How was someone supposed to act with the heir of heirs?

For most, shameless ass-kissing. These were often the people who lacked both dignity and money, but had an excess in ambition.

For Nanette? Act normally – perfect manners and posture – if not a bit flustered. Because while her family had money to spare, it was one thing to be well-off and another thing completely to be the scion of a veritable empire. There was an air around him that was both extraordinarily regal and terrifying. It read much more in reality than on television. Nanette stood straighter on instinct. When meeting anyone, impressions were important; the way one carried themselves was vital.

“It’s no problem, really.”

The tension in her shoulders softened along with her expression – face going from nervous to concerned. Ah. So the headband wasn’t just a fashion statement. Occupational therapy wasn’t her forte in the least, so Nanette made a mental note to do some reading about it later. It was unlikely that this man…Fernando? No, that was too casual and friendly. It was unlikely that Mr. Silph would ever need to interact with her again, but it was just good information to have under her belt.

“You don’t have to buy me a drink, but would you like to join me for one?”

It was very innocent and her intentions were truly good…but her father had taught her a valuable lesson in dealing with people during situations involving food and drink. Offer the server her card before the other person could even blink. It was like a sleight of hand, but for the opposite reasons people would usually need to use it.

FERNANDO SILPH | mission

☉

“I’m aware,” Nanette could hear how the pitch of her voice had changed, heightening in her nervousness. How pathetic. She wanted to punch herself in the face.

“Nanette Sanguine. But, please, call me Nettie. If you’d like, I mean.”

There were some (bordering on many) of similar levels of wealth and luxury that Nanette did not deserve it. They were uncouth and duplicitous at best, utter garbage at their worst. More often than not, their behavior was also enough to receive her hard-earned disapproval. Nanette knew herself well, and she knew she could and would forgive someone for spitting absolute venom at her. So those that she disliked were definitely not the sort she wanted to associate herself with. They acted out like overgrown children. They commanded a room with noise, glitz, and glamor.

Fernando Silph could command attention with his gaze and presence alone. Nanette tucked a lock of white hair behind her ear as he shortened the distance. One wrong move or word would torpedo her.

“It’s a pleasure to actually meet you, Mr. Silph…or…sir? Please let me know what you prefer,” Nanette said sheepishly. To her credit, though, her gaze did not falter from his.

She cleared her throat and squared her shoulders, hyper-aware of any minute flaw he might see. And considering how mousy and plain she was, there were likely many. If Mr. Silph were as charitable as he was quiet, then he likely wouldn’t point any of them out. Back straight, chin up, shoulders back but not too far back… The sand shifted beneath her feet as Nanette made for the charming little bar further up the beach. The sun was harsh, rays beating against her skin. It wasn’t bad, though. Maybe she’d actually get a bit of a tan for once instead of just burning red.

“Mr. Silph? Sir? How’s your eye feeling? Is there any lingering aches or pain?” Nanette glanced over at him, brows knit with gentle concern. “It’s scorching today, so please don’t overexert yourself.”

FERNANDO SILPH | mission

☉