Haytham played his part as a perfect gentleman, reaching out to catch his dance partner before the poor dear swooned, but not without a sly grin. It was not the most discrete show of playacting but it worked well enough for the crowd who were more interested in their own party activities than the new couple.

"Of course, if you will allow me to escort you?"

The air outside was warm but held that certain crispness that wind carried over the ocean was known for, the smell of the surf, salt, and what few flowers had seen fit to bloom around the Navy's chosen dance hall.