Thea & Drake
FLASHBACK!
Date: Day of the 25th of Sola
Location: Drake’s Chambers
As if the gods ordained it, here she was. Standing in front of a gobsmacked Drake whose glass began to tilt ever so slowly; threatening to spill his perfectly good wine all over their shoes. Alas, the man quickly regained his senses and straightened his posture as well as the glass. He seemed unsure of what to do or where to place his hands - but he finally settled on a bow towards Thea as he nervously spoke.
”L-lady Thea! It’s so nice to see you! Regrettably, the party has….concluded. But! It is still the 25th, so on all technicalities, I would say you are right on time.” He opened the door and welcomed her with his glass in one hand and his outstretched arm in the other. ”Shall I get us a table? Would you like any drink perhaps? I just so happened to have an extra glass… He began prattling for a moment, but turned to look at her with a warm smile. ”I apologize. I’m simply over the moon you were able to make it.”
Thea’s heart fluttered at his warm reception, and she let out a soft, nervous laugh. “I’m sorry I missed the party, I regrettably found myself detained for a while…” and by being “detained” she actually meant she’d had a hangover that morning and slept in much later than she had intended. Then she’d begun getting ready, but couldn’t seem to find the right outfit and her hair wouldn’t cooperate and her makeup felt clown-like and she just stalled longer than she should have. When she’d arrived at his house she found herself beyond nervous as she was already late and by the time she got the courage to ender, she heard Drake bidding everyone farewell. So she hid and was thinking of leaving when she spotted Drake leaving and some crazy part of her decided to silently follow. So here she was, stepping into his room, her heart racing.
"A drink sounds lovely, thank you...but honestly, I was hoping I could make up for missing the party. Maybe...spend some time with you? If you don’t mind." Her gaze flickered to his glass, then back up to his face, her lips curving into a playful smile. "Though, I’m not sure I can compete with your wine."
Drake grinned. ”On the contrary, my fair lady. This wine isn’t nearly as invigorating and refreshing as your company. Please, come in. If it suits you better, I can also move our meeting to my study, there is ... slightly better seating arrangements there.” He craned his neck and looked back towards his night stand, which was home to a simple yet sturdy chair. Then he looked to his balcony, which had a more lounge-worthy upholstered seat that Drake often used for stargazing. He gestured her inside if she would desire and moved to place the chairs next to his bedside table, shoddily rearranged so that it may function like a normal table. Offering Thea the more comfortable chair of the two, he pulled it out and motioned for her to sit.
Thea stepped further into the room, her eyes glancing toward the cozy setup Drake had rearranged. A shy smile spread across her lips as she met his gaze. "Oh, your bedroom is fine… I mean, it’s comfortable! I-I mean, I don’t mind being in your bedroom..." Her cheeks flushed instantly as she realized how her words could be taken.
She quickly tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear, stammering slightly. "I-I didn’t mean it like that! Just—just that it’s, um, nice here." She bit her lip nervously, her heart racing as she avoided looking directly at him, suddenly feeling very self-conscious.
Placing his glass down, Drake took her hand and gently ushered Thea to her seat. ”You don’t need to fret, Lady Thea. I am flattered you enjoy my chambers - make yourself at home.” His finger reached to lift her chin up towards him as they matched gazes ”As far as I’m concerned as long as you’re here we could be eating in the back of an alleyway and I’d be content.” He smiled, but stammered ws he spoke next.
”N-not that I’d make you brave such conditions. That would be … well … that wouldn’t…uhm… I don’t wish to make you uncomfortable on purpose is what I mean to say!” Drake nervously laughed and sat across from her. His hand placed the glass on the table as he idly traced his finger along the base of the glass. ”Forgive me. It has been quite the morning. I had retreated to my chambers for a little privacy to unwind after everything that happened.” Drake sighed, took a sip, and looked once more at the woman. ”But if you are here then it would make the day worth it if I’m being honest .”
