Albina, noticing the tension in the room, decided to ease the atmosphere with her warm and welcoming demeanor. She turned her attention to Edgar, offering a gracious smile. “Lord Edgar, I am most excited to read the pamphlets,” she responded, focusing on the topic he had brought up. Her tone was friendly and engaging, meant to create a more comfortable setting despite her mother’s obvious disapproval. Albina wanted to encourage him to share more about the subject and take the focus off her mother’s hostility.
“So, you mentioned trepanation, the first surgical procedure performed in ancient times. How intriguing! Tell me more about it. I’d love to hear your insights and thoughts on the subject. Perhaps you’ll regale me with tales of bygone surgeons and their rather adventurous techniques?” Her genuine curiosity was accompanied by a playful, teasing undertone, hoping to infuse some lightness into the conversation. She quickly scanned through the pamphlets he had handed her.
Albina, still wearing a playful smile, turned her attention back to Edgar, her curiosity apparent in her eyes. “Lord Edgar, I appreciate your thoughtfulness in bringing these pamphlets, but I can’t help but wonder what prompted you to visit me today during the callings. Are there any particular intentions behind your visit, or are you here simply to discuss surgical procedures?” She raised a playful yet suggestive eyebrow, her tone light but her question more direct.
They had know each other for some time, and had been getting along surprising well, but Albina wondered whether this was something that could turn into more than a friendship, or not? Part of her needed to know, Albina did not like living with what ifs, and she believed Edgar would not be talking about these more serious topics, about what the situation between them was, without some encouragement from her. She herself had not yet really caught feelings for him, but she could notice some qualities in him that she enjoyed, so it was not unrealistic that it might still develop with time. On the other hand however, Albina wanted a passionate love. Something she was questioning whether Edgar could give her. He would be a safe choice, and Albina could imagine them living a comfortable and life together, but Albina wasn’t sure if she wanted to go with safe.
She was so focused on Edgar as she asked the direct question and pondered their connection, that she had not noticed her mother storming off angry, and her brother entering the room seconds later. Once she did notice, she felt grateful that he came here to make sure everything was okay. Her brother was a much better chaperone than her mother, and she enjoyed being able to speak even more freely with Edgar now. She knew her brother was just gonna sit there, not care about what was said. She gave her brother a quick smile and nod in appreciation, and then refocused on Edgar, anticipating his reply.
@Ouijaloveletters - Edgar