He had seen her. Making her way through his house. Suffering from insomnia, just like he was. Which was strange because he never had trouble with that before. Alexander was the type of man who could just shut his eyes and drift off to sleep in a matter of seconds. But not tonight. Surely due to Maybel. Having her here, just-seemed to keep him awake. He had sent a messenger to the Winter estate, to reassure her family of her whereabouts. But he wasn't sure if they received it or not. Such things were always hard to tell. If only there was a better way to send messages back and forth, then using such primitive means they were using now. Alexander sighed, it was an idea he'd put a pin in for now. Maybe when things settled down. He could think of a new invention that could battle that problem. But for now, he had to join Maybel. On the balcony. A rather worn down one, but still. It was large and offered a beautiful view over the rest of the estate. Before he came to her, though, he retrieved a violin. He didn't play very well, but good enough to fill the silent air with some uplifting melodies. He watched her for a few moments, she was so beautiful in the moonlight. She almost appeared to be an angel. Alex shook his head for a moment, snapping himself out of a certain trance. After which he knocked on the open door, leading one onto the terrace. Thus, announcing his presence to her. "Can't sleep?" He asked, yet he already knew the answer. "Me neither," He said as he stepped closer. Only stopping when he stood right next to her. His instrument still in hand. "How about a song, then? To lull us back to sleep?" He chuckled. Knowing that such things would only work on children. Still, he played. A nice soothing lullaby.

She was pleased to see him, and that in turn made any fears he might have about approaching her fade away. He wouldn't want to intrude on someone when they took a moment for them alone, everyone deserved to be alone with their thoughts if they so willed it. Her voice was soft, but that perhaps for the best. Sound traveled fast in his house, especially at night. And he didn't want anyone else to overhear their little conversation. When her eyes fell on the violin he was holding, she asked him if he played. It was a question to which he could only answer with a demonstration. First he tugged at the tuning pegs, before he placed the handle on the strings and moved it. The friction of the two objects being slid across one another created a sound. And with his knowledge he spun that sound and the others he was able to make. Into a melody. It was a simple one really; one that anyone with a few lessons could play. Still, it was that could resonate with people. If they let it. "Enough about my talents," He mused during his performance. "We should focus on yours, I'm sure you have plenty." He really believed that. Someone like Maybel was surely skilled in many things. Even if she herself did not even realize it. "Why don't sing? Such a lovely speaking voice can surely carry a tune or two." He smiled as he followed her example, and moved his body slowly side to side. Swaying like her, yet not near as gracefully. "I'm sure it's more beautiful than anything I could ever play."

The trade she proposed was a fair one. Well, perhaps any other would think so. But Alexander - wasn't that good of a dancer. He never really was, no matter how many lessons he received as a child. He just seemed to have two left feet. At least, when he was dancing alone. When he danced with someone else. He could keep up quite nicely. "I'll take you up on that." He said, as he stopped playing. Resolving instead to place it somewhere safe against the two open doors. When he walked back to Maybel. "But let us dance together." He didn't really give her time to answer. As with a quick motion, he took her hand in his. And pulled her closer towards his own body. Alexander wasn't really sure, what gave him the sudden confidence to do this. But whatever it was, he hoped it would continue to supply him all throughout the night. "And don't worry about disappointing me, for you must know that you'll never be able to do that." He laughed as he started to move. Guiding both his own body and that of Maybel. He could hear her sing, but he couldn't even make out any of the words. But that didn't matter at all, the sound of her angelic voice was more than enough for him. "Nor could I ever laugh at you." No, he could only laugh with her. For she made that so easy. With her teasing jabs, but never anything else. It felt like they were in a real ballroom. With the way they were dancing. And for a moment, Alexander did imagine himself in one. With a horde of people watching the both of them. For some reason, he really wanted that. To be seen with Maybel, in public. Which was silly, because they had been out together plenty of times, but. Not like this, not arm in arm. Whirling away in some grand place. Only having eyes for one another. Alexander seemed to be a little too wrapped up into his fantasy. Because before he knew it; he made a mistake. He placed his foot wrong. And because of that; lost his balance. He fell, backwards. Taking Maybel with him when he did.

