Thread: Dresses and Derangement (Shikokudarkstar & Charlie_Death)

Thomas Haly was rather frustrated at his lack of good information. Everyone had a scandal to their name. So far, the man was as much a loner as Thomas himself was, albeit without the reputation of being a bit of a pariah. It wasn't however until one of the men claimed to be Mr. Strand's friend that he really could perk in interest. Thomas shook the Irish man's hand in greeting. I'm Thomas Haly. Mr. Strand has taken an interest in my twin sister, Arabella Lamb. I was hoping to find out if he was a good suitor for my sister or if I shall have to drive him off. No offense to your friend, of course. Thomas looked over the Irishman before learning that this was Harold McKinley, a steel factory owner. Thomas had no issue with the Irish and was very polite with the man as he learned what he could. It would be difficult to get Mr. Strand away from Arabella as the man's friend held him in good regard. As did most of the gentlemen of the club. He was internally frustrated with the lack of scandal and politely slipped away after a few drinks with the Irishman. Tonight was just for information so he didn't get sloshed as he had before. Instead as he walked home, he hummed a merry tune. He paused as he passed a brothel. There were rumors that this place could cater to the illegal tastes of those who loved buggery but the yard had yet to pin down the truth. Thomas knew it was true and when he had been in his darkest hours, the brothel had offered him great amounts to have him as a whore. Thomas had heard he was pretty for a man. Although when without makeup and many other preparations he did to become Arabella, it was rather obvious he was male. It would have been nice to know the taste and feel of real flesh but he had seen what it had done to his mother. He had seen what it had done to many women out there. There was just no way he would have gone into that business. He shook his head to clear it before wondering back home. Two days time he would allow Mr. Strand into his home. He just hoped that whatever it was that Mr. Strand had been looking for when he broke in was forgotten under the beguiles of Lady Arabella. Two days following, Arabella was sitting in the front saloon waiting on the gentleman caller. One of the retired prostitutes was sitting with her as a chaperone for the events. The lady in question was dressed as well as Arabella was and was going into the same profession. She was still learning the ropes and Thomas hoped that she would do well enough for herself that she could move from the city back to her home town. There were many among the wealthy that used ladies on the streets and Thomas had warned her of such but as usual...what did a man know about that. A lot more than she thought, that was for sure. Arabella perked at the sound of the door being knocked on. John would handle all the necessities before moving Mr. Strand into the salon. Tea was to be served with light snacks and one of the ladies served them. Thank you for responding to my invitation. My brother could not be here today and for that he sends his apologies. Please do have a seat, Mr. Strand. Arabella waved her hand to the other heavy sofa just across from the one she was sitting on.