The Allure Of Love (Sample)

Chapter 6

 Chapter 6

Elizabeth POV

The powder room was crowded; Plenty of Women powdering their noses and trying to use the toilet with their grand ample dresses. I myself was still warm from my encounter with Tim. I felt a tingling sensation in the place where his hand had rested during our dance.

I felt a happy glow on my face that spread to my neck and shoulders. I continued to dance with many throughout the night, but none were as exciting as dancing with Tim. I wondered what Juliana was engaging in. I couldn’t help but to want to keep an eye on her. She is forever doing something shameful.

Mother was probably admiring the decorations on the second floor with the other matronly women who didn’t care to dance, and father was in the parlor smoking cigars with the other older men. Juliana was bound to get herself in trouble with such a lack of oversight. Oh well, not even her silly antics could dispirit me that night. I was young, careless, beautiful, and had the attentions of Tim Dallas.

As soon as I exited the powder room, a young man approached me. He was maybe thirty or so.

“Elizabeth! I mean Miss Weathers.”

“Yes.”

“I don’t know if you recall who I am?”

“I’m afraid not. I’m sincerely sorry sir. You have me at a disadvantage, you know my name but I don’t know yours.”

“I’m Dan Hashing.”

“My father’s associate, of course, Mr. Hashing. I hope you have been well.” It then occurred to me. Dan Hashing had joined us for a meal a handful of times. He was an apprentice of my father. He was never truly accepted into society. He was awkward clumsy, and at times very peculiar.

 He frequently stuttered and women seemed to almost frighten him. He kept clearing his throat and adjusting his glasses in an odd way. He was only invited to events such as these because people loved pleasing my father. I being received in every respectable southern home in Georgia did my best to not spend too much time with him.

“Have you been well?” I asked.

“Yes, and I trust you have been the same.”

“Indeed I have.”

“I brought you some champagne.”

“I am most gracious Mr. Hashing. I was extremely desirous for something to drink.”

“Could we sit?”

“I suppose so.” I knew my mother hadn’t arranged this. It seemed that Mr. Hashing had taken it upon himself to approach me. It showed yet again his lack of manners and sense of custom. I desired to search out Tim, but at present all I saw was a sea of faces.

“Searching for someone?”

“Oh no. I’m sorry if I seemed distracted. My thoughts just became obscure.”

“Miss Weathers I find that you look very smart this evening.”

“You are too generous.” He was beginning to be pushy. He inched closer to me and placed both hands in mine.

“When can I be graced by your presence again? Perhaps I could call on you later in the week.”

“Well….” I tried to break away.

“Perhaps it would be favorable if I called on you next week.” He was getting desperate and eager. His puppy dog expression portrayed a weak man in need of affection. Affection I could not dare to give.

“Mr. Hashing it was most pleasant to see you after such a long while, but our associations should be kept as consorts. Wouldn’t you agree?”

He smiled sadly, showing that his interests in me were anything, but a desire for friendship. “As always you are infallible Miss Weathers.”

With an exchange of a kiss on the cheek I was free to socialize, and more importantly find Tim.