Those moments, on cloud nine, were like a dream. But perhaps, precisely because he was riding on such a high. Did the fall feel so much harder than it should. He didn't even know he was falling, only when he heard Maybel's shriek. Did he realize what was going on. But it was too late to try minimize the damage now. So his head hit the hard stone floor of the balcony without much protection. Unlike Maybel, who had the luck of having him- or well, his body-breaking her fall. Pain shot through his entire head. But it was the only thing he could regestire for a few short seconds. Everything else seemed to be a blur. He could barely recall what had led him here. What had made trip, and what Maybel had said before he did. Or what she was saying now. He could hear her speaking, he could still feel her weight on him. And soon, she started to come fully into view. Though he still had to focus on her hard. She asked if he was alright, and he attempted to answer her. But he wasn't coherent enough to form a proper sentence. So instead, he only made some nonsensical noise. As she tried to move his hand to the back of his hand, silently praying to himself that he wouldn't feel blood. But Maybel beat him at his own game. And pushed her hand through his wild curls, only stopping when she had checked the entire surface of his head. When she was doing so. He could feel everything coming back to him. His brain had a good shake, but other than that; he seemed to be fine. He didn't feel particularly off. Only a bit of pain, but nothing too bad. He was well enough to notice she was laughing. But just then, her eyes softened. And she proclaimed that he seemed to be fine. Alexander looked at her for a few moments. Without a trace of laughter on his features. No, it was more like shock. But it was soon gone. And the man started to smile, as he sighed a sigh of relief. He moves his heavy head, and placed it against that of Maybel. Completely removing the small space their faces were removed from one another. "Are you sure about that, my lady?" He said, with a soft yet playful tone. He tried to sit up straight a little. "Because my pride is quite wounded, I assure you." He was laughing now, just like she had been a few earlier. He pulled his head back, and locked eyes with her. "Because I've fallen for you, and here you are laughing at me." Alexander gave her a small playful push. "I never knew you were capable of such cruelty, miss Winter." The man mused, in a teasing manner.

Only, when it seemed to be too late, did realize the implications of his actions. Something that didn't at all cross his mind when he performed them. But he could understand what effect they could have on Maybel. In any other circumstance, it would cause him to panic. To profusely apologize, for giving her the wrong idea. But not this time. He simply thought; about the things the woman had said to him. And how he was going to handle this situation going forward. He flicked his eyes back to Maybel, noticing that she seemed to be dazed. Something that was; actually perfect for what he wanted to do next. Alexander once again moved in closer. But slowly this time, giving the woman every opportunity to back away from him. He didn't keep his eyes off her, not even when he planted his lips on her. For just a few fleeting moments. Because he quickly pulled away again. "You kiss like an angel, too." The young lord whispered as he closed his eyes. And steadied his breath. For he felt like shaking, the night air suddenly felt colder than it had before. Perhaps that was the reason why his hart was beating so loud in his chest. It was pumping  blood to every corner of his body to prevent him from freezing. He thought that, but deep down he knew the real reason. "We should stop." He then breathed. As he moved one of his hands to gently grip the arm of Maybel. She was so warm. "You were right, when you said that I didn't know you. Because I don't, we've met such a short time ago and-" Alexander didn't really know what to say, or do for that matter. He knew how machines worked, how to cook, and play the violin. Not how to handle-this situation. "I'm sure we'll be seeing plenty of each other in the future, to there's no need to rush into anything." The young lord offered her a smile. As genuine as his nerved allowed.

The lord then ran his hands through his hair before he forced his body to stand again. His balance was a little off, but he felt good enough to walk again. He held his hand out to Maybel, hoping that she would take it. "Come," He mused softly. His eyes sparkling like the many stars above them. "Let us go down to the kitchens, and I'll prepare us some sleeping-tea." They would need some of that, if they ever wanted to fall asleep after this again. Perhaps this could just all be explained away tomorrow as some sort of dream. If felt like one; to him at least. "If you want, of course, we can just- stay, if you like." He put a little too much emphasis on the word 'stay' because, well, he didn't really know what other word to use.

