Page 59 of A Torn Allegiance
Prince Kristoff immediately bowed. “Oh, forgive us. We were discussing a matter that was certainly not a good topic for such a festive occasion.”
Lady Sophie and Lady Elsie smiled their forgiveness.
Her Grace stepped closer to Hayes. “I’m so pleased to see you again. I know we saw you yesterday, but you are much sought after at the Shelby house.”
Lady Elsie’s soft gasp made Hayes smile. He dipped his head and offered his arm to the duchess. “I am pleased to hear it, for every moment I am not at the Shelby house or with your family is a moment I feel wasted in England.”
Her smile grew. “Then, we are in agreement. We do hope you will join us tomorrow for dinner. We have the distinguished honor to host the admiral and his wife, as well as yourselves, if you’re willing.”
“Of course. And you do me a great kindness, for he is just the man I am most eager to see.”
“Well, then, it’s perfect.”
He dipped his head as she moved away to place a hand back on her husband’s arm.
The duke nodded. “Good to see you Wilhelm men, and Your Grace. You are just how all young men should be. Strong, good, earnest.”
“All the better for England that at least His Grace will remain here.” Lady Sophie looked up into Bartholomew’s face with a small smile.
“I thank you both for your compliments.” Bartholomew gave a bow to His Grace and Lady Sophie and then offered the lady his arm. “Would you like to sample some of these delicacies with me?”
They walked off together, Lady Elsie watching them with a tender smile. It appeared something was in the works between them. Hayes would be happy for his friend if that were the case.
The duke and duchess soon became involved in a conversation a short step away from Hayes.
Kristoff bowed in turn. “If you’ll excuse me.” He approached a group of ladies who had been watching from a distance, but Marc remained beside Hayes, even though several ladies looked his direction with pointed expressions.
Hayes tipped his head in their direction.
Marc eyed him for a moment and then bowed and joined Kristoff.
“Prince Marc did not wish to leave you in our clutches?” Lady Elsie approached Hayes. Was it his imagination, or had she a more tentative nature than usual?
“Prince Marc handles our royal security and protection at home. Sometimes he forgets he is on tour and not on duty.”
“And what danger could you be in here?”
He didn’t answer, even though he was certain her perceptive eyes had picked up on something in his.
“Have you had reason to believe you might need more protection?” she persisted, stepping closer.
“I don’t believe there has been a single time I have been at your side when you have not surprised me greatly with either a statement or a question.”
“And I plan to do so for as long as we converse.” Her gaze remained questioning.
“No, we do not feel at risk here.”
She seemed almost disappointed. Or perhaps relieved. He couldn’t tell. But, as always, she seemed to want more information, and that was another refreshing quality. Their conversations would never be dull and never feel as though they’d arrived at a satisfactory end. He was delighted with the prospect. “Walk with me?” But some topics were more pleasant than others.
“Certainly.”
After a time of him scouring every face, looking for a possible Napoleon supporter among a sea of strangers, she tugged on his arm. “Perhaps if you tell me what you’re looking for, I can assist.”
“What I’m looking for?”
“Yes, you look at each person as though searching for a great mystery to be unraveled in this rather impressive group.”
“Is it impressive?”
