Thread: Southern Girl [ Ariamella & Reydan ]

RE Southern Girl Ariamella Reydan Sparkling eyes watched Virgil as the carriage rode into the city. Given the weeks of minimal interaction, the situation seemed all too intimate, but it wasn't uncomfortable in the slightest. They had fallen into a cozy silence since their departure from the manor, during which Lucy found herself admiring the man in front of her. He was tired and his face was tinged with signs of fatigue, that much was obvious, but still he looked at ease being alone with her. His demeanor had changed considerably since that first night, and she wondered if it was because he was only keeping true to his promise or if it was because he genuinely was okay with being around her. Then she wondered, had he told Camilla ? Her cousin's retirement to Virgil's room each night hadn't gone unnoticed, and Lucy thought perhaps he was more comfortable around her because his concscience was finally cleared by telling his wife. But Camilla hadn't said anything, so she was still unsure... Poor servant? The southern woman raised her eyebrows, playfulness coloring her blue orbs. Mr. Abernathy, are you implying that keeping your guest entertained is a chore? How very ungentlemanly of you! Although, I do recall you being rather adept at keeping me amused, Lucy replied, her blue orbs shining while a smirk graced her lips. Then her eyes widened as she realized the full implications behind the words, and she blushed, unable to tear her eyes away from the face in front of her. Forgive me, she murmured at last, eyes shooting down to watch their knees bumping gently together. She frowned slightly. She hadn't meant to say something so inappropriate, but it just slipped out without thought, like it was just another thing to fire off in their usual banter. But not one to dwell on upsetting thoughts, that frown wiped itself off as quickly as it had come, and she beamed at Virgil. Actually, I have a few things to do here, if you don't mind? I need to visit the tailor to pick up a dress. Camilla says I need it soon, and she also thinks I might want to participate in those outings with her friends. She says I should invest in more ladylike activities than ruining my health by reading in the cold or making cornbread and peach cobblers. Lucy wrinkled her nose at the memory of her cousin sitting her down to inform her that she couldn't lock herself away in the house. How was she supposed to be a cultured, well-mannered woman if she didn't take part in all the things that shaped a woman to be fit for society? At least, that's what Camilla argued. And she had always been that way since they were little, taking the time to shame Lucy for tumbling around in the dirt or wiping muddy fingers on her dress. You don't think they're all that bad, do you? The cobblers, I mean. They're probably a touch too sweet, but I just can't help myself... But of course Virgil knew that already. How many times had he teased her about adding an extra sugarcube to her tea? Oh, but she knew he had loved her sweet tooth, especially when he could taste the sweetness in one of their kisses... She blushed silently again, smiling to herself and looking out the window as she thought of fond memories. The air was frosty, but suddenly a warmness overtook her, heating her cheeks and neck. Oh, and I'd love to get some stationary. To write home to family! I'm sure mother would like to know I'm doing well. Rose, too. And Mary Ann might like to know that her son has an exceptional home and... And a beautiful wife. The statement was genuine, even if the last phrase did sound a bit forced on her end. How could she not still harbor jealousy and a little disappointment toward Camilla? It had barely faded since she arrived, but Lucy thought herself excellent at hiding those particular emotions. If anything, her cousin might have thought Lucy sour due to her pushiness in getting her out of the house. Her expression softened, and she smiled kindly at Virgil. Then you can entertain me with whatever you wish to show me. I am a stranger here!