#ed1717
2
0
1
5
Annasiel
At last, my peace. I found it in her eyes.
369
Aug 13, 2015 22:40:06 GMT
August 2015
annasiel
|
Post by Annasiel on Oct 12, 2015 20:05:55 GMT
The exchange only served to deepen the experience. For Quinn, time itself seemed to have slowed to a crawl. She could hear her heartbeat in her ears, feel the soft fabric of Erin's clothes, take in every sensation around her with ease. Like a boat on the water in the face of a storm, the couple seemed suspended in a swaying momentum for an eternity. Then, Quinn lunged.
She didn't know what came over her. She didn't know what seized her to act. The time, the feeling, the words that had just been spoken, it all felt so right in her mind. Abruptly halting her dance, she sprung upward on the tips of her shoes, going in for a kiss. The socialite had a habit of making inappropriate moves, of reading too far into body language and speech. But everything with Erin was going so smoothly. This kiss wouldn't be struck down like all the others.
This time, it would actually happen.
|
|
#2007f0
3
0
1
Apr 22, 2020 19:54:15 GMT
3
Dymion
129
Aug 13, 2015 23:35:49 GMT
August 2015
dymion
|
Post by Dymion on Oct 12, 2015 23:16:06 GMT
"Tha-ank y-you."
The girl was so polite, her stuttered words growing the smile behind the figure's mask. She reminded him so much of the people back home, her kindness reminiscent of the close community he had known. He watched, silent, as she took a bite of truffle, and listened as she again spoke, her sweet voice a pleasure. But then she stopped, mid-sentence, and he watched, a little curious, as she finished off the treat, now unwilling to look at him. Beneath the mask, the figure's brow furrowed, a sense of curiosity plaguing him. But it was not just her sudden change, as if she had realized this was a stranger, that caught his attention. It was the unsettling feeling he had met a few times on the road, a prickling sensation that crawled across his skin. Unknown to the girl, he had also seen the slightest flicker around her, and it caused his eyes to narrow, still hidden in the shadows. This is curious, indeed. Nothing in his actions gave away his mental shift, and as he spoke, his voice remained as conversational as before, acting as though nothing had changed.
"I likely will. Otherwise, I wasted time finding this mask." He chuckled slightly, looking down at the rest of the pastries before considering the girl again. "Have you been to one of these before?" He gestured around them with his right hand, hidden eyes searched her vibrant green ones carefully. They were so colorful and unique, a stark contrast to the browns and grays in his home. It made him really curious. What was her life like? Who was she? And why had she set off that strange sensation?
|
|
#ed1717
1
0
1
Sept 9, 2017 19:51:41 GMT
5
Lev
191
August 2015
admin
|
Post by Lev on Oct 13, 2015 0:22:14 GMT
"I would have never guessed. I dare say you may be one of the best dance partners I've ever had the honor of dancing with."
"You flatter me," she said with a chuckle that sounded like a stutter. Was it the compliment that made her blush? Or the gentle squeeze of his hand? Whichever one it was, she was glad the mask covered her betraying cheeks.
A deep breath made her realize that their chests were almost touching, pushed closer together by the proximity of their fellow dancers. A panicking voice screeched in the back of her mind, projecting the disapproval of every adviser that would suggest she remove herself immediately. The steady thumping in her ears had spread to her throat, battling to overpower the sound of the nay-saying voices. Suddenly, she felt braver than before. What had gotten into her? Why was she feeling this way? The room was hush hush, and the moment was hers - theirs to take before it was lost in the monotony of formality and status forever. His eyes stayed on her, hers on his... Nobody would care about another inch of closeness. Others were too busy staring at their own partners to notice the queen press herself nearer to Greisimn for the last few moments of the song.