Thea’s breath hitched as Drake gently lifted her chin, his touch sending a jolt through her. Her blush deepened, and she found herself unable to look away from his eyes. “Y-you’re too kind,” she all but squeaked, her heart racing. Then, without thinking, she added softly, “And, uh… eating in the back of an alleyway wouldn’t be the worst thing. It can be quite cozy, I would know…”
Her eyes widened as soon as the words left her mouth, and she quickly bit her lip, mortified. “Oh! I didn’t…that sounded worse than… I-I just…” She laughed nervously, looking down as her cheeks burned hotter than ever. “I meant, you know, not everything has to be fancy to be nice.”
Her fingers fidgeted in her lap, trying to recover from the embarrassing slip. “I guess we're both doing well at inserting our foot in our mouth,” she laughed softly, glancing up at him again with a shy smile. After a moment of just staring at him, she cleared her throat. “A-anyways, how was the party? Anything exciting happen? Get any interesting gifts?”
He smiled as she stammered over her words and phrases. It might seem clumsy to some, but to him he just saw it as her caring about the way she acted or sounded around him - a flattering gesture in his eyes. Not to mention it was downright adorable. But then she asked about the party, causing him to reach back and scratch at his head in a show of embarrassment. ”It was...interesting to say the least. Lots of good gifts yes, but things got rather out of hand quickly.” Drake sighed. ”I wanted this to be a rather fun yet sociable little get together for everyone. But it feels like there was just lots of rabble rousing and borderline debauchery. I think I saw several people getting feely with each other, I now have to take care of like 5 new pets - which is a rather pleasant surprise - but still! And don’t get me started on my oh-so-embarassing fall. I had finally played that piece I had been practicing for so long and then WOOSH! Off I go onto the green grass - what was even in that drink I had? Rum? Tequila? Spirits? Heavens forbid if it was moonshine. Then I got chastised by mother in front of everyone for acting like a drunkard oaf. Quite frankly, I could care less what she thinks but it was all just so…embarrassing, frankly. I’m rather glad you didn’t see it because I truthfully am unsure if I could quell my shame if you saw that debacle.”
Thea's laugh was soft, almost conspiratorial. "If your mother really wants to see a drunken oaf, I could show her a few tricks. I'm no stranger to a little debauchery myself." Her eyes twinkled with mischief, though her smile softened soon after as she took in the genuine embarrassment on his face. "But I’m sorry I missed your performance, embarrassing fall or not. I’m sure you were amazing before… you know, gravity happened."
She shifted in her seat, leaning in just slightly, placing a hand on top of his. "But really, Drake... you shouldn't be so hard on yourself. A fall like that doesn’t define you. From what I’ve seen, you’re thoughtful, talented, and incredibly kind. And I’m sure anyone who was there could see that, too." Her voice was gentle, and though her words were more heartfelt than she had meant to let slip, she couldn’t help but feel the warmth in her chest growing.
As soon as she realized how much she’d revealed, her eyes widened and she quickly tried to change the subject, her hands quickly leaving his and fumbling in the pocket of her dress. "Oh! I almost forgot!" she exclaimed, pulling out a small, wrapped gift. "I may have missed the party, but I did bring you something. It’s not much, but I hope you’ll like it."
She handed him the gift with a shy smile, hoping the gesture would distract from the lingering vulnerability she’d just shown.
Drake looked to the side as he felt his blush come on - the sweet way she talked to him certainly had its way with him. Then he felt her hand resting on his and he looked at her with a sincere look of trust and understanding. ”You certainly are quite the charmer, my lady. A little charm and a bit of wonder even - how you always seem to be able to adapt so well to whatever it is the day throws at you.” He sighed. ”While you are right, it was merely a tumble, and I played it off well. I just wanted to have a rather simple and elegant celebration. I guess it’s good that everyone seemed to have a good time though. I even got quite a few….interesting gifts.”
