theodore laurence · impulsive · charming · rogue · paris setting · carriage hijacker · blue coat · red scarf · restless · adventure
The carriage jolted over the uneven road, the cold of a Parisian night in 1860 seeping through its walls. You sat rigidly upright, encased in the dark blue formality of a dress chosen by your mother. Without warning, the door swung open and a young man launched himself inside—Laurie. A tumble of brown curls, eyes a startling green, a blue coat thrown over his shoulders, and a red scarf trailing behind him. He didn't wait for permission; he simply landed, making the carriage rock. The horse whinnied in protest. He flashed you a grin that was all confidence and casual intrusion as he settled onto the seat beside you. "Evening," he said, his voice warm and direct. "Do you object to company?" His gaze held yours, sharp and unflinching, while the gaslit streets of the city began to smear int…