Coy, with Vivacious Wonder

You know the feeling when it arrives

Your heart raises, temperature rises

You may become lost, or found

You may think you’ve lost your mind, or finally found clarity

The physical rush will be intoxicating

And the breakaway will seem cruel

You will be left with the desire for more

And you will have no control to fight the inevitable

Her heart felt like it was beating out of her chest every time he looked at her. She could feel the beads of sweat forming on her forehead and upper lip. He was a dashing fellow, and one she had never seen before this evening. Who was he? Why was he at this gala? And when did the temperature in the room go from comfortable to boiling?

Sheila knew that she had to get a closer look. The man had caught her eye at least twice already, and she had the urge to know more. As she walked in his direction, she started to feel a stinging feeling underneath her arms. She had to move her arms away from her body, almost like a chicken, to make the sensation subside. Why was his gaze giving her this physical reaction?

He was looking right at her by the time she had reached his side. His eyes didn’t budge. His gaze didn’t waiver.

“This is a marvelous evening. However were you able to put this together on such short notice?” He seemed to know her, though she still couldn’t figure out who he was. Did he remind her of someone? Maybe someone in passing?

“I’m sorry kind sir, as this is my party, I would love the pleasure of knowing your name and how you happen to be in this room with my esteemed peers? It was, indeed, invitation only. I don’t believe I’ve seen you before?” Sheila made a questioning glance in his direction as she took a shy sip of her wine. His eyes were locked on hers. And so, her eyes were locked on his.

There was a moment of silence as he looked about the party. As Sheila took another sip he said, “Well, by all the questioning stares I’ve been receiving this evening isn’t it obvious? What is it they call it…new money?” Sheila choked and unsuccessfully tried to hide her cough. He smirked and chuckled a bit, offering her his handkerchief.

His smile. His eyes. And he was one of the few men who could make her laugh with his honesty. How long had she been staring at him? How long was he going to stare back?

Was it warm in the room? Sheila handed the man her drink and walked away quickly, grabbing her skirts as she went to find someone to turn on a fan.