Thread: Secrets and Lies (Sync & Mali)

At some point they had left the building again, and were once more under an open sky that had only the barest of cloud scatterings and was largely dotted with the pinprick light of stars. The moon was nowhere to be seen at this time. He was aware of the warmth of her hand against his arm, was aware of the warmth of her body - especially when she moved a little closer to him as they walked - and he found her warmth quite agreeable. While he did not claim by any stretch to know most women of marriageable age in these parts, he had the distinct impression that this Miss Strathmore - who had been a complete unknown to him before this night - would be by no means an unpleasant partner. Of course, given the distaste in her voice when briefly speaking of the young woman's name, he knew his mother would likely never approve of taking that Strathmore girl inside her family. The Strathmore family itself was quite acceptable, but Elsa, herself, was apparently not. Reggie did not know what caused such distaste from his mother towards the young lady he now walked with, and his mother had not elaborated - he was sure she would, if he asked - but he was not so sure that the distaste was warranted. Time, as always, would tell. The gentle sounds of the night filled the air around them as she spoke of this Mr Abernathy, who apparently had decided that courting Miss Strathmore was best achieved by unfavourably comparing her to other women. While Reggie was no dashing Casanova - at least, not when sober - he was quite sure that there were better ways to obtain a woman's favour. It was very true, he was aware, that women were often courted into unions that benefitted their families ahead of the women themselves, but that did not mean the women needed to be demeaned on first introductions. One could at least pretend to be polite and interested, even if one was not. It was also quite apparent, from Miss Strathmore's observations, that Mrs Strathmore was inclined to pushing her daughter into whichever union she could arrange. The young Miss Strathmore seemed to be of the opinion that her reputation would hinder such a process, and in that she might be correct if she was, then her reputation, whatever that was, would also mean that she might be forced to accept less-worthy and less-desirable offers of marriage. I think this Mr Abernathy, as you've described him already, may be a fool, he offered guardedly. Comparing the appearance of one woman with another, while in the presence of one of those women, and while attempting to court that same one, is surely not the wisest of moves. Indeed, as you've described it, your options may be limited, but that does not give him cause to act or speak in an ungentlemanly manner. As to the other... He paused, then turned his body to be facing her, his gaze meeting hers and liking what it saw. Her arm was still held in the crook of his elbow he raised his free right hand and rested it on top of her hand as it rested on his arm. I do not suggest that you are being forward, although you did say that you'd rather not discuss more personal and intimate matters so soon. However, if you are being forwards, then allow me to be equally forward by seeking your permission to call upon you after this night. I find myself intrigued by your person and enjoying of your company.