The mischievous laughter floated above the fray and caught Benjamin's attention. It was the source of that laughter, however, that captivated him. Peering through the multitude of males collected on the side of the room, Benjamin saw a woman, or rather, an exquisite lady. She was short on the thicker side and very curvy. A liveliness shone through her chocolate brown eyes invited the observer to share in the merriment. Despite the very fashionable style of her dark brown Chestnut hair, he had the sudden urge to undo the handiwork and see her hair running wild down her ebony smooth back.
Altogether, she exhibited not an untouchable beauty, but an exciting, irresistible magnificence. Judging by the scores of gentlemen around her, Benjamin was not alone in this assessment. Unfortunately, as an exceptionally plain man himself, he sighed and resigned himself to seek company elsewhere.
The Seattle Grace's ball was well known through-out Washington, however considering the fact that Washington was largely unknown, this amounted to little. For what seemed like the tenth time this evening, Benjamin questioned why he had let John drag him to this country shin-dig. It wasn't that Benjamin felt above the people or activities, in fact he was often considered too willing to disregard his class, but rather that his sole acquaintance of the large assembly was John. And at the present time, John was nowhere to be found. Grimacing, Benjamin reflected that his friend had actually been all too keen to abandon him only moments after arriving. At least John's motives could be traced to excitement…of the ladies' presence, not his company.
Glancing around the room, he saw many young belles wistfully eyeing the dance floor. The thought of making an approach and actually asking for one to dance, however, made his stomach lurch.
"I swear the girls get prettier every year. This was just what we needed after school," John said, appearing behind Benjamin. It seems he had finally torn himself away from some damsel to check on his friend. "You should stop lurking in the corner and try to enjoy yourself. There are plenty of ladies to choose from. Seeing Benjamin's scowl, he continued, "Come on, my man, cheer up. I promise you it's not that bad."
"Easy for you to say, John, you thrive on the attention. Even in prison, you'd be happy if there was a lady by your side."
"Well, as long as she's willing…" he said with a gleam in his eye. "But truly, you're in sore need of female entertainment and I'm making it my personal responsibility to see that you get it. I can't have fun until I know you're enjoying yourself."
Laughing, Benjamin countered, "I think you've been enjoying yourself, or more accurately, the ladies, just fine."
"Maybe some, but it does grieve me to see my best friend behaving as awkwardly as a newly born colt. Dance, mingle, do it for my sake to spare me the pain!" John pleaded dramatically. "Come, I'll even introduce you to some prospective partners."
As Benjamin was turning to follow John Knox, he collided with the beautiful woman he had admired. Unfortunately, his hand held a glass of red wine, which spilled all over the lady's fancy gown.
"Oh, my dress!" she exclaimed.
She's breathtaking, he thought as shock seized his tongue. Seeing her up close, almost overloaded his senses. It took several moments before he could stutter, "I…I'm…I'm terribly sorry." Cursing himself for his inadequate response and clumsy introduction to such a stunning woman, he plowed on. "I…I can clean the mess."
"No, this stain will not come out. This is brilliant, truly brilliant," she said. Benjamin was trying to gauge whether she was being sarcastic, but her tone seemed genuine. "My feet are quite sore and I was looking for a way to escape. I couldn't have thought of a better excuse, thank you!" she continued. Giving him a bright smile, she turned and disappeared through the crowds.
"What just happened?" Benjamin asked, facing John.
John grinned, "Well done, I think you just became a hero. Your wit and grace will serve as an excellent example to all men." His grin expanded into hearty laughter. "I saw the look in your eyes. I wouldn't get any ideas if I were you, you'll never have a chance with Miranda Bailey."
"I'm well aware of that," Benjamin quietly muttered.
