Re: Look Who's Coming for Dinner

[Aasha]

For a moment there seemed to be too many people in the room. The walls were shrinking in on her. The accusation in Red's eyes every time he looked at her. And what of the dinner? Jas and her love, and Red and Aasha so suddenly thrown together before her. Loneliness was a terribly conspicuous thing. The room wasn't shrinking, she was.

Just a little more and poof.

Despite the hollow ache in her core, she couldn't help feeling that the picture was off. Aasha's companion for the evening should not be Red... Where was her cousin? She wanted to know, wanted to ask, and yet something kept holding the question from her lips.

Every time I said his name Ellie turned tale and ran. Aasha hasn't so much as mentioned him. Someone would tell me if something was wrong right? He's my family. Jas's too, for that matter.

Well, I suppose now that everyone is here, we should make our way to the dining room.

No, not everyone. There were very definitely people missing.

[Aasha]

Hoping she'd not clutched Tiffany's arm too tight as the liquid fire continued its journey, she finally let go. The hope that she wouldn't forget Aasha was there if she needed her was there, along with the prayer that the rest of the dinner wouldn't be nearly as awkward as the last few minutes.

The change in Red's tone threw her off balance. She expected a glare, or even a scathing reply, but not the agreement he offered. The odd fluttering was back in full force as she met his eyes. She was caught, drowning in a sea of blue. - Stop looking, you're gawking...good Jah, why am I feeling like this? Why can I not act natural around him anymore? - The ease in the taverns swam into focus, his arm around her, making her feel safe. The fire was back in her face, she said not a word as she unthinkingly swallowed another drink of the vile liquid.

- Oh Jah, what have I done? - Blinking rapidly to dispel the tears threatening to overflow as it burned through her system, she struggled to keep from coughing and sputtering.

Saved from too much attention when Jas entered, she swallowed hard before attempting to speak. Lady Jasmyne...nice to see ya here...an' this is yer fin'nce? It was another new word, but not one she could ask meaning to now,not in front of so many, especially not a total stranger. The connection between the two told its own story though, she bowed slightly before sinking into the divan, the dress forgotten.

She didn't realize how closely she was sitting to Red until she leaned to place the drink on the table. Her leg brushed something solid, obviously not the divan as she could feel a curl of awareness, an electric current that told her it was him even through the material. Her breathing felt erratic, her movement towards the table checked as her hand tightened around the glass. Better keep it, in case I need it again. -

She'd barely sat before Tiff was suggesting they move again. - But how do I get up with a drink in my hand, and this confounded dress on? - Tiff looked odd again, which was making her uneasy, she didn't know what to do now. But others were here, surely one of them would be able to help.

[Aasha]

As the group slowly headed for the dining room, following on Ellie's heals, Tiff grabbed her sisters arm, holding her back slightly from the crowd. This new thing with little Aasha following Red around like a puppy, how long has this been going on? She kept her voice low.

She didn't like it. Red was a flirt but he'd never given any woman serious consideration. He had no right to be drooling over the shiny innocence of young Aasha. Poor girl had learned a bit of reading from him and was now following him around with worshiping doe eyes. She was so easily swept up by any man that wasn't a complete oaf. She had so little experience with men who didn't hurt. Better not hurt, I know where he lives and they'll never find the body. And where the hell is my cousin? He should at the very least be here to make some snide remarks at Aasha.

She looked over at Jasmyne. Jas was only a couple of years older than the girl. But she had none of the look of the waif in her. She looked hardened and ready to handle whatever came her way. But still, she was what, 19? And the engagement and courtship with JustHeero seemed rather sudden...

[Aasha]

She was trying so hard not to focus on him beside her that she totally missed his arm going around her shoulders. His whispered concern caused a deepening blush, further throwing her off balance. No one else seemed to notice her distress, a fact that she was thankful for. Hopefully no one would pick up when she leaned on him slightly, drawing strength from the comfort, even when that same comfort increased an already erratic heartbeat.

- Don't look at him, not now...you'll forget everyone here... - Red saved her from further embarrassment by rising beside her, then taking her forearm gently and helping her up. The twinkle in her eyes matching the glow in her cheeks. Not trusting herself to speak, she inclined her head in thanks. - Don't look Aasha...you'll be lost... - As he escorted her into the dining room, she passed Tiff and the others, avoiding their eyes as well. The warmth of his hand still supporting her arm was bringing back those same tingly feelings she was trying so hard to ignore.

She blessed fate for getting her into the room without mishap, the last thing she needed was to fall on her face after such an unusual start to the evening.

