“May I have this dance?” Tobin
grinned down at her and held out his hand. Lark laughed a little, then gently
took his hand and stood up.
“It would be my pleasure sir.”
She said, still smiling. Tobin bowed and led her away from the campfire
slightly.
“Henri, played something slow
for us.” Tobin said. Henri winked and
nodded, then lifted his flute back up to his lips and played a song Lark had
never heard before. Tobin placed his hand on her waist. “Have you danced
before?” He asked. Lark was suddenly very grateful she had not declined the
dancing lessons Lord Billingham had offered her. She nodded.
“Many times.”
“Good.” He said, still smiling.
The melody was haunting, and beautiful, and it didn’t take Lark long to forget
about everything else and just focus on the dancing.
“May I intervene?” the Cap
tapped Tobin on the shoulder.
“Well, I suppose that’s up to
the lady.” Tobin said. Lark smiled.
“Of course you may.” Tobin
humphed dramatically, then stepped aside to let the Captain in. Tobin winked at
Lark.
“Thank you for the dance m’lady.”
Lark just laughed at him and rolled her eyes. The Cap laughed as well, then
stepped up to her. She placed her hand on his shoulder, and they continued the
dance. Lark was immediately aware of how differently Cap held her and danced
with her than Tobin, or anyone else for that matter. The feel of his hand on
her waist sent tingles up her spine, and his steps were surprisingly light.
“Cap, I never knew you were such
a good dancer!” She said, obviously surprised. Cap winked.
“I’ve had some practice in my
day.” Lark shot him a questioning look, but he just chuckled and twirled her.
Lark laughed.
“And what practice is that?” She
asked once she was back in his arms.
“You probably don’t want to
know.” He said, smiling secretly.
“And what if I do?” She asked.
“Let’s just say my sister felt
like she needed lots of practice dancing before the town socials.” He winked.
“Surely you didn’t get that good
just dancing with your sister!” Lark said. He spun her out and back in again so
that her back was to him.
“Perhaps.” He said. She laughed,
and he twirled her around so they were facing each other again. The music
slowed, nearing its end, and the Cap dipped her down. As Henri played the last
note, he leaned in closer. The clearing became silent, and Lark was
increasingly aware of how close his face was to hers. His eyes studied her. His
lips were just inches from hers. Lark closed her eyes.
“Well done!” Seth suddenly said,
clapping. Both the Cap and Lark started a bit, and the Cap stood up, gently
bringing Lark with him.
“Thank you for the dance.” He
said, bowing slightly. His eyes never left hers. He smiled, then turned to walk
back to the fire. Lark just stood there, and allowed a hand to touch her lips.
He had almost kissed her. And she had almost kissed him back.
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