Beautiful People--Gavin Orford

For a while now, I’ve seen and read various bloggers’ answers to Sky and Georgie Penn’s Beautiful People questions. And every time, I intend to answer the questions as well—or, rather, have my characters answer them.

And every time, I forget.

This time, I will not let that happen.

So far, on this blog I’ve introduced you to the characters of Valiant Journeys, my major WIP. Today, however, I’d like to direct the spotlight to the characters of my other WIP, Eye of the Beholder.

Granted, this novel-in-progress is not yet beyond the plotting stage, so I don’t know as much about the characters as I would like, but these questions will certainly help, I’m sure.

I would like to introduce you to Mr. Gavin Orford.

Gavin is the hero of Eye of the Beholder, and a retold version of Sir Gawain of Orkney. Gavin is a gentleman of character and standing, who lives with his wealthy and respected uncle, Arthur Pedlar, in London. Gavin’s life is a never-ending routine of dull work, dull conversations, and even duller parties. Until, that is, he unwittingly stumbles into the midst of an intrigue—an intrigue surrounding a frightened, breathtaking young woman named Rella Torley. His life will never be dull again.

1. What is his biggest accomplishment?

Gavin would say—joker that he can be—that his biggest accomplishment is his ability to be the only one who can pull a prank on his uncle’s secretary, Kitt Spencer, and get away with it. If pressured to tell the truth, he would smile and say that being able to win Rella’s trust is enough accomplishment for any one man.

2. What is one of his strongest childhood memories?

His strongest childhood memory is one he often mentions, especially when around his uncle—the first and only time Arthur ever raised his voice at him, when Gavin was ten years old and being hard-headed. Much to Arthur’s mortification, Gavin has made a habit of bringing the painful memory up in the midst of dinner parties, whenever conversation grows sparse.

3. What is his favorite food?

Scones. When given the option, he prefers one half covered in double cream and the other thickly spread with lemon curd. And a cup of tea—two sugar, no cream—on the side.

4. Does he believe in love at first sight?

No. He is amiable and jesting, but Gavin knows there is more to love than a pretty face and sparkling smile.

5. What kind of home does he live in?

When in London with his uncle and aunt, he lives in their rather large, comfortable home. His room is spacious and clean, but the latter only because of his uncle’s servants. He has a tendency to leave his cravat and shoes lying about wherever they fall, his books stacked on his chair, and empty plates on his dressing-table. When he visits his parents and brothers, their home is very similar to his uncle’s. Though he has his own room, often he and his younger brother (the third of four) Garland often end up spending the night laughing, swapping stories, and playing chess in their father’s library while Gavin downs tea and Garland drinks coffee—no sugar, but lots of cream.

6. What does he like to wear?

Gavin dresses as any civilized Victorian-era gentleman would when going out—cravat, waistcoat, hat, etc. He is not vain, but he does like to look presentable. From his shined shoes to his trimmed hair, he would not dare set foot outside until he was every inch prepared and respectable in appearance.

7. What would he do if he discovered he was dying?

He would likely become very somber and quiet and make the most of every moment. He would be less likely to lose his sharp temper and would, at times, seem very withdrawn. Making certain that his family knew how deeply he cares for them would be a priority.

8. What kind of holidays or traditions does he celebrate?

Gavin loves holidays, and traditions are highly important to him. He has been known to drive his family insane by whistling “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” nonstop during the whole month of December, and perhaps even into January—he likes to stretch out each holiday as long as possible.

9. What do your other characters have to say about them?

Within his family, his father is proud of him, but rarely vocalizes his approval. His mother is rather removed. His uncle, Arthur, would say that Gavin is a good, hard-working young man who simply needs to learn the value of patience and stopping to think before acting. His brothers Garland and Glyn would praise him highly. Garland is his closest friend. Anthony, his other brother, is far more like their father—quiet and distant.

Outside of his family, Gavin has interacted with countless people in social situations, most of who would approve of him as a quick, intelligent, entertaining, charming young man.

Rella, of course, would simply blush and admit that he seems to be quite a gentleman.

10. If they could change one thing in their world, what would it be?

Injustice. Cruelty—especially when exacted by a stronger person against someone weaker than they—ignites Gavin’s temper quicker than anything else. He would not hesitate to take the side of the victim and, perhaps, even come to blows with the attacker.

Well, I certainly shall do this again! I learned quite a bit about Gavin simply by answering these 10 questions. Credit for the idea of tea vs. coffee for a character’s beverage of choice goes to Abigail from Scribbles and Inkstains.

I hope you enjoyed meeting Gavin as much as I enjoy writing about him!