[Aasha]

Jas felt the taunt grip upon her arm by Tiff but once realizing it was Tiff it no longer bothered her.

Aasha is no longer a little girl dear.

Maybe you should take Aasha in the back quarters and have a little talk, if you need me have Ellie fetch me, but i think both of your questions should be answered from her, not i.

Death was something Jas had seen upclose and personal, but it wasnt something she cared to talk about with anyone

[Aasha]

Not a little girl? Was she blind? No, of course, Jas was closer to Aasha's age than Tiff's. To admit that Aasha was still quite young was to suggest Jas was as well. But it was different... Right?

Tiff made a non-committal sound and followed the party into the dining room, letting Jas catch up with her beau. At the table she sat at the head with each of the young women at her elbow.

Why do I keep focusing on their youth? I'm only a few years older myself.

She looked at everyone, her eyes passing quickly over Red, not comfortable with him in her view. I would like to thank all of you for joining me tonight. I know that I haven't been around much lately and I promised this dinner some time ago. The party is someone different that I had imagined, but you are all welcome all the same. I would like to propose a toast to my sister Jasmyne on her recent engagement to JustHeero.

She paused, smiling at the couple.

And a thank you to Lord RedChef. I am honored that the busy Trade Minster of Stafford would grace my unworthy home with his presence.

There, see how YOU like it.

[Aasha]

Jas raised her glass and said hear hear. but then it caught up to her. "unworthy home with his presence"

Mind filling us in on that one, dear sis. course i cant say much, i was gone a months time as well

[Aasha]

Red raised his glass Jasmyne and Heero at the end of Tiffany's toast and nearly glowed with pride that Tiffany had recognized his title.

"Jasmyne, I do believe that our host is merely extending me the curtesy due my office.

"Thank you, Viscountess Balboa, for allowing me this honor. It is an extreme pleasure of mine to join you all for this fine meal.

"Tonight is a celebration of many things. Friendship, family, the embarcation on a new life, and the return to the old. Looking at this table, I see many remarkable faces that have done remarkable things, Jasmyne, having returned triumphant from battles in the north, and Justaheero, the reknowned healer."

Red surveys everyone at the table while he talks, before settling on Tiffany.

"There is one who has deeply impressed me most of all with her strength of will, nobleness of spirit, and native intellect. My life began changing in ways I hardly understand when I met her in, what, to the minds eye, seems like yesterday. To her, I'd like to propose a toast."

He turns to face Aasha.

"To Aasha, she has come so far and may she go ever farther."

[Aasha]

The table was laid out beautifully, Ellie had gone out of her way to make everything gleam, all the way down to the goblets filled with the same amber liquid Aasha had so quickly, and regrettably finished in the sitting room. To one side was Tiffany, the other Red, with a chair notably empty at the other end. She briefly wondered what had become of Jay, he'd disappeared shortly after Tiff, and the last she'd been by his place it had an air of desertion about it.

Deciding to check on him the next day, she listened to Tiffanyanne speak, then added her own; I hopes ya'll will be happy Lady Jasmyne. Just the mention of his name had her feeling flushed, she was glad of his presence even if she didn't understand the undercurrents between any of the guests. Tiff and Jasmyne's conversation in the hall, the odd way she and Red had greeted each other, the comment about her beautiful home being unworthy. All seemed to add a heavy feeling to the event. It was hard not to notice when the lady's eyes passing over Red, almost avoiding his gaze. - She said it was alright that I invited him though...did she not want him here? But why? -

None of the questions were getting answered at the rate the evening was going, all she could do was push them to the back of her mind to reflect on later. Each in turn was raising their glass, so she raised hers too. Allowing herself to peer at him through half lowered lashes, she studied his face, trying to come to terms with the new feeling assaulting her senses in his company. He looked relaxed, even happy... - ...maybe even glad to be here with me? -

His toast was filled with fancy words, ones that only lead to a bemused look on Aasha's face. - Why can't anyone speak plain here? - What she did understand was nice, the compliments flowing from his lips sincere in their tone.

When his scan of the room stopped with Tiff, Aasha's heart sank down to her stomach. His words didn't help, self doubt began to curl inside, feelings of unworthiness stealing through her. - Maybe he's not glad to be with me...but with her. He really likes her saying all that. Why can't I be... - Her hands tightened around the goblet, eyes downcast to hide her misery. But wait...did he... The glass fell from suddenly nerveless fingers as Aasha heard her name. Nothing, not even the stickiness of the liquid as it soaked into her gown, could draw her eyes from his. Me? I... Blinking rapidly, she tried in desperation to clear glistening eyes as she unthinkingly reached out and grasped his hand.

