Pairing: Young Elizabeth, and Will Turner
Word Count: 412
Prompt: Etiquette (Livejournal)
Proper Ladies
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"Governor Swann, such loss of proper conduct in a lady could have dire consequences. Her peculiar manners might give her a reputation for flighty or odd behavior that could be off-putting for eligible suitors and their families. Any sort of unconventional behavior for a young lady could crush her hopes for financial security in a good marriage," Lady Evans persuaded, with a hint of concern in her voice.
Of course, Weatherby couldn't resist or deny such an argument.
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"Proper ladies never take cheese at dinner parties, Elizabeth. Nor do they take wine at dessert. Cheese is eaten with a fork and not with a knife."
Lady Evans sat with her mouth extended in a perpetual smile, and was so very timid, that she would not for the world have looked at a stranger. When Elizabeth was the model for the day, she became insufferable, rattling about in an infantine and thoughtless manner.
"Never play with your food or mince with your bread. No, Elizabeth. Your mouth should always be kept closed in eating, both eating and drinking should be noiseless."
Elizabeth huffed, slouching back onto her chair for a moment of relief, but found nothing of the sort. Instead, she was greeted with a swift tap on her back. "Mind your posture."
"Excuse me, Elizabeth. I must go check on the cook about dinner. I will return shortly."
After a moment of Mrs. Evan's absence, there was a soft patter on the parlor's windowsill. Familiar brown eyes greeted her through a mop of brown tangled hair. A wide handsome grin danced along his lips.
Her eyes widened at the sight of him. "Will! What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be at Mr. Brown's?"
"I snuck out while he was sleeping," he answered softly. "I was watching you with your stiff lady friend, and well, you don't look like you're having too much fun."
A hint of desperation in her eyes, prompted young William to tilt his head, eying the tasteful china and silverware upon the table.
What was she doing?
"We're going to go the docks to play pirates. I was wondering if you wanted to come too."
He watched for a moment as she nibbled her russet-colored lips, deciding that it would be best to take his leave, and shook his head once in a final silent request for her to follow.
She smiled, placing her tea cup down with great poise. "Only if I get to be captain."
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