Doe (#Wattys2016)

Chapter Thirty-Two

It was Darlin Brillig's twenty-first birthday and there was to be a big celebration at the Brillig's in her honour. Francis was actually excited about it; because it was the first time she was to wear a new dress. So she got ready earlier to see its affect. The maids were just musing over her hair when Tim knocked on the door.

"Come in." She said.

She was surprised to see Tim standing there and at his blush when he saw her, she blushed too.

"I'm sorry. It can wait." He stuttered.

"No. It's fine." She welcomed in.

He glanced at the maids, flushing as they hesitated about staying.

"Don't worry. You can speak freely."

The girls settled back to her hair and jewellery.

"I think I won't want this said in front company." He said.

She sighed and dismissed them.

"You look...different." He said.

"Different how?"

"I don't know." He shook his head.

"I-is it bad?"

"No!"

Francis laughed, "Well, that's alright then. Unless you are feeling so bad for me and lying."

"I'd never lie to you. You look beautiful, Francis. Really." Tim told sincerely.

Francis looked down at her lap to hide her embarrassment, "So what did you want to talk about?"

"Look I know it's hard for you, with Draco. But I really think you should be looking out for yourself now."

Francis looked at him, "You know I've heard all this before, Tim."

"I know and you've agreed but never actually took any steps before. But now you should. I'm telling you to. You have a chance here, while Father is unsure of his move. At least build it up to your coming out ball. You should be working on someone."

"Working on someone?" she couldn't keep the disgust out of her voice.

"To marry, just in case. You know it's not a crazy or radical idea."

Francis shook her head smiling.

"I think you know this. Why else have you gone to so much effort lately?"

"Effort?"

"Acting all happy."

"Tim," She put her hand up, trying not to laugh.

"It doesn't even matter, now. Men will see you tonight and fall at your feet."

"How will I dance with them?"

"Just don't save yourself for Draco. Don't be naïve."

Francis hardly recognised herself when she was all finished. She looked better than she ever had, and yet the clothes suited her more than anything she had ever worn. She stared at herself in mirror. There was another knock on the door and she jumped guiltily not wanting Draco to catch her admiring herself. She therefore, was shocked when it was Nona who entered her room.

"Oh, my Lady," Francis exclaimed and curtseyed.

"You look fantastic. Now will you wear new wardrobe?" Nona asked her.

Francis nodded.

"Good. You are beautiful and you should make the most of it."

"Yes."