Chapter 2

Scarlett sighed. "It's a long story," she said a little bit thickly. "I… I love Ashley…he's got to love me. But if he loves Melanie, then… then…"

Max used a handkerchief to gently dry Scarlett's tears. "Then you'll need to find someone else… and you don't think you'll love anyone but him. I know." He smiled. "Because I've been there."

Scarlett was surprised. "Wait… a man? Talking about something important?"

"It's important to you," he said, "so it's important to me. The fact of the matter is this. I know from my sister that you're a spirited, intelligent lady. I like that. And frankly, Miss Scarlett… I like you."

"I find most men would rather marry demure ladies. Subservient ones."

Max scoffed. "Oh please," he said derisively. "You honestly believe a man like me wants to live with some silly, mealy-mouthed ninny who can only say 'yes' and 'no' and raise a parcel of sycophants?"

Scarlett's crying turned into laughter. "Why Captain Kessler, you've just cheered me up!"

"Ah, come on, call me Maxwell. Max if you feel lazy."

Scarlett smiled. "I think I like you too," she said softly.

At the ball, Scarlett found herself talking to Maxwell all night. She also found him a good dancer who held her very gently as they waltzed. But at the same time, she knew Ashley couldn't be with Melanie! She, Scarlett, was who he loved! But she had to admit, she was… drawn to Maxwell. He was… he was like her, but… fiddle-dee-dee she couldn't explain it… but still… Scarlett decided to confess to Ashley when they danced. He had to ask for a dance! After all, he loved her… right? …Right?

Scarlett got her wish for the last dance of the evening, another waltz.

"Ashley… I… there's…". Scarlett sighed. "There's something I have to tell you."

"What is it… a secret?"

"Ashley… I…." She sighed again in an attempt to master herself. "I can't stop thinking about you and… I know why… because… Ashley, I love…"

"Scarlett" said Ashley softly, "I… you know I'm… I'm marrying Melanie."

"But… but you love me…"

"She's like me, Scarlett."

"But… don't you want…". Scarlett started to tear up.

"You're just making this too hard," said Ashley, a bit sadly.

"We… we don't have to get married right away… we can…"

"I don't want to put you through that. You wouldn't be happy marrying me… it's not worth it."

Scarlett's heart shattered. "I'm not worth it? W- What…?"

"I have to go."

Scarlett stood there, motionless.

A moment later, Maxwell appeared. "Miss Scarlett…? Ashley tells me you're…"

That was when it clicked. Ashley? Why would Ashley know Scarlett was upset unless…

He walked over to her. "Oh no…" he whispered as he took Scarlett's shaking frame in his arms very gently.

Scarlett held onto Maxwell like he was a raft in a tumultuous ocean, sobbing uncontrollably.

"Shhh…" he whispered, comfortingly rubbing Scarlett's back.

"It's all so unfair!" She sobbed. "I loved him! All I ever want in this world is to be loved, and to be like my mother, but I have my whole life ahead of me!"

"And you're not content to just be docile," he said softly.

Scarlett nodded.

"If you need anything… just tell me."

Scarlett sniffled as Maxwell wiped her tears. "I'm sorry… I don't… I don't usually cry like this. You must think me a weeping mess."

"No… no-no-no, shhh…". He stroked her hair gently, smiling.

Scarlett felt her heart flutter. "Oh why can't I stay miserable for long when I'm with you?"

"Would you like to? Let's talk about secession."

Scarlett laughed. "Not… fair!" She scolded playfully, wagging her finger.

"My uncle's moving out west to search for gold, and he's leaving me his plantation in Clayton County. I'm having a party to greet my new neighbors in two weeks. I'd be delighted if you and yours showed up."

Scarlett nodded. "You'd best believe I'll be there," she said, "and there had better not be talk of war and secession or I'll be furious!"

Max laughed. "'Fraid I can't promise that… but I hope to see you again soon!"

Scarlett left the party that night, incredibly, in a rather happy mood.