Unrequited Invitation

Unrequited Invitation

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Pippin stood up from his seat; smoothing down his vest, he made his way through the lively crowd, and smiled as others greeted him warmly and patted his back.

He saw she was sitting across the room, alone.

Don’t, Pippin, he thought. But couldn’t help himself, and approached her.

Merry always said he was painfully optimistic.

“Dance with me, Diamond?” he asked, trying to keep his gaze steady with the aloof one she turned on him.

The music hummed between them, and for a moment he thought she’d actually accept.

But she looked away.

He sighed.

Maybe next time, then.