Chapter 252: Captivated
"You seem so tense, especially when you avert your gaze in that direction." He added, pointing with his thumb and replacing it back in hers.
At impulse, she averted her gaze to the floor, taking her hands to her chest. "I don’t know either."
"But, I do," came an unexpected voice, injecting a cheerful note into the charged atmosphere. It was a voice that she knew all too well, and it brought a surge of elation to her being.
"Mr. Gerald!" She exclaimed, her excitement bubbling over. She instinctively lifted the elegant fabrics of her gown, intending to make her way toward him. However, the constricting nature of the dress hindered her movements, and the decorum of the occasion weighed on her mind.
Public displays of personal relations were frowned upon in such esteemed circles, seen as an ostentatious show of influence.
Suppressing her eagerness, she composed herself and patiently awaited Gerald’s attention, allowing him to conclude his conversation with the man whose name, she later discovered, was Jim.
"Thank you so much, Jim. I’ll take it from here," Gerald stated with an air of authority. Jim released her hand with a hint of hesitation, revealing his unspoken desire to linger. Perhaps he was naturally reserved, venturing in the realm of social gatherings out of duty rather than inclination. Nonetheless, he had played his role as a host and now retreated, leaving her to the company of Gerald.
When he was gone, Gerald took a step backward, executing a chivalrous bow with his hand gracefully extended. The gesture gave off an old-world charm that was both endearing and captivating.
"Ms. Stella," Gerald addressed her formally, his tone laced with admiration, "would you do me the honor of giving me this dance?"