He hated this, he hated being in this situation. Because it was so incredibly difficult. He didn't want to insult Maybel, or let her down in any way. But he- they couldn't continue. It wasn't the right time, or the right place. At the very least, that's what is brain kept telling him. Because his heart-oh his heart said something completely different. The man saw the confusion, the confusion on her face. And he bit his lip anxiously.  She started to argue back, and he just had to stop her. Otherwise, he just knew he wouldn't be able to hold onto his conviction for much longer. Maybel had such a way with words, she could talk him into doing anything if given the time. So he didn't give her that, he made the decision to cut her off. By grabbing the woman by the arm, not in a painful way. No, it was-tender. Like his feelings for her. Alexander then spoke, he hoped she agreed with him. That she wasn't angry or disappointed. Or at the very least; not a lot. When he was done, the woman sighed. And responded with a simple, "Okay." The young lord nodded silently. Not really know what else to say on the matter.

So he didn't, he began about something completely different. Invited her; to come back to the kitchen with him. So some sleeping medicine could be prepared. But that was not the only thing he offerd. Because he did really want to stay with her, like this. Because in a way, he was afraid that he messed up. That this was his only chance, and he squandered it. But that idea was shot down, and he pushed the bittersweet feeling he felt coursing through his entire body. A mix of relief, and disappointment. But he knew, or well he told himself, that it was all for the best. "Yes." He said with an empty smile. "Not only that, I think it's time for us to head back inside anyway. It's getting rather cold out here, don't you think so? And I wouldn't want you to catch a chill."

Her innocent joke made Alexander chuckle. It was a bit of levity in this otherwise quite heavy moment. But it seemed to be passing along nicely. And without any hard feelings. Which made Alexander sigh of relief. They were quite the team, though; twice have the two found themselves in difficult situations; where emotions ran high. And both times were they able to overcome it. That surely meant that this-bond this connection that they had was to last, right?  ‘‘But you should save yourself from it,’’  Alexander flashed the blond woman a cock smile while he rubbed his hands together. "Oh, don't worry about me, ma'am." He said with a confident voice. "I never get sick, ever; got a very strong immune system, you know?" He shot back, somewhat exaggerating. But he never really did get ill quickly, and when he did, it was often gone within a few days. But then again, maybe it was a genetic thing? Since he didn't really recall seeing either of his parents unwell very often. Well, not until-Alexander shook his head. Focusing his attention back on Maybel and there was clear that there had been a shift. There were all kinds of things to be seen behind those big beautiful blue eyes of her. Something that made Alexanders smile fade. ‘‘I don't want to leave,’’ she whispered. The young master felt his heart race against his chest. He looked at her for a time. He had wanted to restrain himself, to keep a distance from her-at least for a time because he feared that he wouldn't stick to his principles. But it all seemed to melt away, like snow before the sun. Gods, this woman, and the effect she had on him. Alexander moved forward, thus getting rid of any space there was left between them. He gripped both her shoulder gently as he looked deep in her eyes. The proximity they were in now; was not as near as when he has kissed her. But it wasn't off by a lot. This must be confusing for her, and it was for him too, but. He just-when she was like this, he couldn't stay away. He simply couldn't help it. "Then don't go." Alexander breathed back. His eyes begin her to do so. "Stay here with me," He tried to smile, but it was a watery one. "At least, for a little while longer." Everything he had said before, he had pressed upon her before. Seemed to be thrown out of the window. Waiting be dammed, what did they have after all but this precious time together?

