First Impression

Chapter Eight

As the Auction went underway, the waiter came and asked them if they wanted to be served. They said yes and he served them their orders and refilled their glasses with champagne periodically. After the auction there was music and dancing. Aurora tried to slip away, but Charline and Georgie knew what she was up to and linked arms with her on either side while they sipped their champagne.

Aurora saw Cousin Benny across the room. She looked away and hid her face next to Georgie’s shoulder so he wouldn’t notice her. Too late he already had seen her. He was making his way towards them.

Aurora groaned inwardly. Georgie knew something was up. “What’s wrong?” 
“Cousin Benny is here and I don’t want to dance with him.” “Oh, is that all? I will dance with him for you.”Georgie stated. “Really, you don’t mind?’ Aurora asked somewhat relieved. Charline still was was linked to her other arm.

Cousin Benny approached the three ladies. “Well, well, do my eyes deceive me, dear cousin?” He bowed himself. Aurora curtsied. “No, dear cousin, this is Ms. Georgianna Archibald, my best friend as you well remember, and my boss, Ms. Charline Thompson, owner of The Mayfair Gallery.

He kissed each of their hands and bowed after introductions. He stepped forward and asked Georgie if she would like to dance. He was aware of Aurora’s mama’s plans and he had plans of his own. She immediately agreed and he swept her away. They glided across the floor. Aurora thought that they looked like a splendid couple indeed and Charline commented just then about that very thing as if she was reading her mind.

Charline spotted William Collins and Charles Beerman from the other side of the room and practically dragged Aurora with her over to them. They curtsied. And Charline introduced Will and Charlie to Aurora. They bowed. She used her full name and then Aurora lovingly jabbed Charline.”Hey only my mother calls me by my full name.” she teased her. “Please call me Aurora.” They all laughed. Charlie asked Charline if she wanted to dance and she said she would love to. That left Aurora to find something to talk about with Mr. Collins.

“So what brings you to the art gala this evening?” Aurora asked trying to make small talk. “I’m a photographer and reporter for the Wembley Observer.” “Oh.” Aurora said. “Don’t worry, I’m off duty tonight.” He reassured her. “They’re showcasing my photographs.”

“Oh, really?” she said. “Me too, except she only showcases my art.” She said shyly. “You don’t say.” Will smiled sheepishly. “Maybe I’ll have you do my portrait sometime.” “That would be lovely.” Aurora said. Will asked her if she wanted to dance and she took the arm he offered her.

They talked and danced for the rest of the evening. Charline knew that inviting Mr. Beerman and Mr. Collins was a good idea for both of them. Will offered to escort her home and Charles escorted Charline home. And then later that evening, Cousin Benny escorted Georgianna home.