Her response was timid enough to be sincere. Her small hand was in his and soon he swept her out onto the dance floor as the music started. Tradition was that he would start the dance and then others could join in, and soon enough they did. His hands were on her lightly, as he moved them around through the dance her petite body moved with grace. Emeric noticed she didn't feel tense or scared, trying to get away from his grip but felt comfortable. He smiled ever so slightly, unfortunately it was hidden by his mask. Her lovely green eyes looked up into his and for a moment he was lost.<br/><br/>Green eyes that held mystery and thoughtfulness. And then she wished him a happy birthday and that took him out of his trance that looking into her eyes had caused.<br/>"Thank you my lady, with you here, I'm sure it will be a good one."<br/>Once again a tiny smile formed under his mask and he looked around the room at the other women who his their whispers and looks behind fans, judging her for being the daughter of a Baron and him for being cursed. Emeric tried to ignore it but soon the song came to an end and he paused, moving his hands off his dance partner. He took her hand, leaning down to plant a kiss, or at least press the lips of his mask against the back of her hand and then stood.<br/>"That was wonderful, thank you my Lady, I hope to have the pleasure to dance with you again. Please, enjoy yourself."<br/><br/>Emeric gave another tiny bow to her and then moved off. Remembering what his mother told him about dancing with more than one woman as to not show favoritism. Next was Lady Rebecca, who was far more stiff and far less pleasant than Marina. She wouldn't make eye contact and barely spoke. After the dance she scurried back to her friend and instead of being upset he found himself looking for Lady Marina in the crowd. His ice blue eyes looking for her entrancing green. He like usual didn't drink or eat anything, not wanting to move or remove his mask. Nigel would bring something to his rooms later. He had masks where the mouth part was missing but that was usually for important dinners he could not get out of.<br/><br/>Tonight, despite it being his birthday was more about marriage than celebrating him or being something designed for him. At one point he heard Lady Clarissa say something about how it should have been a masquerade ball to make him feel more at home. Although the minute she realized he had heard her she paled and quickly moved away. No apologies just realizing her mistake and disappearing. He sighed but when he looked up he saw lady Marina, hoping she was enjoying herself. Emeric went to speak to her again but was cut off by Jace, taking him aside and introducing him to Yvette's cousin, Lady Toria. He smiled at the young brunette who looked nervous but asked her to dance none-the-less. He sought out Marina as he moved around the dance floor with this new woman who attempted to smile at him and do her best not to be nervous.<br/><br/>His mind was preoccupied with trying to ignore all the gossip fueled things people were whispering and Lady Marina's beauty. The song ended and he kissed Toria's hand, she blushed and then he moved away trying to once again find Lady Marina in the crowd.