Frigid Chapter 2

Chapter 2

"Ladies as we've survived another Saturday I propose we go out for drinks," Scarlett announced. Dropping the last of her make-up back into her tote Clare shot her an amused expression. 

"This being your same announcement every Saturday can we really turn it down?" 

"I'm always up for drinks, count me in," Serena said.

"Honestly Serena if we let this continue Scarlett will get a name for herself." Throwing an arm around her good naturally Clare had a sinking feeling.

"Our Scarlett's had a name for herself for some time now. No need to look so concerned, it's in good humor."

"If the two of you are done gossipping I've a drink with my name on it."

Upon entering the Dive Scarlett was immediatly greeted by the bartender elicting the other few patrons to acknowledge her. Bumping shoulders with her they made their way over to the bar stools. His signature charming smile in place Benny ambled over parking himself directly in front of Scarlett. Clare and Serena swore he had the hot's for her yet time and again she'd deny it. It baffled them as to why. Any person with sense could precieve it, so then why not her? Privatly Clare figured it was connected to Marian and their ever raging battle. The more she thought on it the more her curiosity was peaked.

"Will you ladies be having your usuals or can I interest you in something else?" This last bit was aimed at Scarlett who's blush could be seen even under the low lighting. After she and Serena ordered their usual's they waited as Scarlett composed herself enough to order something else. Not entirely ignoring the other patrons but enough so to sour he delivered their drinks, winking at Scarlett before moving down the bar.

"Poor Benny, flirting with a tease," Serena cooed. Glass halfway to her lips Scarlett gaped at her. 

"Serena I assure you I am no such thing."

 A delicate eyebrow rose. "Oh really, than what was that just now?"

"Child, you hush and have your drink."

Seeing the mischief in her eyes Clare knew she wouldn't be so easily divereted. This was sure to be the most entertaining Saturday night yet. As the hours rolled into the next she wasn't dissapointed in her assumption. Every time Benny stepped over Serena would make her move, either making Benny's smile flash or Scarlett blush deep. No matter the dirty looks from Scarlett or scoldings she kept it going. Nearing the end of her third drink Scarlett looked as if she wanted to sink into the floor. It didn't help any that the other patrons on either side joined in on the ribbing.

Tapping the screen on her phone Clare saw that it was going on nine which meant dancing would start. The bar didn't have the largest floor for it but enough to keep it full. Folding her arms on the bar she decided Serena and the others weren't going to be the only ones having a good time. Letting out a whistle in Benny's direction she waved him over. Recieving a mencing expression from Scarlett she put on her best smile of innocence. 

"You called little lady?" Benny asked.

Aware of the couples moving onto the floor Scarlett no doubt knew what she was up to.

"Benny wouldn't you agree Scarlett could use a good spin on the floor?" 

One hand clasped over her mouth Serena slapped Clare's shoulder with the other.

"I couldn't possibly, I've two left feet," Scarlett protested.

"That's alright as long as you're sober I can work with that," Benny beamed.

Retrieving the other bartender her came from behind the bar the patrons whistling and hollaring. Hesitantly taking his hand they moved to the floor.

"Dang girl why haven't we done this sooner?" Serena asked.

Shrugging Clare faced the dance floor. Spotting Benny and Scarlett, her awkward feet making him laugh she was happy for Scarlett. Correction she was happy for them.

"They look good together. Hit the floor with me?" Serena asked.

Shaking her head Clare watched as she joined the throng. To have such a boundless carefree energy, it must be nice she mussed. The last drink clasped in her hands she gazed into it's amber depth her mind drifting.

Having lived and worked in Manor for a little over a year she'd come to appreciate the only two freedoms she'd been allowed, friendship and work. She figured two out of three wasn't bad. The third-that was a grey area, better off left alone. Sipping from her glass she sensed someone staring. Lifting her head she found him sitting at a diagnal from her. Meeting his intense eyes full lips lifted at the corner. She allowed their staredown to continue for another minute before breaking it off. Releasing the breath she didn't realize she'd been holding she set her drink down and headed for the floor.