The British Officer and the Lady

[captainmontgomery]

     Outside the street front shops stood the British Naval officer awaiting his schedule dinner engagement. It was almost six o'clock sharp. A glance up to the swinging sign over head: Cask 'N Cleaver. He'd planned to meet the woman from the tavern at this particular restaurant. His treat. He stood like a military officer with his legs braced apart and his hands folded behind his back. As people passed with a greeting he gave them a courteous nod and formal greeting of 'Good evening.' before they moved on their way to attend their own business and personal matters. Brenton's gaze swung down the street searching for a flurry of skirts that might be headed this way. Hopefully she'd keep the appointment and he'd not have to eat alone. That thought did cross his mind of few times. What if she stood him up? Always a possibility. Not everyone took a fancy to military men or their life.

     A missive was sent to warn JD about the British presence somewhere near where the Black Jade Skull Islands were. Unsure of the exact location, she would be sure to soon learn that. Extra pains she had taken this evening, in the preparations that were made. Even having gone so far as to have JD's personal carriage prepared and spruced up for her delivery. This would be what rumbled down the road, it's very appearance was nearly foreboding. The handsome cab of the carriage was pitch as night in coloration, although any mechanisms were fashioned out of pure high polished silver, even the hurricane lamps which hung from silver hooks on either side of the door. The two horses which 'pulled the weight were devoid of coloration, their eyes of brown had almost a reddish hue. This defect was one of the reasons JD had purchased them, she said they were intimidating to view. The driver, none other than one of JD's men had cleaned up to a degree, hard to remove the set in stench from the man's breath or body.
     Before the very restaurant the carriage would come to a haut, the driver to disembark rushing to the door and pulling it open. Metal steps immediately fell out for the one within to step down on. As the driver held up his hand to assist the one within out, a small hand encased in an ivory glove would reach out to accept his aide. Soon she'd follow by holding that skirt to exit out onto the walkway. Always one who was priv'vy to the latest fashions in Paris, that which she wore was of the newest style, and in more of the snobbish cliches than not, she would have shocked them into gasps and fluttering of fans that would have maintained the same pace as their flapping lips in gossip. The slim gloves ran up to end just above her elbows, the gown was of the same coloration. The under covering of silk which clung to her form until reaching the base of hips before it fl aired slightly. A light transparent chiffon adorned as layers of overlay, to one layer to cover the plunging neckline that rested below, while a trio of the material finished out the fullness of her skirt. Hair was drawn back into the formation of a french braid, bejeweled combs set on either side. Just the lightest touch of makeup, more to accent than to cover.
     A few words shared with her driver before her attention would turn to settle upon the Naval Officer in wait. A gentle smile to appear, with the appearance of slight indentations on either side of dimples. "Good evening Captain Montgomery. I do hope I haven't kept you waiting long."

     When a carriage rolled down the dusty roadway and came to a halt outside the restaurant he came to attention and stood straight and tall in his full dress military uniform of black breeches and a red coat with the military insignia at the collar and shoulders. His eyes rested on the door of the coach that the driver hurried over to and promptly opened. Out stepped one Miss Carlotta Basinstoke; and she was ravishing! His eyes went wide and his mouth was slightly ajar before he quickly regained his composure and immediately stepped over to take her hand. "My dear Miss Basinstoke." His eyes ran up and down the fashionable gown in the most appropriate gaze a decent man could muster. "You are ...simple breathtaking. How lovely you are this evening." He moved himself around to her side and extended the bend of his arm to her. "Might I escort you inside?" The smile across the handsome officer's face was one of pride and admiration for the absolutely stunning woman who would accompany him for dinner tonight.

     "Why thank you Captain Montgomery, I'm pleased you approve." Her hand to slip under the bend as her arm wrapped around his so her hand rested atop the back of his. "Might I return the compliment by saying how sharp you look this evening. I will most assuredly be envied by every lass that looks your way." Bit of a grin to appear before she'd turn her attention upon the restaurant front. "I would be honored." Free hand to grasp the flowing material of her skirt. A glance over and up at him to offer another smile.