It was all over too quickly. The song trailed off until the audience could suspect its end and clap for the players, Theolandra and Greisimn included. She turned her gaze wistfully to the upper floor, knowing what would come next but remaining close to her partner as long as he would keep her there. A singer from Milova's healers would always sing a song at about this time, but nobody was nearing the area to perform. Neala was looking around the room expectantly, finding no one. Theolandra mouthed 'what's wrong?' to the dark skinned girl. She only responded with a nervous shrug and tense, open palms.
|
|
#2007f0
3
0
1
Apr 22, 2020 19:54:15 GMT
3
Dymion
129
Aug 13, 2015 23:35:49 GMT
August 2015
dymion
|
Post by Dymion on Oct 13, 2015 0:43:07 GMT
As Quinn made her move, the intentions in her action seemed to blare from excited, hazel eyes, and as Erin understood what was coming, a strange, overwhelming panic flooded both mind and reactions, guiding what she did next. She wasn't ready for this. So many questions and doubts and fears and insecurities clouded her mind, making any thought difficult... it was all too much. And so, like a coward, she ran.
It took only a small moment for everything to go wrong. Erin's hand, so comfortable against Quinn's back, pulled away as if touching a hot fire, and, as she ducked to avoid the display of affection, all that had lead up to that moment unraveled. Fear of the unknown pulled her from the one person who had opened up to her, the one person she couldn't push away. Who was still alive. A quick twirl, and she was free... or was she? Wide eyes, scared by what had happened so fast, locked onto what she knew would the hurt expression of Quinn. She could feel as her insides tore apart, howling at each other. She had to run, to escape and think... but she had to stay, to show Quinn that she had affected her in a wonderful way. She wanted to protect her from herself, and moments like what she had spat out two nights before. Broken. The word echoed in her mind, and as a powerful, apologetic expression controlled her features, tears welled in her eyes.
The long, despairing seconds seemed to tick by as the pair stood there, separated by a void built of insecurity. Mouth open as if to say something, only the mask saved Erin's cheeks drop the slow stream of tears that began to fall. She was tortured inside, fear and want waging war against each other and her heart. Why was this happening to her? She didn't deserve this. Nothing she'd done gave reason for her to deserve this...
"I'm sorry."
The words came out as more of a sob than a sentence, and with a quick twist, she was gone, slipping between the colorful gowns of those too enthralled with their happiness to care. Past the dancers, past the tables, past the wine, she ran until she could go no further, twisting as her back hit the wall. And there she stood, wide, teary eyes staring out at the ball, as she struggled to control the chaos within. Slowly, weak legs gave way, and she slumped to the floor.
She'd tried to kiss her. The simple thought spurred a new wave of emotions, and a slow, ragged breath escaped her. Why? What was there about Erin that could get such a reaction? The answer escaped her. She looked down, noting her hands folded over her chest... her heart. What was going on? Why couldn't she think straight? No matter what she tried to come up with, her mind failed to work. So she tried to not think. And something became clear. She had liked it. The attention from Quinn had been a new sensation for her. And while the new was startling, she had liked it. That was the answer.
A soft, slight smile formed on Erin's lips as she sat, leaned against the wall, the effects of wine brewing as she pondered this new feeling. And it made her happy.
|
|
inherit
19
0
0
Guest
78
Aug 15, 2015 17:44:50 GMT
August 2015
guest
|
Post by Guest on Oct 13, 2015 0:56:17 GMT
"I-it's good to see you again."
"It is," Willem said gently. Something extinguished the ire that had fueled his steps just moments ago. Was it simply the accident or was it something he hadn't recognized yet?
She was grabbing his tunic. He could feel the fabric pulling on the back of his neck. His hand were tucked behind her back and shoulder, holding her in place where they stopped her from falling. They didn't move in the silence that followed. Both stared at each other in mixed emotion as their bodies stood frozen in two moments that had suddenly become one. A green mask dangled around her neck. Her eyes were exposed to him.. They were beautiful.. but something about that felt wrong. Then he remembered!
"I'm sorry," he apologized. In one unbroken motion he stood her upright again, letting her hands hold his shirt as long as they needed to stay balanced. When she was steady he knelt to pick up the wreath. It was the same crown he saw her with yesterday. Apparently whoever it was for had not received it yet. Hope? Maybe it was disappointment that struck his chest? "Here." The ornament was returned to her. A boldness controlled him then.. It was certainly a move that brought him closer to her but he wasn't sure how well she'd receive it. He didn't know how HE felt about it.. Or perhaps he did?