”For starters, I got a new horse, a new cat, even some ferrets - a whole menagerie of animals. Then there were some fun trinkets, a new revolver, some colognes, and a few other random personal items.” He left things vague intentionally - not daring to speak about the condoms he had been just given prior to their meeting.”But I have a feeling this one is going to be my favorite!” Drake said with glee as he slowly undid the wrapping, waiting to see just what was in store for him.
Thea watched with a mix of excitement and nerves as Drake carefully unwrapped the gift. She fidgeted slightly in her seat, her fingers twisting in her lap, her gaze flickering between him and the small box in his hands.
As the wrapping fell away, revealing a small jewelry box with a pair of cufflinks adorned with matching stones inside, Thea smiled softly. “They're cufflinks... with our birthstone,” she explained quietly, her cheeks warming again. “I thought it might be a nice touch, since we share the same birth month.”
She glanced at him, her heart fluttering as she added, “I wanted to give you something personal. Something that, well, reminded you that I’m… here, I guess? Even when I’m not.” She let out a small, nervous laugh, realizing how much that probably revealed.
Her fingers fidgeted again as she looked down at her hands, biting her lip slightly. “I hope you like them. They’re not as extravagant as a horse or a cat, but… I thought they’d suit you.”
Drake looked over the jewelry with optimism and gratitude. The fine filigree of the gold-setting as well as the beautiful gemstones within - no heat or inclusions to warp them. ”Thea it’s…beautiful…” The gobsmacked man looked over the cufflinks before gently clicking them into place on his current cuffs. He held his arm out and began inspecting the pieces with a joyous expression.
”Extravagance isn’t the end-all for gifts. Sweet gestures that come from the heart are what make gifts truly special. Thank you, Thea.” His hand rotated in view as he admired the craftsmanship once more. ”I’m excited to be present for your birthday if you would have me. Will you be doing anything special?” Drake asked as he idly placed his hand over hers, gently stroking the back of her palm with this thumb as his eyes met her gaze when she looked up from her lap.
Thea’s breath caught as she felt Drake’s hand settle gently over hers, his thumb tracing light, soothing circles across her skin. She found herself staring at the way their hands fit together, a warm flush creeping up her neck and into her cheeks. She didn’t pull away, her heart fluttering wildly at the unexpected but welcome touch.
“I… I’d be thrilled if you came,” she said softly, finally looking up to meet his gaze, her cheeks still glowing. “I don’t know the details, but I know Annie’s planning something.” She let out a small laugh, shaking her head. “She’s been terribly secretive about it, which makes me a bit nervous… but knowing her, it’ll be something memorable.” And possibly a bit wild… She finished in her head, but she didn't want to scare him away from coming. Perhaps she'd have a word with Annie about keeping it a bit more tame…
The man chuckled. ”Well a little mischief here and there isn’t the worst thing in the world. Lord knows I’ve come to accept that today.” Drake took another sip of his wine, keeping his hand draper over hers. It barely moved, yet still had a gentle feel to it, like he was purposefully watching how much weight he pushed onto her soft hand. ”I’m excited you wish for me to attend. I’m rather fond of the idea of making more memories with you, Lady Smithwood.”
“Maybe we could sneak off together during the party…” She voices, thoughts still on the potential of it being a wild party. It was only after a moment of silence on her part that she realized how that could be taken differently than she meant. ”T-to have another private…err, QUIET moment like this!” She quickly added. “I sure know how to make things awkward, don't I?” A small, somewhat nervous laugh escaped her.
His sip turned into a slight gulp at her statement, and he coughed up the wine that had slipped down his windpipe so he could properly drink it. For a flash, his cheeks reddened as he thought about just what to say. Does she….would she….would I….? Oh control yourself Drake - you are not a dog! Drake restored himself to his more refined stature and grinned at her. ”I suppose that is one way to make a memory.” He offered a coy wink alongside his banter to hopefully calm her nerves.
