The Scarlett Maiden

Two: The Scarlett Maiden

Chapter Two

"Mister Mckormick," Lilly said, pulling lightly on my overcoat. "Ethan."

"I... You'll have to excuse me," I whispered, pulling away.

My heart was thudding hard in my chest, and as she looked curiously up at me, I was sure she could hear it. "Good evening."

She stood from her chair, and the action was slightly wobbily.

"I'm terribly sorry to bother you, but I was wondering if we've met before," I murmured, feeling stupid. Of course we hadn't met, I would have remembered.

"I'm afraid not, Mister Mckormick."

For once, I loved the sound of my name. "What is your name?"

"Alana," She replied, curtsying akwardly. "Alana Gold."

I smiled brightly. "Ethan. Would you care to dance?"

Her eyes widened, and I half expected her jaw to drop. "I-I'm flattered Mister Mckormick, but I-„

"Please?" I begged, my hand going out on its own accord.

She stared at me mutely for the longest of moments, and before I could blink her hand was in mine, and I was leading her to the dance floor.

"Thank you."

I pulled her closer to me, doing my best to recall the steps to the song that was playing-The Pirates Waltz.

"Are you well this evening, Mister Mckormick?"

I smiled. "Indeed. Though, I'd prefer you call me Ethan."

"Ethan," she repeated, nodding. "It is a beautiful night."

"Absolutely." My voice came as a sigh. "I'm delighted I came."

I almost frowned at the words. Never had I been happy with a Witherworth ball.

"The Witherworths host such wonderful parties."

"On such outstanding nights."

"Yes, Mister McKormick, even the moon is full."

"The light refelcts your hair, it's lovely."

"Sorry?" she questioned, despite the informality of it all.

I examined my footwork. "It is-I mean- the moonlight- your hair is red, and-"

"Thank you, Mister Mckormick," she finished for me.

We were both silent for the longest time, both too embaressed to continue conversation. Eventually, it became too much, and I cleared my throat. "I'm curious."

"About what, might I ask?"

A smile began to play on my lips. "You continue to call me Mister Mckormick."

She flushed. "I'm terribly sorry Mister Mc-Ethan. I'm simply-"

"No," I interrupted. "I actually find it quite... humorous."

The song ended then, and I realized that I didn't want to let her go. I'd danced with eight other maidens tonight, and every single time I had all but thrown them off of me when it was over.

But she was different.

"Might I ask for another?" I asked quietly.

She gaped at me.

"Another dance would complete the evening," I pressed.

She shook her head. "I-I don't know this dance."