"How do I look?"
And again, that expression of entreat. Who had branded such a fear of rejection on his heart? Had it always been there, hidden behind the gaunt and the bitterness?
In introspection, Angela's gaze had fallen to dark, coarse fabrics-the clothing of his former self-now discarded on the floor. Then, alerted by a small movement of the reflection in the long, cheval mirror, her eyes lifted.
Now, they followed along the cool, crisp lines of the tall boots, the taunt, clinging pantaloons and the tails of the regency coat. A ruffled cuff slowly lifted to nervously fidget at the silky cravat, brushing aside a shimmering, golden lock and when again, she met his bright eyes, the entreat had deepened to a plea.
Are you afraid? Do you still like me?
He looked romantic. He looked like D'Artagnan. Like Errol Flynn. He looked like a dream and worse still, he looked like he needed to be told so.
"You look dashing. Very gallant."
And he smiled. Properly, nervously, warmly and he meant it. His eyes shared in the gesture.
"I'm not sure about the moustache," he mused, brushing at it slightly, "but I quite like the hair."
Then he gazed at her, deeply, his eyes brightening with some intent and meaning, before he added.
"It's very like yours. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery."
Her reflection's cheeks had colored, and now her jaw was hanging slightly ajar. The man he was would have had a field day with her reaction, but this man, this D'Artagnan..
"You've changed your hair, Angela. You've made it into curls."
In fact, she had been curling her hair for well over six months. It wasn't something that they had ever had the time-or the inclination-to discuss, but that, it seemed had changed.
"There have been a great many changes, Angela, and now, there will be many more." then smiling again-she supposed she would eventually get used it-he turned from the mirror and reached for her hand.
"But you, Angela, must never change. Not for me, not for anyone."
Then, the smile widened, now impish and teasing.
"But even if you do, I will still like you. Now, tell me, where and when would you like to go?"