     Walking her to the door he paused to reach out and draw it open. "Rest assured Miss Basinstoke." His voice falling discreet, "My eyes will be for you alone this night." With a smile of encouragement and an up nod of his head he urged her to step through the doorway, turning himself so she didn't have to release the assistance of his arm. When they both stood in the foyer of the small restaurant a Matradee' stepped up to them. "Dinner for two." The captain said. "Under Capt. Montgomery." The man promptly bowed and signaled them to follow. Brenton lead Carlotta to a table in the back of the restaurant away from other tables and near a bay of windows over looking the harbor. "Lady Basinstoke." Removing her hand from his arm the captain stepped behind the chair and pulled it out, assisting her to sit first.

     Moving to step thought the door, although a pause when she heard his whispered words. Head turned as her gaze met his. "As will be mine for you, Captain." Eyes would slowly turn to focus on the entry as they made their way further inside. Of course her face was known here, but not in the manner in which she was dressed, so she'd get a few curious looks. Or perhaps it was more because of who's arm she was on, not so much the man himself, but what he was. She'd look back to each and offer a smile as her eyes met theirs. It was then she'd look away as if simply glancing over the room and being socially civil. Making their way through, she was impressed with the setting he prepared. "It's lovely Captain Montgomery." Offered in hushed tones as she moved to settle upon the awaiting seat. Gathering her skirt about her as she settled upon the chair.

     After nudging the chair into place he moved himself to the seat next to hers. It was a small round table so they could set aside from each other and hold a view of the ocean through the windows and with a simple side glance catch the movement of the room at large. "I thought this might be a nicer setting for us to enjoy our dinner together with a bit of conversation." The Matradee' left them alone for a few moments before he'd return to take their orders and review with them tonight's specials. "I took a few extra liberties and tipped the owner well for this set up." His eyes glanced away as he pulled the folded dinner napkin from the table and draped it across his lap. "I don't get a chance oft like this to enjoy a fine meal and its been ages since I had the pleasure of a woman's company at that." He paused, smiling at her as his gaze once more fell across her features and gown, appreciatively. "I hope you don't mind."

     "I have to agree." Taking in the view that was offered through the windows. With his confession, her attention would divert to settle upon him fully. The warmth of her smile to be ever present. "Mind? Hardly. I'm quite flattered Captain. I really can't remember having spent an evening meal in this manner, nor with such company." Her napkin to be claimed and draped upon her lap, it was then she'd begin the slow task of removing her gloves. Once completed, they'd be laid to rest beneath that napkin. Would be embarrassing to snag on of those instead of that to dab the corner of her mouth. "It'll also give me a chance to get to know you a little better, since soon you'll be leaving."

     The surprise drew into his view of her as he leaned himself to her side. "I can hardly believe that, though I question not your honesty. A beautiful woman such as yourself, well composed and a keen mind for business. I would think the men would be flocking to escort you out to dinner and parties or for teas and social gatherings, Miss Basinstoke." He noticed the Matradee' approaching again and Brenton dropped his voice lower. "Though I must say, it is good fortune to me that you have not been discovered for certainly you'd be the rage."

     "There's a difference between social gatherings Captain Montgomery, and having a meal with a gentleman and an officer." Bit more of a smile before her attention would turn upon the approaching Matradee'. His last comment had her looking over at him, and even the social grace to permit a touch of color to reach her cheeks. "You could very well be my knight in shining armor Captain Montgomery." A playful tease in that hushed whispered tone. When the Matradee' approached she'd return to her normal seating. "I would be honored if you'd order for us both, Captain."

     "I hope so." He said under his breath. The captain's attention turned to the Matradee' as he discussed their dinner selection. He ordered the brisket with red potatoes, cooked carrots and rice. A small dessert would be brought out to them after the main course. A bottle of wine was selected. A fine Pinot. The Matradee' uncorked the bottle and poured the wine half full into each stemmed glass setting the first before the lady and the next to the officer with her. Brenton nodded his leave then lifted his glass in toast. "To the lovely and engaging Miss Basinstoke. I hope this will not be the only meal I enjoy with you, but many more in the future." The possibility was mute, this he knew for his reassignment had him leaving within three days time to sail to the south seas to an recently charted island where he'd be posted.