”Truthfully, I am here for you, my lady. Whether it’s in the presence of company, enjoying the serene view of a beautiful summer day, or something more private where we can be more …. Well, how do I…..” The man stammered as he searched for the right words to say without coming off as crass or perverted. ”Well for lack of a better term, we could be more casual or intimate with one another. I quite like seeing your adorable expressions and mannerisms as we converse, and I highly doubt I’ll get such luxuries if a dozen people are watching our every move, soon to be birthday girl.” He smiled at her and finally moved his hand to wrap around her fingers. His thumb softly rubbed the top of her knuckles and he seemed to simply stare into her eyes - like he would rather look nowhere else but those beautiful glistening irises that captured his attention at every turn.
Thea’s heart skipped a beat as Drake’s hand gently enveloped hers, his thumb brushing over her knuckles in a way that sent a pleasant warmth spreading through her. His words made her blush deepen, her cheeks almost as warm as the butterflies stirring in her chest. She couldn’t help but smile softly, her gaze locked with his.
“You have a way with words, don’t you?” she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. “I… I like this, too. Talking with you like this. It feels… special.” Her lips curved into a shy smile as she added, “And I promise I won't always be this awkward.”
Her eyes drifted around the room, catching sight of a clock on a nearby shelf. Her smile faltered slightly, and she leaned back in her seat, tilting her head as she checked the time. “Oh no, is that clock accurate?” she asked, sitting up straight. “I didn’t realize how late it’s gotten. I need to go, I promised Anastasia I’d meet her.”
She looked back at him, reluctant to break the moment but knowing she couldn’t keep Annie waiting. “Thank you for letting me crash your quiet time, though,” she added with a soft smile. “This was… really nice.”
Drake kept his same smile as she confessed about the intimacy and special nature of their talks. It perhaps even grew wider as she blushed. ”You don’t have to be anything other than yourself. What you think is awkward I find charming and endearing.” Sadly, all things must eventually come to an end, and it was clear time had gotten the better of them both. What was supposed to be a brief stay in his room to forget about the not-so-ideal end to his birthday had become a proper stay-away with a woman he had been experiencing a strong sense of emotions for. Emotions he had truthfully not been ready to fully process. But he didn’t let that stop him. Anything was worth facing if he got to see those heterochromic eyes and enchanting smile.
Rising from his chair, he lifted both of their hands to offer Thea assistance in standing up. ”You are always welcome, my dear lady. Quite frankly it was your presence that made this little quiet time much more therapeutic. I’m…very thankful for you.” The man held her hand as they approached the door, still hesitant to let that connection between them break. Drake looked down and rubbed his thumb over the back of her palm. It was so delicate, soft, and yet in that moment he did not possess the strength to move his hand from hers. He looked at her and made sure she had everything she needed as if to stall for few precious moments. ”Do you need anything before you depart? A last drink? Some snacks? Shall I hail a carriage for you? Anything at all?”
Thea let him help her up, her hand still resting comfortably in his as they approached the door. Her heart thudded in her chest as she tried to think of something to say to prolong the moment, but his words made her smile softly. “You’re too kind, Drake. I don’t need much, really.” She hesitated for a brief second, her cheeks already starting to warm. “Well… maybe just one thing.”
Before she could talk herself out of it, Thea stood on her tiptoes and pressed a soft kiss to his cheek. The gesture was quick and fleeting, but the warmth lingered, both from the touch and the courage it took to do it. As she pulled back, her face was a deeper shade of red than before.
“Happy birthday, Drake,” she whispered, her voice a little breathless. Without giving him a chance to respond, she turned and scurried down the hall, her heart racing as she tried to process what she’d just done.
Drake softly grazed his cheek with his fingertips, obviously stunned by the display of affection. His gaze lingered on her form as it dashed around the corner, and he simply looked at the corner that Thea had leapt behind until he felt the rising warmth in his chest settle. Then, he turned and shut his door before returning to his personal meditation time.
In the corner, a disgruntled figure grips the nearby wall with sharp nails that threatened to fracture under the strain. “How dare she lay her hands on my boy so casually…I shall have to see to this…” The anger-tainted footsteps of the duchess echoed through the halls - only audible to the nearby help who knew to steer far away from the mother who planned to ruin her child’s chances at love.