♡ ━━━ purcell's pairings - pls lock

[Mezzo]

❀ 𝐂𝐎𝐒𝐄𝐓𝐓𝐄 𝐁𝐄𝐀𝐔𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐈𝐒
───────「 5/10 | Paired with: Kyung-Joon Cha | Tags: Jemima & Nathaniel | Mentions: Annalise, Leif, Jasper, Jade, Marjorie, Amelia 」


Standing idly by herself may not have been how Cosette wished to spend the evening, for if she had known that would be the case she wouldn’t have bothered with the traveling and simply would have stayed home, but it provided a nice opportunity for her to survey the extravagant ballroom. Well, perhaps it was more fitting to say that she had less interest in the opulence of the room’s decor as opposed to its current occupants. Her piercing brown gaze flitted from person to person, taking each one in before moving onto the next, and she supposed she should have been thankful for the obstruction of her expressions behind her mask; despite the irritation that came with wearing the heavy-feeling accessory, it was harder for others to read her this way, so they wouldn’t have to notice how out of place she truly felt, being surrounded by such luxury, regardless of how much care she’d taken into burying these insecurities before coming tonight (the voyage had, after all, given her plenty of time to mentally prepare and steel herself! Well, in between her bouts of malady, that is...). Fake it until you make it, she thought to herself as she raised her chin with genteel pomp, pushing any discomfort aside. There would be plenty of time to unearth that bag of bones in privacy later — for now, she dared not show the slightest sign of weakness, as she was a woman on a mission: before all the matchmaking fuss took place, Cosette fully intended to find a proper partner - proper in her eyes being someone who was both wealthy and influential, mind you, which was why she found it irksome that the masks, dresses, and suits did an excellent job of hiding most signs of poverty! - to steal for the evening’s opening act, to gauge where they were coming from in regards to the Purcells and this so-called matchmaking scheme and, more than that, to make a good first impression of course.

In her review of the guests that had shown up thus far, Cosette noticed that some people had already gathered together into groups; for example, there was an exceptionally-dressed trio consisting of two gents and a belle laughing raucously over something in the distance, and she wondered how they could possibly be acting so familiar already when the evening had just begun. They must know each other already, she concluded, especially considering how each of them wore such expensive finery that she was quite sure they were all part of the upper crust of society. There hardly seemed a point in interrupting their conversation, in that case, as they seemed wholly invested in each other already. Moving on, there were two lovely young ladies chatting nearby, and she couldn’t help but admire the verdant green of the first woman’s dress, as well as the vibrant stand-out red of the other. Put together, it was almost like les couleurs de Noël… Well, sort of. Cosette only wished that she had the confidence to pull off such daring colors, but she’d gone with the familiarity of feminine pink for her own gown this evening since it complemented her golden hair. She briefly considered joining them, but it seemed they had just started talking and she didn’t wish to intrude just yet. Given the small celebration, they would all eventually become well-acquainted anyway, she was sure, whether or not she made the first effort to introduce herself.

Ah, there were the suspects she was looking for — a lone lady had just entered and seemed to be taking in the sights with the same awestruck expression worn by many a tourist come to Paris for the first time (Cosette liked to think she had nothing against these types of people, but there was something bothersome about being stopped for the umpteenth time to assist them on their way to, say, l’Arc de Triomphe, while she herself was trying to run errands or do some other business-related task), and shortly after her entrance came a debonair brunet wearing an expensive-looking navy blue suit. Now, Cosette certainly could have called out to the woman, who had come in first, but priorities were priorities; it was all well and fine trying to strike up a friendship with the other lady, beautiful as she was, but Cosette’s parents would rather see her spend time with a young man. Observing him for a moment longer, she had to hold back a snort of laughter when she noticed his first priority was immediately to head straight toward the refreshments for a drink; he was bold, if nothing else, going after the alcohol when it was barely past six.

Without thinking twice about it, Cosette cleared her throat once the masked gentleman was close enough, as it seemed he was making his rounds about the room while nursing his drink. She was about to call out to him softly, demanding his company as subtly as possible (a bit brusque, perhaps, for such an elegant occasion, but when had anyone accomplished anything by thinking too hard and second-guessing themselves?), but she found herself interrupted when she was approached. Well, so much for that, but there would be time to speak to him later — that is, she would make time. Turning to give the newcomer her proper and full attention, Cosette returned the greeting in kind. “Good evening, mademoiselle.” In the back of her mind, she couldn’t help but wonder if she was supposed to dip into a curtsy when greeting this lady, who seemed of higher status and wealth than her family judging simply by the way with which she carried herself, but ultimately chose not to since the brunette had not done so either. “Your dress is magnifique,” she added, trying to make an effort to be kind. To be frank, she’d been expecting to be the initiator here, putting herself out there first in order to forge new connections, but this worked just as well, and truthfully she felt a bit of relief that she was being greeted first — perhaps it meant that she wasn’t so off-putting as to frighten everyone else away. Or maybe the other woman simply wished for some company to idly pass the time. Either way, she didn’t mind, even though it had put her plans to speak to the gentleman on hold. All that aside, though, she couldn’t help but notice that the brunette wore a strained smile, and she wondered as to the reason. Was she uncomfortable talking to Cosette, or perhaps stressed out about the party? Well, that wasn’t any of Cosette’s business; if the brunette wished to say what was on her mind, she would do so.

Before she was to say anything else to the brown-haired woman, Cosette noticed out of the corner of her eye that the man she’d been watching was nearing her and the other lady once again. A perfect chance to bring him into the conversation! Surely the brunette wouldn’t mind? Raising her hand in a wave, she gestured to the young man once he was close enough: “Excusez-moi, monsieur! Would you care to join us for a chat?” Again, she couldn’t bring herself to care for the subtlety or sophistication of her tactics — it wasn’t like anyone else was trying to beckon him over anyhow! Once she was sure she had caught his attention - whether or not he actually intended to come over, she wasn’t sure - she returned her attention to the mademoiselle standing before her, putting on a charming smile and mirroring how her father’s wealthiest customers carried themselves when they entered her family’s shop: tall and proud, as if the world had been made to serve them. While once she had lamented why she hadn’t been born into such fortunate circumstances, at the very least it had given her a basis as to how upper-class ladies acted. No doubt she would be trying to mimic them for the rest of her stay here in America!