     Her glass lifted and position to lightly touch against his. "And to the fine gentleman, Captain Montgomery, with like hopes, and if never to be fruitful, a lasting memory to which I can at least look back upon in fond remembrance." Meeting his gaze and holding it all the while the toast was being made. Upon the conclusion of her addition, a light tap along the side of his glass would be made. Her own to soon after withdraw as it was brought to her lips to take a slow sip of the contents. All the while gazing over the rim at him. Much to learn and unsure of exactly how much time she had to do so. That simple fact would be remedied.

     His glass pulled away from the tap to hers, resting at his lips. "Ever lasting, to be sure." He breathed then took a longer sip, his own gaze held steadfast to hers. How could fortune and fate be so cruel? He wondered. Brenton fell silent, intent on studying the tiny details of her features so he could envision her when he was far away on the lonely and long nights of post, or standing on the deck of the ship. He could remember her face and a moment in time that was not of war, of battles and of death. Though this was the life that had called him to duty there were times he missed the simple pleasures of a meal taken in the presence of a lady's company. This woman had brought it all to light again. He missed such engagements and where he was going it was likely it would be a very long time before he'd enjoy such an opportunity like this again.

     Glass to resettle upon the table, her hands to lower and rest upon her lap. It was evident in her seated position, she was one who had been taught the ways of status. Back rigid in stance, no slouch to be noted in any way. Chin to hold that slight upward tilt, meant to offer a companion a viewing with proper lighting. Schools that prepped girls to become young ladies, did so to have them ready and able to catch the eye of regal gentleman. A sign of breeding that was quite far from any such setting here about's. "How long do I have before the sea steals away your company from here?" Voice remained low in soft tones, to keep their conversation where it belonged, between the two of them. Yet with enough volume he could plainly hear every syllable of each and every word.

     The sound of her soft voice was like a baited lure to draw him in sway to her words, leaning himself more towards her side. "Three days time the ship sets sail." He drew breath and took another sip of the wine before setting it down on the table in front of him. His gaze swung away from her face for a moment. "Could I see you again, Carlotta." More personal the affect to speak her given name between them. Brenton returned his eyes to fall across her stunning features, smiling each time their eyes met and held.

     "I would be wounded if you didn't, Brenton." Her smile to warm a bit more as she met his gaze and held it. "My business matters aren't so pressing that I couldn't take the time." Slowly she'd take in his features and the cut of his seated physique by the way he wore his uniform. She had to admit, he made quite a picture to view. Strikingly handsome, a hard body due to the life he lived, not to mention the way he treated her. A true gentleman in every sense of the word, it was like a breath of fresh air in comparison to those she was surrounded by. "This island that you're going to, you said it was slightly civilized?"

     The captain reached for his drink, picking it up from the table. He gave her a nod in regard to the question. "Yes. The British have been established there for almost two years now. It's a small community. With a fort, homes and markets. How civilized it is, I'm not so sure of. A few of the military officers have brought their families there I hear though." He took a sip, watching the expressions that crossed her features.

(Part 1 - cont.)

[captainmontgomery]

     Thoughtful was the expression as she listened to his explanation. "Two years, I really have been out of touch with British actions. What is the name of this isle? You said it was just recently charted?" Trying to remember if she's heard of any stories of islands recently found beside those of the Black Jade Skull's. No matter how she tried, she just couldn't bring any stories to the forefront of her mind. Glass to be taken in hand, a sip of the wine enjoyed before it would find it's way back to the table's top.

     "The island name is Tortola." He replied, running his finger along the stem of the glass. "I never asked. What are your plans? Will you be remaining here or moving on sometime soon, Miss Basinstoke?" He could see the Matradee' returning with a large tray carrying their meal and Brenton sat himself upright so the man could place their food before them.

     "I have just recently built a manor upon the cliffs and have my office established there. It would be foolish to leave it all behind before it's even broke in." Quietly stated, her attention would turn to note the foods arrival and she'd lean back to proper seating, not realizing she had actually leaned towards him during their conversation. "Although, I do travel quite often by sea. Sometimes I tend to matters and travel where my clients can not." Quite truthful, she'll just leave out the tid bit information on the status of these clients. "Perhaps on one of these excursions, we could travel off course for a few days." Leaving the implication lie.