"This face," her true face, "should be for someone special." Large hands positioned the emerald mask back over her eyes. When it was set he tucked back a loose strand of her auburn hair. "I hope you can forgive me.. for seeing it."
The box wasn't too different here than it was in the garden. Smaller steps..slower pace.. closer grip on each other. But Vivienne didn't have any complaints about either of those changes. This was still one of the most enjoyable experiences she'd had in a long time! As they moved together in symphony Alek started to speak.
"I, have to admit something. All of this, Divines, I've never been so frightened in my life. I'm thirty-two, do I look it? Do I look older? I don't know, I hardly recognize myself some of these days. I've never felt like this before- I think I like it, quite a lot, in fact."
Vivienne was afraid to hear the confession at first. The shallow fear of unexpected rejection scratched her thoughts for a tense minute. But when Aleksandria finished Viv could only smile. She squeezed her partner's shoulder and hand a little tighter. Seeing such a strong women share her insecurities was touching. Knowing that she had them was comforting by itself! And Vivienne was the one she decided to share them with..
"I like it too," she responded with an earnest smile. Then she whispered. "And for the record, you don't look a day over twenty-five." Another wink! Milova's grace, she was just brimming with confidence tonight!
|
|
inherit
4
0
Jul 17, 2016 13:50:51 GMT
2
Mach2
44
August 2015
mach2
|
Post by Mach2 on Oct 13, 2015 2:48:13 GMT
Sage's gaze remained lowered as her new tablemate continued to make conversation. Despite Baeslan's sudden aggression, Sage could still find nothing wrong. He was polite. His speech was smooth and articulate, unlike her own uncontrollable stammer.
Opening her mouth, she attempted to answer his question, her eyes still fixed intently on the table. "N-no. N-"
Sage... Baeslan's voice was a low growl in her ear. A warning. She closed her mouth mid-word, indulging the demon in a few seconds of silent conversation. What's wrong with him? I said, I don't like him. But why? Silence. But she could feel Baeslan's apprehension. A dark presence in the back corner of her mind. An anger that was not her own. I'm only talking with him. Nothing else. It's okay, I promise.
Again, silence from the demon. Did that mean she was allowed to speak? Hesitantly, Sage tested the waters. "N-never b-b-before. I-I wanted t-to see everyo-o-one d-dance," she answered, glancing back at the ballroom floor, unable to keep a smile off of her face. Baeslan remained silent, and she decided to push the attempt at conversation. It was so rare that she got to speak with people. And never like this, at a masquerade. "H-have you? B-been to things li-i-ike this?"
|
|
#ea7ca1
5
0
1
Jan 27, 2019 20:04:50 GMT
3
Leb
The loneliest are the kindest. The saddest smile the brightest. The most damaged are the wisest.
223
August 2015
leb
|
Post by Leb on Oct 13, 2015 5:46:11 GMT
"I'm sorry,"
Loretta shook her head after Willem no longer held her and straightened her up.
"Oh no, it's quite alright Will-!!"
She apologized and quickly let go of his tunic as she realized how she still clung to him like a frightened child. Willem had then knelt to pick up the wreath she had dropped. She could tell he was inspecting her crown and wondered what his thoughts were. Did he think of her as a silly girl for holding onto the thing still? Or maybe perhaps.. did he think she meant to give it to him? But he couldn't possibly be thinking that.. could he? A dull ache in her chest formed as such thoughts crossed her mind.
"Here." Willem returned the wreath to her, she didn't notice her fingertips sliding over his hand as she made to grab the wreath. She frowned at the sight of it. Did Willem not have someone special to enjoy the festivities with? Was she in his way? Perhaps she was distracting him from the woman he searches for? Her chest ached again, a lump seemingly began to grow in her throat. She was ruining someone else's night for sure.. his night.
Her thoughts were interrupted when she felt large warm hands at the sides of her head.