The polite thing to do when meeting someone new was, of course, to ask for their name, but Cosette found herself hesitant to do so. This was a masquerade, non? Were they supposed to keep their identities secret until Philip Purcell jumped up out of nowhere and announced otherwise? Well, he’d clearly failed already if the trio she’d seen earlier was anything to go by, but c’est la vie. It wouldn’t do to mess with the host’s intentions, so she decided to go for a different subject: “So, how do you know the Purcells?” Every guest was somehow involved with the host family somehow, right? That meant it was a safe conversation topic, then! Not wanting to seem rude, she added on in response to her own question, “I’ll start, of course. They do business with my family, though I must admit I have never met this Annalise Purcell in person before.” She, of course, didn’t say what business they did together… that is, the Purcells simply being loyal customers. That was a little tidbit she wasn’t keen on revealing just yet.

[fawn,]

xxxxxx𝐋𝐄𝐎𝐍𝐎𝐑𝐀 𝐁𝐄𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐓𝐓
xxxxx( 20 years old . wealth; 7 . social; 8 . paired with; vincent ellsworth . tags; tate )
xxxxxx▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁
x

Leonora's eyes crinkled as she flashed Tate a smile, it was nice to talk to someone who was feeling just as overwhelmed as she was by the crush of people flowing past them into what she could only assume was the ballroom. She hummed in agreement, "It is rather isn't it! It's been a number of years since I've been a part of the social circuit, I don't quite remember it being this... busy though!" she mused as they stood companionably, watching the other partygoers filter past them. His mention of the protest in Italy piqued her curiosity, "I thought I detected an Italian accent, it's a beautiful country from what I hear, perhaps one day I'll get to experience it for myself" she smiled wistfully, a note of longing in her voice.

Her gaze flicked back to him as he spoke and she offered him a genuine smile, "Thank you kindly, you have a good eye, interestingly enough it's from Venice so perhaps that's why it has caught your attention!" Leo was feeling much lighter, she had been nervous to attend the ball this evening as she wasn't quite sure how well she'd be received. She'd never had any major issues with any other attendants but there was always a small niggly voice of insecurity that made you wonder. So far, she had to say she had worried for naught, all she could see from those around her were smiles and positive interactions, it seemed that a fair few people were rekindling old connections this fine evening. Having a normal conversation with someone was a balm she hadn't even known she'd needed. Her eyes flicked to the man standing opposite her, he held a calm air and without even really knowing him Leo could tell that he was kind, she couldn't have had a more positive first experience. As Tate lifted her hand to his lips she gave him a warm smile, it was always nice to be a little charmed. "Tate..." she tested his name, it was a pleasant name and she found it suited him. "It's a pleasure to meet you Tate, though I must insist you call me Leo, my full name is only used when I am in any trouble" she chuckled amiably and nodded in affirmation when Tate offered his help. "That would be extremely helpful, thank you Tate, I think I've fastened it properly but with the material of the dress being rather finicky I wouldn't want something so gorgeous to fall off and get lost!" Leo stepped closer to Tate and smoothed her hair away from the side where she had attached the brooch, breathing in the scent of baked bread and wildflowers as she drew closer to him.

All of a sudden, Leo was reminded of the purpose of this whole affair. She knew that each attendant had been assigned a particular colour and that they must find their match over the course of the evening. Leo's eyes flickered to Tate's suit jacket, there was no pin to indicate a colour, perhaps the men were given some other item. As he fiddled with her brooch the colour of his cufflinks caught her eye as they did not quite match his colour theme, it seemed that Tate had been assigned a gorgeous vibrant green colour, worlds away from the garnet that adorned her own dress. It was a shame that they were not to be matched but that didn't mean she couldn't continue this conversation with him. She hoped there would be further opportunities for her to get to know him better as well as the other attendants of course. Leo wondered idly who she had been matched with, what would happen if she didn't get along with her intended? Were they able to withdraw? She snapped herself back to reality and smiled at Tate, it didn't do to dwell on perhaps, she'd be better off focusing on what was happening around her at that moment. After her brooch was appropriately reattached she thanked Tate, "Shall we go and fetch some refreshments? I could do with a drink, I shall need one to cope with the merriment!" she giggled, her eyes shining, she was having a lovely time so far but she felt she should find her darling Annie at some point so they could catch up. "How do you know the Purcells if you don't mind me asking?" Leo chatted amiably as the walked, she already felt comfortable around Tate, he was easy to talk to.

[senna_]

────────:𝙰𝙽𝙽𝙰𝙻𝙸𝚂𝙴 𝙿𝚄𝚁𝙲𝙴𝙻𝙻

''she/her ● 21 ● 10/10 ● bicurious ● mentions; tags ● tags; leif, jasper

It was nice to start off the evening with a chat involving a familiar face. Annalise didn’t often feel overly anxious when it came to parties, and even though she had been preparing herself for this one in particular for as long as she could remember, it certainly gave off a different feel than the other ones she had attended in the past. She figured that was due to the whole “match matching” portion of it all, but it was entirely possible that there was more reason to it than simply that. The Purcells were party people, they hosted balls at least twice a month, but the thought of being in a room with so many of her friends, or, acquaintances, really, hit a different part of her. Yes, there were still others looming about – the majority being parents of those invited for romance – but it still felt a bit different. If anything, it was a party from a bird’s-eye-view; the intentions were transparent, as clear as the quaint little pond in their backyard garden, and the attendees were puzzle pieces, picked and moved around until eventually, by the end of the night, the picture would be completed. Or maybe it would take longer than that. Annie couldn’t help but wonder what everyone’s thoughts were. How many genuinely knew the full intention of her father upon accepting the invite? Was it just a case of, “My, the Purcells have invited me to one of their lavishing events!” or was it sincere? Annalise felt her gaze flickering around for Leonora once more. How did her friend feel about the matter, if she knew what was to come of the night? Leo had always been a dreamer, a romantic, even more so than Annie. Surely her parents would have told Leo’s family about the real reason behind the gems. They were close, her father wouldn’t have left that information out. Was Leo here? Last she had heard, her dear friend had indeed received an invite, and while Annalise wasn’t convinced the blonde would have turned down the opportunity to attend, she wasn’t too sure if it was because of the matchmaking, or simply to get out of the house for a bit. Did that go for most people? Annalise was curious as to how many would take this match-making experience seriously, if any at all.