     "Yes, it would seem foolish to relocate when you've just established yourself." He'd nod in agreement. His words halted long enough as the Matradee' set out their plates and asked if they needed anything else at the moment. Brenton shook his head and thanked him before the man moved on his way again. But his eyes rested on Carlotta's face. "I would love to see you again. You must know that Miss Basinstoke. But where I'm going is far to dangerous of a place for a lady to travel. I would not wish you to risk it." He picked up the knife and fork and proceeded to enjoy their meal together.

     A smile of thanks offered to the Matredee' before he moved off. Her own silverware to be taken in hand as she began to enjoy the wonderful dinner prepared. "I will be in good company when I travel Brenton, and quite safe." Glance over at him. "Upon the Isle I'd have you there to protect me. Pity the one who attempts anything out of the way." Bit more of a smile, although a touch of a grin. It was the Black Fury she usually traveled upon, and the crew were hand picked by JD herself. Men as vicious as the very ones that stood upon the woman's own decks. Not that the good Captain of the British fleet would know this. "Besides, some risks are worth taking Captain. If I hadn't taken any, I wouldn't be where I am today."

     After taking a bite and chewing it carefully, he swallowed before answering her. "I do see your point, though I must insist you not take such chances on my behalf. If anything was to happen to you." He stopped here, wishing not to elaborate the harshness of the high seas to the woman. Brenton smiled though. "But if you were to suddenly appear on the island. I don't think I'd ever let you leave." His eyes held long to hers before he turned them away and took another bite of his meal.

     Food was chewed and a sip of wine to wash it down. Thankful she was that she had swallowed before his comment was made. Glance over at him and cue that ebbing of coloration to touch upon cheeks. "Never leave? Pray tell, what would you have me do if I were to permanently stay? I'm sure the King's Barrister would take offense to competition from another Barrister, especially a woman." Teasing of course, although there was much truth to that too. A threat she posed to an old order's standing.

     The Captain's eyes rested on Carlotta's features for a long moment before he'd answer her question. "Honestly, I'm not sure, Miss Basinstoke. A European lady's presence on such an island would be a great distraction to the many men and soldiers stationed there. I'd have a hard enough time to vie for your attentions with the rest of the men to compete for you. It would probably be best if you were not there or didn't remain long." His dinner finished, Brenton set the dinner napkin across the plate to indicate to the Matradee' that he was done. His gaze, rich warm brown eyes, settled back on her leaving him to smile. "I'd rather stand the chance of you here, far away. That one day I might return to resume what possibly is starting?" The glass of wine was picked up from the table and sipped.

     "I could always smudge my face with dirt and adorn men's breeches to sway their attentions Captain Montgomery." Bit of a grin to appear as she teased with her little statement, not to mention the very picture she must have painted Finishing off the last of her meal, her own napkin to be placed as he had his own. Wine glass taken in hand as she settled back in her chair, full focus now upon his features. "I should hope that you'd appear once in awhile. I'll definitely miss such fine companionship to enjoy with a meal." As much as she was joking with him, deep inside a small part of her honestly meant that. "This island that you're going to, is it a station set by the Crown to intercept ships of the Spanish Main?" Again with the curious questions, a sign she was truly interested in what he did.

     He pulled the glass away from his lips, finding himself leaning a little closer. "Not nearly as much as I shall miss this. I have enjoyed this more than you could possibly know, Carlotta." He nodded for emphasis. "If I can or when I get a pass I shall try to return." The glass of wine was finished off and set back to the table, his hands folded to his waist. "Yes. A station you could say to base the Crown's ships from. Not only the Spanish but smugglers and pirates as well." Stippling his fingers, he laced them together and found he couldn't stop watching her. Those subtle movements of grace and poise. "There is ....no one in your life, Miss Basinstoke? No one to speak for you?" Ever hopeful perhaps was the Naval officer?