"This face," he began, adjusting her emerald mask back in place. Her eyes closed as she enjoyed the feeling of his touch. His caresses were gentle and warm, the frown that once plagued her features long gone, replaced instead with a small smile.
"should be for someone special." She glanced up to him once more with curious searching eyes. Did he not have someone special? Was he like her? Did someone he care for not partake in the festivities just as Eoin had seemingly disappeared off the face of the earth? Or had he no one to begin with? Another ache in her chest formed. Her cheeks warmed as he tucked away a loose strand behind her ear, the simple act bringing about tingles and shivers running up and down her spine.
"I hope you can forgive me.. for seeing it."
Loretta's smile grew genuinely and amusement filtered in as she listened to his apology. "It's okay Willem, truly.." She began only halting briefly before continuing with her thoughts. "You've seen my true face before already, what could be special about it now with a simple mask placed over?" Her response was an attempt to more or less help him not feel badly for what happened. Her smile didn't waver and she continued to gaze up at him. Without realizing it, she had mumbled her inner thoughts aloud. "but if it's you, I would not mind it.."
|
|
#2007f0
3
0
1
Apr 22, 2020 19:54:15 GMT
3
Dymion
129
Aug 13, 2015 23:35:49 GMT
August 2015
dymion
|
Post by Dymion on Oct 13, 2015 23:23:31 GMT
Frantic. That was the best word to describe the young ray of sunshine, her yellow gown twisting this way and that as her eyes frantically searched the crowd. LeAnn was supposed to be preparing to go onstage, and yet, no one knew where the young woman was, her rose gown a myth as young Elaine slipped among the dancers. Frantic blue eyes skimmed back and forth... nothing. She could feel the steady pacing as blood rushed through her body. She had to find somebody, anybody that knew the song. Since the second melody had begun its tune, every maiden of the Infirmary had been on the hunt. Only one hint told them where their singer was, and that was her flower shaped mask, left on the doorstep where she must have vanished into the night. Lust might very well be the end of tradition. But desperate eyes found one other sister in the folds of the ballroom, slumped up against the wall, her gaze out toward the dance.
"Erin!"
Wide, gray eyes looked up from the dark hood, her slight smile vanishing before Elaine could see it. She doesn't need to know. But as the older healer saw the frenzy in Elaine's eyes, she knew there were more pressing matters.
"What's wrong?"
She was amazed at how well her voice hid the inner turmoil, even despite the wild tone in Elaine's next words.
"Have you seen LeAnn?"
"N-no, I haven't."
"She's supposed to be singing right now."
That got Erin's attention, and in a quick snap her attention was fully focused on the issue at hand. Ignoring the slight tingling sensation that plagued her, she rose to her feet, brow furrowed as she grabbed the younger sister's shoulder. Her voice came out as a whisper, a look of exasperation on her face.
"Does anyone else know the song?"
Elaine shook her head, quickly, looking over her shoulder. She opened her mouth as if to say something, but didn't quite start before luck kicked in.
"You've got to be... even I know the words!"
Both girls froze. Erin's heart skipped a beat. Elaine's burst in joy. The younger felt silly for forgetting. Erin's room was the closest to their missing performer, a thin wall being their only separation. Fate, it seemed, was on their side, and what had held for years would not be broken. The black robed Erin was their saving grace. Before the older woman had a chance to protest, a gloved hand had grabbed her arm and began dragging her through the crowd.
"Come on!"
There it was again. The mysterious, curious girl had barely gotten a word out before she had stopped, something holding her back. The male figure could feel his own intrigue growing, and again saw the flicker of something along her frame. It was stronger, more intense, and yet, as quickly as before, it was gone. His interest was mounting. What was she hiding? What did he see? As he leaned forward, the shadows covering his eyes seemed to disappear, and if the girl looked, vibrant, white, ghostly irises would come on display. His voice remained soft and conversational, however, as his eyes followed her gaze.
