Page 51 of Shining Knight
“I need a drink,” she said, feeling breathless.
“You are not the only one,” he muttered.
Thankfully, the orgeat and watered-down lemonade were across the room from Ravenhill.
“Hopefully, Petersham is paying attention and will come over here for you.”
Eugenia could not think about her next dance partner. She swallowed the tasteless liquid and took the opportunity to look about her. Eyes were upon her; she could feel the not so subtle stares to her core. “I would do anything to be able to leave this very minute,” she said, gritting her teeth through her smile.
“That would be disastrous and you know it.”
“I feel as if there is about to be a confrontation, and everyone is waiting to watch the farce.”
“So long as it remains a farce and not a tragedy,” he remarked with wry humor. “Petersham is walking this way; good man.”
Moments later, Petersham bowed before her. “My lady, I believe I have the pleasure of this next set with you?”
“Indeed.” She took another swallow of her cold drink, wishing it were something stronger for false courage.
“Knighton has not been able to have a word alone with Ravenhill. He is positively swarmed with people asking about his injuries,” Petersham said quietly.
“Just as he wished,” Graham drawled.
Eugenia wished the music would hurry and begin so she could at least be doing something.
“Were you able to catch anything Ravenhill was saying?” Graham asked.
Petersham looked sideways at Eugenia.
“Please speak freely. I have no delicate sensibilities.”
“Very well. He pronounced that upon accepting his proposal, you were swept away by emotion and accidentally injured him.”
“I beg your pardon? I am certain I misheard you.”
“You did not mishear, my lady.” His voice was laden with distaste.
“I am going to finish what I started.” She moved forward and Graham took her arm.
“Not here,” he commanded.
“Did you hear what he said?” She was completely stunned.
“I heard. We must beat him at his own game, however.”
The music began, thankfully. “Go out there and be your usual joyful self. It is vital that you do not look at him or pretend that you know what he saying. Can you do that?”
“If I must.”
Petersham led her to the floor and, thankfully, it was a lively country dance which required her to concentrate.
As she curtsied to her partner and he bowed to her, he smiled reassuringly. “You must only continue for a little longer and then your brothers will deal with him.”
“Pray it will be that simple.”
For an entire twenty minutes she was able to dance without anyone speaking to her or causing any major catastrophes. It was a welcome relief.
Her partner led her back to the safe haven of the Knight clan where Sir Martin Hardy was waiting to dance with her next.
