The Wonder of Love

It's Official

"Hello kind subjects," her majesty called for the guest's attention. For once Hatter was grateful for a drawn out introduction speech from the Queen. This gave him time to collect himself. He drew slow breaths while she spoke, only calming near the end as Marina called them to sing Happy Birthday to the woman his heart beat for. He, along with the rest of the ballroom, sang. It was a wonderful song, joyful, and filled with so many different voices. Alice almost couldn't believe it was for her.

"Happy Birthday," Hatter said calmly to her once the song broke a part. He was still awestruck, but at least he could speak and breath now.

Alice's eyes were elsewhere, glancing from person to person whom just sang for her. "Thank you, Hatter." She said fondly, finally looking back to him. This was so much for her alone. How could she truly deserve this? It was overwhelming to say the least.

"You're welcome," He tried his question again, tipping his hat to her, "Would you, mada'am Kingsley, agree to possibly joining a man as mad as myself on the floor of dance?" he asked with a small smile and soft eyes. Perhaps politeness would help? He only hoped she didn't notice the nervous tapping of his foot and fingers on his pant leg. Hatter felt more anxious than ever before.

She smiled at him fondly, searching his green eyes. She knew he was truly asking for so much more. The seconds dragged on dreadfully for him. She wondered if she was ready to answer him. Her feelings weren't completely sorted, but they were collected. She nodded and slowly took his hand. "Excellent." he said as he looped his arm through hers. 

Her heart stopped for a moment as she led him to the floor. Was she really doing this? This ballroom was meant for royality. The walls shined like colorful gems, the murals glinted with inlaid gold, the entire room was celebrating her. "You are so polite and kind, Tarrent," the words followed out of her mouth like a river of gratitude, "All of this is so much just for me." She said softly, glancing around at the beautiful summer decorations. Flowers adorned every corner. It seemed one of each kind, color, and size was included.

"As are you." he said. She smiled up at him and blushed lightly. Her mind was racing. He looked so handsome and kind, his eyes so bright, warm, and inviting. Courting didn't mean marriage. She knew he'd never pressure her if she wasn't ready. This wasn't engagement. It was a simple decision: did she, or did she not, think of him as more than a dear friend?

He gave her a loving smile. He couldn't believe that she had said yes. He was here with her once more, as her partner. His imagination was not capable of conjuring a better scenario.  Even a Hatter couldn't be silent during a dance, "Far more than this, one as fair as you deserves," he told her softly, placing one hand on her shoulder and the other on her waist.

She smiled and laughed lightly, blushing at the floor over his shoulder. "T-thank you." She said shakily. He was so kind. Was this what her indecision was holding him back from?

The Hatter grinned softly as he felt her racing pulse through the dress. "You look absolutely divine," he couldn't help telling her gently. His eyes looked nowhere else. He cackled joyfully while spinning her. He felt like the luckiest man alive.

She chuckled with him. "I am not divine, Hatter." she said amidst a twirl. Oh she loved how her dress flowed a rainbow of colors around her waist. "You should be more humble you know," she told him with a shake of her head, her hand naturally returning to his.

"I should?" he seemed genuinely confused while rock stepping.

Alice gave a nod, "Yes, this is your dress, Hatter. We both know."

"Oh, but it would be nothing without its wearer," He argued softly, casting his humorless gaze  that warmed her cheeks all over again.

"Hatter, please." the normally courageous warrior had to beg for the first time since he'd nearly kissed her several weeks ago. Some of the joy slipped from his smile and his eyes dropped with his sigh. "I'm sowry. A bit more time." she tried to apologize. He nodded, slowing his compliments and flirtation to a near halt. This was her birthday ball, he must remember that. Thankfully, she found herself loving this dance beyond what she had thought. She flowed with him and the music, enjoying every single second.