"I'm afraid I haven't. I'm familiar with some of the traditions, but... well, I'm new in town, and don't get out often." A slight chuckle escaped his lips before his eyes glanced at her, smile softening under the mask. His voice followed suit, becoming gentle as he spoke his next words. "May I ask your name?"
|
|
#ed1717
2
0
1
5
Annasiel
At last, my peace. I found it in her eyes.
369
Aug 13, 2015 22:40:06 GMT
August 2015
annasiel
|
Post by Annasiel on Oct 14, 2015 0:56:16 GMT
The thoughts came back with the fury of a maelstrom.
Worthless. Absolutely worthless. Scaring away the one person who actually seemed to like you.
I can never understand how you [worthless worthless fuck] do it you can't even do you know how to live life? [killed me]
think that you no one will ever understand you
Quinn began to chuckle, and the chuckle erupted in a cackle. She stood there for the better part of a minute laughing like a lunatic, then slowly calmed down into the occasional hiccup. When the moment had passed, she glanced around for a moment to see if anyone had noticed. Whether they had or hadn't, it didn't matter. Quinn brushed off the front of her dress, and walked off into the crowds as if nothing happened. She approached a flabbergasted old man with a vulture mask, and began talking to him colloquially.
"Hello, sir! Enjoying the party?" she asked happily. He stared at her as if a demon itself was before him.
"...ma'am, are you alright?" he responded, a tinge of concern in his hesitant tone.
"I don't know why I wouldn't be. Have you ever seen fireflies over the lake at night?"
She slid into a detailed description of the scene, while he fidgeted for someone to save him from the madwoman.
|
|
inherit
19
0
0
Guest
78
Aug 15, 2015 17:44:50 GMT
August 2015
guest
|
Post by Guest on Oct 14, 2015 1:14:06 GMT
"It's okay Willem, truly..You've seen my true face before already, what could be special about it now with a simple mask placed over? But if it's you, I would not mind it.."
Why did those words stir him inside? The way her eyes closed when he touched her.. the softness of her hair against his weathered fingers.. a small smile when she looked at him. If these were part of her true face Willem wanted to see more of it. Maybe it was the nature of the event that created such a strong reaction? Perhaps it was the will of Milova that this moment happened? Whether or not their meeting was Divine intervention or not he would ride with it as long as he could. Previous goals were thrown to the wind.
"I'm honored," he said. "My face has never been false before you, so let me return the kindness." Without hesitation he pulled the wolf mask off of his face. He fixed the hair that'd been obscured and tucked the mask into his belt for the night. He wouldn't need it again unless Loretta sent him away. Lips moved to speak but words didn't follow. Fool, what are you doing? "Would you.. like to dance, Loretta?" It was triumph enough that the words escaped the lump in his throat! This wasn't normal. Acceptance or refusal of such an invitation was even more unfamiliar.
|
|
#ea7ca1
5
0
1
Jan 27, 2019 20:04:50 GMT
3
Leb
The loneliest are the kindest. The saddest smile the brightest. The most damaged are the wisest.
223
August 2015
leb
|
Post by Leb on Oct 14, 2015 1:59:36 GMT
"I'm honored," Willem began and reached for his mask. "My face has never been false before you, so let me return the kindness." Once removed, he tucked it away in his belt indicating he won't be wearing it again anytime soon. She marveled his handsome face taking in every ounce in their close proximity. She noticed how his lips moved to speak but nothing was spoken leaving Loretta with baited breath. What was on his mind? What will he say?
"Would you.." Would she..? What did he wish from her? "like to dance, Loretta?" An invitation! It was an invitation to dance! A small giggle bubbled up from Loretta as she smiled with glee. She curtsied to Willem in acceptance after placing the wreath on the table behind her, a single lilac in her hand.
"I would love to dance with you, Willem."
And just like that, a sudden boldness took hold of her as she reached for his hand, the flower hidden between their grasped hands. She led, possibly pulled as well, Willem to the dance floor with a cheesy grin in her excitement. Just as the two would reach an open spot between the many dancers that have gathered, the music had slowed for a more intimate dance. She'd be lying if she claimed to not be nervous. It'd be her first dance with someone other than her family. She glanced over to Willem with rosy cheeks and a nervous smile.
