As the dessert plates replaced the remnants of the main course, Merida felt a rush of gratitude for the temporary reprieve from the stifling formalities of the dinner. She had been utterly captivated by Mr. Dempsey, but she wanted more than the polite exchanges they were obliged to maintain, it was suffocating after the freedom of their previous interactions.

His blush had not gone unnoticed, and it sent a delightful shiver through her, igniting the ember that had been burning since their unexpected encounter at this staid event. She couldn't help but wish to reach out, to touch his hand even if only in enthusiasm. Her gaze, locked onto his, and what she thought might be longing that matched her own.

Her fingers toyed with the edge of her dessert plate, some jelly confection that she hated and pushed around her plate idly, so as to not give offense, but her eyes never left his face. "If fate allows," she said with gentle mystery. She had never been to Ireland, never had occasion to venture but she wondered now if she might orchestrate it somehow via Murdock. I suppose I've never had a reason to visit before now' she sipped a little of the dessert wine instead, all too aware that it wouldn't be long before the ladies were shooed from the room to leave the men to their business, after which Murdock would no doubt whisk them home.