She snapped out of her trance as Leif chuckled heartedly, returning her attention back onto him. She was grateful for his vigor liveliness; it certainly helped draw her mind away from her inner questions, when given enough motivation to really latch onto what was being spoken. That wasn’t difficult, really; while Annalise did get distracted easily, especially when it came to troublesome thoughts, it was usually relatively unchallenging to loop back around and fall into the current scenario once again. Now was no different. “It’s difficult to tell what is true and what isn’t when it comes to my brothers’ speech,” she replied with the tiniest of sighs. “All of them told me they would be spying, but none are bachelors anymore. However, I don’t doubt Charles will be lingering soon enough. My brother is far too nosy to avoid such a noisy crowd. I suppose that’s the utter joy of having them live so close by; I believe he and his wife had wanted to drop by at some point in the night. I’ll have a servant keep an eye out – we all know the real reason you are here tonight is to gawk after the married man.” Again came the quirk of a brow, and even though Annalise didn’t dare to even hint at a smile, it was evident she was only joking. She did, however, raise both brows in mere surprise as his flash-back comment regarding his own father. Annie had heard vague things regarding the Devitt family – her brothers were terrible gossipers – but she hadn’t exactly heard it come from Leif himself. Unsure of whether or not that topic was appropriate to encourage more teasing (in all honesty, it wasn’t consideration that struck Annalise first, it was the fact that she didn’t have a joke on the tip of her tongue to blow back), she merely shrugged. “Perhaps it’s best to keep it between the two of us, then,” she decided a moment later, giving a simple nod of her head, as if very satisfied with her decision. “The Devitt family will never know.”

Annalise shifted her gaze back down to his cufflink gems as he inspected them more closely. She truly didn’t know much about where they came from; had a servant picked them up at some point this week? That day? Had they been custom-made? It was almost embarrassing, how little Annie knew about her own event. “I am a woman of my words,” she declared. “If Father went far enough to invite his scholarly son's exuberant companion, surely he wouldn't have thrown away all your luck with a simple gem. It looks dashing, really. Who knew you were so into fashion?” Her head tilted slightly, a barely audible hmm sounding in her throat by the revelation. “Truth be told, I'm not quite sure how these matches were chosen,” she admitted. “While I'm sure my father didn't simply pluck names from his newest top hat, I am not too sure he put much thought into it. Well, perhaps for myself, since this party is supposed to marry me off — ” a look of disgust was quick to follow that — “but I hadn't thought much to ask him about his decisions. You learn quickly to never question the King of New York. I think he would get embarrassed, anyway. But my father does love a good game, and I do not doubt for a second that he spent many obsessive hours pairing up young lovers like it was a prize-winning event. He has many odd quirks.”

She didn’t quite seem to have much more time to dwell on the possibilities regarding the tedious selection, for another voice cut in, seemingly splitting her and Leif back a few meters. She fell silent as the two greeted one another in a rather rowdy manner, evidently thrilled to see one another. Did they not know both had received an invite? Did Charles know, because Annalise certainly did not. She shot Jasper a small smile, although with the booming heartiness that punched the air, Annie doubted she was going to be able to successfully break that tension, regardless of how loud she could become if she so pleased. Instead, without much of a complaint, she allowed her eyes to linger unabashedly. Why was it that within the short period of Charles's graduation to the night of her birthday celebration, the two men before her had gotten very attractive? Was it weird to think that? They were her brother's friends, after all; to them, she was the pestering little sister who begged to tag along in everything. The thought made her frown a bit. Was that what she'd be considered to most of the guests? She suspected there would be some younger and older than her, but in terms of family reputation, surely she was seen as the little spoiled girl of the family. She knew she was the favourite amongst the children, as they all did; her parents spoiled her rotten. And she liked the attention, really. But she knew it was unrealistic. Flattery and gifts wouldn't hold for a good marriage. She could only hope that her twenty-first birthday and a ball like this would shift people's perspectives, changing from that young Purcell girl with pigtails to a grown woman. Was that what she could consider herself?

Her mind was once again snagged as a certain topic rose in the air. Her eyes, though already on the men, blinked once, snapping back into the conversation, and she stared in mild disbelief. “The only lovebirds here would be yourself, Mister Addison, and Leif,” she told him in a matter-of-fact tone, holding up a finger, but it was evident from the way she spoke and eyed them that that wasn’t the reason for her speech. “Professor, you say? A fall-out?” That was an assumption, but why else would he be here? Annalise knew of Jasper’s flirtatious habits, but surely he wouldn’t attend an event like this if he was indeed still courting the woman. “Dear me, Father is way over his head here. If I’m correct, I believe he had invited as many gentlemen and women my age that are related to his university friends as he could. Dare I say she’s present?”

[senna_]

────────:𝚃𝙰𝚃𝙴 𝚁𝙸𝙲𝙲𝙸

'''he/him ● 20 ● 3.5/10 ● heterosexual ● mentions; tag ● tags; leonora

Miss Bennett’s pleasantly positive attitude was making the night feel much better already. Tate hadn’t necessarily ridden into town in the carriage with a negative mindset, for he didn’t quite believe there was good reasoning to step foot in a place with bad thoughts unless something terrible had occurred beforehand, but he had been nervous. Was nervous. Still is, maybe. How could he not be? The only parties Tate had really ever attended throughout his years were a few local get-togethers, in which one happened due to his and Angela’s graduation. The party consisted of a hearty twenty people tops, and while every inch of the wobbly wooden tables were filled with cooked and baked goods of all sorts, it was no match to what he was about to step foot in. He couldn’t quite tell if the swirl in his stomach was due to anxiety or excitement. Perhaps a bit of both, for while he wasn’t an extreme partier, he did quite enjoy the rowdy, lively atmosphere of excited people, regardless of if they were strangers or not.

He wasn’t surprised when Leonora mentioned the social circuit. It was highly evident she was of high class; her mannerisms and expensive attire shouted it to the world. She was different, though, and while he knew it was cliché to think such a thing, it was true. The high-class Europeans he had met back home were snobbish, and he didn’t doubt they bathed in their own riches every night. Leo was humane, personable. Real.

“I heard the Purcells are known for their extravagant parties,” he commented thoughtfully, allowing his gaze to break in order to fasten the bold green gem he had been given to his sleeve. “Have you ever been to one? I’m not too sure what to expect.”

