Gabriel’s gaze softened, though the hunger in it never dimmed. “You make that sound like such a tragedy.”
"Gabriel…"
“Very well. But you must remain near my person, where I may have sight of you.”
She moved toward the door, pausing with her hand on the handle. "Try not to terrify Miss Ashworth too badly. She really is just a pawn in your aunt's game."
"I'll be the picture of gentlemanly consideration."
"Now I'm genuinely concerned."
"Your faith in my social capabilities is overwhelming."
"Your social capabilities extend to glowering and making cutting remarks that send people fleeing."
“Those social graces are, without question, entirely judicious.”
"Not at a country assembly where you're supposed to be proving your suitability to remain uncontrolled by your aunt."
"Very well. I'll smile blandly and make pleasant conversation about the weather."
"Go," he said roughly. "Before I decide the assembly can hang itself and keep you here instead."
She fled before her resolve could crumble entirely.
The assembly rooms were everything Gabriel remembered disliking immensely provincial society it was always too hot, too crowded, and too full of people who whispered behind their fans while pretending to smile to his face. He'd been there exactly ten minutes and already wanted to leave.
"Stop glowering," Edmund murmured beside him. "You're supposed to be proving your social functionality, not your ability to clear a room with your expression alone."
"I'm not glowering. This is my attentive face."
"Your attentive face looks should look less angered.”
"Where's Miss Ashworth?"
"With my aunt, being briefed on her mission to charm me into matrimony, no doubt."
"And where's Clara?"
Gabriel's jaw tightened. "Miss Whitfield is with the other upper servants, as is appropriate for her position."
"Her position. Right. The position where she shares your bed and…"
"Edmund, I vow to you, if you dare finish that sentiment, I shall publicly discredit your words, regardless of our close acquaintance.”
"You wouldn't..."
Edmund laughed. "You're in a mood tonight. More so than usual, I mean."
"I'm being forced to court a child while the woman I…" Gabriel cut himself off.
"While the woman you what?"
“Let it pass.”
"Oh, it's definitely something. The question is what, exactly, you're planning to do about it."
"I'm planning to get through this evening without causing a scandal, then go home and drink until I forget my own name."