[Aasha]

Her fingers curled tight against her palm when she saw Red not only take her words with all the pomposity of a compliment but then decided he was given leave to make a toast at his own discretion. If he wanted to play the manners game then he should have ask permission of either the owner of the home or the highest titled person in the room, and she was both. He seemed to use the rules conveniently and maliciously to hurt her while making sure to suit his own purposes.

But the toast. Her fingers closed tighter, cutting shallow little crescent marks into her palms.

That son of a... Before she could lift and throw the glass close to her hand, Aasha looked up all big eyes and blushes. Tiff had never wanted to throttle someone so much... okay, she had but this was certainly making top marks. Red had as good as announced his intention to openly court Aasha.

Why am I so opposed to that? He's not a bad guy... except for those merchants he kicked to the street... but was that Red or Ferix? He's a good councilor... mind your own business Tiff, you know how it will turn out if you try to interfere.

Tiff saw the glass slide from Aasha's fingertips and splash down on the white material. She turned to Red and smiled. That was a lovely toast and well said. Aasha is truly a wonderful young woman. With an air of efficiency she slid from her seat and propelled Aasha from hers in a smooth movement. She made sure to twirl enough that her own skirts hid Aasha's. I'm just going to take this lovely young woman for a moment if you'll excuse us. She pulled Aasha towards the hall stairs. Aasha was going to need another dress.

[Aasha]

Time slowed. Red started forward as the glass fell. She reached for his hand and he was charged with an excitment he never fully realized. Even this small moment was cut short as Tiffany pulled Aasha away, her fingers sliding out of his, until only their fingertips touched with one last spark. And then, she was gone.

[Aasha]

When her eyes collided with his, everyone else disappeared. She was in a dream, none of this could be real. But it was, their clasped hands was a tangible reminder she couldn't deny, nor did she want to. When reality intruded though, it crashed hard. She was suddenly aware that she'd spilled the drink, her thighs wet from the liquor, and Tiffany was pulling her out of her seat. Her eyes were still on his long after her fingers could no longer reach, finally blinking as they left the room.

It was then she looked down and saw the dress. Oh Tiff...its ruint... She took a shaky breath, still feeling the current through her fingertips from contact with Red. I...where...ken it be fixed? She was worrying the material between her fingers now, holding it slightly aloft from her legs. Once they were far enough from the dining area, she bunched it higher to make it easier to walk, and sped up her pace. The desire to return to his side was overwhelming, but the need to change took precedence.

[Aasha]

Tiff gazed down at the wet scotch soaked spot across the lap of the dress and then back at Aasha. It might not come out but the girl looked like she'd burst into tears if Tiff said that. Sure, it should wash out easily. She would have Ellie try and if that didn't work then she'd get Jas to make an exact replica of the dress. In the mean time you can wear one of mine. We're about the same height so it shouldn't be a problem. With the girls coloring of dark hair and green eyes, she would best be suited to red. She helped Aasha out of the white dress and into the red one.


There, much better. Tiff nodded approvingly at the fiery little sprite before her. Before they turned to go she put a hand to Aasha's arm. Aasha, I'm not sure what happened while I was gone. I thought it would be Aimar here with you tonight. He hasn't so much as written a word to me since I got home. Where did my cousin go?

[Aasha]

A sense of relief flowed through as Tiff said the dress would wash. It was one of the few gifts she'd ever been given, so it was to be treasured as such. Glad to have help, she began to shimmy out of the dress while her eyes curiously scanned the room. This was one room even her natural impulses had been curbed for, she didn't want to pry. Knowing it was Tiffany's room was enough to satisfy her after all that she'd done for her.

Her hope that she'd be wearing pants back down was quickly dashed as her eyes were covered in yards of red material. It cut off her view of the room, putting a halt to her nosiness. She was tugging it down with part of it still over her head when her muffled voice was heard muttering; Dresses...why they gotta be so hard to gets on...why ain't ladies 'lowed to wear things they ken move in...

By the time her head peeped out, her hair was in complete disarray and she was cursing her clumsiness all over again. It looks alright then? Making a wry face at her own silly question, she wondered why she cared, but inwardly she had her answer. - Red -

Her fingers rapidly combed through her hair, then she felt ready again, fully expecting to head back down, so her question came unexpected. All of the efforts she'd made to block thoughts of him came crashing back, their last words an argument about her going to Chester haunting her. Head lowered, eyes closed, Aasha struggled to breathe. - I have to tell her...he was her family...I have to... -

Finally, a subdued whisper; Tiff... her hand moved to grip Tiff's ...he's...he ain't...umm...ya knows how he always hit his head on everythin'? He hit it once too much...an'...there wasn't nothin' I ken do...he was gone when I gots there...Pea was sittin' in the blood...guess he fell an' hit his head...but he weren't movin'...I'm sorry...I shoulda been there faster...Ishouldasavedhim.. She wasn't coherent by the end, unshed tears thickened her voice to make her almost illegible.