As she mentioned Venus, he couldn’t help but wonder where the dress came from. She certainly wasn’t Italian, it was audibly known by the way she spoke, which added to the wealth situation of it all; she could get things shipped to her from different places in the world. The aspect of it all did truly fascinate him, even though he’d never be able to experience it first-hand. “Yes, something like that,” he mused, tilting his head slightly as the topic shifted a bit towards his home. “My hometown is in a complicated position. We have not been officially taken in by the Kingdom of Italy quite yet, but our connections are close. So, Italian without the proper title of it, I suppose.” He paused for a second. Was it safe to get into this kind of conversation here, out in the open? Tate wasn’t exactly sure where the Purcells – or even Leo’s family, which, he supposed, was probably more important at that moment – stood with politics and the government. He supposed he should have discussed with his parents what topics were appropriate and which were to be avoided at events like these, even though he wasn’t too sure they’d know themselves. Tate felt little need to rat out France, anyway. It was considered a secret relationship at this point; while his home state remained under the name of one country, from the eyes of the citizens within, it was fairly evident who they truly belonged to. It was a tiresome and messy scenario, in short, and Tate figured it was best not to get into a discussion regarding it. It was terribly boring, anyway, especially with a glamourous ball begging to greet them properly. Rubbing his lips together, he offered her a tight-lipped smile. “I think it’s best to leave politics out of this. This is a night of fun, yes? I think it’s best we let ourselves have some of that. But first – ”

He was the tiniest bit hesitant, even with her agreement, to help her with her gem. Stranger-to-stranger, he supposed coming so close probably was not the thing most would jump to upon first meeting another, but she granted him the go-ahead, and he truly did want to help. The gems were precious; he didn’t doubt for a second they were real, likely cut particularly for this event. Sugary lavender filled his senses, strong but not overpowering, as he leaned forward. It was calming, really. His hands were quite sturdy as he attached the brooch to her deep red dress – something that came from years of farm work – and he was careful not to poke her, though he doubted that would be the case, with both the thick material of her dress and the corset underneath. “These gems are precious,” he murmured as he fascinated the brooch. “Beautiful.”

His eyes locked with hers once more, drawn in by her gleeful gaze, then held his arm out to her to grab if she so pleased to take hold of it; another thing he wasn’t sure was appropriate, but it seemed at least polite. He did it to his sisters whenever escorting them places, so why not gentle Leo? Besides, even though the crowd had died down, people were still evidently eager to get inside, and Tate didn’t wish to see the lady stumble to the ground because of an ignorant, impatient guest. “Refreshments would certainly be nice,” he agreed, starting up in a slower-than-usual pace towards the front doors. “The salty air is getting to me.” He hummed a small laugh at that, nodding his head to one of the servants whose back was pressed to the door to keep it open. Laughter and chatter filled the air, and for a second, Tate was quite literally starstruck. He’d never been in a room so big before. Chandeliers easily worth three times the amount of money the Ricci family farm was hung from the ceilings, lighting up even the furthest, most shadowed corner of the ballroom. He’d have stopped to stare for hours more if it weren’t for Leo’s voice, which had rung out once again.

“I can’t quite say I’m very familiar with them,” he admitted, tearing his gaze away from the art-covered ceiling to look over at Leo. “They were customers and bought our supplies. But I’ve never met any of them faccia-a-faccia. Only my father. How about yourself? Surely you’ve better ties than I do.”

[wait for me.]

𝐉𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐦𝐚 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐞
Status;7/9 | Mentions; Annalise, Leif, Jasper, tags | Tags; Cosette & Nathaniel
┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ ♜ ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈

Jemima was quite pleased with herself. Surely, now that the first greeting was gotten through, the hardest part of the night would be behind her. Not to mention, the woman peppered French words into her language and had a strong French accent -- had she only possessed the first quality, Jemima would have thought her to be nothing more than a snob -- but this woman was of genuine French blood. The way she held herself up spoke to a dignity Jemima had never been able to capture before, the same brusque confidence as a vender hawking their wares, certain that theirs, and only theirs, would do for each of the passersby. And she had complimented her dress! Her maid truly did deserve the raise her sister had mentioned. Jemima would be riding the high of that compliment for the rest of the night, "I suppose you would know more about fashion than I, coming from the epicenter of fashion, itself, so I do thank you." She said, touching a hand to her chest as if to press the final words up and out of her throat. What had once been nerves was now eagerness, "You look lovely, as well, though I doubt you need me to say so."

As the other woman called over a man in a navy blue suit, already nursing a glass of the punch, Jemima heard a familiar voice ring out across the room and turned her head to try to find its source. Was that..? Oh, but it couldn't be! Surely Philip Purcell was not so cruel as to invite the one person in the entire world that she most dreaded seeing. Though only a select few knew the whole details of their courtship and its messy end, that a courtship had taken place and now was most certainly ended was public knowledge. She tried to turn her attention anywhere else, let her gaze wander to the elaborately painted dome ceiling, hoping to make some comment on it to the people at her side. This was to be a fruitless endeavor. The man talking to Annalise, whom she now recognized as Leif Devitt, confirmed her fears in his roaring tone: Jasper Addison was here. Jasper Addison was a scant thirty feet away from her.

Jemima prided herself on being able to keep a level head in dire situations. When Silas first fell ill, she had tended to him while his wife traveled home from visiting her family in Maine. By her own hand, her brother was brought through the hardest part of his ailment. She had sat by his bed through tremors and fevers and delusions. She held his head steady and the sick-bucket upright when he couldn't keep down a single meal. Many women, hell, even some men, would have cowered away from such a task, but Jemima knew what was to be done, and she got it done without a word of complaint. Except for when he vomited on her shoes, but that seemed to be a different matter. When she and her father got lost in Verona, who had the presence of mind to simply ask directions? When Gideon was unseated during a hunt and broke his arm in the fall, who rode all the way to town to fetch help? Though she might flinch from it at first, Jemima felt confident that any task, no matter how Herculean, might be conquered if she only kept at it.

But this...this was the trick of a particularly vengeful God.

