In Which He and She Meet Again

Author's Note: Well, I've been rather disappointed in the response to this story…As in….the non-existent state of response. And as such (and because I'm going to be terribly busy with school) I'm not writing anymore for now. This chapter, actually, is not even finished; however, I'm putting it up here so I can delete it from my laptop. I make come back someday… It's sad I gave up so quickly…But I have such a busy life. Buh.

Sorry to those of you who were actually reading and enjoying this…maybe with a bit more proof of enjoyment, it would have kept up.

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Aster felt herself being torn from Oliver's arms into another's strong hands. They whirled across the dance floor, gracefully weaving in and out of the other dancers. Aster's eyes could not keep up with her and by the time they had, all the colours and faces around the room were mixed into her head. It took a quiet, completely annoying and unexpected voice to break her of the melody of music and colour.

"What a fancy meetin' you here, pocket thief."

"Jack, you idiot, what're you doing here?"

"Ah!" The Dodger squeezed Aster a bit tighter. "It's Mr. Radcliffe to you, gypsy-girl. And you'd better remember it. I don't want any trouble tonight."

Aster snorted and intentionally stepped on the Dodger's toes, smiling at his grimace. "And it's Lady Aster to you."

"What? No last name of Williams? I would have thought you were married with children, the way you hang all over him like that! …Or maybe you're just his pet."

Aster's eyes flashed. "No fair, Mr. Radcliffe. I expect Liam to make statements like that. I wasn't forewarned that you'd be such an idiot, too."

"Eh? D'ya even know what forewarned means? Anyways, we don't have the time for this. Come with me."

The Dodger led Aster off the dance floor and towards the tapestry room. As soon as they were off the dance floor and near the room, Aster jerked away.

"Why do I have to go with you?"

Dodger grimaced, took her hand and vaulted her into the room, looking back to see if anyone noticed before entering himself. He raised a hand to his mask and muttered. "Because I said."

Liam was waiting for both of them in the back room. As soon as they entered, he opened the door.

"I found an old cart in the back, and there're more than enough horses for me to nab one. As long as we travel from the back, first, no one will notice."

Aster whirled around to face the Dodger.

"What is he talking about?"

The Dodger simply took her arm and led her towards the door.

"Wh-I refuse to go anywhere with you! If you even try to take me out of that door, I will scream so loud, everyone will come running."

The Dodger promptly shoved one of his scarves in her mouth. "You're complaints have been heard and promptly ignored." He shoved her to Liam. "Carry her if you have to."

"With that heavy dress?"

"Do it."

"Yes, Dodger."