The box of lotions and what not had cost Frank a pretty penny, but it would be quite worth it if he could be welcomed back into Kitty's good graces. He could kick himself for being so presumptuous, for assuming that she would be so easily swayed by his charms and champagne. Although Frank couldn't quite place why he was so desperate to continue his pursuit of the redhead with crystal eyes.

"Will you accept? With my apologies?" Frank offered sincerely.

"Apologies for what?" she prompted.

"For making assumptions, Miss Hawkins. I won't make the same mistake again. In fact I promise to work very, very hard to make you see me in a more worthy light."

"I'll accept your gift," she finally agreed, her fingers ghosting over his as she took hold of the box.

"I need a volunteer," came the dancer who had entertained them moments earlier. Kitty turned quickly at the request, before Frank knew what was happening the box was thrust back into his arms and Kitty was pulled onto the dance floor.

With each uptick in the music Frank could feel his own pulse jump. He couldn't help but bite his bottom lip at the passing glimpses of long legs clad in bright red stockings. A final note and she was dipped in front of him, the beautiful pale column of her neck on full display. Stunned didn't even begin to describe what Frank was feeling, although he some how managed to applaud the performance.

"I'm sorry, Mr. Edwards, I believe you were saying something," she smiled calmly, patting her curls back into place.

"I'm afraid you've stolen the words straight from my mouth, Miss Hawkins."

"Quite the accomplishment and from a simple dance?"

"Simple is not the word I would use."

"Well, then it's a good thing I'm in possession of your words."

"I'm afraid I can't manage anything quite as impressive, but would you care to?" he asked, gesturing to the dance floor where chairs were being arranged.

"I'd be pleased, Mr. Edwards."

They didn't last long in the dance around the chairs, Frank had only just broached safe ground with Kitty and collapsing onto a chair while pulling her into his lap didn't seem like a good idea. So they were out in the first round, although the few moments with his arm wrapped around her waist and hands joined while she grinned up at him were well worth it.

"Drink?" he asked as they returned to the now empty table.

"Please."

Frank reappeared shortly with two glasses of champagne, careful to let his fingers glide across Kitty's as he passed her the glass. The night passed quickly with coy smiles and flirtatious glances, until Kitty decided it was time to head home. It was pleasant to leave the club together instead of with Frank trailing behind.

"Lovely night," Kitty mused as they stepped out into the street, she was so distracted looking up at the sky that she didn't notice the carriage heading towards her. Frank was quick to grab her hand, pulling her to safety, which also happened to be against his chest.

"Are you quite all right, Miss Hawkins?" he asked, not letting go of her immediately.

"Goodness, yes," she nodded glancing towards the retreating carriage then back to Mr. Edwards. "Lucky for me you paid close attention to the demonstration."

"I confess I couldn't take my eyes off of you, a woman of many talents, Miss Hawkins. Did you have a better time tonight?" he asked, still holding on to her as they began walking. She didn't push him away and Frank was quite keen to keep her close until told otherwise.

"Much better."

"Pleased to hear it, perhaps you would consider allowing me to take you out again? Just the two of us, dinner?"

"I'll think about it," Kitty promised vaguely, slowing as they approached her flat. Frank handed over the gift box he had been carrying for her, sad to release her hand. "And I'm sure I'll think about you when I use these lovely gifts."

"In the bath?" Frank mused, suddenly realizing that he had spoken aloud. Kitty smiled slowly before leaning forward to press a kiss to his cheek.

"Good night, Mr. Edwards."

"A very good night to you, Miss Hawkins."

He stood at the foot of her stoop, watching as she somehow glided up the stairs with precise delicacy. It was a relief to know that he was slowly working towards her forgiveness. There was a swirl of intrigue surrounding the woman; she wasn't as naïve as she appeared, but she also wasn't as innocent. Images of her dancing flitted through her mind as he walked towards his own flat. Oh yes, he was very keen to get to know Kitty Hawkins better, provided she would give him another chance.