AN APPRECIATIVE SMILE briefly brightens his morose disposition, a glimpse of a man unburdened, before it inevitably fades. The hard edges of the battle-worn soldier settle back into place, as though it had never happened. ❛ You are very kind, as your reputation suggests, ❜ says the gentleman, a sudden sheepishness in the way he swirls his drink.
The first thing Clive had heard about Lady Anders was her distinct method in thwarting the propositions of suitors around her. As mothers rush forward to introduce their eligible daughters with batted breath, the Archduke's gaze was naturally drawn towards the men that left her company. Each more dejected than the last, pruning at their vanities and reassurances. The pursued, glamorous in her lavender gown and golden adornments, was unbothered ; as serene as a flowing river, unperturbed by any obstacles that may attempt to snare her. In her, the lonesome man witnessed a kindred spirit. Perhaps someone who did not feel inclined to play the game today.
Clive had taken a risk crossing that room, shortly after excusing himself from his current bind. As he closed in, he plucks two glasses of refreshment from a passing butler and offering him a friendly nod, before nearly bumping into two gentleman. Evidently, an acquaintance of hers on their way to spur an introduction. It had been easy to fib - declare that they had been introduced previously, the superiority of his rank ending their pursuit in its tracks.
The gentlemen left, and in stark offense to decorum, the recently titled Lord Rosfield offers his own introduction. As Clive offered his explanation, he recognized the observation in her intelligent gaze. He faces it boldly, patiently allowing her the time to draw her conclusions. Evergreen eyes soften, the twinkling of candlelight dancing in them humorously. She meets him with good humor; an understanding of which he had dearly hoped to receive.
Gentle blues eye the burgundy liquor ( for which he maintained a distaste ) as circles the rim of the glass. Despite her warmth; the jests she generously offers him, the dishonor of his impulsive approach stings at his periphery.
❛ I .. would like to apologize for the forwardness of my introduction, my Lady. ❜ Clive asserts, meeting her gaze with immeasurable respect. ❛ The hostess was otherwise occupied, and ... I have admittedly grown tired of bending to the strict social regulations of high society. If your time is already engaged, I do not mind stepping aside until you are otherwise unoccupied. ❜
@st4rb0ltz : continued from here