     Brow rose as he spoke of smugglers and pirates. That smile grew a bit more, causing dimples to gain more depth as she slowly shook her head. "No, Captain Montgomery. Not unless you wish to include my four legged companions." Her playful side could not be contained, and she found it easy to ply her words of amusement upon him. "Smugglers and pirates you say. Dastardly, vile creatures they are." For some reason when she said this, she suddenly envisioned JD's face and how she would have laughed hearing that come out of Carly's mouth. She nearly chuckled with just the thought, but managed to curtail it so it seemed more a grimace. Which perhaps he would figure was a physical showing of what her words spoke on her feelings towards the scoundrels of the sea.

     The captain found something to grin about in her words as well. "I must say, I am glad." Her remarks about pirates brought out a single laugh. "Yes, well, joking aside they can be very ruthless, Miss Basinstoke. Just two months ago we came across a civilian passenger ship set for the Americas, they had planned to stop at a nearby island. When we found the remains of the ship they had pillaged it and killed every single man, woman and child on board. Two were only infants. Their throats slashed." Brenton shook his head with disdain and took in a weary sigh. "Some are indeed worse than others. But we have not the luxury of taking the time to interview their morals or motives. They are pirates after all. And must be stopped at all costs." The tip of his finger rubbed between his brow. "The smugglers are little better. Running illegal arms to Spanish colonies in the south seas."

     Of course a show of shock would touch upon her features. All the years she's known JD, never was a child harmed in any manner. Sold off into servitude perhaps, but one thing no man or woman would wish to do under her flag, was to harm the only thing that JD viewed as innocent and pure. Features would visibly lose some color, the glass of wine lifted to finish off what little was left. The empty glass cast to the table. "Surely not all are so cruel as to harm innocent children Captain. It's senseless and holds no value to do so." Troubled gaze would lift to meet his. "Have you any idea what monstrosity could be behind that type of act?" Who ever it was, she'd see to it they paid, and she knew exactly what bull dog to sick on them too.

     "No, you are correct there. Not all are as ruthless and vicious. Apparently their captain had orders that no one was to be left alive. No witnesses and they took no captives either." Again he shook his head. "No leads thus far, but the search is on for whoever did this." When the Matradee' arrived at their table again Brenton indicated that would be all and settled up with the bill. His gaze returned to his dinner companion, lovely as she was. "Would you care for a stroll after dinner, Miss Basinstoke? It would be my privilege and honor."

     So much to take in, information that had to be sent, these were the thoughts that presently toiled through her mind. An absent smile offered to the Matradee' until Brenton spoke and attention was upon him fully. Slight nod and full warmth of that slightly dimpled smile. "I would enjoy a stroll Captain Montgomery, what better way to top off an evening meal." She'd then shift her position in preparation to arise, gloves taken in hand to be slipped back on.

     Immediately he rose from his seat and stepped behind her chair. Guiding it out for her so she could stand without catching her gown upon the legs or the heels of her shoes. Brenton's hand slid out to the side, offering to aid her up. "Miss Basinstoke." Speaking her name out of respect. When she turned around to face him the smile danced across his face. Turning to his side the bend of his arm was extended to her again. "Thank you for the wonderful company over dinner. Now, if I might. I shall take you for a stroll before the night gets too late."

     Again her arm would link with his and wrap around it. Head tilted slightly as she gazed up at him with the brilliance of her smile. "Thank you for the invitation, Captain Montgomery, the meal wouldn't have near held it's flavor, if your company wasn't present." Free hand grasped the flowing material of her skirt to lift it, as they stepped forward to make their way through the restaurant. Softly spoken goodnights to those they passed before all was left behind them as they stepped out onto the boardwalk, exiting into the coolness of the night. The streets were still alive with those passing along them, but the numbers dwindling as the evening wore on.

     Captain Montgomery escorted her from the quaint seaside restaurant and took her for an evening stroll, the night was perfect for it. Not to warm and not to chilly. His steps were slower and the hint of his former injury only slight. The way he held his head and posture spoke volumes of the pride he felt over being in the company of this woman. In his mind she was wonderful, an incomparable.

(Part 2 - End)

[Carlotta]

The slow pace of the walk had him taking shorter steps for the companion at his side. The stroll from the boardwalk and lead them down this road to where he had met her earlier this afternoon. Capt. Montgomery motioned his head towards the front of the porch as they drew nearer. "Seems we've come full circle tonight, Miss Basinstoke." Turning his gaze towards the woman beside him. The officer gave her a smile and slowed their steps to a halt. "Would you care to sit for a bit?" Motioning that the swing did not look occupied at the moment.

