He spun her and then pulled her back into his arms. “No.”
“What of your sister? And your mother? Do you speak to them?”
She kept herself from flinching as his grip tightened on her hand. “They have been instructed to steer themselves well clear of my rebellious ways.” Did he not realize he was nearly breaking her poor fingers with his tightening grip?
“So, you remain steadfast in your refusal of the girl, then?” Emily knew this was not something she ought to have brought up, but somehow, her mouth voiced the words of its own accord. Was this what he meant by her fascinating conversation? Perhaps it was fascinating when some other poor soul stood in her crosshairs… but not nearly as fascinating when he was the subject of her ineptness.
At least no one else could overhear their discussion.
“How do you know so much of my personal affairs?” And then he shook his head. “Your dear friend Cecily must have shared them with you.”
“Well, of course. Do you think ladies don’t speak of such matters?” Her fingers had grown numb by now. “And you haven’t answered my question.”
“I suppose this interrogation is my own fault, eh, Miss Goodnight? You are showing me exactly how entertaining you can be?”
His comment surprised her. She wished she’d thought of the idea herself. “I’m merely curious. That is all, my lord.”
His eyes no longer danced. She’d made him angry. Why couldn’t she find something light and pleasing to converse about? What sort of topics would be pleasing, anyhow? “Er… did you have your hair shorn recently?” She could have groaned. Did men ever talk about their hair? And with ladies, no less?”
He threw his head back and laughed. Perhaps it was her awkwardness he found fascinating. She scowled at the thought.
“As a matter of fact, I have. Do you think I’ve left the sideburns long enough, Miss Goodnight? Ought my valet utilize more pomade?”
Oh, no.“They’re perfect enough, my lord.” And then his grip on her fingers lightened. She nearly stumbled and thought to look down at her feet. She forced herself to look into his gaze instead.
“As usual, you have not disappointed.”
“So, it is my social incompetence you find fascinating.” She made the statement dully. It felt rather like something of a set down.
“Would you not rather be considered fascinating than a veritable bore? If I were to dance with any other debutante here, I would most certainly find myself subject to the same conversation repeatedly. The weather… the food… the latest styles… I much prefer your forthright manner, as provoking as it can be at times.” His smile was warm.
Much as a man might bestow upon his sister or a much younger niece…
The music came to an end, and most of the couples stepped apart. Another dance would begin momentarily, as most sets contained at least three.
He did not release her.
“I do not intend to provoke, my lord,” Emily said softly. Although a good deal of chatter rose up around them, she did not wish to be overheard.
He leaned down. “Pardon?” His ear was only inches from her mouth. He smelled of some subtly exotic spice and cigar. It was not unpleasant. She cleared her throat before speaking around the lump that had suddenly formed there. “I do not intend to provoke, my lord.”
He chuckled. “You would not be my dear Miss Goodnight if you acted any differently.” And then the second dance began. She determined to keep her mouth clamped firmly shut throughout this one. She’d already provided him with enough entertainment.
“I will not make good on my father’s promise,” he said out of nowhere. “If he wishes to remain the obstinate fool that he is, then so be it.” It was almost as though he were speaking to himself. His eyes were pinned upon something behind her. When they spun around, she could see he’d been watching the Duke and Duchess of Waters as well as his sister, Lady Hartley. A few others mingled around the lofty family, including the girl Emily was certain had caused the falling out.
“She is beautiful,” Emily stated baldly.
“She is,” he agreed. “But she is not my choice.”
Emily snorted again. Lovely sound, really. It was no wonder all the men didn’t drop to one knee and propose to her on the spot.
“You think I ought not to have an opinion regarding whom I might marry?” Most men would be annoyed that a lady had laughed at them. He didn’t sound indignant, merely curious.
“I think you have refused to allow yourself to form an opinion of the girl. I think you are finding fault with her to thwart your father.”
Again, he turned her and then twirled her. The sensation was dizzying in more than one way. Physically, as the spinning affected her balance, but in her heart as well. When he led her around the floor so confidently, she felt feminine… and pretty. Despite her dull brown hair. Despite her plain figure.
Despite her blasted spectacles.
