"I've insulted at least three people."
"They deserved it."
"Your aunt is watching us."
"Let her watch."
"Everyone's watching us."
"Good. Let them see that I'm completely, irrevocably yours."
"Alaric..."
"No, I need to say this. I've attended dozens of these balls, danced with countless women, and never felt anything. But dancing with you, here, in front of everyone...this is the first time I've felt like myself at one of these events."
"Even though I'm probably using the wrong fork later?"
"Especially then. Your wrong fork usage is more real than their perfect etiquette."
The waltz ended, but before Marianne could leave the floor, another partner appeared; Lord Browne, the rose enthusiast.
"Mrs. Whitby, might I have this dance? I promise to only discuss roses minimally."
Marianne glanced at Alaric, who nodded encouragingly. "You can't only dance with me. Society requires you to be social."
So Marianne danced with Lord Browne (who discussed roses extensively despite his promise), then Sir Robert Robert (who spent the entire dance staring longingly at the younger Waverly sister), then a series of other partners whose names she immediately forgot.
She was returning from the retiring room when she overheard voices in an alcove.
"...can't believe Wexmere actually brought her." Sarah's voice, sharp with annoyance.
"She's pretty enough," another woman replied.
"Pretty? She's common. Did you see her hands? She actually works for a living."
"Maybe that's what he likes. The novelty."
"Novelties wear off," Sarah said confidently. "He'll tire of her once the charm of the unusual fades. Then he'll remember what's appropriate for a duke."
"And come back to you?"
"Where else would he go? I'm the only suitable option who's still unmarried."
Marianne should have walked away, but anger made her step into view. "How fascinating, Lady Sarah. You think Alaric is a commodity to be claimed when available."
Sarah had the grace to look momentarily embarrassed, but recovered quickly. "I think the Duke of Wexmere has obligations to his position."
"His obligation is to be happy."
"Happiness is temporary. Duty is forever."
"How sad for you, to believe that."
"How naive of you to believe otherwise. You think this will last? You in his world?"
"I think I don't need to be in his world. He's choosing to be in mine."
"A duke can't live in a bakery."