The young master eyes soften when he heard her chuckle. But when she placed her hand on his chest. He looked at her with hitched breath. He barely noticed her standing on her toes, just to meet his height. He only saw her face, and how undeniably close it was. Alexander stared into her eyes, finding them to be the prettiest eyes he ever did see. He still held on to her, but now it felt more like he was doing so just for support. Because it felt like he was about to collapse. She then spoke again; but two words. But they were able to make him so happy. Probably the happiest he'd been in a long time. He followed slowly when she guided them both; even closer to one another. He wanted to kiss her again, only longer this time. And he was about to- but something interrupted them. Something that Alex could have never foreseen. Not in a million years. It started when a loud banging was heard. It seemed to rattle the entire house. Maybel screamed, and pulled herself away from him. The young master stood in shock for a few moments. Simply staring at her with big eyes. What the fuck, indeed. He quickly snapped out of it, though, and rushed back to Maybel. She was clearly upset; though if it was anger or fear he couldn't quite tell. Perhaps it was a mix of both. He hushed her, gently reassuring her that "everything will be okay." And that she was "quite safe" Because, he would protect her.  “Were you expecting somebody?” A question that made him shake his head in response. "No, of course not, certainly not at this hour." He said. The man tried to keep his voice steady, and his demeanor as calm as possible. But truth be told, he was rather afraid. What was this anyway? A robbery? Was he being robbed right now? Alexander heard footsteps coming up the stairs. His eyes darted back to Maybel, and he manned up. Whatever this was, whatever mad man had decided to break into his house like this. Alexander wouldn't let hem anywhere near Maybel. "Stay here." He ordered her while he walked through the large doors connecting the balcony to the house. He was standing in the large hall. Alexander could see the man's shadow as he climbed up the stairs. Surely his servants would come and take this man down. But in the meantime, Alexander had no choice but to stand his ground. His eyes fell on a small table, one that had a lamp on it. But also a knife. Some maid must have left it here. Unfortunate for her, but luckily for Alex. He grabbed the blade and a dark glint could be seen in his eyes. He stepped forward. Just when the stranger came into view. Pointing his dagger to the intruder. "I suggest you leave, sir." Alexander spoke in a low and dangerous tone. "Before things get ugly."

The man who had broken into his home, didn't seem like some lunatic. No, he seemed very well-kept. Still, Alexander knew looks could be deceiving. Especially when he saw the rage the stranger had in his eyes. It made the hairs on the back of the young lord stand on end. He swallowed, but tightened his grip around the knife. He watched as the intruder grinned at him, just before he made the "suggestion" to release the knife, before he would hurt himself. Alexander sneered at the comment. He was no good at handling sharp objects, that much was true. But he wasn't so inept as to wound himself with it. And even it the tables would turn in his disadvantage, he wouldn't mind it. He would gladly bleed if it meant he was protecting Maybel. It felt so strange, though. He had only known the woman for such a sort of time. But he already decided that he would fight for her against any foe. Was it the feelings he had for the girl that made him act this was? Or was he just-foolish? Trying to act the hero to impress her further? Whatever the underlying reason was. Alexander knew he couldn't back down now, that would just make him a coward. The stranger was quick in his movements, Alexander could hardly keep up. Before he knew it, he was thrown against a wall. With a sturdy hand placed on his neck, squeezing it tightly. Limiting his ability to breath. The Preston lord had dropped his knife along the way. But not before he had struck his assailant. He couldn't say though if it had been a calculated move. Or just a lucky strike. But he could see out of the corner of his eye that the other man was bleeding, he had a gash on his chest, That was quickly sullying the attire he wore with blood. But that was about the only thing Alexander could register. He knew words were thrown at him, but he could barely make them out. "I di-did not." Was the only thing he managed to utter, not even knowing if it connected to whatever the other had said before.

Everything around him seemed to be a blur. Nothing made any sense. At least not to his oxygen deprived mind. He thought, he saw Maybel entering the picture. He didn't see her, though, but heard the voice carry through. Though what she said, he didn't catch. But the way she said it; he did. She sounded so upset. But it wasn't enough, not for the stranger to release him. In fact, her plea's seemed to make things worse. For it caused the man to put even more pressure on Alexander's throat. Making the young lord wheeze, it was the only thing he seemed to be able to do. Having lost control of his body. He looked at his assailant with terror in his eyes. Hoping that maybe that-would be able to convince the man to release him. Or at the very least pull back his arm a bit. Because if he didn't do that soon. Alexander was sure he would choke to death right here and now. The prospect terrified him. He didn't want to die, not like this. Not in front of Maybel. He needed to fulfill his promise first. Finally-finally, the nameless man decided he'd had enough. And moved his arm away. Alex thought for a few seconds, that that was it. But then he received a might shove towards a table. The young lord stumbled backwards. Before crashing into the table. The back of his head hitting the corner. He had fallen on that spot before, when he had been dancing with Maybel. He got off relativity well that time. But he didn't have the same luck twice. Because for the fleeting moments he was still conscious, he could feel hot liquid trickle down his new wound. He had wanted to reach back, to note the damage done. But before he could-he blacked out.