Page 50 of Shining Knight
Chapter Twelve
If ever therewere a justifiable moment to swoon or have a fit of the vapors, this was it.
“Steady,” Graham said. “Look at me.”
She somehow obeyed and her eyes met his.
“That is the way. You are a Knight. Lift your chin and show them you care not a whit. This is when you prove to everyone who you really are.”
“My knees are shaking, Graham.”
“They cannot see that. I will not let you fall.”
She believed him, yet she was sure she must be squeezing his fingers so hard they would lose feeling, but he smiled down at her as though nothing and no one else in the world existed. He was a much better actor than she, she reflected somehow as he twirled her about so quickly it was difficult to think about what else was going on. Yet, if she allowed herself to be lost in the comfort of Graham’s arms, she might just lose her wits completely. There could be no happiness down that path, because she would want his heart if they were to marry. Friendship with him would never be enough. Without question, it would be better than Ravenhill or Farnsworth her conscience argued. Although she knew Farnsworth wanted one thing from her—and it was not friendship—she did not think he would be cruel… but she could not do that to her aunt.
“What is happening?” she asked, hoping Graham could see. He was much taller and could view everything in the room.
“Ravenhill is wearing a sling and a plaster on his forehead,” he told her, adding sardonically, “he looks quite the martyr.”
“Who is he talking to?”
“He is surrounded, but your brother is trying to pull him aside. I fear we may not have much luck. We must keep him from reaching you at all costs.”
“But how? Shall you form a barrier around me?”
“We will, if necessary. You are to dance with Petersham and then Hardy after me.”
At least those were not waltzes, she mused gratefully. Graham was the only one, besides her brothers, with whom she thought she could even exchange a single word at this moment.
“Smile, pet. You must show everyone Ravenhill is not affecting you.”
“What if he is putting it about that we are betrothed?”
“Then we will simply dispel that notion. You promised to trust me, remember?”
She fought back tears. He made it sound so simple. She just wanted this whole ordeal to be over. “I might have to escape to Bexley,” she whispered. “I do not know how long I can go on.”
“I sent word to my caretakers, Mr. and Mrs. Prudy, that they were to welcome you. I would feel much better, however, if you would not go alone.”
“I promised Rowley I would not go anywhere straight away.”
“I think that is still the wisest course of action.” Graham frowned.
“What is it now?” She could not keep the panic from her voice.
“Kitty Ravenhill is also here,” he snarled. “Now you must force yourself to smile at me or people will think I have angered you.”
His face transformed and he looked down at her with a look she had never seen from him before. Her insides warmed. Good heavens. She needed a fan. It was all an act, she had to remind herself.
The music drew to a close and Graham bent over her hand and kissed it.
“What are you doing?” she asked through a smile.
“Letting thetonknow that you are desirable,” he said, raising one brow.
“Like a Cyprian?”
“Like a prospective wife.” He nearly choked through his false smile.