"I'll have to warn you.. I haven't the chance to practice in some time."
|
|
inherit
17
0
1
Isengrim
55
Aug 15, 2015 14:18:57 GMT
August 2015
isengrim
|
Post by Isengrim on Oct 14, 2015 3:04:36 GMT
Greisimn was acutely aware of the possibility that they would be bombarded with disapproving glares from the upper floors when Theolandra pressed herself closer to him, yet he did not move to step away, rather, he through what small remnants of caution he bore to the wind, and held her close. The song was ending soon anyway, this he knew, so why not enjoy the moment while it lasted?
When the song finished playing both Isengrim and Theolandra separated to applaud the players for their performance. He glanced over to Theolandra to see her gaze turn to the upper floors, his own gaze following, expecting to see worried or frustrated faces chastising her. But rather, he saw Neala, looking around the room but apparently finding nothing. Isengrim turned back to theolandra in time to see her mouth something, but did not see what it was. Her shrug and tenseness tipped him off that something may be wrong.
"Everything alright?" He asked, following her gaze trying to understand the situation.
|
|
inherit
4
0
Jul 17, 2016 13:50:51 GMT
2
Mach2
44
August 2015
mach2
|
Post by Mach2 on Oct 14, 2015 17:25:29 GMT
Sage's eyes were still on the dance floor as the man answered her questions. Like her, he was new in town. She turned back to face him, opening her mouth to try to answer his question. But as her eyes met his, she froze.
A wave of something crashed into her. Some combination of hatred, apprehension, and fear. Emotions that were not her own, and yet they hit her far too hard to be ignored. Surprise was present on her face for the briefest of instances.
Leave. Now. But I- Now. I want to talk to hi- Why are you arguing? I said, leave. Stand up. Walk away. As quick as you can with that gimpy leg.
The girl clenched her jaw, green eyes staring back at the colourless eyes of the stranger. Then, before she even realized she had any intention to speak, she was answering. "Sa-age," she answered, the vowel catching in her mouth.
Baeslan didn't even need to speak. Immediately, she knew what she had done. She knew that he was not be happy. Her misstep would cost her. Somehow. Sometime, likely soon, it would cost her. She would be better off to leave now, and she push her luck any further. "I-I-I...I'm s-sorry. I h-h-have to g-"
Stop talking.
She shut her mouth. Leaving her plate of food scarcely touched, Sage pushed herself up out of the chair. The muscles of her bad leg immediately clenched in protest. Baeslan's way of chiding her for questioning him. She would be getting little assistance from him as she left the ball room. Sage gave a final apologetic look to the man she'd just met, and then started to walk away, her steps even more unbalanced than usual.
|
|
inherit
19
0
0
Guest
78
Aug 15, 2015 17:44:50 GMT
August 2015
guest
|
Post by Guest on Oct 15, 2015 18:53:59 GMT
A bubbly giggle answered his invitation to dance then Loretta turned away. Was that a no? Was she taking her leave by laughing at him? Willem's eyes and heart followed her like they'd been attached by an invisible tether. He expected the imaginary string to drag his chest away in a broken heap if she left. But her cheery face returned with a single purple flower in hand and an excited acceptance of his offer. A collar had never felt so tight before that moment or reprieve! The captain was tempted to grab a drink before dancing because his nerves left him with a parched throat. Loretta's enthusiasm wouldn't wait. He wouldn't make it.. she looked so happy.
"I'll have to warn you.. I haven't the chance to practice in some time," she said with a suddenly wary smile.
For a minute or two the only music playing was the dull roar of the crowd. At a glance it looked like the next act was being postponed. Musicians on the upper level started to play another slow song to stall for time. Listening to the beat reminded Willem of the times he spent practicing with Dalia, entertaining her interests after mother and father could no longer teach her. Those lessons earned him a decent aptitude for dancing himself. Now he could use it.
