The doorbell rang. "That must be the bartender and waitresses." Jackson stayed back admiring the artwork for a minute, before following her to the living room.
She was talking to the two waitresses and the bartender when he caught up. "I'm just going to show them where things are. Would you start the music for me? I'll be right back." Jackson found the sound system and turned it on. She had chosen soft dinner music. It played through the whole house and the studio. He tinkered with the sound, making sure it was audible, yet would not interfere with conversation. Elisabeth returned. "That's great. Ok, now we wait." She began wringing her hands.
"I know what will help you relax." He grabbed her hand and pulled her close, "Dance with me, my leggy Siren."
Elisabeth smiled as she placed her hand on his shoulder. "I'm so glad you're here."
"As am I." He found a hint of sadness in her eyes. "What's the matter?"
She shook her head. "Just a little overwhelmed I guess."
Burying his face in her hair, he inhaled deeply. "There it is."
"There what is?"
"The scent that makes me weak in the knees." They danced silently for two songs before the doorbell was rung by the first guests.
Jackson guessed somewhere around fifty people attended. Elisabeth was in a whirlwind for the first hour or so. Everyone wanted to meet the artist and discuss the work they were interested in. Jackson mingled some, but mostly watched her. She acted graciously with all the guests, yet he could pick up subtle nuances that affirmed whether she was speaking to someone who genuinely understood art, or a snob who merely bought it to be in vogue. He found this entirely entertaining, and only approached her once while patrons were demanding her attention. Some guy, who obviously had more interest in her than the art, got a little touchy-feely. Elisabeth's discomfort was evident. Jackson stood close enough to hear the conversation, and as soon as the moron committed to buy a watercolor; he approached Elisabeth, put his arms around her and said, "Darling, the caterer needs to see you for a minute. Excuse us would you?" And led her away.
She whispered, "Thank you, that guy is creepy."
"Want me to rough him up?"
"My hero!"
"At your service."
A couple approached as Jackson completed his rescue. "Elisabeth, can you tell us about this oil?" She frowned at Jackson apologetically. He smiled and shooed her away.
Connor and Sarah seemed to be enjoying themselves. Sarah told Jackson she didn't see how she would be able to get Elisabeth's attention long enough to influence her.