His dark, curly hair, his imposing height, his upright, if just a touch too loose posture, everything was exactly as she remembered. The memories of their time together burned in her -- the parties, the dinners, the illicit meetings when she could slip away from her father -- and under her mask, her face burned crimson with them. She let out a slew of curses, in several different languages, the strongest she could think of, trying her best to keep it under her breath so as not to alarm the strangers at her side. She turned her face away sharply from the group of three, forgetting that she had a mask that would easily hide her identity from afar. Turning her head so quickly would likely draw more attention to herself than keeping herself steady would have. Jemima was not usually a superstitious woman, but she couldn't help but blame Phoebe for not lending her a little bit of her good luck.

The other woman's posing of a question brought about a welcome shift in Jemima's mind. She reoriented herself within the present conversation, taking in the man that she had just called over. He was tall (the same height as Jasper, her mind recalled unhelpfully). "My father went to university with Mr. Purcell." She hastily replied, trying – and likely failing – to sound at ease, "I've met Annalise before, but we've never really spoken."

[poppyxoxo]

𝐀𝐦𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐚

❀ twenty years old ❀ (she/her) ❀ heterosexual ❀ 5-6/10 ❀ mentions: ❀ tags: Leonora, Tate

Amelia spent a few minutes trying to guess what the brooch was for, but it all seemed rather exciting and well put together so surely it wasn’t anything too bad. She wasn’t too sure what to expect so to calm her nerves, she tried her best to direct her thoughts away from the unknown and towards what she did know. Her family had known the Purcell’s due to their clothing business. Amelia hadn’t known any of them personally, but she did hear news that their daughter was here, and she could only guess that she was as beautiful as she had heard. Perhaps if she was a particularly gifted person, Amelia could talk about painting with her. The whole idea of making new friends was rather exciting to Amelia.

After a few moments after admiring her miraculous sunshine coloured brooch, Amelia raised her lowered head so that she could take a look at many of the stunning faces around her. She felt intimidated but not in a bad way but rather intimidated by the shear luck of her circumstances that brought her hear so that she could admire it all. Her eyes landed upon a particularly pretty women in a lavish red dress and a handsome young man chatting amongst themselves. She had always felt comfortable amongst those she knew but she also loved to start conversations with anyone.

Amelia made her way towards them, weaving in between pairs and groups who happily conversed while holding glasses of drinks. Amelia made a mental note to grab one for herself later. She adjusted her mask before properly moving to stand before the two. “Hello, my name is Amelia. Please excuse me for intruding but I’m afraid I arrived a bit later when the conversations had already begun so I decided to join you two. Might I tell you both look wonderful” Amelia introduced her, keeping a calm tone despite all of her excited nerves running about in her brain. She offered a gentle smile to the both of them, meeting their eyes so that she could get a better look at who she was speaking with. How could two strangers be so intriguing if she had only just spotted them through a crowd. Amelia wasn’t sure how, but she was eager to find out despite a slight feeling in the pit of her stomach telling her to draw back to get a drink. No, she shouldn’t feel daunted and she should enjoy herself.

[lemon!!]

𝙹𝙰𝚂𝙿𝙴𝚁 𝙰𝙳𝙳𝙸𝚂𝙾𝙽
8/10 | he/him | Mentions; Tags, Jemima | Tags; Leif, Annalise
┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ ★ ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈

“My goodness, of course. I hope you understand, such compliments come from a place of utmost sincerity-” he paused for a moment, a sly smile working it’s way back to his face. It was the sort of smirk that highlighted the boyish charm he remained blessed with, even at the ripe age he had reached. Perhaps this was his own problem - if he believed nobody could take him seriously with his young face, it was much harder to take himself seriously. “Truly, Mister Devitt.” Jasper couldn’t help but laugh. Of course, they were long past the need for formal introductions like this one but the young man could hardly help the temptation to exaggerate in the name of ‘formality’. It was far more fun to joke around rather than take such formalities with utmost seriousness.

“Scarce? My good man, I like to think I’ve been making waves out there in the great unknown.” Jasper laughed at his friend’s statement. Of course he had known what the other man had meant - it was just more fun to play around with him than it was to be so serious. And why would he not want to have a laugh with his good old Harvard buddy? Despite the occasion being desperately formal (probably the time to be serious if there ever was one), Jasper had already decided he wasn’t going to reign in his boisterous energy just for one specific night. If he was to be married off shortly enough, he wanted to have a good night, perhaps for the last time. He didn’t know who he had been promised to - his fate had been sealed in the (more than capable) hands of Philip Purcell. He was terrified, to say the least, that he was to be married to someone with absolutely no similarities or common values. Jasper was concerned that his future wife would be dull, a bore, with nothing of any interest to bring to the table. He could think of nothing worse than having to live his entire life with a woman who knew nothing of the arts, of science, who only knew how to be a silent housewife. There was nothing he feared more. Perhaps this was why the topic of marriage still made the curly-haired Addison boy unusually nervous. Although he had known this was the point of the entire get-together (besides celebrating Annalise’s twenty-first birthday), there was something about the concept that caused a queasy sensation in the young man’s stomach.

His eyebrows raised, tilting his head to the side for a brief moment before straightening up. The young man instantly snapped out of the rambunctious state he had been displaying up til this point. This was a formal event, he supposed, it would only be polite to act as such around the very person for whom the event was being thrown. He offered a small smile to the woman. “My! I say. I do apologise for interrupting. I’m sure my dear friend here was pressing you for details." he laughed, tutting playfully. "While I don't excuse his exceptional bad manners, I do admit we would all love to know just how we were paired up tonight.” Jasper gave a small nod to Annalise. “This is a very beautiful party. Extremely fitting for such a beautiful young lady.” If he was going to display any amount of respect tonight, it would be for her. This compliment, of course, was true. Although she had always been a very pretty girl, she had become immensely more beautiful since the young man had last set eyes upon her. Perhaps this was because the last time they had met, they were barely old enough to make such judgements - the pair had been running in the same circles for a long time, they had known of one another since they were practically just children. Academia truly was a small world. “And please… call me Jasper.”

For the first time, Jasper almost felt embarrassed by his rambunctious display of excitement that had spilled out of him upon approaching the pair. It was not a secret that his rather… loud demeanour had often caused him issues. He was practically known these days for being over the top and eccentric. If his family were not immensely well off, he would never have been given as many passes as he had over the years. The world had almost entirely turned a blind eye to his antics (he was aware of this) - today’s event was his chance to set the record straight and prove he could be an upstanding member of society like each of his brothers before him. Maybe he would have stayed entirely in check if he had known that his enthusiastic greeting would alert Jemima of his presence tonight.

