Ben was the naive one if he truly believed she had any control over her life. Her intended, for she no longer wished to even think his name tonight, had first introduced himself to her in a letter that essentially boiled down to 'we're getting married. I'll see you soon!' A man like that, with no compassion or thought as for his future wife's feelings, obviously cared little for her dreams or passions. Once married, Melody would fall into a mediocre hobby, maybe sewing, and that would become her life. And then, if she were truly lucky, she would become no better than a high quality mare until she ultimately perished in childbirth like so many other Society wives. It seemed as though bearing children was the most dangerous task Melody would ever take part in again.

Melody hardly needed to reply, though, for Ben finally realized what she was asking. Instinctively, she moved her head to grant her better access to her neck. The air was steamy, hazy even. Melody was growing dizzy with desire. Before she knew it, her gown was loosened and puddled on the floor beneath her. Turning back to face him (the tight lacings of her corset ignored for the moment) Melody kissed him deeply.