[Aasha]

Tiff had to bite back the sigh as Aasha fussed with her appearance. The girl used to dress like a boy and now she wanted to be all pretty for that fisherman in a foppish hat.

Now, just stop, it's not your decision. If Aasha has come to care for Red, then that's her business.

When Aasha answered about Aimar, Tiff's vision tunneled slowly in. The girl was crying but seemed far away down a long dark channel.

No one even let me know. My cousin and I come back and they act like he never was. The funeral.... where, when? He should have been entered in the Balboa estates.

She had moved too far apart from these people. Red was right to mock her when she came. If they felt so separated from her that they didn't even bother to notify her of Aimar's death, then... This was what giving yourself to politics meant. You weren't a person, you were an object, a symbol of others but no one in your own right. Because people in their own right are told when their family has died.

She found a small handkerchief and handed it to Aasha. It wouldn't do to let Red see you cry like that. Her voice was flat, emotionless. We should return to dinner before our guests begin to worry. She headed for the stairs, feeling her way along the walls. Looking at the world from a dark cave made walking difficult. She stopped and looked back over her shoulder. I'm sorry for your loss Aasha. And then she was down the stairs.

[Aasha]

She expected her to be upset, to say something, anything, but what words came out were not at all what she envisioned. Taking the handkerchief, she flushed bright red and the tears slowed. - Red's seen me upset like this...after... - But the thought was unspoken, she didn't understand Tiffany's reaction at all. She had gotten the impression that she really cared for Aimar, and knew he had thought quite highly of her. Some things even she picked up quickly.

Before she could say anything else, Tiff was walking from the room. Her hand was on the wall, obviously in support. The protectiveness she'd felt before Red got there had returned full force, Aasha moved as fast as she dared in the slightly too long gown and silently took her arm, lending support whether Tiff wanted it or not. Her voice was still thick, tear tracks could be seen on her face, but there were more important things to worry about. Ain't only my loss... Gulping down the rest of the words that would only stir memories for them both, she kept her eyes from Tiff's as she helped her down the stairs, her case of nerves lost as a subtle role reversal occurred.

[Aasha]

Sounds, sights, smells, everything was so very far away. At least she could still feel Aasha move to her arm and lead her down the stairs. How long would that sense last before everything just shut down?

The strong and sturdy her, that seemed to have hidden deep inside, raised it's head. Wake up! You can't act like this, you have guests. Snap out of it. Stop feeling sorry for yourself.

Everyone else had already moved on and she felt left behind. But at least they had walked the path. Maybe she could follow their footsteps out of this nightmare she was living.

[Aasha]

It didn't feel natural, the silence between them was deafening, and it was breaking Aasha's heart. She couldn't break through, she wasn't smart enough to know what to say, anything she could offer would only twist herself up too. Making sure Tiff made it back into the dining room, speaking to all at once, she said; Tiff's needin' a drink...I...I gots somethin' to do...won't be long. Eyes still lowered, pale features hidden as best she could, she swiftly walked back out of the room.

When the skirts tangled in her legs, she cursed, caught herself before she hit the wall, finally making it into the kitchen. Ignoring what was sure to be a glare for her entering a room she'd promised to avoid, she approached Ellie. Needs ya to do me a favor right quick. Somethin's wrong with Lady Tiff...I told her about Aimar. She pretended not to hear the gasp as she continued; I'm needin' ya to either stall or go an' gets Jay. Either way it needs to be happenin' now. She'd put a note of command in her voice, almost daring her to argue. Yer choice. Adding under her breath; Maybe he ken get through...

Surprised at Aasha's tone, Ellie nodded and fled, wondering what could possibly be wrong now.

Not waiting any longer, Aasha took a deep breath, found a new glass, filled it to the brim, grabbed her skirts and hoisted them up to keep from tangling up in them once more, and headed back to the dining room. She tried to look as dignified as possible, took one careful sip of the drink, and entered with her head held high, totally forgetting to let go of the dress, let alone the tear marks.

[Aasha]

Red was deep in chat with Jasmyne and Justaheero after the women left. He loved a good Whitesnow story. "Aasha, wait til you hear about what happened in Glasgow, you'll...what's wrong?"