He couldn’t hide his distaste for the situation. It was all over his face. Quite literally that is, as his expression fell immediately when his friend brought the young woman up. Of course, the comment was completely playful in nature -Leif wasn’t to know just how bitter a taste Jemima’s name left in his mouth. Their courtship was not exactly a secret to the world. It had been the talk of the town at the time. Both families were very involved in the academic world and as such, were likened to be the next ‘power’ couple as it were. But even if the details of the vibrant explosion between the two weren’t public knowledge, the fact that the courtship had not blossomed was very widely known… and as was the professor’s new disinterest in the Addison family. Jemima was still perhaps the only woman to get away - a fact that Jasper entirely hated. He wasn’t actually sure what these feelings were. Resentment? Anger? Loathing? Either way, he wasn’t sure he could stomach the embarrassment that came with explaining. He decided to keep his response short.

He noted Annalise’s expression with a resentful sigh. From the looks of things, she wasn’t too familiar with his situation. He had thought that for the best… until it meant he was required to give some sort of explanation. “Yes, indeed. Jemima Fairlie. It’s fair to say we’re… no longer involved with one another.” he nodded, voice clipped as though to display his reluctance to go explain in any further detail what had happened between the two. He twitched a little at the young woman’s words. While he was sure she meant no harm, the thought of the Fairlie woman being at this ball made him sick to his stomach. Thank goodness he hadn’t turned around 180 degrees, or he might have thrown up onto Annalise's gorgeous gown. He faked a smile, though his eyes didn’t complete the favour. “She could be here? Well, wouldn’t that be a strange twist?”

[ethereal .]

𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐑𝐈𝐒𝐎𝐍 𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐑𝐎𝐄

𝟳/𝟭𝟬 | 𝗽𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵; 𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗮 𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 | 𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗱; 𝗻𝗼𝗻𝗲 | 𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗱; 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻

harrison had become accustomed to these kinds of events at a young age. well, events fairly similar. the kind that were hosted by extravagant people in even more extravagant homes. however, he was not accustomed with the aching feeling of being put on full display, but he would be soon. that feeling had been settling deep in the pit of his stomach for days leading up the 'event of the century' as his..slightly overdramatic family liked to put it. if it were any other gathering, he would be more than happy attending considering the fact that he could blend into the walls of any room. this time around he just couldn't shake the fact that he would more than likely be approached by multiple women, all to see if he was their match. he had nearly backed out entirely the second that invitation arrived with his name on it, but the sound of his mother crying for him to find a suitable wife was enough to send him reeling.

so here he was in the back of carriage, trying incredibly hard to convince himself that the constant chill traveling up his spine was from the slight chill in the air and not his rising anxiety. perhaps he could get by like he normally does. shake a few hands, send out a few smiles, talk to a few people. just so he would be lying entirely when the events were relayed back to his parents. sighing softly, he lifted a hand to work at his temple. who was he kidding? having things go his way wasn't likely. especially on nights like tonight. then again, maybe it was for the best. maybe all the nonsense he'd heard his parents talk throughout the years wasn't actually nonsense. nonetheless, he made no promises except to stride through the night with an improved attitude.

the sound of the carriage door opening and a breeze that fluttered his coat shook him from his own internal battle. looking at the driver, he could see that words were being spoken but they weren't registering, and therefore not being heard. all he could do was nod and climb out of the carriage, hoping that he had been informed that they had arrived. time to step into character. eyes up, not on his shoes. shoulders back, not slumped. this was familiar, in a way. he'd seen dozens of homes just like this one in the past, but no matter what each one captured his eyes and breath in different ways. there was something about the bright colors being visible even as the sun went down. or maybe it was just him.

harry cleared his throat softly and took seemingly confident steps forward until he reached the front of the line. only offering a nod and his invitation to the worker at the door, he cursed himself silently. maybe he should have said something, but he always ended up delaying himself too long for it to seem natural. thankfully though, it seemed like they weren't really the type for casual conversation. a cufflink was slid into his hand along with a grumble from the worker, telling him to put in on before he entered the ballroom. oh. well, alright. furrowing his brows together, he stepped inside while examining the gemstone gleaming in his hand. the bright yellow color would definitely stand out against his dark outfit. at least, maybe it would for someone actively seeking it out.

he stepped to the side for a moment and replaced one of his own cufflinks with the one he was given, glancing up every now and then to make sure he wasn't in anyone's way. after a moment of fidgeting and finally getting himself situated, he took the time to really look around the room. right off the bat he recognized a few somewhat familiar faces, though he couldn't bring himself to approach them just yet. no, for that he had to gather every drop of confidence he had. for now he would just make his way around the room, perhaps admire the architecture. anything that would ease his nerves for the time being.

[Mezzo]

♛ 𝐋𝐄𝐈𝐅 𝐃𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐓𝐓
───────「 8/10 | Paired with: Marjorie Larsen | Tags: Annalise & Jasper | Mentions: Jemima 」


It felt just like old times, quipping back and forth with Jasper Addison as if not a day had gone by since graduation, and Leif’s smile broadened at the nostalgia of it. When was the last time they’d been able to do something like this? And though their old partner-in-crime Charles Purcell wasn’t present this time around, Annalise was quickly proving herself to be just as silver-tongued if not more so than her elder brother. It felt refreshing seeing someone capable of keeping up with his and Jasper’s antics, giving as good as they got, and Leif could only laugh warmly at both their remarks — Jasper for his exaggerated formalities (which Leif would have quickly corrected had it been anyone else, for this was a party and there was a grand time to be had with no need, in his eyes, for such stiff decorum and etiquette. Nevertheless, he knew his old friend and he figured Jasper was simply jesting) and Annie poking fun at the two of them.

Now, Leif was no dandy and he’d never claim to be - as much as he was stuck on the idea that the aqua just really didn’t go with his suit! Perhaps this was foreshadowing of some sort for his match-to-be, but Leif was choosing actively not to dwell on that little caveat of tonight’s festivities - but he couldn’t very well refute the lovebird moniker. “I won’t deny that,” he chuckled, adding quickly, “I’ve always been more of a lover than a fighter myself.” Hence the origin of a number of his parents’ headaches over the years, of course, what with their worries that their only son would be a bachelor all his life. They’d spoiled Leif his entire life and by the time they’d finally opened their eyes to their son’s antics, it was too late — not that his shortcomings or meaningless flirtations came from arrogance or presumptuousness. Rather, he simply wanted to live the best life he could while he had the chance, so as far as he saw it, where was the harm?