"It would seem we have Captain Montgomery." Taking in the familiar tavern they made their way to. "Perhaps this is a good sign." Glance over at him and that smile to appear in full. Attention then turned to the swing noticing it was indeed vacant. "Yes, I'd like that very much, perhaps even a night cap?" Looking back over at him.

"Sounds good to me." Nodding, he lead her up the steps of the porch and settled her into the swing, remaining standing. "What would you care to drink, Miss Basinstoke?" Since that serving window was nearby he'd make use of it.

"Irish Coffee. Just tell Bess it's for Carly." Softly chuckles. "That way I can be sure it's made just the right way. I'm a bit spoiled here." For good reason due to her past. She'd not speak about it unless asked.

"I'll join you in that." The officer turned away and left her alone for a few minutes while he waited at the serving window for the pair of drinks. After purchasing them they were carried back to where she waited at the swing, handing hers over to her. "Here you go. Irish coffee you said. Don't think I've ever tried this."

Hands rose to accept the delivered mug. "Thank you." Softly spoken. Brilliant that smile would become. "Once you try it you're in trouble Captain Montgomery. Addictive they are, more so than that partook of in the opium dens." How she knew of such places is another mystery to add to any others that were mounting. "It's coffee, Bushmills whiskey with heavy whipped cream and shards of chocolate." Offering the run down of the ingredients just as her mug was lifted to take that first slow, savored sip. Treating it more like a fine vintage wine than spiked brew.

He laughed and took a seat next to her on the swing. "I've never tried that either. I must be missing out on many of the social indiscretion, hmm?" Sampling a sip of the drink. "Mmm. Not bad, not at all."

Mug lowered as she peeked over at him and smiled. "They go down smooth as butter, but hit you like a fist if you drink too many." Forewarning him ahead of time. She's made that mistake a few too many times herself. Tip of tongue would slip out to capture the bits of whipped cream from the top of her lips.

"Creepers, eh?" Glancing into the decorative drink. He hadn't realized he'd smeared the whipping cream above his mouth where the mustache held traces of it. It tasted good and since they had skipped the dessert after dinner this seemed to make up for it.

Softly she chuckled as she peered over at him, chestnut colored eyes gleamed with mirth. "Umm. Captain, you have a ..." Softly chuckling, her hand moving with some hesitation as she reached towards him. "May I?"

Her motioning towards his face brought about the lift of his brow. Brenton turned to her and leaned in close. "What have I?" He nodded permission as she moved her hand up towards him.


At this point she was grinning, she just couldn't help it. "You have captured some of the whipped cream upon your mustache." Whispering though her words held a hint of her laughter upon them. Ever so light was her touch as she brushed the tips over his mustache to rid of the substance there. "There, all better."

He held perfectly still as she gently reached up and removed all traces of evidence left from the drink. After she had finished the captain cracked a smile over the appearance he must have left. "Thank you, Carlotta. For not leaving me to look like a rabid dog." He chuckled a little himself and was more careful when he took another sip.

"You're quite welcomed." Another soft chuckle as she sat back. Attention would then turn out over the scenery around them and she'd smile. "What a lovely night it turned out to be." Her gaze would eventually trail heavenward.

Shifting the drink to his other hand furthest from her, Brenton turned himself to lay his arm across the back of the swing, his hand rested just to the side of her shoulder. It might have offered a bit of warmth if the late evening hour chilled her slightly. "I could not agree with you more." His eyes were not on the scenery at the moment though. The cup was brought around to his lips for a drink, ever his gaze remained on her though.


Gaze would lower to rest upon that cup on the rise, just as his arm presented itself. Inwardly she'd smile as she leaned back a bit more, the mug to reach her lips as another slow savored sip was taken. When it lowered her attention would turn to rest upon him. "Tell me more about yourself Captain. Surely you weren't just born and then the commander of a ship."

He laughed at the visual. "No, I started out as everyone else after I was born. I grew up in Ashbury, England. When I was fourteen my father sent me off to Eton. I have a younger sister still at home." His gaze trailed over her features that where highlighted by the light through the windows of the tavern.

