Poppy could sense, almost immediately, that Mr. Lestrange had in fact caught the drift of her meaning and for a moment she almost considered regret. She did not want to purposely lead him astray, this time implicitly aware of how she might do so, but not even Mr. Lestrange could possibly be so brazen as to try and kiss her, again, in public right? Poppy certainly hoped not, if only for her reputation’s sake and not actually because she didn’t want him to. A sigh tickled at her lips but the brunette held it back, opting instead to echo his grin with her own. They had an understanding at least, even if she was was a touch exhilarated by it. As the gentleman offered her his arm properly, Poppy was relieved to be able to grasp him. She couldn’t help but linger a touch on his eye-roll and think to herself how much she liked his animated responses. His words however where what made her laugh again and a small hand came up to cover her mouth delicately. “Almost a gentleman,” she echoed, teasingly. “Well, we’ve both some time to get our act together. Not much,” she laughed again. “But certainly enough.” (If she emphasized the word ‘both’ more than she’d meant to it was only because the idea of it made Poppy twitchy. She rather liked the way Mr. Lestrange was, and the way she was with him. It was only society that could find them wanting.)
Poppy was pleased when they began to amble about at a snails pace. She was not in any hurry to make it back to the upper-class tents now that she had a willing guardian and an entire racecourse to see. Still, she made no mention of traipsing off in another direction and instead rolled her own eyes playfully at his tease. “I’ll admit it has been rather dull up to this moment, what with my penchant for danger and chaos,” she indulged, teasingly. “But I am pleased to be here regardless. It was sweet of Atticus to invite June and I out. I’ve always wanted to see a race up close, hence why you found me so near the rail.” Poppy blushed again. “In my defense however, I thought I’d spotted my cousin down there! I didn’t amble freely with no direction!” She didn't know why it was so important Mr. Lestrange not think her a dimwit, but it was.
© Fox