#baronyofthesilverwolf

"I did ask, and you are an expert with a passion for his expertise, " She takes his hand "And given your appreciation for the fine animal, I cannot bring myself to be insulted by comparison. I do not find your company tedious, my lord" She runs a finger nail against his palm, drawing almost with her finger against the skin of it "Remember, I saw thee at the duel, how masterfully you brought your wrath upon that wretch Gildas. Let paltry people enjoy their small talk, for me, I would rather spend time with my lord of piercing eyes, sharp mind, and cool majesty. "

He gazes at their hands together, and his expression falters a bit. "She... my Dahlia. She always laughed to hear me go on... and told me to go and play, like I was an excited schoolboy, that she would always await my return." Lips press together tightly. "My apologies. It it not meet that I should.. speak of another, at such a time..." He straightens, emotions warring as he works at pushing it down, tamping it away.

"No, do not apologize. I find I am in good company in more ways than one. I think I see in you much of what Dahlia saw in you then, and she was wise to encourage your passions for they make you happy. " An admission " i would have you happy if I could, Aiden. "

There is a flicker of glamour, something about his temples.. faint, and perhaps she imagined it, or it's a reflection from something else in an admittedly sparkling hold. He meets her gaze. "It is... sorrow, can be a luxury, afforded to those without responsibility."

She looks about, curiously. A thought. Does she see Calanthe?

Calanthe is not present. The faintest thread trails, as hard to see as Briar's fishing line until the sun shone upon it... to the nearest end table. This one has a statuette of a horse upon it, ridden by a maiden.

she takes a breath and says "Sorrow will have it's way whether we have burdens or no, but to share sorrow with another can be a source of strength rather htan a sign of weakness. Don't you think?"

"Surely you didn't come on this day, of all days, to hear me mourn for a lost love." He says, voice low. "I would have you smile, not see me falter."

"I would .." A blush and her voice grows low "I would think she wanted you happy... and if you would, perhaps consider me a source of happiness? "

He struggles. The pain evident in his face. He dares meet her gaze, and... then looks away for a moment as he straightens up. A flicker of glamour, a small flare that flashes outward, then soaks back in, and as it drains away, Aiden settles back, calmer, and gives Nadeen a smile. "You are a delight." He says, and he means it... and yet, there is something hollow in his expression, where there was sorrow, it is now... empty. The porcelein gleams, and then the glamour fades, no longer to be seen.

"Can I pour you more tea?"

Her eyes move to the statuette, now drained, then she says "Yes. Please. " But she finds herself aware of something. Someone is playing with Aiden's heart, and it is not her.

He pours the tea, and is a perfect gentleman. Attentive, curious, and interested. But perhaps, not all there.

And she feels robbed.

But smiles and is kind and charming.

There is much to celebrate! Flowers, and Bluebell, and hearts, cookie or elk. All is well, on the surface. A lovely Valentine's day.

It is lovely!

And yet, a baroness will remember it not as a day just of love, and happiness (And sshe IS thrilled for Bluebell) but the day someone threw a gauntlet down at her feet.

To quote a certain rabbit who Is NOT Bluebell This means war

(End scene?)

(End scene!)