She gave him a long look. "Is it poisoned?"
"Only with longing."
"That was dreadful."
"And yet, you haven’t walked away."
She hated that he had a point. Or worse, that she wanted him to stay.
Lady Honoria Worthington passed them just then, slowing only enough to cast a hawkish gaze their way. Her painted lips curved into a predatory smile, and Alexandra felt an involuntary chill skitter down her spine. Beside her, Langley’s posture shifted subtly, a flicker of tension tightening his jaw.
"Charming, is it not?" she said to no one in particular, though her gaze never left them. "The season always provides the most unexpected pairings."
She moved on before Alexandra could respond.
"That woman is a menace," she muttered.
"A professional," Langley said. "We should be flattered."
Alexandra scowled. "She’s already spinning tales in her head."
"Let her."
"That’s easy for you to say. You’re a man."
"A fair point. Shall we scandalize her further by sneaking off to the conservatory?"
She laughed. Loudly. Too loudly. And that, somehow, only made her enjoy the moment more.
"You know," she said, "I expected you to be more unbearable."
"Give it time.” He winked.
* * *
Across the room, Alexandra’s oldest sister, Lavinia, Countess of Berkley, watched the interaction with growing unease. Anxiety tightened in her chest as memories surfaced of her own youthful indiscretions. She knew all too well how easily charm could lead one astray. Alexandra's carefree spirit, while admirable, might blind her to the risks.
"Do you see that?" she asked Sophia, their middle sister.
"Yes," Sophia said, sipping her champagne. "I see a woman having fun."
"With him,” Lavinia said, her brow furrowed.
"Yes, and what of it? He’s quite good-looking.” Sophia fluttered her fan.
"He’s Langley."
"And she is Alexandra. If anyone is in danger, it’s him.” Sophia laughed.
Lavinia made a disapproving sound. "She ought to be more careful."
"She ought to enjoy herself."
"She doesn’t understand how fragile a reputation can be."
"And you don’t understand how strong our Alexandra is."
Lavinia sighed. "She won’t marry him."