Donning a resigned expression at Jasper’s next words, Leif sighed melodramatically, “And you didn’t think to bring me along! I’ve been properly bored these days, I’ll have you know.” For a heartbeat, he thought to air out his complaints of how there’d been nothing for him to do until he’d been invited to the party of the century, but that was a half-lie and he had a feeling both of his companions would recognize it as such instantly; for him, there was nothing to do besides avoiding his responsibilities! Leif supposed Jasper, being one of his closest friends, wouldn’t judge him for anything, and he knew Annalise to be more tolerant of his antics than most due to her brother’s influence, but he couldn’t help not wanting her to think any lesser of him. Even the passing notion of it rankled; he chalked it up to her being Charles’s baby sister — she was family of a friend and he didn’t want to be disliked, that had to be it, surely.

When Jasper turned his full attention to Annalise, Leif rolled his eyes good-naturedly at his friend’s dramatic mannerisms before putting on a faux betrayed face. Bad manners! Sure, Leif was no paragon of blue-blooded gentility like his parents had hoped him to be, and he would freely admit as such, but he hadn’t seen Annalise complaining… well, not outwardly, at least, thank you very much! Why, if they weren’t in the company of the more sophisticated Annie, Leif would surely have stuck out his tongue at the joking insult. Sadly, while that may have been passable back in their Harvard days, they were in proper company now and he’d only make both of them look like dunces if he did so. Oh well, he was reprimanding Jasper inwardly for the slight; he would have to settle for that.

That aside, though, he had to admit that Jasper had a point: how had Annie’s father paired them up? Leif wasn’t trying to make a big deal out of the matchmaking - he wasn’t going to let himself worry about that all night when he had a masquerade to enjoy! - but one couldn’t help but be curious when their own future seemed to be at stake. “While I greatly resent that insinuation, I must admit that I, too, was wondering about that. I don’t suppose you might have any insight about your father’s pairings, this being your party and all?” He held his tongue further, leaving his second comment unsaid: And why did he bother to make such pairings in the first place? It was most likely the question on many an attendee’s mind for the night. Sure, it made sense to Leif that a father would want his daughter to find a good match, but this scheme was very much on the verge of overreaching. He would never say such negativities aloud, especially in the Purcells’ own estate, but he had to silently agree with Annalise that her father seemed in over his head.

While he’d meant no true harm in probing into Jasper’s history with one Jemima Fairlie, Leif was taken aback to see his friend shifting from happy-go-lucky to uncomfortably disconcerted so quickly, and to know that it was him who had inadvertently caused it! Oops. Perhaps some backtracking was called for in this case… but before he could say anything more, Jasper was biting out an explanation, his discomfort clear in his delivery. Well, Leif certainly wasn’t going to be prying any further after that, though he’d admittedly learned nothing new; most in his and Jasper’s circle already knew the barebones of the relationship — that it had happened and ended. But everything in between was almost entirely a mystery to Leif. What could possibly have happened between the two to make his companion act this way? Though he was curious, he knew better than to press Jasper’s buttons, especially in front of Annie. He didn’t want her to think him tactless, after all.

Deciding that a change of subject was at hand lest Jasper look more like he wanted the ground to swallow him whole, Leif said abruptly, “Well now! You might get lucky yet, I mean what are the chances that Jemima Fairlie could be here, anyhow?” It was mostly meant as a rhetorical question, though he wondered if Annie was right and the other lady was there. That… may not bode so well for Jasper. Moving on quickly, though, Leif decided to broach a different, safer topic. He flashed the right cuff of his dress shirt to Jasper, pointing at the aquamarine cufflink attached. “So, before you so kindly interrupted us, we were discussing our colors. As you can see, I’ve got aqua, and now that I’ve shown both of you, no more hiding, Mister Addison. What’s your color?” Of course, knowing Annie's color already, Leif briefly considered revealing the secret to Jasper - who he never really hid anything from - but Annie had gone to such lengths to conceal the silver brooch in her dress that he felt wrong doing so. She could tell him if she wanted to, it wasn't his place to speak for her.

[senna_]

────────:𝙰𝙽𝙽𝙰𝙻𝙸𝚂𝙴 𝙿𝚄𝚁𝙲𝙴𝙻𝙻

:10/10 ● silver gem ● pair: jasper addison ● mentions; leo, ulysses, jemima, tags ● tags; leif, jasper

Annie didn’t have much of a complaint in her when the two continued chatting back and forth. In fact, while she was certainly the type of person who enjoyed tossing her comments and opinions in whenever she pleased, this gave her the opportunity to people-watch. Person-search, more or less; where was Leo? Annalise knew she was here. She had to be here. What colour gown would she be wearing? That was difficult to tell. Women of higher class rarely wore the same dress to a ball, and Annalise hadn’t been able to write to her quickly enough to ask about details on the seamstress and tailor shop the Bennett family was planning on involving themselves in for tonight. The masks certainly did not help, either; Annalise had been confident she would be able to pick out the shimmery golden-blonde hair of her friend easily, but it seemed there were a good few women that had very similar hair. How frustrating! Unfortunately, the only other person Annie really knew tonight, apart from the men in front of her, was the garden boy Ulysses, whom she had yet to decide how to approach. She wasn’t sure how keen her father’s eye would be; would he eventually leave? She doubted it, since it was his party and she was to get married off, but Annalise did want to say hello. And find the seamstress that helped make her dress, too; she owed the lady her thanks. However, finding her seemed absolutely impossible, for she didn’t even have a name in mind to call out. This party certainly was one night of mysteries.

She glanced back at Jasper as he turned his attention back onto her, rubbing her lips together in an attempt to hold back a smile. “No, you’re not,” she quipped. “Jasper Addison sorry for crashing a party? Are you sure you’re feeling all right?” She’d have reached up to feel his forehead if it wasn’t for the mask that was plastered to him, but her unsuccessful attempt to keep a relatively straight face was going to have to do. While she was undoubtedly delighted by the compliments she was receiving – she was sure it was obvious from the light in her eyes – she did her best to keep modest. Buying too into it was unattractive and, bluntly, desperate, said her father. “Please,” she waved it off, “you can thank the top of the Purcells for all of this. Save your flattery for your assigned ladies – ” she dragged her finger in the air from one man to the other – “the special women would bathe in it, I’m sure of it.”

