Simon’s brow furrowed as he watched her.
She looked… sad, almost.
Then, finally, not being able to take it, he marched up to her.
“Is something troubling you, Harriet?”
It’s nothing,” she said quickly, though her tone wasn’t entirely convincing. “I just…”
“It is clearly something,” he repeated. “Has someone said anything to you?”
“No, no,” she shook her head quickly. “It is more that.. Well, I keep thinking of Catherine.”
“Catherine? But she is safe at home.”
“I know,” Harriet sighed. “It’s just that I have never really left her on her own for this long before.”
Simon was silent for a moment. Firstly, he felt impressed.
How selfless can she be? Even in a crowded room, she is thinking of Catherine still.
And then, he felt a rush of affection. This time, he decided not to push it away as he usually did.
“Dance with me,” he said, offering his hand.
Harriet blinked, clearly taken aback by the unexpected request. “Dance?”
“Yes,” Simon said, his tone gentle but firm. “It will take your mind off things.”
For a moment, Harriet hesitated, as if unsure whether she should accept. But then, slowly, she placed her hand in his, allowing him to lead her to the dance floor.
As they moved into position, Simon felt the eyes of the ton on them once more. It didn’t matter. All that mattered was the woman in his arms, and the opportunity to provide her with some measure of comfort.
The music began, and they started to dance, moving in graceful tandem with the other couples on the floor.
“Allow yourself to be swayed by the music,” he instructed.
Harriet flushed, looking away. “I am trying as hard as I can.”
“No,” Simon shook his head, meeting her gaze once again and holding it. “Your body is too tense — too stiff. You need to let yourself feel the music, focus your attention on the moment.”
Harriet nodded, and Simon noticed her relaxing under his gentle hold on her.
“Much better.”
Simon was acutely aware of how close they were, of the warmth of her hand in his and the gentle sway of her body as they moved together.
He could feel her tension melt away.
For a while, they danced in silence, simply enjoying the moment. But as the music swelled, Simon found himself thinking back to the conversation he had overheard between Harriet and the nursemaid.
It had affected him more than he cared to admit. He felt that he owed her an explanation, even if it was difficult for him to talk about.
“Harriet,” he began in a low voice, “there’s something I need to tell you.”
“Right now?”
“Yes,” Simon nodded. No point beating around the bush, and now was as good as a moment as any.