"Eton, a very fine school. No wonder you exhibit so much charm, a true gentleman of breeding." A glance around the area. "If you hang around here too much, you might find yourself an army to follow after you." Slowly her attention returned upon him. "Of women who'll give anything just to capture your eye and full attention."

The scent of her was sweet, bringing him to lean a little closer as she talked with such a soft, charming voice. "One already has, Miss Basinstoke." He replied and leaned even closer until he could inhale the scent of soap from her hair.

Spice, the scent she enjoyed the most, that which brought to mind a kitchen filled with steaming pans of pies and cakes to cool. "Really Captain Montgomery. It seems I had forgotten to ask as you have, and in bringing that up. Are you spoken for Captain,, and who has gained your attention so?" Not that she would know the person.


Brenton slowly shook his head and drew back a little. "No, Miss Basinstoke, I am not. Though I hope that changes soon." His eyes lowered until they rested on her face. "Would it surprise you so if I said it was you?" His drink only half finished was forgotten and held not the interest to him that she did, being so alluringly near.

[Carlotta]

"To say no, it wouldn't surprise me would make me sound vain Captain Montgomery." Soft chuckle that would end in the showing of a smile. Head turned more as she gazed into his eyes. "Though I am honored to know that a man of your stature can find even a remote amount of attraction to me." The last words to be ever so softly spoken.

Capt. Montgomery leaned down to set his cup on the ground before turning back to her and taking her hand into his free one. "Carlotta. The attraction is far from only remote. If I was not leaving in the next few days." His eyes dropped from her face, glancing down to the clasp of their hands. When he continued he lifted his eyes back to her face with a smile. "I would ask if I might court you. That is the depth of my attraction for you, already."

His confession did take her back abit, surprise to be noticed upon features. She could feel the heat begin to slowly rise upon her cheeks with that flush as it spread. "You put me at a loss for words Captain Montgomery." Hushed whisper of words as she continued to gaze into his eyes. She nearly dumped her mug as it lost it's balance when her grip lessened some. A quick recover and she'd only turn slightly to set it upon the railing at her side before she was looking back at him again.

Quickly he moved to help her set the drink aright before it was spilled on the lovely gown she had worn tonight, he'd like to think for just him. After she set it down he found himself smiling when their gaze met again. "I'm sorry, Miss Basinstoke. I was too forward. After all, we only just met." What he'd have liked to expressed was how much he already yearned to taste her lips. He would not though, he'd not dishonor her with haste when she deserved much better from him. The smile lessened slightly as he sat back with her again. "Perhaps I should see to escorting you home now. It is getting very late and I've taken up your entire evening. Not that I'm complaining."

"Oh, no no." Quickly speaking when he spoke up thinking he had insulted her in any way. "It was just unexpected, I'm not saying I wouldn't have accepted under different circumstances Captain." The hand he held would offer a gentle squeeze of his own. "I have no complaints on how the evening was spent, nor with whom. My only regret is that it seems to be ending too soon." Her smile would turn just a bit coy in appearance, for once this wasn't an act. "My carriage should be awaiting at the stables."

He gave her a nod and slowly rose from the swing. "I'll take you there then." Brenton offered her his hand. "If I might call upon you again tomorrow?" He planned to spend every waking moment he could with her before the ship set sail in three days time.

With his aid she'd stand from the swing, to again link her arm with his as she stood by his side. "Of course. I'm usually up around six in the morning. I can promise you a full breakfast and fresh brewed coffee around seven if you're able to arrive that soon." Looking over at him. "My manor sits upon the bluffs that overlook the port area. Only one road up, you won't be able to miss it. Follow the road until you come to a cabin, there's a trail to the north that will lead you to my front door."

He wasn't expecting that but the notion intrigued him. "I'll be there, seven o'clock sharp." She was talking to a soldier. He was up before the crack of dawn. He chuckled a little then lead her from the porch and took her across to the stables where her carriage awaited her. "Good night, Miss Basinstoke. And thank you." Brenton leaned over her gloved hand and pressed a kiss to the back of it then let go. "Tomorrow morning." He'd wait there until she was in the carriage and road off before he turned and headed back to the docks for the night.