The red dress akimbo...her bare legs..., the glass filled to the precariously close to the brim, and worst of all, her tear streaked face. Alarmed, he moved near and took her into a protective embrace. He whispered into her ear, "Whatever it is, it'll be fine...but...your dress...it's..." He gestures.

[Aasha]

A quick scan of the room told her no one noticed how detached Tiff seemed. She was there, fresh drink in hand, but it was like she'd checked out of the animated conversation going on around her. A sigh, then another sip, and she started to walk forward when Red spotted her. The smile was only slightly forced, his toast echoed in her mind again as he reached her side. Ya ken catch me up...

His arms were around her, her world tilted anew. Eyes drifted shut as she absorbed his heat, allowing her forehead to rest on his chest. I told Tiff...about... Looking up into his eyes in confusion, she repeated; My dress? Tiff gave it... A glance down brought fire back to her cheeks. Ohhh... She let loose her hand, the dress immediately billowing down around her legs, brushing against his. Their clothes practically blended together, red on red making it difficult to see how close they were.

There was no thought to propriety, becoming a lady be damned, she needed this. Embracing him back with the one free hand, she laid her head back on his chest, listening to the steady heartbeat as her own sped up. [color=darkblue]She ain't actin' right...I dunno what to do...I...Red, I'm really glad yer here wit' me

[Aasha]

Jas could see that you could cut the tension with a knife, first she offerd Tiff a stiff drink then thought maybe its best to change to story.

You had mentioned earlier something about the Balboa family estate archives, because truth be known iv'e no idea who i really am still from our talks long ago, it wont make me hurt if im not family cause i already treat you as my sister.

Inside tho it would probably crush Jasmynes heart since she knew nothiing but hardship and grief until she moved to Shrewbury, but now she had Heero, who was the most precious thing in her life, well Tiffanyanne too

But Jas would never show that sort of emotion, reminders of the past swept through her mind, showing emotion usually ending in beatings

Oh sorry sweety, Heero never was one to talk alot, i think thats one of the reasons we get along so great because im nearly the same

[Aasha]

Tiff looked up at the sound of Jas's voice.

So far away, I bet even if I shout she won't be able to hear me.

Somehow the words managed to work themselves out. It was like there was someone running her body while she observed from afar. I didn't expect to find anything, but at some point someone had gathered Mother's old journals. It seems that mother was sent notice that the family you were sent to was found dead by the side of the road with all of their belongings gone. There was no sign of you and it was assumed you were dead. Mom sent of the Balboa family necklace to be buried by an old friend. It didn't make mention of who that was. Probably the old man that gave it to you.

What could have been a very interesting story in the family history came out without inflection or emotion.

[Aasha]

(OOC: Continued from Jay's house)

Jay's House

As he approached Tiff's house, a sudden anxiousness overcame him. How long had it been since he had been here? Seen her? Would she be angry with him? He put all that aside, tried to stand tall and hide the pain which raked at his nerves with every pounding heartbeat.

He shook it aside and placed his walking stick out of the way, but in a place he would easily find later and knocked on the door.

[Aasha]

Jas was lost in thought but it made sense to her, but what of the old man, was he watching her from a distance growing up? She turned to Heero and back to Tiff.

I was raised outside of the Balboa family into the world of chaos and robbing and assassinations were a way of life for me, disobedience was little tolerated, it still makes no sense who a am unless i find that old man again.

She clasped her hands over her eyes to keep the others from seeing her weeping

She turned to Justheero and said. Im sorry sweety, i'll be right back, i just need some air. And headed for the porch

[Aasha]

The rest of the room had disappeared, she had removed herself much as she had with her cousin's punishment. The only difference was, there was someone sharing the space with her. Only a few weeks ago she would have sworn the only time his hand would be on her is if he was taking her to the gaols. Yet now, the gentleness in his touch soothed her, the concern touched her heart and soul.

The knock at the door broke the cocoon she'd wrapped herself in. When she finally raised her head, she realized no one had noticed them. The conversation was flowing around them, unaware of her quickening pulse or sudden desire to be alone with him. Glancing up, she met his eyes and smiled tremulously. Reaching up, she gently brushed her fingertips across his cheek, tempted to replace them with her lips. Theres someone at the door...I better go...ain't sure Tiff's payin' attent'n

Walking out of his arms was one of the hardest things she'd done. Half hoping he'd follow, she hurried to the door, to see Jay on the other side. Evenin' Jay...thanks fer... She really looked then, her mouth practically falling open at the sight. Are ya alright? my Jah, what happ'ned to ya? Come in...

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