dance two: albina northwick dance ~ ending
Atlas could hear the disappointment in Albina’s voice, even if she tried to hide it. He began to feel guilty; perhaps he had given her hopes of thinking he could be interested in her. Yet, all he could really feel for Albina was lust. Sure, she caught his attention, for she was very beautiful, and within their small conversation, he could see she was someone he would love to have around. Perhaps if they had met under different circumstances, Atlas would not have hesitated to pursue her, but the only reason he had brought her out to dance was because he was attempting to prevent his sister from dancing with the prince any longer, and of course he could not tell her any of this. For all Albina knew, she had caught Atlas’s eyes across the room, and he knew he was in the wrong for thinking this, so he wouldn’t blame Albina if she decided not to talk to him after this, and who knows if after this she would go and tell Adeline of their encounter on the dance floor, in which case Adeline would try to confront him about it. Great. He sighed. This is why Atlas hated talking to new people; he had a habit of talking to them as if he knew them for a long time, and they were aware of how much of a flirt or tease he could be. Though he wondered if perhaps Belle was the only one who really understood his persona, which in a way was not fair to Albina since Belle and him could be described as the same person, it was as if someone had taken a piece from his soul and made the girl version of him, Belle.
“I truly apologize if I sent you mixed feelings, Lady Albina.” Atlas finally spoke before she continued to speak. “It was not my intention, and I really hope you do not think you are not an amazing woman.” Before continuing, he gave her a slight smile and said, “I am glad to hear that you are not someone who needs a hero in her story; that is how I know you are an amazing woman who is meant for great things.” Atlas genuinely meant that. He was the last thing this woman needed; he knew Albina did not need a man who could not give her his full attention and support. He hoped for her to find someone who could fully fulfill her needs and desires.
Atlas gave Albina a respectful bow as the dance came to an end, then led her to the side, taking her hand and holding it between his own. “Lady Albina, I want to apologize once more for what I said before. I was just enjoying the time with you, and I said whatever came to mind. But I really believe that you should travel the world with the person you love. I think it would be more exciting and fulfilling to explore the world with someone who you feel at home with wherever you go, and I truly do not believe that I am that person for you.” He said to her as he maintained his gaze on her, hoping that she would understand and accept his apology.