His next move would hope to brush away any doubt Loretta might've had. He tucked the purple flower into his breast pocket, took her hand into his own, and pulled her close. "Take my hand. I'll teach you to dance," he told her with a flirtatious grin. "We'll start slow, and I'll keep you close."
|
|
#2007f0
3
0
1
Apr 22, 2020 19:54:15 GMT
3
Dymion
129
Aug 13, 2015 23:35:49 GMT
August 2015
dymion
|
Post by Dymion on Oct 16, 2015 1:28:03 GMT
The hush of no music lasted only a few moments before the instrumentalists did what they had been trained to: improvise. It provided just enough time for the girl in gold to do her part in making the night as smooth as possible.
"Erin, no one else can do it... you have to..."
At the corner of the stage, only the most observant could see the pair as Elaine worked to persuade Erin of the need for her to, of all things, sing. Doubt was plastered to the woman in black, her eyes searching the crowd for any hope of escape. But no rose gown appeared among the many patrons, rushing to save Erin from the spotlight. Her scared eyes locked with Elaine's blue, pleading irises. A voice inside Erin wished it was one of the other sisters. It would have been so much easier to say no then. But this was Elaine, the one would had made her mask so she could come.
"Elaine, I'm not cut out for this..."
"Please..."
A pang of guilt went through Erin, and she could already feel a sense that she wasn't getting out of this. But this wasn't her skill. She had never sang in front of anyone, ever. And now... they wanted her to do it before all of Etirath. She closed her eyes, air hissing between her teeth as she steeled herself. Inisde, she could feel something click, and a small spurt of confidence drove her next words, resignation shaping their tone.
"If I must."
As she slowly took the stage meant for LeAnn, nervous eyes glanced at the crowd. Many had focused on the newest song, their eyes ignoring the shadow dressed woman that now stood, waiting with a frightened heart. But as quickly as Erin paused, being in the exact spot Elaine had indicated, the musicians recognized that, after a lull, the time had come. Their soft music slowly dimmed, fading away as if had meant to end. Then a single instrument began to slowly sing. It had started, and as Erin opened her mouth, eyes closed in terror. Quickly, her own world was constructed. She was alone, in her room. And only one person was there to listen.
(For your listening pleasure)
"Just when you think hope is lost And giving up is all you got, Blue turns black, your confidence is cracked, There seems no turning back from here
Sometimes there isn't an obvious explanation Why the holiest hearts can feel the strongest palpitations
That's when you can build a bridge of light, That's what turns the wrongs all right That's when you can't give up the fight
That's when love turns nighttime into day, That's when loneliness goes away, That's why you gotta be strong tonight, Only love can build us a bridge of light"
The brief pause saw a change in Erin, her confidence building as calm, gray eyes opened. People were dancing. They weren't watching her. So she continued, growing with each note.
"When your feet are made of stone You're convinced that you're all alone Look at the stars instead of the dark You'll find your heart shines like the sun
Let's not let our anger get us lost And the need to be right comes at way too high a cost
That's when love can build a bridge of light That's what turns the wrongs all right That's when you know it's worth the fight
That's when love turns nighttime into day That's when loneliness goes away, That's why you gotta be strong tonight 'Cause only love can build us a bridge of light"
A smile had formed on her lips, confidence reaching its peak as she saw the smiles in the crowd, all directed towards someone else. Even Elaine, the one who had so strongly pushed her up there, was busy with her date. The choir had joined her, their soft voices giving her strength. She was not alone. She could do this.
"Deep breath, take it on the chin But don't forget to let love back in
That's when love can build a bridge of light That's what turns the wrongs all right That's when you can't give up the fight
That's when love turns nighttime into day, That's when loneliness goes away That's why you gotta be strong tonight 'Cause only love can build us a bridge of light
Only love can build us a bridge of light Of light, of light"
She'd done it. Somehow, she had made it through, and felt... exhilarated. Stepping down from the stage, she risked a quick glance at Elaine. The girl was smiling. So was Erin. But neither were willing to leave Elaine's date waiting, and with a quick nod, Erin vanished into the crowd. She wanted to find someone. Or maybe more alcohol.
|
|