer her.

when he entered the drawing room, a grin spread across his lips upon seeing her. "dearest isla," he greeted her with a nod, extending his hand to present his gift to her. "may i escort you to the mayfair fete on this fine day?"

@cfislas

[zanephillips]

The Summer I Turned Pretty 1x04 “Summer Heat“