Her smile faded slightly as the men resumed the topic about this courtship between Jasper and a mysterious woman. It was no surprise Annalise didn’t know; with an increase in her studying and various other lessons she was to participate in, she hadn’t spent nearly as much time in town as she would have liked. That’s where all the gossip flooded around. Erika Willsman in particular spilled it like her life was on the line. Annalise’s own family was particularly odd about a split like that; something about bad luck and misfortune. Of course it was kept hushed in her house.

She perched up slightly at the name. Jemima Fairlie. Annie didn’t really know her. She knew of her, and while there were occasional times where they had bid each other hellos during one of their father’s many academic parties, the conversation didn’t often spread past that. She wasn’t quite sure what to think of it. While it was no surprise someone had fallen for Jasper’s charms – who hadn’t? – it was, for whatever reason, strange to her ears to hear it involved someone she was both familiar with, and not. It almost made her seem less human, like this was made-up, despite the fact that Annie knew who she was. She glanced at Leif. What was his take on it? Did he know Jemima more than herself? Most likely; Leif talked to everyone.

Even with the mask and the dimmed lighting provided by the flickering candles, Annalise could tell Jasper had paled. It was evident his mood had dipped immensely; the Addison boy was all smiles and charm, seeing him without one proved its point, even without dwelling too much into it. She couldn’t quite say with confidence that he was uncomfortable, but he certainly wasn’t pleased. She wanted to hear all about it — it sounded thrilling! — but that darned gut feeling was practically screaming at her to hold her tongue. Now was not the time.

“I wouldn’t worry,” she leaped in quickly, waving it off with a flick of her wrist and shooting Leif a very noticeable don’t you dare look. He seemed to have taken the hint already, though; while it was a bit of a challenge to see, Annie noted by the way he momentarily fell quiet that now wasn't the time to pester his friend. While she was very much aware of the bickering and teasing these two could stir up, especially with one another, it took a completely blind person with little sense of sympathy to note the shift in emotion from the curly-haired man before her. “There are plenty of women here tonight, I doubt you will be matched with her. Besides, if my father knew about this, then you shan’t worry. As much of a young child my father really can be when it comes to drama, he wouldn’t purposely wish to cause a scene. He and Mister Fairlie are close, you know. Don’t fret.” She shot him a smile, this one visibly bigger and cheerier – or so she hoped – than the first, anything to seem convincing enough, before her hands instinctively shot out to reach them both, desperate to change the subject, no matter how curious she was. “You both look dashing tonight. Who knew you could clean up so well?” Turning this last phrase so that it sounded like she really was surprised, she gave a small shrug of her right shoulder before shifting her gaze to the servants, whose black uniforms dotted an outline of an odd-looking shape along the dance floor. Annalise knew very well these two could do exactly what she had just teased about; she shamelessly was sure she’d had a small crush on a good few of Charles’s friends growing up, and how could anyone blame her? He had a tendency to lure in charming young men with sunshine-bright smiles and contagious laughs and befriend them with little problem. Flirtatious, but not rakish. Annalise liked flirtatious; it was a game she could find great joy in. In fact, that’s what she was searching for. Off the top of her head, Annie didn’t know any sickeningly strict men that her father may have invited, but by the look of the people in this room, she was also unsure of how many she actually knew. She had found Leif so easily, and recognized Jasper without a second guess as he had bounded up. Perhaps it was just because she was further away from the rest of them. While her fate ahead was unknown at the present moment, the least she could do was twirl on the dance floor and have a bit of loose fun, right? She wondered how long it would be before the band in the back picked up and people started mingling in rhythm to the music.

She hated how her mind kept flitting back and forth between the scenario of marriage and the situation she had currently placed herself in. Her parents had left practically everything regarding the gems very open-ended, so much so that she truly was unsure if she was to be properly tied down for the rest of her life or not. When speaking with Benedict days prior, he had, in a very hushed tone, informed her that the event was little more than a shoot-back at rivalry businessman Mister Edgar, who had challenged their father for who-knows-what reason. However, that didn’t quite settle Annie’s nerves as much as she had hoped. Sure, maybe the matching part of this was indeed to prove his point (why was her father constantly trying to prove something to someone?), but he and her mother had also told her this was the start of her life that revolved around courtship. Perhaps the others would be able to wiggle themselves off the hook and get away without going through with marriage with a complete stranger, but what about herself? Her partner? Was he to be forced into this, too? Did he know ahead of time? Leif and Jasper both appeared so calm about the whole scenario. Of course they did. To them, this was probably just a game. It was probably a game to a lot of the guests. She wasn't sure if she was to be envious or that or not. For now, it was best to avoid the gems regarding her own person, and focus more on everyone else. The two did seem somewhat interested, though, given their inquiries regarding the subject. "Between you and I," she continued, leaning forward as if about to reveal a precious secret, "this event isn't as serious as it came off as. Apparently it's more for Father to prove himself, whatever that may be for. But he's also unpredictable; for all I know, he's planning weddings this very second." She didn't feel too bad about not knowing the answers, even though she was sure her response was probably a bit of a let-down. "It's always one big mystery secret with that man." She paused to collect her breath. "Selfishly, I'd say this pairing situation is for me. I'm sure Charles has told you about my father's quirks before. A girl like myself having the ability to choose my own husband? Impossible." She rolled her eyes. While sarcasm was heavily frowned upon by her parents, it wasn't like there was much they could do about it. “It was just done in a modest way, I suppose. 'If I create partners for everyone then Annalise won't suspect anything.' Who knows? I'm sure most people will keep the gem before they keep the partner." A shrug followed that, and she was eager to switch the topic; "Do either of you know of anyone else here? Besides, uh..” Her voice trailed off quickly and she couldn’t help but shoot Jasper an innocently sheepish look for bringing that up again. “I am sure more of you Harvard men are around here somewhere.” Her curiosity towards the subject appeared to vanish instantly as Leif posed the question everyone was going to hear so much this evening. Her eyes lit up. "Oh yes, do reveal this dark secret, Mister Addison. I must find your ladies for you both soon enough!"